Revolutionary Mental Health: Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Change

Debbie Nelson

In this podcast, we are bringing together individuals from around the world who are making a difference in the field of mental health and addiction. Join us as we dive into innovative approaches, alternative therapies, and personal stories of triumph that challenge the status quo and empower individuals to take control of their mental health and addiction recovery. Each episode features insightful discussions with experts and individuals who have firsthand experiences in the mental health and addiction realms. We explore a wide range of topics, from the latest research and therapies to holistic approaches and self-care techniques. Our goal is to shed light on the diverse perspectives and practices that can ultimately transform how we approach mental health. By joining this podcast and sharing your insights, experiences, and expertise, you become a part of a global network of change makers who are revolutionizing the way we address mental health. Together, we can inspire hope, promote understanding, and empower individuals to live their best lives. So, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to all of our platforms to stay up-to-date on the latest episodes and resources. By supporting us, you are contributing to a global movement that has the power to be life-saving for many individuals. Let's spread the word! Disclaimer: The information provided during the Revolutionary Mental Health Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, therapist, or other qualified health provider regarding a mental health condition. Views expressed are those of the individual speakers and not necessarily Revolutionary Mental Health organizers and Producers.

Episodes

  1. Sep 15

    Eating & Living to THRIVE! with Pati Reiss

    What if one of the missing pieces in mental health and addiction recovery is something we do every single day—eat? In this episode of the Revolutionary Mental Health Podcast, Debbie Nelson sits down with longtime friend and nutrition recovery coach Patti Reese to explore the powerful connection between food, brain health, mood, and recovery. Patti shares her own journey from addiction to more than two decades of sobriety—and how, even as a trained health coach, she discovered there was a critical piece missing from her own recovery: learning how to truly nourish her brain and body. Together, Debbie and Patti discuss blood sugar stability, protein and healthy fats, amino acids, nervous system regulation, and why supporting the physical body can be an important part of supporting mental and emotional wellness. They also bring it back to something surprisingly simple: getting into the kitchen. From Patti’s healthier PB&J to easy food swaps and realistic meal planning, this conversation is a reminder that nourishing yourself doesn’t have to be complicated. In this episode, you’ll hear about: • Patti’s personal journey through addiction and recovery • The connection between nutrition, mood, and brain health • Why blood sugar can matter for anxiety, cravings, and emotional stability • The role of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates • Supporting the body alongside the emotional and spiritual sides of recovery • Simple ways to make nourishing food more realistic • Why cooking for yourself can be an act of self-care • Patti’s work with individuals, families, and professionals If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing all the “right” things for your mental health or recovery but still feel like something is missing, this conversation may give you another piece of the puzzle. Learn more about Patti Reese and the resources mentioned in this episode at the links below. Website: https://www.patireiss.com/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RecoveryWellnessKitchen  Subscribe to the Revolutionary Mental Health Podcast for more conversations exploring integrative approaches to mental health, recovery, and whole-person wellness. #MentalHealth #AddictionRecovery #NutritionAndMentalHealth #BrainHealth #RecoveryNutrition #HolisticMentalHealth #MentalWellness #RevolutionaryMentalHealth

  2. Sep 9

    Dr Courntey Snyder

    What if your mental health symptoms are only one piece of a much bigger picture? In this episode of Revolutionary Mental Health, Debbie Nelson sits down with Dr. Courtney Snyder, MD, a holistic, functional, and environmental psychiatrist, to explore how physical health, environmental exposures, immune function, and the nervous system may influence mental health. Dr. Snyder shares how her own health journey changed the way she practices psychiatry and why she began looking beyond symptoms to explore what may be contributing underneath. In this conversation, we explore: • Mold toxicity and its potential connection to brain-related symptoms • Why mold exposure doesn’t always cause obvious respiratory symptoms • Mast cell activation and immune reactivity • Limbic and autonomic nervous system dysregulation • Nutrient and biochemical imbalances • What “holistic psychiatry” really means • How Dr. Snyder evaluates complex cases • Why integrative and conventional psychiatric care can work together Rather than only asking, “What diagnosis fits these symptoms?” this conversation invites another question: “What might be contributing to them?” CONNECT WITH DR. COURTNEY SNYDER Website: https://www.courtneysnydermd.com/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@courtneysnydermd-holisticp3072  Social Media:  FB: https://www.facebook.com/courtneysnydermd/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/holistic_psychiatry/   RESOURCES MENTIONED Walsh Research Institute: https://www.walshinstitute.org/  Integrative Medicine for Mental Health: https://www.immh.org/  REVOLUTIONARY MENTAL HEALTH Subscribe for conversations exploring integrative mental health, emerging research, and whole-person approaches to understanding mental health. Important: This episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace individualized medical or mental health care. Do not stop or change medications or treatment without working with a qualified healthcare professional. #MentalHealth #HolisticPsychiatry #IntegrativeMentalHealth #MoldToxicity #BrainHealth #FunctionalMedicine #NervousSystem #RootCause

