Elevated Life Academy

Cherie Lindberg
Elevated Life Academy

Welcome to Elevated Life: Stories of Hope and Healing with your host, Cherie Lindberg. Join us on a transformative journey, as Cherie engages in provoking conversations with leaders of the diverse realms of therapy and mental healing. Embark on a quest to understand the intricate tapestry of the human mind as we uncover the power of therapeutic modalities, new healing methods, and the intersection of psychology and spirituality. "Elevated Life: Stories of Hope and Healing" is not just a podcast; it's your compass on a journey to well-being, self-discovery, and societal harmony. Subscribe now to join Cherie Lindberg and her esteemed guests as they share insights, stories, and practical tips that illuminate the path to mental and emotional wellness. Whether you're a seasoned therapist, someone curious about mental health, or simply seeking inspiration for your own healing journey, this podcast is your guide to unlocking the potential within and fostering a more compassionate world. Tune in on Spotify, Audible, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms – because healing begins with understanding.

  1. 41 Leading from Within: Bridging the Personal and Professional with Rivka Geoghegan

    APR 21

    41 Leading from Within: Bridging the Personal and Professional with Rivka Geoghegan

    In this episode, we dive into the heart of leadership with executive coach and licensed therapist Rivka Geoghegan. Rivka has worked extensively with Silicon Valley professionals and leaders, helping them navigate workplace challenges that often stem from internal blind spots. Her unique approach blends psychology and coaching, guiding individuals to bridge the gap between their personal identity and professional roles. We explore: ✅ How self-awareness transforms leadership ✅ The hidden inner structures that impact workplace challenges ✅ The power of bringing humanity back into the workplace ✅ Strategies for leaders to create alignment between their personal values and professional success ✅ How workshops, leadership training, and one-on-one coaching can unlock untapped potential Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or someone striving to feel more integrated in your work, this episode offers deep insights into leading from within. Rivka Geoghegan is an Executive Coach with over two decades of experience as a clinical psychotherapist. She takes a comprehensive approach to professional growth, blending forward-thinking, goal-oriented coaching with the depth and insight of psychotherapy. At the heart of her work is a passion for fostering a deeper sense of humanity in the workplace. Want to know how you can begin your journey to hope and healing? Visit Elevated Life Academy for classes and free resources for personal development and healing.  Resources: CherieLindberg.com ElevatedLifeAcademy.com Guest Links: You can explore more of Rivka Geoghegan's work and insights through the following links: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rivka-geoghegan-mft-24b8a184/ website: https://www.executivecoachtherapist.com

    33 min
  2. 40: Breaking the Mold: Patrice Flannagan-Morris on Redefining Mental Health Care

    APR 7

    40: Breaking the Mold: Patrice Flannagan-Morris on Redefining Mental Health Care

    In this episode, we sit down with Patrice Flannagan-Morris, a trailblazing mental health professional from Wisconsin, who shares her inspiring journey from agency work to building a thriving group mental health practice. With a team of seven clinicians, her practice offers a diverse range of services, including individual and couples counseling and community workshops, all designed to challenge the traditional medical model of therapy. Patrice opens up about the unexpected twists and turns in her career, including how her carefully crafted five-year plan fell apart, forcing her to reimagine her goals and create something new. She discusses the challenges of hiring and managing a team in private practice—something she initially thought would be straightforward—and the steep learning curve that came with it. Through resilience and innovation, Patrice has worked tirelessly to break the mold of what therapy is "supposed" to look like. She shares how she’s built a practice that prioritizes authenticity, accessibility, and community impact over rigid systems that can sometimes harm those seeking help. Whether you're a mental health professional considering starting your own practice or someone curious about how therapy can evolve to better serve people, this episode is packed with insights, lessons learned, and inspiration for anyone looking to forge their own path. Tune in for an honest and empowering conversation about resilience, innovation, and creating meaningful change in the world of mental health care! Patrice is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of WI, running a group mental health and emotional wellness practice, Empowerment Within LLC. She started Empowerment Within LLC in Nov of 2019 and it has steadily grown in the last 5 years to have a total of 7 clinicians that she oversees. As a therapist and employer she focuses on personal growth in self-compassion, self-understanding and getting to be a better friend to yourself and achieve your goals through alignment.  Want to know how you can begin your journey to hope and healing? Visit Elevated Life Academy for classes and free resources for personal development and healing.  Resources: CherieLindberg.com ElevatedLifeAcademy.com Guest Links: You can explore more of Patrice Flannagan-Morris's work and insights through the following links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmpowermentWithinLLC/ Instagram: @empowerment.within

