Mental Health, RECLAIMED. with Dr. Azi & Friends

Dr. Azi Jankovic
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  • Mental Health
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I’m Dr. Azi Jankovic, mental health educator, researcher, wellness innovator, and author. My work began with a simple question: What actually helps people thrive? That question has led me to explore the science connecting mental health, metabolic health, nutrition, the gut microbiome, sleep, movement, stress, relationships, and purpose. On this podcast, we take the research out of the journals and bring it into real life. I speak with leading thinkers, challenge outdated assumptions about wellness, and explore evidence-informed strategies for supporting the

  1. 10/30/2025

    The 5-Minute Shift: Ep. 104 The USC Study Helping Students to Reclaim Their Mental Health

    This week on Mental Health Reclaimed, I’m joined by two inspiring educators from the University of Southern California: Dr. Julie Loppacher, Director of the Kortschak Center for Learning and Creativity, and Dr. Harly Ramsey, Associate Director of the Engineering in Society Program. In this conversation, we explore how just five intentional minutes a day—through journaling, breathing, tapping, and cognitive reappraisal—can rewire the brain for calm, clarity, and confidence. We dive into the culture of pressure in higher education, the science of self-regulation, and why true well-being begins with awareness, not achievement. Whether you’re a student, educator, or lifelong learner, this episode reminds you that healing and resilience can begin with something simple: five mindful minutes at a time. ✨ Listen now to reclaim your calm, your focus, and your mental health, one small shift at a time. Links and Resources 🎙 Today’s Guests: Dr. Julie Loppacher – Director, Kortschak Center for Learning and Creativity, University of Southern California Dr. Harly Ramsey – Associate Director, Engineering in Society Program, University of Southern California Learn more about their work: the5minuteproject.com For more about Dr. Azi Jankovic, host of the pod, educator-speaker-advocate, and author of Mental Health Reclaimed, visit: ✨  azijankovic.com

    The 5-Minute Shift: Ep. 104 The USC Study Helping Students to Reclaim Their Mental Health

  2. 08/25/2025

    From Food Addiction to Freedom: EP 103: Lilach Bullock's Self Love Journey Losing the Weight and Gaining Emotional Freedom

    This week I’m joined by my dear friend Lilach Bullock, a business strategist turned wellness inspiration, who shed 110 pounds after 52 years of struggle with food and self-image. Through the power of self-love and lifestyle transformation, she not only changed her body but reclaimed her emotional and mental health. In this conversation, Lila and I get real about food addiction, the lies we’ve been sold by diet culture, and how sugar and processed foods affect both physical and mental wellbeing. We share our parallel journeys of transformation—hers in releasing weight and pain, mine in reclaiming my mental health—and explore what it takes to create lasting change. If you’ve ever wondered whether real transformation is possible for you, this episode is proof that it is. ✨ Links and Resources Dr. Azi Jankovic: azijankovic.com Mental Health Reclaimed - book: Amazon | Barnes & Noble OR - Grab your free chapters here :) Social Media - Azi: Instagram Facebook Linkedin TODAYS GUEST: Lilach's Website: ⁠escapethedietprison.com⁠

  3. 07/28/2025

    Is Self-Help Keeping You Stuck? Rethinking Growth with Daniel Packard - Episode 102

    Welcome back to Mental Health Reclaimed, the podcast where we challenge the status quo and uncover what actually works in mental health and wellbeing. Today’s guest is Daniel Packard, mechanical engineer and CEO of Full Liberation Technology, whose revolutionary system promises fast, lasting freedom from what he calls “The Funky Five”: anxiety, perfectionism, procrastination, people-pleasing, and low confidence. After 8 years and over $1 million in R&D, his team reverse-engineered a body-based approach that’s helping people break free permanently—not just manage symptoms. In this episode, we unpack: Why 40% of people who seek mental health help never improve, and what we can do about it.The real reason you might still be stuck, despite all the therapy, books and apps.The hidden power of your nervous system and how to restore its true baseline.Why Daniel believes innovation, not just inspiration, is the missing piece in the mental health industry.How to stop chasing temporary fixes and reclaim lasting results Whether you’re new to healing or deep in the journey, this conversation offers fresh hope, grounded insights, and a radically different roadmap to change. Mental Health Reclaimed—Dr. Azi’s #1 bestselling book on thriving beyond labels and limits: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F47G5V4Z  Get Daniel’s free training here:  https://www.danielpackard.com Subscribe to this podcast and share this episode with someone who can benefit. #MentalHealthReclaimed #NervousSystemHealing #ResultsMatter #DanielPackard #TraumaHealing #RootCauseHealing #TheFunkyFive #AnxietyRecovery #SelfHealing #ReclaimYourLife Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for qualified medical advice or guidance.