  3. Sep 2

    Do Psychiatric Meds Really Work- With Dr. Kelly Brogan

    What if mental health requires us to look beyond symptoms—and consider the whole person? In this episode of Revolutionary Mental Health, Debbie Nelson and Dr. Zenith Demir sit down with psychiatrist and bestselling author Dr. Kelly Brogan for a candid conversation about psychiatric medication, lifestyle, nutrition, self-regulation, relationships, identity, and personal transformation. Dr. Brogan shares her journey from traditionally trained psychiatrist to questioning some of the beliefs she once held about mental health treatment. She discusses how her own health experience opened the door to exploring nutrition and lifestyle—and how her work eventually expanded into deeper questions about emotional regulation, personal responsibility, relationships, femininity, motherhood, and spirituality. In this episode, you'll learn: • What led Dr. Brogan to begin questioning her traditional medical training • Her perspective on psychiatric medication and looking beyond symptom management • The role lifestyle, nutrition, and daily choices may play in supporting well-being • Why learning to sit with discomfort can change how we respond to difficult situations • How achievement and external validation can become disconnected from fulfillment • Why connection, relationships, and self-awareness have become central to her work • A simple 60–90 second practice Dr. Brogan uses to pause and observe an emotional response before reacting Key Takeaways: Mental health can involve much more than addressing symptoms alone. Self-regulation may begin with something as simple as learning to pause before immediately reacting to discomfort. Personal responsibility isn't the same as self-blame—it can be an invitation to recognize where we still have choices. Achievement, productivity, and independence don't automatically create connection or fulfillment. Healing and personal growth can be an evolving process rather than a destination. Resources & People Discussed: • Dr. Kelly Brogan's books and programs • David Deida's work on embodiment and masculine/feminine dynamics • Lifestyle and nutrition practices • Meditation and self-regulation • “Self-husbanding” and “entering through the upset” • Personal responsibility, relationships, and emotional regulation Explore Dr. Kelly Brogan's work: http://www.kellybroganmd.com   Books & Programs: Books: Own Yourself  A Mind of Your Own The Reclaimed Woman Learn more about Revolutionary Mental Health: Revolutionary Mental Health  ️ Subscribe to Revolutionary Mental Health for conversations exploring integrative, whole-person approaches to mental health and wellness. Important Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views and experiences expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Revolutionary Mental Health. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. #KellyBrogan #MentalHealth #RevolutionaryMentalHealth #IntegrativeMentalHealth #MentalWellness #WholePersonHealth #SelfRegulation #PersonalGrowth #WomensWellness if mental health requires us to look beyond symptoms—and consider the whole person? Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