    24 min
  3. 39: Balancing Acts: Motherhood, Mental Health, and the Power of Vision with Brittany Bagy

    MAR 24

    39: Balancing Acts: Motherhood, Mental Health, and the Power of Vision with Brittany Bagy

    In this episode, we sit down with Brittany Bagy, a St. Louis-based therapist, private practice owner, and mother of three. Brittany shares the real, unfiltered journey of running a thriving mental health practice while navigating the complexities of motherhood, marriage, and personal growth. With expertise in brainspotting, Brittany helps clients move through anxiety, grief, and life transitions—while also using this powerful technique in her own self-care. She opens up about the struggles of maintaining her identity as a professional and a mother, redefining her vision along the way. From the challenges of building a career without a strong support system to learning how to truly prioritize herself, Brittany’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and unwavering purpose. Tune in to hear: How Brittany balances the many roles of therapist, mom, wife, and daughterThe impact of brainspotting on her practice and personal well-beingHer experience navigating loss and redefining supportThe importance of vision and values in staying groundedWhat she’s learned from her own transitions—and how it helps her guide others If you’ve ever struggled with finding yourself in the midst of life’s demands, this conversation is for you. 🎧 Listen now and join us as we explore what it truly means to create balance while staying true to your vision. Brittany Bagy leads a private practice in St. Louis, MO supporting clients and clinicians to explore the depths of their inner wisdom, heal with resilience, and grow into their authentic humanity. As a Brainspotting Consultant and a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience, she serves as a therapist, clinical supervisor, and speaker on a mission to empower others to live intentionally. Brittany interweaves self-compassion practices, parts work, and Brainspotting to help others navigate grief, anxiety, and major life transitions.  Want to know how you can begin your journey to hope and healing? Visit Elevated Life Academy for classes and free resources for personal development and healing.  Resources: CherieLindberg.com ElevatedLifeAcademy.com Guest Links: You can explore more of Brittany Bagy's work and insights through the following links: https://www.facebook.com/share/18Zdoekpr7/?mibextid=JRoKGi www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-bagy-lpc

    27 min
  4. 38: Taking the Leap: Vanessa Brugge’s Journey into Private Practice

    MAR 10

    38: Taking the Leap: Vanessa Brugge’s Journey into Private Practice

    Have you ever dreamed of running your own private practice but felt unsure about taking the leap? In this episode, we sit down with Vanessa Brugge, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, and Certified Yoga Therapist, to hear how she made the bold move into private practice after decades in a large behavioral health organization. Vanessa shares how she went from envisioning a career in therapy during her undergraduate years—where media portrayals made it look glamorous—to working in management for 20 years to support her growing family. When the time was right, she transitioned into private practice with the help of a mentor, starting with just a couple of clients per week before building a thriving full-time practice in Florida. Join us as Vanessa opens up about the challenges, fears, and rewards of making this career shift. Whether you're considering private practice or simply love hearing stories of professional reinvention, this episode is full of insights and inspiration. 🎧 Tune in now to learn: ✔️ What pushed Vanessa to finally make the switch ✔️ How mentorship played a crucial role in her transition ✔️ The gradual steps she took to build a sustainable private practice ✔️ Advice for clinicians considering the move into private practice Don't miss this inspiring conversation about courage, timing, and following your passion! Vanessa is an LCSW, BCBA, and certified yoga therapist in private practice with 26 years of experience. She integrates Brainspotting, yoga therapy, and behavioral techniques to help high-achieving clients navigate challenges and reach their full potential. Vanessa’s holistic approach to healing and personal growth empowers clients to thrive both personally and professionally. She is currently a Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) candidate, to deepen expertise and contribute to the evolving field of social work. Want to know how you can begin your journey to hope and healing? Visit Elevated Life Academy for classes and free resources for personal development and healing.  Resources: CherieLindberg.com ElevatedLifeAcademy.com Guest Links: You can explore more of Vanessa Brugge's work and insights through the following links: www.VanessaBrugge.com