  4. 07/14/2025

    The TRUTH about Psych Drugs with Dr. Roger McFillin - Renowned Psychologist and Reformer (EP 101)

    In this powerful episode of Mental Health Reclaimed, host Dr. Azi Jankovic sits down with Dr. Roger McFillin. Dr. McFillin board-certified behavioral and cognitive psychologist and a nationally recognized expert in trauma, eating disorders, and mood-related conditions. Dr. McFillin is a fierce advocate for ethical, evidence-based mental health care and a vocal critic of overmedication and pseudoscience in psychiatry. He works to promote informed consent and medical freedom, empowering individuals to reclaim their mental health beyond labels and diagnoses. In this EP, we explore: How Dr. McFillin saw a dangerous side of psychiatry in his early career, and how these experiences shaped his missionThe myths of chemical imbalance and prevalence of overmedication in psychiatryHow trauma, environment, and lifestyle influence mental healthThe role of spirituality, community, and purpose in healingThe dangers of labeling and how it perpetuates helplessnessThe movement toward true root-cause healing and medical freedom Dr. McFillin shares practical insights for individuals and clinicians, as well as actionable steps for reclaiming mental health naturally and holistically. We also discuss the future of mental health care, the Conscious Clinician Collective, and Dr. McFillin’s vision for reforming the mental health system. Connect with Today’s Guest: 📖 Learn about Dr. McFillin’s work, his center, and his brand new Conscious Clinician Collective at: drmcfillin.com Connect with your host: 🌱 Visit Dr. Azi Jankovic’s website: azijankovic.com — access her book, blog, podcast episodes, events, and more. Grab your copy of Mental Health, Reclaimed: www.azijankovic.com/book

    The TRUTH about Psych Drugs with Dr. Roger McFillin - Renowned Psychologist and Reformer (EP 101)

  5. 06/23/2025

    How an Entrepreneur Conquered Her Mental Battles and Built a Dream Life: EP 99 with Jennifer K. Hill

    Jennifer K. Hill's Journey from Mental Health Struggles to Entrepreneurial Success | Mental Health Reclaimed Welcome to this heartfelt episode of Mental Health Reclaimed, hosted by Azi Jankovic. In this edition, Azi Jankovic sits down with long-time friend Jennifer K. Hill, an entrepreneur, executive coach, and public speaker with over 20 years of experience. Jennifer openly shares her profound journey of overcoming mental health challenges, including autism, bulimia, and suicide attempts, to become a thriving leader in the global wellness movement. This candid conversation explores the powerful tools and practices that helped Jennifer reclaim her mental health, such as HeartMath's Heart Focused Breathing and The Sedona Method. Additionally, Jennifer introduces Opti Match (OM.app), her innovative algorithm designed to revolutionize human connections in business. This episode is filled with invaluable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to overcome their own mental health obstacles. Tune in to be inspired by Jennifer's incredible transformation and to learn actionable techniques for a happier, more fulfilling life. 00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Reclaimed 00:34 Meet Jennifer K. Hill: Entrepreneur and Mental Health Advocate 02:59 Jennifer's Early Struggles and Mental Health Journey 04:51 The Turning Point: Embracing Self-Love and Acceptance 06:54 Overcoming Public Shaming and Finding Confidence 11:47 Navigating Emotional Challenges and Finding Balance 14:49 Jennifer's Darkest Moments and Path to Recovery 18:39 A Deep Sense of Not Belonging 19:08 A Shame Spiral and a Miraculous Moment 20:40 Discovering Landmark Worldwide 22:04 Heart Focused Breathing by HeartMath 28:50 The Sedona Method: A Simple Tool for Emotional Release 30:23 Introducing Soule: The Algorithm for Connection 33:07 Final Thoughts and Connection LINKS: Get Involved with Jennifer K. Hill: https://www.instagram.com/jenhillspeaker/?hl=en Connect with Dr. Azi on Social: Grab Azi Jankovic #1 bestselling book Mental Health, RECLAIMED: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F47G5V4Z/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.azi.jankovic/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azijankovic/ Website: https://azijankovic.com/

