Inner Voice - Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan

Dr. Foojan Zeine

“InnerVoice – A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan” is a podcast where Dr. Foojan Zeine invites thought leaders, mental wellness experts, educators, and trailblazers to engage in open, intimate conversations grounded in her signature framework, Awareness Integration Theory (AIT). Each episode explores themes of self-awareness, healing from the past, building self-confidence, nurturing meaningful relationships, and creating a purpose-driven future. Listeners come away with practical insights, reflective prompts, and actionable steps aligned with the podcast’s ethos of “clear the past • create a new future • live a fulfilled life now.”

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Strangers Reveal Their Deepest Burdens… Then This Happened

    E450 of Inner Voice: A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan — In this deeply moving episode, Dr. Foojan explores The Weight of Grace, Tom Tenney’s powerful debut story, born from a vivid dream and a heartfelt conversation about the invisible burdens we all carry. Inspired by the timeless phrase “Take up your cross and follow me,” and influenced by A Liberated Mind by Steven C. Hayes, Tom brings a compassionate lens to themes of resilience, emotional healing, and the quiet strength within human struggle. With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, an MBA, and five years of experience as a therapeutic foster parent, Tom shares profound insights into empathy, listening, and transformation. Discover more at www.theweightofgrace.com. Journey of Grace and Struggle Tom shares the deeply personal journey behind writing The Weight of Grace, sparked by a dream and expanded through years of research into human burdens and emotional pain. By collecting real-life stories through Google Alerts and connecting with hundreds of individuals, Tom honors vulnerability and highlights a powerful truth: our struggles are not here to break us—they are here to reveal who we truly are. This episode explores storytelling, emotional resilience, and the human experience of overcoming adversity. Grace and Resilience in Literature In this soulful conversation, Tom and Dr. Foojan explore the evolving meaning of grace—not as the removal of hardship, but as the ability to support others through theirs. Through personal reflections and storytelling, they discuss vulnerability, healing, and a compelling character from Tom’s book who reframes suffering as a source of strength. This discussion blends spirituality, psychology, and humanity, offering listeners a transformative perspective on resilience and compassion. Compassionate Connection Through Vulnerability Tom reveals his mission to foster human connection through vulnerability, inspired by both his book and real-world social experiments. From helping a stranger process emotional burdens in a park to envisioning an app that tracks acts of kindness, his vision is rooted in empathy and service. He emphasizes how separating emotions from identity and embracing small, meaningful acts of kindness can create powerful connections and support emotional healing. Grace and Compassion in Action Through a moving social experiment, Tom invited strangers to sit with him and share their struggles, creating safe spaces for authentic human connection. He distinguishes between grace—seeing others empathetically—and compassion—taking action to help alleviate their suffering. Tom hopes to expand this initiative across cities, inspiring a movement centered on vulnerability, kindness, and emotional support. This episode is a must-watch for anyone seeking purpose, connection, and a deeper understanding of the human spirit.#mentalhealth #Wellness #Relationship #PersonalGrowth #Self-Development

    40 min
  2. 13 APR

    The 'Starving the Dragon' Technique Toxic Bosses Don't Want You to Know

    n this E449 of Inner voice, A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan, Dr. Foojan sits down with CEO coach, venture capitalist, and author Kate Lowry to explore the powerful and often hidden dynamics of fear-based leadership. Drawing from her experience at top firms like McKinsey & Company, Meta, and Insight Partners, Kate reveals how high-performance environments often reward fear-based behavior—and what you can do about it. We dive into her groundbreaking book, Unbreakable: How to Thrive Under Fear-Based Leaders, and explore: Why fear-based leadership is rapidly increasing The influence of high-profile leaders like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos How narcissistic and insecure leaders operate The “Starving the Dragon” technique to regain control How to handle toxic bosses without losing your sanity The psychology of power, control, and validation What to do if you're stuck in a toxic work environment Strategies to protect your mental health and career If you’ve ever worked under a controlling, intimidating, or emotionally volatile leader—this episode will change how you see power dynamics forever. 💡 Learn how to: Navigate toxic workplaces Build emotional resilience Outsmart manipulative leadership tactics Protect your identity and values at work 👉 Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or employee, this conversation gives you the tools to survive—and win—in high-pressure environments. 🔗 Learn more: katelowry.com 🔍 SEO-Optimized (Keywords) fear based leadership, toxic boss, narcissistic leader, how to deal with toxic boss, workplace psychology, leadership styles, Elon Musk leadership style, Jeff Bezos leadership style, corporate toxicity, startup culture toxic, CEO mindset, emotional intelligence at work, survive toxic workplace, leadership coaching, Kate Lowry, unbreakable book, fear driven leaders, power dynamics workplace, psychological safety work, career advice podcast #MentalHealth #Wellness #Relationship #PersonalGrowth #selfdevelopment

