Thursday Tea with Sami

Samia Estrada, PsyD, DipABLM
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  • MENTAL HEALTH

 "Thursday Tea with Sami" offers insightful conversations on living well, blending practical tips and inspiring stories to help you nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Each episode dives into everyday habits that can lead to a healthier, more balanced life. 

  1. DEC 11

    Healing From the Inside Out: A Conversation with Cancer Survivor Vera Ventura

    In today’s powerful episode of Thursday Tea with Sami, I’m joined by the remarkable Vera Ventura — life coach, yoga instructor, founder of Breast Cancer Goddess, and four-time cancer survivor whose story defies all odds. Diagnosed with stage IV cancer and given only months to live, Vera chose a radically integrative path: combining Western medicine with fasting, mindset work, metabolic approaches, and deep spiritual practice. What unfolds is not just a story of survival, but of awakening. Together, we explore: How fasting became a life-saving tool in Vera’s healingThe role of mindset, gratitude, and spiritual presence in navigating illnessWhy so many people feel disconnected from themselves and othersHow to support a loved one with cancer without overwhelming themPractical, compassionate steps for anyone seeking prevention or deeper wellnessThe emotional themes — fear, resentment, guilt — that often surface in healingThe truth about community, mindfulness, and rebuilding your inner resilienceVera’s journey is raw, courageous, deeply human, and overflowing with wisdom. Whether you're experiencing illness, supporting someone you love, or simply wanting to live more intentionally — this conversation is one you’ll feel long after the episode ends. 🌿 Learn more about Vera’s nonprofit and fasting programs: breastcancergoddess.org Instagram: @breastcancergoddess | @verathecancergoddess Thank you for tuning in to Thursday Tea with Sami: Your Sip of Wellness and Mental Health. Until next time — stay well and keep being your best. Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dignuswellness https://www.facebook.com/DignusWellness https://www.instagram.com/dignuswellness/ https://www.pinterest.com/Dignuswellness/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRzVGBRhHdenTAV2yPFhfA Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com

    56 min

  2. NOV 27

    The Real Midlife Transition—For Women and Men (And How to Get Through It)

    This week on Thursday Tea with Sami, we’re exploring the hormonal changes of midlife—for both women and men—and the powerful ways these shifts affect our health, emotions, identity, and relationships. My guest, Adrienne Irizarry, HWH, is an East Asian medicine practitioner specializing in hormonal balance and trauma-informed wellness. Together, we unpack how perimenopause, menopause, and andropause unfold in the body, why these years can feel so overwhelming, and how couples and families can navigate this transition with understanding and connection—not conflict. Whether you’re moving through this stage yourself, loving someone who is, or simply curious about what lies ahead, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical support. In this episode, we discuss:  ✨ What hormonal changes look like in midlife for both men and women ✨ Overlooked early signs of perimenopause and andropause ✨ Why stress, sleep, and energy shifts feel so intense during this stage ✨ Natural, non-invasive approaches to restoring balance ✨ How midlife impacts mood, identity, partnership, and intimacy ✨ Why “meno-divorce” is rising—and how to prevent it ✨ How couples can grow stronger together during midlife transitions This conversation is eye-opening, validating, hopeful—and truly for everyone. Pour yourself a cup, settle in, and let’s dive deep together. If you’d like to connect with Adrienne, explore her offerings, or learn more about her approach to midlife wellness, visit www.moonessence.life  and follow her on Instagram and social platforms at @moonessenceme. Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dignuswellness https://www.facebook.com/DignusWellness https://www.instagram.com/dignuswellness/ https://www.pinterest.com/Dignuswellness/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRzVGBRhHdenTAV2yPFhfA Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com

    1h 16m

  3. NOV 14

    Why the Lock-In Works (and Why You Can Begin Today)

    Feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated, or like life has been moving just a little too fast? You’re not alone — and that’s exactly why The Lock-In became one of the biggest wellness trends this year. But here’s the part most people don’t realize: you don’t need to start in September. You can begin your lock-in today. In this cozy, grounding episode of Thursday Tea with Sami, Dr. Samia Estrada dives deep into the psychology and practicality behind the lock-in — a gentle, intention-based reset built on tiny habits that nourish your nervous system, not drain it. You’ll learn: ✨ What the lock-in really is (and why it exploded across social media) ✨ Why starting in November, December — or any random day — can actually be more powerful ✨ How micro-habits help stabilize your mind and body ✨ The role of analog wellness in calming the nervous system ✨ Small, realistic ways to begin your own digital detox ✨ Simple habit-anchoring strategies that make change feel effortless ✨ Real-life examples from people who created meaningful shifts with the tiniest steps Whether you're drinking tea, taking a walk, or listening on your commute, this episode invites you to slow down, breathe, and build a rhythm that supports you through the rest of the year. Your wellness isn’t behind. Your healing isn’t late. Your lock-in can start today. Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dignuswellness https://www.facebook.com/DignusWellness https://www.instagram.com/dignuswellness/ https://www.pinterest.com/Dignuswellness/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRzVGBRhHdenTAV2yPFhfA Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com

    16 min

  4. OCT 17

    Speak Up with Care: Scripts & Skills for Tough Talks (feat. Dr. Kailyn Bobb)

    We all avoid them… and we all need them. Today we’re unpacking difficult conversations—at work, at home, and in our closest relationships. Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Kailyn Bobb (Inner Peace Psych, Schaumburg, IL) joins Dr. Sami to share compassionate, practical strategies for talking about the tough stuff with more clarity, kindness, and courage. In this episode: Why our brains and bodies treat conflict like a threat (hello, fight/flight/freeze)The role of culture, upbringing, and power dynamics in how we communicateHow to prep: intention-setting, choosing your words, and scheduling the talkSkills to use in the moment: pausing, deep breathing, active listening, and assertive (not aggressive) languageBoundaries 101: when to step back, try again later, or walk awayModeling healthy communication for kids, teams, and communitiesHow small wins build authenticity, confidence, and resilience over timeConnect with Dr. Kailyn Bobb: innerpeacepsych.com • Instagram • LinkedIn • Facebook • YouTube (search Inner Peace Psych) If this episode helped you, share it with a friend who’s been putting off a tough talk.  Until next time, stay well and keep being your best! 💛 Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dignuswellness https://www.facebook.com/DignusWellness https://www.instagram.com/dignuswellness/ https://www.pinterest.com/Dignuswellness/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRzVGBRhHdenTAV2yPFhfA Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com

    46 min

  5. OCT 2

    Healing from ME/CFS: How Acknowledgment, Mental Health, and the Mind–Body Connection Support Recovery

    In this episode of Thursday Tea with Sami, psychologist Samia Estrada sits down with mind–body practitioner Mel Abbott to explore the reality of living with ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and the path to recovery. Mel shares her powerful story of battling chronic illness for over a decade, the importance of acknowledgment in the healing process, and how the mind–body connection plays a vital role in recovery. We discuss the role of mental health in chronic illness, how stress impacts the nervous system, and why acknowledgment and support are essential first steps toward healing. Mel also highlights the importance of lifestyle medicine—stress management, healthy relationships, and self-care—in creating lasting change. If you or a loved one are searching for hope, inspiration, and practical strategies for managing chronic illness, this conversation offers a compassionate and evidence-based look at what’s possible on the journey to healing. Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dignuswellness https://www.facebook.com/DignusWellness https://www.instagram.com/dignuswellness/ https://www.pinterest.com/Dignuswellness/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRzVGBRhHdenTAV2yPFhfA Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com