    How an Entrepreneur Conquered Her Mental Battles and Built a Dream Life: EP 99 with Jennifer K. Hill

  6. 05/26/2025

    Why this MD is Speaking out Against Psych Meds: EP 98 with Dr. Anna Sylwestrowicz

    In this episode of Mental Health Reclaimed, host Azi Jankovic talks with Dr. Anna Sylwestrowicz, an anesthesiologist based in Canada, who has become an outspoken critic of the psychiatric industry, forced drugging, and dangerous pharmaceuticals after a personal experience with her son. Dr. Sylwestrowicz shares her journey, discusses the critical issues in the psychiatric and pharmaceutical industries, and highlights the dangers of overprescribing and the lack of proper informed consent. The episode also touches on the emotional and legal challenges faced by those who speak out, the pervasive influence of Big Pharma, and offers insights into alternative approaches to mental health treatment. T une in for an eye-opening discussion on the state of mental health care and the urgent need for change. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 01:26 Host's Personal Journey with Mental Health 02:18 Interview with Dr. Ana Silvas Trovic Begins 03:23 Dr. Ana's Background and Medical Journey 04:30 Challenges in the Medical Field 06:35 Mental Health Medication Concerns 09:00 Impact of Overmedication on Society 15:49 Personal Story: Dr. Ana's Son 23:01 Issues with the Mental Health System 46:13 The Impact of High-Dose Aripiprazole 46:42 Health Canada's Drug Approval Process 47:22 The Dangers of Free Drug Samples 48:45 The Consequences of Long-Term Medication Use 50:50 Personal Story and Systemic Issues 54:13 Addressing Acute Mania and Psychosis 55:10 The Role of Autoimmune Issues in Psychosis 01:00:42 Challenges in the Medical System 01:02:47 The Impact of Speaking Out 01:13:23 The Dangers of Prescribing to Children 01:19:14 The Importance of Lifestyle in Mental Health 01:21:32 Concluding Thoughts and Resources 🔗 Links: Get involved with Dr. Anna Sylwestrowicz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drannamd_in_my_opinion/ Connect with Dr. Azi on Social: Grab Dr. Azi’s #1 bestselling book Mental Health, RECLAIMED: https://mentalhealthreclaimed.com Instagram: instagram.com/dr.azi.jankovic Facebook: facebook.com/Dr.AziJankovic LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/azijankovic

    Why this MD is Speaking out Against Psych Meds: EP 98 with Dr. Anna Sylwestrowicz

  7. 05/12/2025

    How One High-Ranking Soldier Overcame PTSD: EP 97 with Andrew Fox

    What happens when a high-ranking soldier faces the silent battle of PTSD after years on the frontlines? In this gripping episode of Mental Health, Reclaimed, Dr. Azi sits down with Andrew Fox, British Army veteran and research fellow at the Henry Jackson Society. Andrew shares his raw and powerful journey from serving three back-to-back tours in Afghanistan to battling severe PTSD—and how he ultimately found healing and purpose beyond the battlefield. You’ll hear firsthand about the unseen wounds of war, the failure of traditional support systems, and the unconventional methods that helped him reclaim his life. From EMDR therapy to the healing power of writing, Andrew reveals what truly works and how he’s using his voice to advocate for truth, mental health awareness, and post-traumatic growth. This is a must-listen for anyone impacted by trauma—whether personally or through supporting a loved one. 00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Reclaimed 00:35 Today's Guest: Andrew Fox on PTSD 02:45 Andrew Fox's Military Background 04:14 The Reality of PTSD 08:19 Triggers and Symptoms of PTSD 11:08 Seeking Help and Treatment 17:28 Advice for PTSD Sufferers and Their Families 21:10 Conclusion and Contact Information 🔗 Links: 📚 Andrew Fox Substack: https://mrandrewfox.substack.com Grab Dr. Azi’s new #1 bestseller Mental Health, RECLAIMED: https://mentalhealthreclaimed.com Connect with Dr. Azi: 📱 Instagram: instagram.com/dr.azi.jankovic 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/Dr.AziJankovic 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/azijankovic Andrew Fox – Bio Andrew Fox is a British Army veteran, research fellow at the Henry Jackson Society, and the author of a top-ranked Substack. After a 16-year military career and three combat tours in Afghanistan, he faced a debilitating struggle with PTSD. Through holistic healing and post-traumatic growth, Andrew now advocates for truth in media, mental health reform, and community support for those suffering in silence.