    42 min
  3. 8 APR

    Parents Are Missing These Critical Autism Red Flags Every Single Day

    the importance of early autism screening tools, pediatric evaluations, and timely intervention. They also address common autism myths and misconceptions, including the belief that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) cannot improve. Dr. Lyons discusses how early intervention programs can significantly improve outcomes. Evidence-based therapies such as ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) and PRT (Pivotal Response Treatment) are explored as powerful tools to enhance communication skills, social development, and adaptive behavior. The conversation also highlights underlying health factors like gut health, sleep disorders, and nutritional deficiencies that may impact autism symptoms. Dr. Theresa Lyons and Dr. Foojan explore the complexity of autism spectrum disorder, emphasizing that autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition. They discuss co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, anxiety disorders, and dyslexia, and how overlapping symptoms can complicate diagnosis and treatment. Topics like high-functioning autism, masking behaviors, and emotional meltdowns at home are also examined, encouraging parents to trust their instincts regardless of their child’s external presentation. The episode sheds light on the intense stress parents face during autism meltdowns, including emotional exhaustion and physical strain. Dr. Lyons shares research indicating that parents of children with autism may have a 20–30% higher risk of PTSD due to chronic stress. She offers practical emotional regulation strategies for parents and explains how maintaining calm during meltdowns can help de-escalate challenging situations. The discussion also explores the emotional toll of raising a child with autism, including feelings of guilt, isolation, and overwhelm—especially in public settings. They talk about coping strategies, social withdrawal, and the impact on siblings, who may also experience increased stress or trauma. A groundbreaking clinical trial using EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is discussed, showing promising results in reducing PTSD symptoms in parents while improving emotional regulation in children. Finally, the episode focuses on empowering autism families through therapy, communication strategies, and strong emotional support systems. Dr. Lyons emphasizes teaching independence, fostering autonomy, and supporting both parents and siblings. The role of siblings in long-term caregiving, challenges faced by non-speaking individuals with autism, and the importance of building self-esteem are all addressed. Dr. Foojan highlights the need for parents to release guilt and make confident, informed decisions while accessing the right autism resources and support networks. 🔑 Keywords: Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Early Signs of Autism, Autism Diagnosis, Autism Parenting, ABA Therapy, PRT Therapy, Autism Intervention, Autism Support, Autism Awareness, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Dyslexia, Autism Meltdowns, Parenting Stress, PTSD in Parents, EMDR Therapy, Child Development, Special Needs Parenting, Autism Resources, Mental Health, Wellness, Personal Growth, Self Development #Autism #AutismAwareness #Parenting #MentalHealth #Wellness #PersonalGrowth #SelfDevelopment #SpecialNeedsParenting

    52 min
  4. 30 MAR

    Heal Trauma Without Reliving It? This Technique Is Changing Everything

    Welcome to Episode 447 of Inner Voice: A Heartfelt Chat, with Dr. Foojan, featuring special guest Dr. Philip Manfield, Ph.D., the creator of the revolutionary Flash Technique for trauma therapy. In this powerful podcast episode, Dr. Foojan and Dr. Manfield explore how this groundbreaking, pain-free alternative to EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is transforming the way clinicians treat PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and phobias. Developed in 2016 as part of EMDR preparation, the Flash Technique allows individuals to process deeply disturbing memories without directly reliving them, making it ideal for clients who feel overwhelmed or resistant to traditional trauma therapy. Dr. Manfield shares how his work builds on the foundations of Dr. Francine Shapiro, the founder of EMDR, along with insights from Christina Kanowski’s trauma-focused adaptations. Unlike traditional EMDR therapy, which requires direct engagement with painful memories, the Flash Technique uses brief, subconscious exposure paired with positive focus and intentional distraction, enabling the brain to process trauma safely and effectively. Backed by over 24 peer-reviewed research studies and adopted worldwide, this evidence-based approach has already trained more than 24,000 clinicians across 11+ countries. In this episode, you’ll discover: How the Flash Technique helps treat severe trauma and PTSD without emotional overwhelm Why phobia treatment improves when exposure happens outside conscious awareness The neuroscience behind trauma healing, including fear response, memory reconsolidation, and the role of the prefrontal cortex How eye movements, blinking, and distraction techniques accelerate subconscious trauma processing Real-world success stories, including large-scale trauma treatment in Ethiopia, Turkey, and beyond If you're searching for effective trauma therapy, EMDR alternatives, PTSD healing methods, or cutting-edge psychological techniques, this episode offers powerful insights into the future of mental health and emotional healing.#MentalHealth #Wellness #Relationship #PersonalGrowth #selfimprovement

