Conversations on Healing Podcast

Shay Beider
  • 5.0 (23)
  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

The Conversations on Healing Podcast is hosted by Shay Beider, founder and executive director of Integrative Touch. On the Conversations on Healing Podcast, Shay Beider speaks with renowned healthcare leaders and practitioners to explore the world of wellness, the incredible powers of self-care and what it truly means to heal today.

  1. Healing as Wholeness: An Integrative Approach to Health

    JAN 29

    Healing as Wholeness: An Integrative Approach to Health

    Dr. Stephen Dahmer is a physician, educator, and global leader in integrative medicine who has devoted his career to transforming how we understand healing. As Director of the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, Dr. Dahmer helps train healthcare professionals to deliver care that treats the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. His path into integrative medicine was shaped by early mentors and experiences, from studying botanicals and herbal medicine with Dr. David Kiefer to learning humanistic, patient-centered healing from pioneers like Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen. Through his work in diverse communities around the world, Dr. Dahmer has seen firsthand how medicine becomes more powerful when it honors culture, connection, and meaning alongside science. In this episode, host Shay Beider and Dr. Dahmer explore the core tenets of integrative medicine, including movement, nourishing food, community, belief, and proactive approaches to health. They discuss how integrative care can augment Western medicine—almost always making it better—by moving beyond an "either/or" mindset and instead adding layers of support that care for the individual experiencing illness. From research showing how beliefs influence biology to stories of community-based medicine across the globe, the conversation highlights how healing is not just about fixing what is broken, but about fostering wholeness, resilience, and vitality. Together, they reflect on how simple, low cost or free practices like breathing techniques, meditation, finding awe and connection can profoundly shape health—and how integrative medicine invites us to move upstream, cultivating well-being long before illness takes hold. Listen to the complete episode by clicking the player above. Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing  Show Notes: Find out more about Dr. Stephen Dahmer here Read about the Andrew Weil Center here Learn more about Dr. David Kiefer here Learn more about Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen here Read about the Harvard research study on adult movement here Find out more about the Iora Health-Community Mode here Find out more about the Healer's Art Course in Tucson here Learn more about the Andrew Weil Center's Fellowship in Integrative Medicine here This podcast was created by Integrative Touch (InTouch), which is changing healthcare through human connectivity. A leader in the field of integrative medicine, InTouch exists to alleviate pain and isolation for anyone affected by illness, disability or trauma. This includes kids and adults with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. The founder, Shay Beider, pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™Therapy that supports healing from trauma and serious illness. The organization provides proven integrative medicine therapies, education and support that fill critical healthcare gaps. Their success is driven by deep compassion, community and integrity.  Each year, InTouch reaches thousands of people at the Integrative Touch Healing Center, both in person and through Telehealth. Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and contributors, InTouch created a unique scholarship model called Heal it Forward that brings services to people in need at little or no cost to them. To learn more or donate to Heal it Forward, please visit IntegrativeTouch.org