    How One High-Ranking Soldier Overcame PTSD: EP 97 with Andrew Fox

  8. 05/05/2025

    How to Heal from a Major Mental Health Crisis: EP 96 with Eric Kussin, CEO of SameHere, Global

    What happens when everything you’re told to do for your mental health only makes things worse? In this powerful episode of Mental Health, Reclaimed, Eric Kussin, CEO of SameHere Global, shares how he went from a high-level sports executive to bedridden for two and a half years. He complied with his doctors through 52 combinations of psych meds and undergoing ECT, before finding real healing outside the conventional system. You’ll hear his raw, inspiring journey and learn about the Same Here movement that’s changing how we talk about and treat mental health. Eric’s story exposes the cracks in the conventional system—and the hope that exists beyond it. Eric explore the role of trauma, the nervous system, integrative healing, and why labels aren't life sentences. If you're seeking real, sustainable mental health solutions, this episode is a must-listen. TIME STAMPS / TOPICS 00:00 – Intro & Welcome Dr. Azi introduces the show and shares why this episode is especially meaningful.  10:00 – Eric’s Breakdown Begins From a successful career in the NBA and NHL to complete burnout—Eric recounts the warning signs and the moment everything unraveled. 20:00 – 52 Meds and Still Suffering A brutal account of overmedication, misdiagnoses, and the failure of the mental health system to provide real healing. 30:00 – The Turning Point After exhausting every conventional option, Eric discovers trauma-informed care and a whole new way to approach healing. 40:00 – From Rock Bottom to Purpose The founding of Same Here Global and Eric’s mission to bring real mental health education and community to the world. 50:00 – Redefining Mental Health for Everyone We talk about the myths, the language, and how we must shift from "illness" to "human experience." 60:00 – Final Reflections Azi and Eric reflect on the journey, the future of mental health advocacy, and the power of storytelling. 🔗 Links: Get involved with SameHere, Global: https://samehereglobal.org/  www.mentalhealthreclaimed.com (Grab your copy of Mental Health, RECLAIMED - Dr. Azi’s new book, now a #1 bestseller on Amazon!) Connect with Dr. Azi on Social:  instagram.com/dr.azi.jankovic  https://www.facebook.com/Dr.AziJankovic https://www.linkedin.com/in/azijankovic/  Eric Kussin – Bio Eric Kussin is the founder and CEO of #SameHere Global, a nonprofit movement reshaping the way the world talks about mental health. After a 20-year career as a professional sports executive, Eric’s life took a dramatic turn when he faced a debilitating mental health crisis that left him nearly bedridden for over two years. Through a journey of holistic healing, he reclaimed his well-being and launched #SameHere to promote the idea that mental health challenges are a universal human experience — not the experience of a few. His "5 in 5" philosophy counters a distorted 1 in 5 narrative; emphasizing that mental health affects everyone, advocating for community, transparency, and root-cause healing.

    How to Heal from a Major Mental Health Crisis: EP 96 with Eric Kussin, CEO of SameHere, Global
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About

I’m Dr. Azi Jankovic, mental health educator, researcher, wellness innovator, and author. My work began with a simple question: What actually helps people thrive? That question has led me to explore the science connecting mental health, metabolic health, nutrition, the gut microbiome, sleep, movement, stress, relationships, and purpose. On this podcast, we take the research out of the journals and bring it into real life. I speak with leading thinkers, challenge outdated assumptions about wellness, and explore evidence-informed strategies for supporting the

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