    58 min
  5. 23 MAR

    She Stopped Doing Affirmations—Here's What Shifted

    Award-winning author and TEDx speaker Dr. Cortney McDermott shares groundbreaking insights on human potential, consciousness, and self-transformation in Episode E446 of Inner Voice: A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan. With a Master of Science from the London School of Economics and experience with brands like Nike, Google, Universal Music Group, and Kickstarter, Dr. McDermott blends academic rigor with real-world business experience to help individuals and organizations unlock their highest potential. In this heartfelt conversation with host Dr. Foojan, Dr. McDermott dives into her book "Give Yourself Permission", exploring unexplained weight loss, consciousness shifts, and neuroscience-backed techniques. She shares astonishing client stories, including skin conditions disappearing and other phenomena linked to consciousness and self-healing. Discover how the reticular activating system in the brain shapes our reality, and learn why shifting unconscious beliefs is far more powerful than conscious affirmations. Dr. McDermott explains the transformative power of listening to inner intelligence and practicing stillness, highlighting methods to access creativity, learning, and personal guidance. She introduces the concept of the "joy of missing out" to embrace rest, silence, and self-truth, enabling profound personal fulfillment. Explore cultural perspectives on universal intelligence, from Northern America to Italy, and how community, work-life balance, and social systems shape personal and collective consciousness. Dr. McDermott also discusses the role of ego and identity in business, showing how surrendering control can lead to authentic leadership and creative breakthroughs. Finally, learn how to align with divine intelligence, trust inner wisdom, and focus on the feelings behind your goals for true alignment with your inner truth. Dr. McDermott shares personal stories from public speaking, transformative travels, and her own self-development journey, offering tools and resources for anyone seeking self-transformation, conscious living, and unlocking human potential. 🔗 Connect with Dr. Cortney McDermott: www.CortneyMcDermott.com Keywords included: Cortney McDermott, Dr. Cortney McDermott, TEDx speaker, human potential, consciousness, self-development, personal transformation, Give Yourself Permission, neuroscience, epigenetics, quantum theory, reticular activating system, inner intelligence, stillness practice, divine intelligence, ego, unconscious beliefs, weight loss, self-leadership, creativity, personal fulfillment, work-life balance, universal intelligence, mind-body connection, Inner Voice podcast, Dr. Foojan, heartfelt conversation. #MentalHealth #Wellness #Relationship #PersonalGrowth #Self-Development