    Do Psychiatric Meds Really Work- With Dr. Kelly Brogan
  4. Jul 8

    Feed the Brain-Fuel Recovery: with Dr. Christina Veselak

    Debbie sits down with Dr. Christina Veselak, founder of the Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition, to uncover the missing link in recovery feeding the brain first. With over 30 years of experience, Christina explains how nutrient deficiencies, skipped meals, and imbalanced blood sugar quietly sabotage mental health and addiction recovery. Together, they explore how amino acid therapy and real-food nutrition can restore balance, reduce cravings, and create emotional stability from the inside out. Debbie shares her personal transformation through Christina’s Academy, showing how nutrition became the foundation of her healing. Whether you’re in recovery, a therapist, or simply seeking holistic wellness, this episode reveals why true healing begins when we nourish the brain...body, mind, and soul. “You can’t therapy your way out of a starving brain.” – Dr. Christina Veselak Key Takeaways️The Missing Link in Recovery: Why nutrition and brain chemistry must be addressed for sustainable healing. Amino Acid Therapy Explained: How feeding neurotransmitters naturally supports mood, focus, and emotional regulation. Blood Sugar & the Brain: The science behind why skipping meals triggers anxiety, irritability, and relapse. Inside the Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition: How Christina trains professionals to integrate food and nutrients into treatment. Eating Protein Saves Lives: How Christina's nonprofit helps individuals and treatment centers nourish recovery. The Three-Legged Stool of Recovery: Balancing the biochemical, psychosocial, and spiritual sides of healing. Connect with Dr. Christina VeselakWebsite: Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition Foundation: Eating Protein Saves Lives Instagram: @aminoacidnutrition Listen & SubscribeIf this episode inspired you, share it with a friend, practitioner, or loved one walking their own healing journey. Follow Revolutionary Mental Health on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube and don’t forget to leave a review to help others discover the power of nutritional healing for recovery. Disclaimer: The information provided during the Revolutionary Mental Health Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, therapist, or other qualified health provider regarding a mental health condition. Views expressed are those of the individual speakers and not necessarily Revolutionary Mental Health organizers and Producers.

    Feed the Brain-Fuel Recovery: with Dr. Christina Veselak
  5. Jun 25

    Healing Beyond the Prescription: Reclaiming Your Power with Jen Bruce

    In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Debbie sits down with Jen Bruce, trauma-informed recovery and wellness coach, founder of Humans Can Heal, and licensed psilocybin facilitator in Oregon. Together, they dive into the missing link between sobriety, nervous system healing, trauma recovery, and functional medicine. Jen shares her own recovery story from early sobriety and exhaustion to rediscovering balance through nutrition, holistic healing, and plant medicine. This episode unpacks what it really takes to heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually after addiction or long-term medication use. Whether you’re sober-curious, tapering, or seeking a deeper approach to mental wellness, this conversation will remind you that healing is possible and it doesn’t have to be hard. Episode HighlightsUnderstanding Whole-Person Healing: Why sustainable recovery requires more than just medication or mindset work it’s about body literacy, balance, and spiritual reconnection.Functional Medicine Meets Recovery: How Jen combines trauma-informed care with nutrition, lab testing, herbalism, and functional medicine to restore the body’s natural ability to heal.Breaking Free from Limiting Beliefs: The truth behind what we’ve been taught in Western medicine and how to reclaim your power and agency in your own healing journey.Plant Medicine Education: What to know about psilocybin, ibogaine, and ketamine how each works, who they’re for, and the importance of preparation and integration.The Real Work of Healing: Why lasting transformation isn’t found in one session, pill, or retreat but in the integration and daily choices that follow.Understanding Triggers: The hidden role of sleep, environment, and nutrition in relapse prevention and emotional stability.Empowered Healing: Jen’s message to everyone on the path you can recover, you can be medication-free, and you can rebuild your health one intentional step at a time. ⏱️ Timestamp Breakdown[00:00] Jen’s journey from early sobriety to holistic healing [07:30] Discovering the limits of traditional recovery tools [14:45] The role of nutrition, functional medicine, and body regulation [23:10] Building sustainable healing practices (no quick fixes!) [31:20] The truth about plant medicine: psilocybin, ketamine, and ibogaine [40:55] Preparing for psychedelic therapy: intention over expectation [52:00] The power of integration — where true transformation happens [01:04:00] Jen’s holistic coaching process and what to expect [01:15:00] Why healing is a long game — and how to create lasting results Connect with Jen BruceWebsite: HumansCanHeal.comInstagram: @humanscanhealWork with Jen: Schedule a free discovery call or learn more about functional recovery, trauma-informed healing, and psilocybin integration at her website. Key Takeaway“Healing doesn’t have to be hard. You are the CEO of your own health and once you remember that, everything begins to change.” Listen & SubscribeIf this episode inspired you, share it with a friend, practitioner, or loved one walking their own healing journey. Follow Revolutionary Mental Health on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube and don’t forget to leave a review to help others discover the power of nutritional healing for recovery. Disclaimer: The information provided during the Revolutionary Mental Health Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, therapist, or other qualified health provider regarding a mental health condition. Views expressed are those of the individual speakers and not necessarily Revolutionary Mental Health organizers and Producers.

