I'm F.I.N.E.

Project Headspace and Timing
  • 4.8 (12)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Biweekly

A podcast striving to normalize conversations that need to be had about mental health. Follow hosts Eric and Brad along in their quest for healthier minds by interviewing others and unpacking themselves in the process.

  1. 11h ago

    I'm F.I.N.E. About Ayahuasca, healing, and the Search for Meaning (Special Guest: Chris James)

    What happens when a Marine veteran who has already faced the deepest corners of trauma decides to sit with Mother Ayahuasca? In this episode of I'm F.I.N.E., hosts Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek welcome back Marine veteran and plant medicine advocate Chris James for a raw, honest, and deeply vulnerable conversation about his experience with Ayahuasca at the Pachamama Sanctuary through the Vines and Valor program. From the hard science and indigenous history behind the "vine of the soul" to the brutal physical purges and unexpected emotional breakthroughs, Chris walks us through every step of his journey. He shares how a transformative breathwork session cracked open decade-old grief, how he navigated a terrifying first night to find a profound breakthrough on night two, and how Ayahuasca restored his ability to love his wife with his entire heart. Whether you are curious about alternative mental health treatments for PTSD, plant medicine integration, or the power of veteran community support, this episode offers an unfiltered look into the reality of psychedelic-assisted healing. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: What is Ayahuasca? The chemistry, indigenous roots of the Amazon, and scientific backing from institutions like Johns Hopkins.14 Months Post-Ibogaine: Chris checks in on his ongoing sobriety from alcohol, mindset shifts, and emotional baseline.Vines and Valor & Pachamama Sanctuary: How Marine and Navy veterans are accessing fully funded retreats in Maine.The Reality of the Purge: Chris's tough first night—nausea, physical discomfort, and overcoming the urge to quit.The Power of Breathwork: How a guided breathwork session unlocked buried childhood trauma, self-love, and tears for fallen military brothers.Night Two Breakthrough: Becoming the music, experiencing motherly love from the medicine, and healing the subconscious wall in his marriage.The Secret Sauce of Integration: Why veteran group chats, weekly Zoom circles, and community support make or break the healing process.Advocating for Veteran Health: Local union fundraising (Local 265), sending vets to retreats, and pushing for broader legislative access to alternative therapies.Disclaimer: What is shared in this episode is for educational and personal storytelling purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals before making any treatment decisions.

  2. Jul 13

    I'm F.I.N.E. About Setting Goals Without Loosing Our Minds. (Guests: Tim Zydek and Michael Murphy.)

    In this episode of the I'm F.I.N.E. podcast, hosts Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek dive deep into the psychology and execution of effective goal setting. Joined by guests Michael Murphy (Founder of Let's Ketchup) and Tim Zydek (Co-President of the Kankakee chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace), the panel discusses how to transition from broad, overwhelming aspirations to actionable, system-based habits. The conversation covers psychological frameworks, including Edwin Locke's Goal-Setting Theory, the SMART/SMARTTER criteria, and the core principles of James Clear's Atomic Habits. Drawing from real-world leadership and nonprofit experience in community service, the hosts and guests explore how to reframe failure as constructive feedback, prevent burnout, manage personal limits, and stay focused on a core mission when motivation wanes. Key Topics CoveredThe Psychology of Goal Setting: How target setting alters brain function, increases self-esteem, and builds momentum.Systems vs. Outcomes: Why focusing on repeatable systems and incremental 1% improvements leads to sustained success.Aspirational vs. Actionable Goals: How to break large community missions into manageable, step-by-step targets.Reframing Failure: Viewing setbacks as operational feedback rather than personal shortcomings.Self-Compassion and Leadership: Setting clear boundaries to prevent burnout in high-stress, service-oriented roles.Featured Guests & OrganizationsTim Zydek – Sleep in Heavenly Peace (Building beds for children in need) | shpbeds.orgMichael Murphy – Let's Ketchup (Addressing child food scarcity in Kankakee County)