    1h 15m
  2. Wellness Reimagined: Aligning Your Life With What Matters Most

    12/18/2025

    Wellness Reimagined: Aligning Your Life With What Matters Most

    Erin Clifford, JD, MA, LPC, is a wellness expert who helps professionals build healthier, more balanced, and more fulfilling lives. A Corporate Wellness Consultant, Licensed Professional Counselor, and National Certified Counselor, Erin integrates her background in mental health, nutrition, physical activity, and lifestyle management to deliver impactful wellness coaching. Her holistic approach emphasizes the interconnected nature of well-being and meeting people where they are with practical, evidence-based tools for lasting change. Erin is the author of the USA Today National Bestseller Wellness Reimagined: A Holistic Approach to Health, Happiness, and Harmony, and her work has been featured in Shape, U.S. News & World Report, and Prevention. She holds a Juris Doctor from DePaul University College of Law and a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University. Her global training adds depth to her integrative approach to wellness.  In this episode, host Shay Beider and Erin Clifford explore what it means to reimagine wellness in a demanding world. Erin emphasizes the importance of identifying core values as a "north star" for building a sustainable wellness plan and aligning daily life with what matters most. She shares her holistic framework for well-being—integrating physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health—and introduces the Wheel of Harmony, a practical tool for assessing life domains and adapting wellness practices through changing seasons and milestones. The pair discuss the power of boundaries, self-compassion, reframing limits as liberating and reminding listeners that saying no is often saying yes to themselves. Together, they address burnout, caregiving, and the need to simplify wellness by returning to the basics while also embracing accountability and mindset shifts that support lasting change. This conversation invites listeners to find what feels supportive, realistic, and meaningful for their own lives.  Listen to the complete episode by clicking the player above. Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing  Show Notes: Find more about Erin here Learn more about her services here Read her bestseller: Wellness Reimagined: A Holistic Approach to Health, Happiness, and Harmony This podcast was created by Integrative Touch (InTouch), which is changing healthcare through connection, wellness and healing. A leader in the field of integrative medicine, InTouch exists to alleviate pain and isolation for anyone affected by illness, disability or trauma. This includes kids and adults with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. The founder, Shay Beider, pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™Therapy that supports healing from trauma and serious illness. The organization provides proven integrative medicine therapies, education and support that fill critical healthcare gaps. The success is driven by deep compassion, community and integrity.  Each year, InTouch reaches thousands of people online and in person through the Integrative Touch Healing Center, and national programs. Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and contributors, InTouch created a unique scholarship model called Heal it Forward that brings services to people in need at little or no cost to them. To learn more or donate and Heal it Forward, please visit IntegrativeTouch.org

    48 min
  3. Choose Joy Now: What the End Teaches Us About Truly Living

    12/04/2025

    Choose Joy Now: What the End Teaches Us About Truly Living

    Diane Button is an author, instructor, and end-of-life doula who has dedicated her career to helping people approach dying—and living—with deeper meaning, intention, and compassion. She is a founding partner of the Bay Area End-of-Life Doula Alliance in Northern California and an instructor for the University of Vermont's End-of-Life Doula Professional Certificate Program. With a master's in counseling psychology, Diane has served as a board member for the National End-of-Life Doula Alliance and as a hospice volunteer, bringing warmth, presence, and clarity to individuals and families navigating life's final chapter. Her books and teaching have inspired countless people to reflect on legacy, love, and the profound beauty of living a life well-lived all the way to its final moments. In this episode, host Shay Beider and Diane Button explore the profound lessons Diane has gathered from years of sitting with people at the end of life—insights captured in her newest book, What Matters Most. Diane shares how her work is shaped by practices that help people live with intention now, from the "joy counter" that encourages noticing everyday delights, to the beloved "pink glitter" story that reminds us not to save the good things for someday. She speaks about the importance of self-care for caregivers, the healing power of words, and the urgency of not waiting to say what is in your heart. Shay and Diane discuss the "final checklist," a set of six questions she designed to open meaningful conversations about who and what truly matters. Together, they explore how being present, honest, and joyful can help us heal during life's hardest moments, and how embracing these practices now can shape a life—and an ending—rooted in clarity, gratitude, and love. Listen to the complete episode by clicking the player above. Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing  Show Notes: Look into the End-of-Life Doula Alliance Read Diane's book, What Matters Most   This podcast was created by Integrative Touch (InTouch), which is changing healthcare through connection, wellness and healing. A leader in the field of integrative medicine, InTouch exists to alleviate pain and isolation for anyone affected by illness, disability or trauma. This includes kids and adults with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. The founder, Shay Beider, pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™Therapy that supports healing from trauma and serious illness. The organization provides proven integrative medicine therapies, education and support that fill critical healthcare gaps. The success is driven by deep compassion, community and integrity.  Each year, InTouch reaches thousands of people online and in person through the Integrative Touch Healing Center, and national programs. Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and contributors, InTouch created a unique scholarship model called Heal it Forward that brings services to people in need at little or no cost to them. To learn more or donate and Heal it Forward, please visit IntegrativeTouch.org