    Healing Beyond the Prescription: Reclaiming Your Power with Jen Bruce
  6. Jun 22

    Healing Veterans Through Plant Medicine with Michael Manion

    Debbie sits down with Michael, a veteran advocate and plant medicine facilitator, whose mission is to help veterans and trauma survivors rediscover peace, purpose, and spiritual connection through sacred healing practices. Michael shares his journey from service and personal struggle to healing through Bufo (5-MeO-DMT) and psilocybin (mushrooms). What began as a personal exploration became a calling to serve others by creating Healing Frontline Heroes, a retreat program in Sonora, Mexico, that blends indigenous ceremony, veteran support, and plant medicine integration. This episode offers a grounded, deeply human look at what it means to come home to yourself body, mind, and soul and how plant medicine can guide even the most wounded hearts toward wholeness. Whether you’re a veteran, a trauma survivor, or simply someone seeking authentic transformation, this conversation reveals the power of healing that transcends borders and beliefs. Key Takeaways Understanding Bufo (5-MeO-DMT): What it is, how it’s sourced from the Sonoran Desert Toad, and why this naturally occurring medicine mirrors our body’s own DMT production. The Fifth Dimension of Healing: How plant medicine opens the door to the multi-dimensional self and dissolves the illusion of separation and fear. From Military Service to Soul Service: Michael’s story of leaving his job, following his inner calling, and dedicating his life to guiding others through deep healing. Lessons from Indigenous Mentorship: What it’s really like to train with authentic shamans in Mexico, and the importance of respect, relationship, and humility in sacred medicine work. Healing Frontline Heroes: How Michael founded a nonprofit-style retreat bringing veterans and civilians together for seven-day healing immersions that include Temazcal, Kambo, and Bufo ceremonies. Trauma, Integration, and True Recovery: Why healing isn’t about escaping pain — it’s about meeting it with compassion and transforming it into wisdom and peace. The Spirit of Service: Michael’s reminder that “we are all multi-dimensional beings” — and the journey home begins by remembering our oneness. ⏱️ Timestamp Breakdown[00:00] Michael’s introduction and calling to serve veterans through healing [05:10] What is Bufo (5-MeO-DMT) and how it connects to human consciousness [12:30] Awakening to the fifth dimension — exploring the illusion of separation [18:50] Michael’s first plant medicine experience and life-changing insight [27:00] Leaving the job behind — following the spiritual call to Mexico [34:45] Learning from indigenous shamans and understanding authentic lineage [42:10] Building Healing Frontline Heroes — a retreat for veterans and trauma survivors [50:30] The process: Temazcal, Kambo, Bufo, and DMT preparation ceremonies [59:00] Why integration is everything — finding peace after ceremony [01:10:00] The new paradigm of healing: service, sovereignty, and spirit Connect with MichaelInstagram: @healingfrontlineheroes Learn More: Visit Healing Frontline Heroes Resources and Links Mentioned Arizona Warrior Assembly: https://www.arizonawarriorsassembly.org/ Healing Frontline Heroes: https://www.healingfrontlineheroes.com/ Warrior Songs: https://www.warriorsongs.org/ Key Takeaway“The greatest illusion is that we are separate. True healing begins when we remember we are one with ourselves, with each other, and with Spirit.”Listen & SubscribeIf this episode inspired you, share it with a friend, practitioner, or loved one walking their own healing journey. Follow Revolutionary Mental Health on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube and don’t forget to leave a review to help others discover the power of nutritional healing for recovery. Disclaimer: The information provided during the Revolutionary Mental Health Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, therapist, or other qualified health provider regarding a mental health condition. Views expressed are those of the individual speakers and not necessarily Revolutionary Mental Health organizers and Producers.