    20 min
  5. 37: Fearless Leap: Building a Private Practice & Family Life with Gabby Palamino

    FEB 24

    37: Fearless Leap: Building a Private Practice & Family Life with Gabby Palamino

    In this episode with Gabby Palamino, a Latina entrepreneur, therapist, and mother who took a bold leap of faith to build her private practice during the uncertainty of COVID. Gabby shares her journey of starting with just one private pay client—only to feel overwhelmed by fear. When she became pregnant, her perspective on work and family shifted, leading her and her spouse to reimagine their lives as co-parents and part-time professionals. Through Brainspotting, Gabby faced her fears and gained the courage to fully step into entrepreneurship. She opens up about the struggles of balancing business growth, parenting, and the desire to provide bilingual mental health services to her community. Listen in as she shares how she turned her dream into reality, proving that with persistence and intentionality, both family and business can thrive. 🎧 Tune in to hear: ✅ The fears and mindset shifts of launching a private practice ✅ How pregnancy reshaped her career and life priorities ✅ The role of Brainspotting in overcoming self-doubt ✅ The challenges and joys of being a bilingual therapist for her community ✅ How she and her spouse created a work-life balance that prioritizes family If you’re an entrepreneur, a therapist, or someone considering a major life change, Gabby’s story will inspire you to take your own fearless leap! Gabriela Palomino McComb is a Latinx bilingual LCSW in private practice specializing in somatic therapy approaches, including EMDR and Brainspotting, to support healing from trauma and emotional challenges. She combines her expertise in these trauma-informed methods with a deep cultural understanding to help clients restore balance, build resilience, and achieve personal growth. Gabriela is dedicated to creating a compassionate and empowering space for clients to explore and heal from within. 🎧 Tune in now to learn: ✔️ What pushed Vanessa to finally make the switch ✔️ How mentorship played a crucial role in her transition ✔️ The gradual steps she took to build a sustainable private practice ✔️ Advice for clinicians considering the move into private practice Don't miss this inspiring conversation about courage, timing, and following your passion! Want to know how you can begin your journey to hope and healing? Visit Elevated Life Academy for classes and free resources for personal development and healing.  Resources: CherieLindberg.com ElevatedLifeAcademy.com Guest Links: You can explore more of Gabby Palomino's work and insights through the following links: http://www.thecoloroftherapy.com/

    34 min
  6. 36: Climbing the Mountain: Risk, Resilience, and Building a Thriving Practice with Michelle Petty

    FEB 10

    36: Climbing the Mountain: Risk, Resilience, and Building a Thriving Practice with Michelle Petty