    59 min
  4. When Listening Becomes Healing: The Practice of Radical Listening

    10/30/2025

    When Listening Becomes Healing: The Practice of Radical Listening

    When Listening Becomes Healing: The Practice of Radical Listening  Professor Christian van Nieuwerburgh (PhD) is a leading academic, consultant, and executive coach whose work bridges the worlds of coaching, positive psychology, and human connection. He serves as Professor of Coaching and Positive Psychology at the Centre for Positive Health Sciences at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Ireland and as a Strategic Partner for the Instructional Coaching Group in the United States. He is a certified executive coach through both the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (Master Practitioner) and the International Coaching Federation (Professional Certified Coach). Christian is widely published in the fields of coaching and positive psychology. His many books include Coaching in Education: Getting Better Results for Students, Educators and Parents, An Introduction to Coaching Skills: A Practical Guide, and Radical Listening: The Art of True Connection, with Robert Biswas-Diener.  In this episode, host Shay Beider and Dr. van Nieuwerburgh explore the transformative ideas in his new book, Radical Listening: The Art of True Connection. Christian shares that listening is both a skill and an art and describes the importance of setting a positive intention before engaging with others. He outlines six core listening skills: the internal skills of noticing, quieting, and accepting, and the external skills of acknowledging, questioning, and interjecting. Throughout the conversation, Christian and Shay discuss how listening itself can be a powerful intervention—especially in healthcare settings, where being seen, valued, and heard can promote healing. Drawing from personal experience, Christian highlights the role of compassion and presence in true connection. The duo also explore barriers to communication and how simple acts of acknowledgment—what John Gottman calls turning toward bids—can build stronger bonds. This episode invites us to approach each conversation as an opportunity for connection, compassion, and shared humanity. Listen to the complete episode by clicking the player above. Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing  Show Notes: Learn more about Dr. Christian van Nieuwerburgh Read his latest book "Radical Listening" here Read "Coaching in Education" here Look into "An introduction to Coaching Skills" here This podcast was created by Integrative Touch (InTouch), which is changing healthcare through human connectivity. A leader in the field of integrative medicine, InTouch exists to alleviate pain and isolation for anyone affected by illness, disability or trauma. This includes kids and adults with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. The founder, Shay Beider, pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™Therapy that supports healing from trauma and serious illness. The organization provides proven integrative medicine therapies, education and support that fill critical healthcare gaps. Their success is driven by deep compassion, community and integrity.  Each year, InTouch reaches thousands of people at the Integrative Touch Healing Center, both in person and through Telehealth. Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and contributors, InTouch created a unique scholarship model called Heal it Forward that brings services to people in need at little or no cost to them. To learn more or donate to Heal it Forward, please visit IntegrativeTouch.org

    1h 31m
  5. Touch as Medicine: Healing the Wounds of Disconnection

    10/16/2025

    Touch as Medicine: Healing the Wounds of Disconnection

    Aaron Johnson is a powerful social activist and thought leader dedicated to fostering environments where Black-bodied individuals can fully express themselves. His TED Talk, "Chronically Undertouched," highlights the profound absence of safe, loving, platonic touch in the lives of many Black men. His work is rooted in addressing this deep cultural and emotional wound. Aaron helps men of African descent transition from being chronically undertouched to developing personalized "touch plans," creating practices that honor safety, connection, and dignity. Beyond individual guidance, Aaron cultivates retreats and workshops on Black-owned land in the Mojave Desert, where BIPOC communities can gather for healing, meditation, song, and collective renewal. In this episode, host Shay Beider and Aaron Johnson dive into the profound impact of platonic touch for Black men and BIPOC communities. Aaron shares his personal journey of reclaiming touch and accepting his tears after confronting the deep cultural barriers shaped by history, racism, and social conditioning. Aaron introduces his "Touch Plan" framework, starting with deep listening, grounding practices, singing, and gradually introducing platonic touch with consent and presence. This conversation also touches on the role of culture, history, and collective healing, highlighting Aaron's retreats, workshops, and films, including Dark and Tender, which documents men of African descent rediscovering tenderness, connection, and emotional expression. The conversation highlights how nurturing physical and emotional connection can support holistic wellness, resilience, and collective empowerment. Listen to the complete episode by clicking the player above. Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing  Show Notes: Learn more about Aaron Johnson Listen to Aaron's TED Talk here Watch the film Dark and Tender Read the Art of Giving and Receiving here This podcast was created by Integrative Touch (InTouch), which is changing healthcare through human connectivity. A leader in the field of integrative medicine, InTouch exists to alleviate pain and isolation for anyone affected by illness, disability or trauma. This includes kids and adults with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. The founder, Shay Beider, pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™Therapy that supports healing from trauma and serious illness. The organization provides proven integrative medicine therapies, education and support that fill critical healthcare gaps. Their success is driven by deep compassion, community and integrity.  Each year, InTouch reaches thousands of people at the Integrative Touch Healing Center, both in person and through Telehealth. Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and contributors, InTouch created a unique scholarship model called Heal it Forward that brings services to people in need at little or no cost to them. To learn more or donate to Heal it Forward, please visit IntegrativeTouch.org