    48 min
  6. 16 MAR

    Teens Don't Need More Medication—They Need This

    How can creativity, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence transform Gen Z mental health? In this powerful episode of Inner Voice – A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan (E445), Dr. Foojan sits down with creative director, artist, and youth mental health advocate Rafael McMaster, founder of Indivisible Arts, a Los Angeles–based nonprofit dedicated to helping teenagers develop emotional resilience, self-awareness, and inner strength through creativity and mindfulness practices. After a successful career as a Creative Executive at Creative Artists Agency, Rafael shifted his focus from the entertainment industry to youth empowerment and mental wellness. Through Indivisible Arts, he developed the groundbreaking Creative Wisdom Tools curriculum, which has been accepted as a California state-approved English curriculum. The program teaches students practical mental health tools, emotional regulation skills, mindfulness techniques, and creative expression. Rafael also shares insights from his new book, FundaMentalife Tools, a hands-on toolkit designed to help young people develop emotional intelligence, self-control, intention setting, radical acceptance, and visualization—essential skills for navigating today’s fast-paced digital world. In this episode, Dr. foojan and Rafael explore how Gen Z can build mental resilience, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence through art, storytelling, journaling, and creative expression. Rafael explains how teaching young people to separate their identity from their thoughts can significantly improve confidence, reduce anxiety, and strengthen overall mental well-being. Through initiatives such as the Resin Creative Lab and the student-driven platform streamofconsciousness.life, teenagers are sharing authentic stories about how these tools have helped them overcome personal challenges and build stronger emotional foundations through peer-to-peer learning. Dr. Foojan and Rafael also discuss the urgent need for mental health education in schools and why traditional education systems often fail to equip students with the emotional and cognitive life skills they truly need. This inspiring conversation offers valuable insights for parents, educators, mental health professionals, and anyone passionate about empowering the next generation to thrive emotionally, mentally, and creatively. 🔑 Topics Covered in This Episode • The Gen Z mental health crisis and practical solutions • Teaching emotional intelligence and life skills in schools • Mindfulness and creativity as tools for teenage well-being • Radical acceptance, intention setting, and visualization practices • How art supports emotional regulation and self-expression • Mental health tools every teenager should learn • Neurolinguistic approaches to developing self-awareness • Helping teens separate their thoughts from their identity • The power of journaling and visualization for emotional growth • Conscious parenting and unconditional love for emotional support 📚 Learn More 🌐 https://www.indivisiblearts.org (https://www.indivisiblearts.org/) 🔎 SEO Keywords Gen Z mental health, emotional intelligence for teens, mindfulness for teenagers, youth mental health tools, emotional regulation skills, mental health education in schools, creativity and mental health, self-awareness for teens, mindfulness curriculum for schools, Rafael McMaster interview, youth empowerment programs, art therapy for teens, mental health podcast, parenting teenagers mental health, emotional resilience training#mentalhealth #Wellness #Relationship #PersonalGrowth #Self-Development

    23 min
  7. 9 MAR

    The Truth About Addiction Recovery No One Talks About | Jason Shiers

    E444 of Inner Voice – A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan features a powerful conversation with Jason Shiers, founder of the Infinite Recovery Project and author of the book Infinite Recovery. In this episode, Jason shares a compelling alternative perspective on addiction recovery. Drawing from his lived experience with addiction, trauma, and personal transformation, he challenges traditional addiction treatment models that focus on pathology and lifelong labels. During this heartfelt discussion with Dr. Foojan Zeine, Jason explains why many current addiction recovery programs fail long-term and why he has shifted his work toward training therapists, clinicians, and treatment centers in a more transformative recovery approach. The conversation opens the door to a new understanding of addiction, healing, and sustainable long-term recovery. Jason explores the limitations of the traditional medical and pathology-based model of addiction treatment. Instead of viewing people as broken or diseased, he explains how addictive behaviors often emerge as intelligent attempts to regulate a dysregulated nervous system. Through the Infinite Recovery Project, Jason advocates for a holistic approach to addiction recovery that focuses on emotional regulation, trauma healing, and reconnecting individuals with their natural resilience. He also critiques the overreliance on “evidence-based practices” that can overlook deeper psychological and emotional roots, which may lead many individuals to replace one addiction with another more socially acceptable behavior. Sharing his personal recovery journey, Jason reveals that he has been free from addiction for over 10 years and now considers himself fully recovered. He discusses the psychological impact of identifying as a lifelong “addict” and how labels can reinforce shame, limit personal growth, and keep individuals stuck in recovery cycles. Dr. Foojan Zeine reflects on her professional experience in therapy and addiction recovery work, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and understanding addictive patterns as coping strategies rather than defining identities. Together, they explore how reframing addiction can empower individuals to move beyond shame and rediscover their capacity for healing. The conversation dives deeper into different models of addiction, comparing the traditional pathology model with what Jason calls the “intelligence model.” While the pathology model can sometimes reduce shame by framing addiction as a disease, Jason explains that it can also prevent deeper healing by overlooking the trauma responses that often drive addictive behaviors. He describes his work with individuals who have tried conventional recovery programs—such as therapy, treatment centers, or 12-step programs—yet continue to struggle with relapse. His approach focuses on creating psychological safety and helping people reconnect with their inner experience to address the root causes of addiction. Jason explains how his therapeutic approach helps clients develop deeper self-awareness and compassion toward their internal experiences. Rather than suppressing cravings or fighting urges, clients are guided to explore physical sensations, emotional patterns, and nervous system responses often connected to early life experiences and trauma. Through curiosity, mindfulness, and non-judgmental awareness, individuals learn to understand what their addictive impulses are trying to regulate. As clients become more connected to their internal world, Jason notes that the intensity of addictive urges often naturally decreases. The episode concludes with a discussion about trauma healing, self-discovery, and the non-linear nature of recovery. Jason explains that healing is less about fixing what is broken and more about unlearning false beliefs, simplifying inner experiences, and rediscovering one's authentic self. The process involves building a deeper relationship with oneself rather than creating new recovery identities. Dr. Foojan Zeine highly recommends the book Infinite Recovery for anyone interested in alternative addiction recovery approaches, trauma healing, and personal transformation. #mentalhealth #Wellness #Relationship #PersonalGrowth #Self-Development