    In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Petty, a play therapist and Brainspotting practitioner, to explore her journey from early intervention and attachment work to becoming a successful business owner. Michelle shares how her achievement-driven mindset and task-oriented nature initially made it difficult for her to take big risks—until a deep Brainspotting session revealed a powerful metaphor: a mountain she had to climb on her own. With the support of her community and a trusted business partner, Michelle took the leap into private practice. She reflects on the challenges of stepping away from agency work, the fear of financial instability (especially as a single mother), and the lessons she’s learned about adaptability, balance, and trusting the process. Throughout our conversation, Michelle highlights the power of women supporting women in professional spaces, the role her mother played as a role model, and how taking risks has positively impacted not only her career but also her son’s mindset. She embraces being a role model, both for those who lean on her professionally and for her son, who has taken an interest in the mental health field. In fact, he once asked her, “When do I get the keys to the castle?”—a reminder of how deeply her journey has inspired him. Join us for an inspiring discussion on resilience, self-trust, and the rewards of stepping into the unknown. 🔹 Topics Covered: Transitioning from agency work to private practiceHow Brainspotting helped her gain clarity and confidenceNavigating financial fears and single parenthood while building a businessThe importance of community and mentorship for personal and professional growthFinding balance between work and fun after COVIDHow risk-taking influences the next generationEmbracing being a role model for others Michelle is a highly skilled mental health professional with over a decade of experience specializing in anxiety, trauma, depression, and personal growth. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Brainspotting Consultant, she integrates diverse therapeutic approaches, including Brainspotting, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Attachment, and other experiential techniques. With a strong foundation in child development and family-centered care, Michelle is passionate about advancing the mental health field through professional training and collaboration with community partners. Outside her practice, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and nurturing her love for new experiences. Want to know how you can begin your journey to hope and healing? Visit Elevated Life Academy for classes and free resources for personal development and healing.  Resources: CherieLindberg.com ElevatedLifeAcademy.com Guest Links: You can explore more of Michelle Petty's work and insights through the following links: https://www.altwellnesstherapies.com/

    33 min
  7. 35: Art as a Healing Journey: Ardenna Downing's Story of Grief, Growth, and Creativity

    JAN 27

    35: Art as a Healing Journey: Ardenna Downing's Story of Grief, Growth, and Creativity

    In this episode, we explore the transformative power of art with Ardenna, an inspiring advocate for creative healing. Ardenna shares her deeply personal story of loss and resilience, starting with the death of her mother just before her 17th birthday and her grandfather when she was only 9. Growing up, she found herself surrounded by people who didn’t know how to process grief—and she didn’t understand it either. During her junior and senior years, Ardenna began creating a portfolio and a grief journal, unknowingly laying the foundation for her healing. It wasn’t until later in life that she realized the profound impact art had on her ability to navigate loss and understand her world. Ardenna’s passion for art grew into a mission to help others. She has facilitated art groups like Hands of Hope for survivors of domestic violence and worked in diverse settings, including mobile crisis teams, jails, nonprofit organizations, and with police officers. She discusses how art serves as both a medium for self-expression and a tool for understanding emotions, often using it to assess where clients are on their personal journey. Looking ahead, Ardenna is launching online art groups in 2025 with themes inspired by famous artists and releasing a journal to help others explore art as a pathway to healing and self-discovery. Join us as Ardenna shares how creativity can provide a voice for the soul, inspire transformation, and offer hope in the face of life’s challenges. Key Takeaways: The role of art in processing grief and finding clarity.How art can be used as a tool for assessment and self-awareness.Ardenna’s plans for online art groups and her upcoming journal in 2025.Inspiring ways to use creativity to connect with your inner world. Tune in to hear Ardenna’s heartfelt story and learn how art can open new doors to healing and personal growth! Ardenna is a Professional Counselor licensed in California and Texas and has been a mental health therapist for approximately 15 years. She is an EMDR certified and Brainspotting therapist who has a career that spans from working in one of the largest family justice centers in the world to mobile crisis outreach and victim's services for police. Ardenna's passion is working with groups and has experience in the following settings: jail, hospital, shelters, and outreach centers. She is the author of a 40 day journal for those in their forties entitled "Forty for Forties: Transform and Reflect on your Life's Journey." Want to know how you can begin your journey to hope and healing? Visit Elevated Life Academy for classes and free resources for personal development and healing.  Resources: CherieLindberg.com ElevatedLifeAcademy.com Guest Links: You can explore more of Ardenna Downing's work and insights through the following links: TikTok: @callerycounseling Instagram: @callery_counseling Facebook: callery counseling website: www.callerycounseling.com