    1h 6m
  6. Emotional Mastery: Tools for a More Whole, Connected Life

    10/02/2025

    Emotional Mastery: Tools for a More Whole, Connected Life

    Dan Newby is a global leader in emotional literacy and the creator of Emotions-Centered Coaching. With over 7,000 hours of coaching experience, he has dedicated his career to helping leaders and changemakers around the world turn emotions into powerful, everyday tools for transformation. Dan is the author of four books on emotional literacy and regularly leads his signature Emotions-Centered Coaching course for "people who support people" — including leaders, therapists, educators, faith leaders, and parents. Before devoting himself to coaching, Dan spent 25 years in private business, including as CEO, and later served as COO, CEO, and Senior Course Leader at Newfield Network Coach Training School. Today, he and his partner Lucy Núñez, lead the School of Emotions and Dignity Inc., which focuses on fostering dignity in policing and leadership. In this episode, host Shay Beider and Dan Newby explore how emotional literacy can transform the way we understand ourselves and connect with others. Dan defines emotions as "what moves us" and powerful sources of energy with their own narratives, impulses, and purposes. He shares his journey on learning to name and articulate his emotions, and offers practical tools like expanding our emotional vocabulary, noticing and naming emotions throughout the day, and distinguishing subtle differences. The duo highlight resources such as the Emotional Regulation Assessment, the Emote app, and Emotional Flash Cards, all aimed at building emotional agility and resilience. Dan shares some of his personal experiences and illustrates how allowing emotions to flow without attachment and consciously choosing emotions like optimism and hope can lead to greater well-being. Ultimately, Dan encourages us to see emotions as dynamic forces we can shape, helping us live more whole, connected, and intentional lives. Listen to the complete episode by clicking the player above. Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing  Show Notes: Learn more about Dan Newby Learn more about his School of Emotions Check out Dignity Inc. here Read "The Unopened Gift" here Read his book "Dignity in Leadership" This podcast was created by Integrative Touch (InTouch), which is changing healthcare through human connectivity. A leader in the field of integrative medicine, InTouch exists to alleviate pain and isolation for anyone affected by illness, disability or trauma. This includes kids and adults with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. The founder, Shay Beider, pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™Therapy that supports healing from trauma and serious illness. The organization provides proven integrative medicine therapies, education and support that fill critical healthcare gaps. Their success is driven by deep compassion, community and integrity.  Each year, InTouch reaches thousands of people at the Integrative Touch Healing Center, both in person and through Telehealth. Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and contributors, InTouch created a unique scholarship model called Heal it Forward that brings services to people in need at little or no cost to them. To learn more or donate to Heal it Forward, please visit IntegrativeTouch.org