    42 min
  8. 2 MAR

    Traumatic Grief Hits Different – Here's Why

    Episode E443 | Inner Voice – A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan In this episode of Inner Voice – A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan, Dr. Foojan Zeine sits down with nationally recognized traumatic grief expert Jennifer R. Levin, PhD, LMFT, FT, to explore the complex realities of traumatic grief, sudden loss, and unexpected death. Sudden death can shatter our assumptive world, dysregulate the nervous system, and create symptoms that go far beyond natural grief. Together, they unpack the critical difference between grief and traumatic grief, how shock impacts the brain and body, and why stabilization must happen before deeper grief processing can begin. As founder of Traumatic Grief Solutions and one of fewer than 300 professionals credentialed as a Fellow in Thanatology, Dr. Levin provides crisis response consulting, grief leadership training, and trauma-informed coaching for executives and HR leaders. She explains how sudden workplace loss affects productivity, morale, and long-term retention — and why most bereavement policies fail grieving employees. You’ll also learn how anger, guilt, regret, and loss of control show up after traumatic loss, how collective trauma differs from personal grief, and what truly helps someone heal after unexpected death. Midway through the conversation, Dr. Levin shares practical tools from her new book, The Traumatic Loss Workbook: Powerful Skills for Navigating the Grief Caused by a Sudden or Unexpected Death, offering actionable strategies for coping with grief, regulating the nervous system, and rebuilding meaning after tragedy. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 0:00 – Introduction to Traumatic Grief & Sudden Loss 2:03 – Meet Jennifer R. Levin, PhD, LMFT, FT 6:00 – Grief vs. Traumatic Grief: Key Differences 8:44 – How Sudden Death Affects the Brain & Nervous System 10:53 – Real-Life Cases of Shock & Dissociation 13:51 – Safety, Stabilization & Trauma Recovery 17:17 – Collective Trauma vs. Individual Loss 20:34 – Anger, Rage, Guilt & Loss of Control 25:07 – Bereavement Leave & Workplace Grief Culture 28:23 – The Financial & Emotional Cost of Grief at Work 30:28 – Trauma-Informed Leadership & HR Strategies 36:20 – How to Support Someone Who Is Grieving 41:56 – Facing Mortality & Talking About Death 45:03 – The Traumatic Loss Workbook & Resources This episode is essential for anyone coping with personal loss, supporting a grieving loved one, leading a team after a workplace tragedy, or seeking trauma-informed strategies for healing after sudden death. Whether you are a therapist, executive, HR professional, or someone navigating grief recovery, this conversation offers compassionate insight, evidence-based tools, and practical guidance to foster resilience and long-term healing. Learn more: TraumaticGriefSolutions.com TherapyHeals.com

    47 min

About

“InnerVoice – A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan” is a podcast where Dr. Foojan Zeine invites thought leaders, mental wellness experts, educators, and trailblazers to engage in open, intimate conversations grounded in her signature framework, Awareness Integration Theory (AIT). Each episode explores themes of self-awareness, healing from the past, building self-confidence, nurturing meaningful relationships, and creating a purpose-driven future. Listeners come away with practical insights, reflective prompts, and actionable steps aligned with the podcast’s ethos of “clear the past • create a new future • live a fulfilled life now.”