    54 min

  6. SEP 18

    Dr. Michael Yapko on Hypnosis, Depression, and the Skills That Build Resilience

    In this episode of Thursday Tea with Sami, clinical psychologist and internationally recognized expert Dr. Michael Yapko joins me to demystify hypnosis and share practical, evidence-based ways people can reduce depression and anxiety. We explore what hypnosis really is (hint: focused attention you already know how to do), why skill-building beats “quick fixes,” and how everyday choices—sleep, movement, relationships, media diet—powerfully shape mood. We also discuss the “contagion” of emotion in families and communities, what helps protect your mental health, and one small step you can take today to feel better. What you’ll learn How clinical hypnosis works and why focus + relaxation can accelerate learning and changeWhy depression is best addressed through learnable skills (thinking, problem-solving, coping, and social skills)How mood spreads in relationships—and ways to protect your wellbeingEveryday levers that matter more than we think: sleep, movement, connection, and what we consumeWhy alcohol is a poor coping tool for low mood and sleepTelehealth, access, and how digital programs are expanding careKey moments 00:00 Welcome & setup02:34 Michael’s origin story with hypnosis09:26 What hypnosis is (and isn’t)16:10 Self-guided vs. guided hypnosis; access and apps19:45 Telehealth and outcomes21:31 Storytelling & therapeutic metaphor28:47 “Depression is contagious” — social mechanisms and risk35:24 Four core skill sets for recovery44:46 Everyday habits that shift mood; alcohol & sleep49:44 Hypnosis going mainstream in healthcare56:23 One simple step to start today58:45 Where to learn moreResources mentioned Dr. Yapko’s website and books (including Breaking the Patterns of Depression)Public lecture on depression (YouTube)Claria program for mood and anxiety (via Mindset Health)APA’s brief modules on critical thinkingIf this episode resonates, share it with a friend who could use practical hope. And as always: Your journey to wellness starts here. Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dignuswellness https://www.facebook.com/DignusWellness https://www.instagram.com/dignuswellness/ https://www.pinterest.com/Dignuswellness/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRzVGBRhHdenTAV2yPFhfA Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com

    53 min

  7. SEP 4

    The Power of Small Shifts: Embracing Wellness Through Life’s Chaos with Sami-Jo Emsley

    The Power of Small Shifts: Embracing Wellness Through Life’s Chaos with Sami-Jo Emsley In this inspiring episode of Thursday Tea with Sami, host Dr. Samia Estrada sits down with wellness advocate and author Sami-Jo Emsley—a fellow Sami with a powerful story of transformation. After navigating stress, weight gain, and the challenges of parenting a child with autism, Sami-Jo began making small but impactful lifestyle changes that improved her mental, physical, and emotional health. Together, we explore: How spirituality helped her shift her mindsetThe role of nutrition, hydration, and movement in managing anxiety and depressionThe power of routine, rest, and compassion in staying consistentHow she found time to write her book The Vintage Housewives Oracle Club amid her busy lifeSami-Jo’s story is a testament to the power of starting small, creating non-negotiable wellness moments, and giving ourselves grace along the way. Whether you’re a busy parent or just feeling overwhelmed, this episode will remind you that wellness is possible—one small step at a time. 🫖 Free Sample Chapter: https://thevintageoracle.com/samplechapter Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dignuswellness https://www.facebook.com/DignusWellness https://www.instagram.com/dignuswellness/ https://www.pinterest.com/Dignuswellness/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRzVGBRhHdenTAV2yPFhfA Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com

    46 min

  8. AUG 21

    Great Ways in which ACT Will Improve Mental Health

    In this episode of Thursday Tea with Sami, Dr. Xiaolong Li discusses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and its application in various aspects of life, including anxiety management, parenting, and the importance of focusing on values over achievements. The conversation highlights the differences between ACT and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), the challenges faced by young adults in achieving fulfillment, and the significance of allowing emotional space for both parents and children. Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dignuswellness https://www.facebook.com/DignusWellness https://www.instagram.com/dignuswellness/ https://www.pinterest.com/Dignuswellness/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRzVGBRhHdenTAV2yPFhfA Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com

    28 min
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About

 "Thursday Tea with Sami" offers insightful conversations on living well, blending practical tips and inspiring stories to help you nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Each episode dives into everyday habits that can lead to a healthier, more balanced life. 

Information

  • Creator
    Samia Estrada, PsyD, DipABLM
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Thursday Tea with Sami
  • Show Website
    Thursday Tea with Sami