    32 min
  8. 34: Reclaiming Integrity: Healing from Sexual Addiction and Betrayal Trauma with Michelle Dyett-Welcome

    JAN 13

    34: Reclaiming Integrity: Healing from Sexual Addiction and Betrayal Trauma with Michelle Dyett-Welcome

    In this powerful episode, we sit down with Michelle Dyett-Welcome, a compassionate guide for men navigating the challenging path of recovery from sexual addiction and for the women who’ve been impacted by betrayal trauma. Michelle shares her unique approach to helping individuals reconnect with their integrity, self-compassion, and wholeness through Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Topics Covered: Understanding Sexual Addiction: How childhood trauma and shame contribute to the cycle of addiction, and how IFS therapy helps men connect with and unburden the parts of themselves they’ve judged or that society has labeled as “monstrous.”Restoring Integrity: The journey of moving from shame to self-compassion and learning to live in alignment with one’s values.Healing Betrayal Trauma: Supporting partners who’ve experienced deep emotional wounds, helping them rediscover their sense of self-worth, beauty, and remarkability.Small Steps to Transformation: How Michelle’s programs guide both men and their partners to take incremental steps toward healthier behaviors, self-awareness, and mutual trust. Key Takeaways: Sexual addiction is often rooted in unresolved childhood trauma and serves as a way to self-soothe.Recovery involves acknowledging the shame, trauma, and judgment men carry, and holding those parts sacredly to facilitate healing.Betrayal trauma can deeply affect a partner’s self-esteem and sense of identity, but with support, they can unburden and reclaim their strength.Real change happens through small, consistent actions that rebuild trust and integrity. Whether you’ve been directly impacted by sexual addiction or are seeking to better understand these complex dynamics, this episode offers hope, tools, and a path forward. Tune in to hear Michelle’s profound insights and learn how compassion and courage can transform lives and relationships. Michelle J. Dyett-Welcome is a clever and adept practitioner specializing in trauma, relationships, and personal growth. Level 2 and Group Brainspotting trained, and Level 2 IFS (Internal Family Systems) trained, she is also a Trauma-Sensitive HeartMath® Certified Practitioner and HeartMath® Certified Clinical Coach in Stress, Anxiety, and Self-Regulation. Michelle’s contemporary and state-of-the-art approach supports sex addicts, partners of sex addicts, and individuals who have experienced trauma, empowering them to heal and thrive with surprising insights and transformative care. Based in NYC, she tailors her work to meet her clients' unique needs. Want to know how you can begin your journey to hope and healing? Visit Elevated Life Academy for classes and free resources for personal development and healing.  Resources: CherieLindberg.com ElevatedLifeAcademy.com You can connect with Michelle here: https://campsite.bio/breatheeasycoach

    36 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to Elevated Life: Stories of Hope and Healing with your host, Cherie Lindberg. Join us on a transformative journey, as Cherie engages in provoking conversations with leaders of the diverse realms of therapy and mental healing. Embark on a quest to understand the intricate tapestry of the human mind as we uncover the power of therapeutic modalities, new healing methods, and the intersection of psychology and spirituality. "Elevated Life: Stories of Hope and Healing" is not just a podcast; it's your compass on a journey to well-being, self-discovery, and societal harmony. Subscribe now to join Cherie Lindberg and her esteemed guests as they share insights, stories, and practical tips that illuminate the path to mental and emotional wellness. Whether you're a seasoned therapist, someone curious about mental health, or simply seeking inspiration for your own healing journey, this podcast is your guide to unlocking the potential within and fostering a more compassionate world. Tune in on Spotify, Audible, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms – because healing begins with understanding.

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