    1h 13m
  7. The Hidden Power of Talking: How Language Tunes the Brain

    09/18/2025

    The Hidden Power of Talking: How Language Tunes the Brain

    Dr. Maryellen MacDonald is the Donald P. Hayes Professor Emerita of Psychology and Language Sciences at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and is a renowned cognitive scientist. Her work in psycholinguistics explores how we comprehend, produce, and learn language—one of the most remarkable aspects of being human. Dr. MacDonald's research has examined language across the entire lifespan, from children and young adults to older adults and individuals living with Alzheimer's disease. In her book, "More than Words", she explores the science around how and why we talk, and how this impacts our lives. In this episode, host Shay Beider and Dr. Maryellen MacDonald discuss the surprising power of talking—not just with others, but to ourselves. Dr. MacDonald explains that turning our internal state into words is a complex brain process that sharpens attention, calms the limbic system, and helps us follow through on goals. Dr. MacDonald shares that naming our thoughts and emotions can bring clarity, reduce stress, and tune the brain for better focus. She highlights how listening is easier than talking, a "desirable difficulty," and stresses the importance of mastering the art of listening and talking. From children developing language and school readiness through conversation, to older adults keeping their brains engaged, talking shapes cognition across the lifespan. This episode encourages us to embrace conversation, self-talk, and journaling as tools to better understand ourselves and connect with others. Listen to the complete episode by clicking the player above. Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing  Show Notes: Learn more about Dr. MacDonald Read her book, "More than Words" here This podcast was created by Integrative Touch (InTouch), which is changing healthcare through human connectivity. A leader in the field of integrative medicine, InTouch exists to alleviate pain and isolation for anyone affected by illness, disability or trauma. This includes kids and adults with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. The founder, Shay Beider, pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™Therapy that supports healing from trauma and serious illness. The organization provides proven integrative medicine therapies, education and support that fill critical healthcare gaps. Their success is driven by deep compassion, community and integrity.  Each year, InTouch reaches thousands of people at the Integrative Touch Healing Center, both in person and through Telehealth. Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and contributors, InTouch created a unique scholarship model called Heal it Forward that brings services to people in need at little or no cost to them. To learn more or donate to Heal it Forward, please visit IntegrativeTouch.org

    48 min
  8. Nature, Neurodiversity, and the Future of Human Potential

    09/04/2025

    Nature, Neurodiversity, and the Future of Human Potential

    Dr. Jeffrey Karp is a Harvard Medical School and MIT professor, inventor, best-selling author, and visionary leader. From transforming the challenges of undiagnosed ADHD into a wellspring of creativity and innovation, Dr. Karp has built a career championing neurodiversity, mindfulness, and environmental stewardship. He has co-founded 14 companies and secured over 100 patents, Dr. Karp's acclaimed book, LIT: Life Ignition Tools, inspires readers to move beyond autopilot living and embrace intentionality in daily life. Currently serving as Executive President of Geoversity Nature's University in Panama, Dr. Karp champions a "kinship worldview" that weaves together science, design, the arts, and indigenous wisdom to reconnect humanity with nature.    In today's episode, host Shay Beider talks with Dr. Jeffrey Karp about the three main forces he believes hold us back in modern life and how reconnecting with our nature, ritual and intuition can help us move from disconnection to real connection. He breaks down ideas like "radical simplicity," asking better questions, and the power of setting clear intentions in everyday interactions. The duo dive into his fascinating biotech work inspired by nature, his advocacy for rethinking neurodiversity, and the possibilities he sees for AI in transforming education. Dr. Karp shares what he's learned about building an internal compass rooted in core values and reminds us that healing often means unlearning old patterns and paying closer attention to the world around us—so we can grow, reconnect, and help create a thriving future together.   Listen to the complete episode by clicking the player above. Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing  Show Notes: Read his book, LIT: Life Ignition Tools Learn more about Geoversity Nature's University here Check out the Karp Lab here Check out The Power of Awe here Visit Modern Elder Academy This podcast was created by Integrative Touch (InTouch), which is changing healthcare through human connectivity. A leader in the field of integrative medicine, InTouch exists to alleviate pain and isolation for anyone affected by illness, disability or trauma. This includes kids and adults with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. The founder, Shay Beider, pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™Therapy that supports healing from trauma and serious illness. The organization provides proven integrative medicine therapies, education and support that fill critical healthcare gaps. Their success is driven by deep compassion, community and integrity.  Each year, InTouch reaches thousands of people at the Integrative Touch Healing Center, both in person and through Telehealth. Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and contributors, InTouch created a unique scholarship model called Heal it Forward that brings services to people in need at little or no cost to them. To learn more or donate to Heal it Forward, please visit IntegrativeTouch.org

    1h 12m
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About

The Conversations on Healing Podcast is hosted by Shay Beider, founder and executive director of Integrative Touch. On the Conversations on Healing Podcast, Shay Beider speaks with renowned healthcare leaders and practitioners to explore the world of wellness, the incredible powers of self-care and what it truly means to heal today.

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