  3. Apr 27

    I'm F.I.N.E. About Navigating the Benefits Battlefield

    This episode of I'm F.I.N.E. dives deep into the realities of veterans’ benefits, VA disability claims, and the support systems available through Veterans Assistance Commissions (VACs). Featuring co-hosts Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek, along with guest Karen Smietanski, a veteran service officer, the discussion breaks down how veterans can successfully navigate compensation and pension (C&P) exams, file VA claims, and access the benefits they’ve earned—often without even realizing they qualify. Eric Peterson and Karen Smietanski share firsthand insight into how the claims process really works, common mistakes veterans make, and why telling your full story during a C&P exam is critical. Brad Stosiek helps guide the conversation through real-world experiences that highlight both the challenges and life-changing outcomes that can come from properly filed claims and strong advocacy. The episode highlights common misconceptions about VA benefits, including the belief that only combat veterans qualify or that it’s too late to apply. Through powerful real-life stories, Karen Smietanski explains how conditions like Agent Orange exposure, degenerative joint disease, tinnitus, PTSD, and other service-connected injuries can impact veterans long after service—and how proper documentation and advocacy can change outcomes. Listeners will also learn about key programs such as the PACT Act, Veterans Treatment Court, community care options, and mental health and substance use support services. The conversation emphasizes the importance of asking questions, seeking help from certified VSOs instead of paid “claim sharks,” and understanding how spouses and dependents may also qualify for benefits such as DIC, CHAMPVA, and pensions. With powerful personal stories of veterans receiving life-changing back pay and ongoing compensation, Eric Peterson and Karen Smietanski highlight how VACs collaborate with nonprofits, social workers, and healthcare providers to close gaps in care. Brad Stosiek ties it all together with a focus on awareness, advocacy, and breaking down stigma around seeking help. Whether you’re a veteran, family member, or advocate, this episode provides essential insight into VA disability claims, veteran mental health resources, and the full range of benefits available through the VA system.

  4. 11/03/2025

    I'm F.I.N.E. About Moral Injuries

    In this episode of I'm F.I.N.E., Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek dive deep into the often-overlooked topic of moral injuries, exploring their impact on veterans, civilians, and anyone navigating difficult life experiences. From personal stories of loss, military experiences, and ethical dilemmas to practical insights on healing, self-love, and resilience, this episode sheds light on how humor, connection, and self-compassion can help us carry the weight of life's toughest moments. Listeners will learn: What moral injuries are and how they differ from PTSDHow veterans interpret and cope with moral injuriesReal-life experiences highlighting moral conflict and ethical challengesTechniques for self-forgiveness, resilience, and emotional healingThe importance of humor, compassion, and open conversation in mental wellnessWhether you're a veteran, mental health advocate, or simply seeking to understand and process complex emotions, this episode offers guidance, encouragement, and actionable takeaways for building a more resilient mindset. Tune in to I'm F.I.N.E. and explore how understanding moral injuries can transform the way we approach our own challenges and support those around us.

  5. 09/15/2025

    I'm F.I.N.E. about Self-Sabotage

    In this episode of the I'm F.I.N.E. Podcast, hosts Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek explore the tricky world of self-sabotage and how it can quietly hold you back in life. With guests Alicia Kleinert and Corey Norton, they share actionable strategies to recognize, disrupt, and overcome self-sabotaging behaviors. Learn how positive self-talk, morning routines, and celebrating small victories can help you break free from fear-based patterns. They also discuss practical tips for managing procrastination, reducing phone distraction, and building daily habits that boost motivation and productivity. Plus, the hosts honor Don Ball, a mentor and veteran advocate, and highlight upcoming events like the Buddy Check 22 Golf Outing and Martino’s Octoberfest, where they’ll be sharing new merch and supporting the community. Whether you’re struggling with negative self-talk, procrastination, or unhealthy habits, this episode provides tools to help you stop sabotaging yourself and start living your best life. Key Takeaways: Recognize and disrupt fear-based self-sabotageHarness positive self-talk to change your mindsetBuild an effective morning routine for productivityCelebrate small wins to stay motivatedReduce procrastination and phone distractions 🎧 Listen now to gain practical insights and start being truly F.I.N.E. about self-sabotage.