    Healing Veterans Through Plant Medicine with Michael Manion
  7. Jun 22

    Healing After Heartbreak with Stephanie Lytle

    What does it really take to turn heartbreak into healing and create a sanctuary for others to restore their lives? In this powerful episode of Revolutionary Mental Health, Debbie sits down with Stephanie Lytle, founder of High Vibe Collective in Sedona, Arizona. Stephanie shares her deeply personal story of walking through divorce, a mental health crisis, and the devastating loss of her son and how each of these trials became the foundation for building a healing sanctuary that now helps countless others reclaim peace, wholeness, and joy. If you’ve ever wondered what’s possible beyond medication, or you’re seeking a safe and transformative space for healing, this conversation will expand your vision of what’s possible. Key TakeawaysTurning Pain into Purpose: Stephanie shares how the loss of her son and her own mental health journey became the sacred foundation for building High Vibe Collective — a space where others could rediscover light after darkness.Healing Beyond Medication:this episode explores how true recovery often begins when we look beyond traditional treatment and lean into holistic, spiritual, and community-based healing practicesThe Power of Safe Space: Stephanie emphasizes the importance of creating an environment of compassion and nonjudgment — where people can be witnessed in their grief, vulnerability, and transformation without fear.Reconnecting with Spirit and Self: From breathwork to energy healing, Stephanie reveals how reconnecting with the body, nature, and spirit restores balance and a sense of wholeness that modern systems often overlook.Hope After Loss: Her story is a living reminder that even in the deepest heartbreak, healing is not only possible it can become the greatest act of service and love for others. Connect with Stephanie Lytle Website: High Vibe Collective Instagram: @sedona_retreats Listen & SubscribeIf this episode inspired you, share it with a friend, practitioner, or loved one walking their own healing journey. Follow Revolutionary Mental Health on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube and don’t forget to leave a review to help others discover the power of nutritional healing for recovery. Disclaimer: The information provided during the Revolutionary Mental Health Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, therapist, or other qualified health provider regarding a mental health condition. Views expressed are those of the individual speakers and not necessarily Revolutionary Mental Health organizers and Producers.

    Healing After Heartbreak with Stephanie Lytle
  8. 08/15/2025

    Finding Relief from OCD, Anxiety, and Medication Tapering with Dr. Julia Britz

    Are you struggling with medication tapering and wondering what options you really have when it gets tough? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Britz, a physician who goes beyond the norm to help patients find new solutions and new hope. You’ll hear how the right doctor can truly change your life, what to expect when tapering gets hard, and why linking arms with supportive medical experts makes all the difference. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your health journey, this episode will remind you that you don’t have to do it alone. Key TakeawaysTapering can be challenging, but it doesn’t mean you’re out of options.A great doctor will adjust your care plan instead of leaving you stuck.Dr. Britz stands out as one of the most compassionate and forward-thinking doctors.Building a network of supportive experts can make all the difference.You don’t have to face this process alone, there are doctors who care. Connect with Dr. Julia BritzWebsite: Dr. Julia Britz ND Instagram: @drjuliabritznd Listen & SubscribeIf this episode inspired you, share it with a friend, practitioner, or loved one walking their own healing journey. Follow Revolutionary Mental Health on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube and don’t forget to leave a review to help others discover the power of nutritional healing for recovery. Disclaimer: The information provided during the Revolutionary Mental Health Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, therapist, or other qualified health provider regarding a mental health condition. Views expressed are those of the individual speakers and not necessarily Revolutionary Mental Health organizers and Producers.

    Finding Relief from OCD, Anxiety, and Medication Tapering with Dr. Julia Britz

About

In this podcast, we are bringing together individuals from around the world who are making a difference in the field of mental health and addiction. Join us as we dive into innovative approaches, alternative therapies, and personal stories of triumph that challenge the status quo and empower individuals to take control of their mental health and addiction recovery. Each episode features insightful discussions with experts and individuals who have firsthand experiences in the mental health and addiction realms. We explore a wide range of topics, from the latest research and therapies to holistic approaches and self-care techniques. Our goal is to shed light on the diverse perspectives and practices that can ultimately transform how we approach mental health. By joining this podcast and sharing your insights, experiences, and expertise, you become a part of a global network of change makers who are revolutionizing the way we address mental health. Together, we can inspire hope, promote understanding, and empower individuals to live their best lives. So, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to all of our platforms to stay up-to-date on the latest episodes and resources. By supporting us, you are contributing to a global movement that has the power to be life-saving for many individuals. Let's spread the word! Disclaimer: The information provided during the Revolutionary Mental Health Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, therapist, or other qualified health provider regarding a mental health condition. Views expressed are those of the individual speakers and not necessarily Revolutionary Mental Health organizers and Producers.