  6. 08/26/2025

    I'm F.I.N.E. about Aging Gracefully (Special Guests: Alicia Kleinert & Corey Norton)

    In this episode of the I’m F.I.N.E. Podcast, hosts Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek sit down with Alicia Kleinert and Corey Norton for a heartfelt conversation on aging gracefully—and what it really means to grow older with strength, vulnerability, and resilience. Together, they explore how aging impacts mental health, relationships, and identity, especially for caregivers, veterans, and first responders. Alicia brings her perspective on supporting seniors and caregivers through life’s transitions, while Corey shares the lessons he’s learned working with first responder and veteran communities who are navigating trauma and the passage of time. The discussion highlights how unprocessed emotions, family dynamics, and cultural expectations around masculinity affect the way we experience aging. From finding purpose in later seasons of life to embracing vulnerability as a strength, this episode sheds light on how to face aging with dignity, compassion, and grace. 👉 What you’ll take away from this episode: How to embrace aging as a process of growth, not declineThe role of caregivers in helping loved ones age gracefullyWhy vulnerability is key to resilience in later stages of lifeHow trauma and suppressed emotions affect the way we agePractical wisdom for finding meaning and purpose at any age If you’re a caregiver, a veteran, a first responder, or simply navigating your own aging journey, this conversation will inspire you to see growing older not as an ending—but as a new chapter filled with wisdom, connection, and possibility.

  7. 07/21/2025

    I'm F.I.N.E. About Being Hypnotized (Special Guest: Brandon Ringler)

    On this episode of "I'm F.I.N.E.," host Eric confronts his skepticism surrounding hypnotherapy, while co-host Brad shares why he's already a believer. Joined by guest Brandon Ringler, a certified hypnotherapist from Better Results Hypnotherapy, they unpack the myths and discover the powerful reality of hypnosis as a tool for mental wellness. From debunking the "you're getting sleepy" cliches to sharing profound personal breakthroughs, this episode makes a compelling case for being open to new forms of therapy. In This Episode, You'll Learn: What Hypnosis Really Is: A state of focused attention and deep relaxation, not mind control.The Science Behind It: How shifting to theta brainwaves allows for reprogramming beliefs and creating decisive change.Myth-Busting: Why you can't be made to do something against your will and how it's actually a way of reclaiming personal control.Therapeutic Benefits: How hypnotherapy can be a complementary treatment for PTSD, anxiety, phobias, smoking cessation, and improving self-esteem.A Guided Exercise: Brandon leads a trauma-safe relaxation exercise live on air that you can use to find calm and peace.Personal Stories: Brad shares his powerful and emotional experiences using hypnosis to start his weight-loss journey and find closure after his father's passing. Guest InformationBrandon Ringler, Certified HypnotherapistBusiness: Better Results HypnotherapyWebsite: BetterResultsHypnotherapy.comSpecial Offer for Listeners: Mention the "I'm F.I.N.E." podcast to get your first session half off!Personal Training: Find Brandon at Fitness Premier in Manteno, IL.

  8. 07/07/2025

    I'm F.I.N.E. with Fighting Demons with DMT (Special Guest: Chris James) Part 2

    In this powerful follow-up episode, Eric and Brad continue their conversation with Chris James, a veteran who shares his deeply personal and transformative journey through psychedelic-assisted therapy. Chris opens up about confronting generations of trauma, the sacredness of the medicine, and the intense preparation it took to face his inner battles. They discuss the hope found in healing, the importance of respect and openness when exploring alternative treatments, and how organizations like Ambeo Life and Balanced Veterans Network are helping veterans find new paths to recovery. You’ll hear raw reflections on powerful experiences, including touching moments of emotional breakthrough and spiritual reconciliation. The conversation also touches on recent milestones, like Texas dedicating $50 million toward clinical research on Ibogaine for veterans — signaling growing recognition for these therapies. This episode is a testament to courage, vulnerability, and the evolving landscape of mental health treatment for those who’ve served. If you’ve been curious or hesitant about psychedelic therapy, Chris’s story might offer new insight and hope. Note: Part One of this two-part series is already available.

See All (87)

4.8
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

A podcast striving to normalize conversations that need to be had about mental health. Follow hosts Eric and Brad along in their quest for healthier minds by interviewing others and unpacking themselves in the process.

Information

  • Creator
    Project Headspace and Timing
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    87
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    I'm F.I.N.E.