Thursday Tea with Sami

Samia Estrada, PsyD, DipABLM
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  • MENTAL HEALTH

 "Thursday Tea with Sami" offers insightful conversations on living well, blending practical tips and inspiring stories to help you nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Each episode dives into everyday habits that can lead to a healthier, more balanced life. 

  1. 2D AGO

    Hydration for Energy, Focus, Mood & Sleep (Nita Talwar, Founder of Uppy!)

    Send a text In this episode of Thursday Tea with Sami: Your Sip of Wellness and Mental Health, Dr. Samia Estrada sits down with Nita Talwar, founder of Uppy!, to talk about one of the most overlooked foundations of wellness: hydration. Nita shares why many people are mildly dehydrated without realizing it, the early signs of dehydration (like headaches, low energy, poor focus, sleep issues, and muscle cramps), and why waiting until you feel thirsty may already be too late. We also explore how hydration supports the core pillars of lifestyle medicine — including energy, cognitive function, mood, stress, recovery, and sleep — and what to do when plain water isn’t enough. You’ll also hear practical, realistic tips for daily life: how to build a morning water habit before coffee, how to stay hydrated while traveling or flying, what to do if you forget to drink water, and common hydration myths (including the truth about electrolytes and why a small amount of glucose/sugar can matter for absorption). Whether you’re feeling tired, foggy, irritable, or just want a simple wellness reset, this conversation will help you start with one doable step. Connect with Nita / Uppy!: Website: www.Uppylife.com Instagram: @UppyLife Email: hello@UppyLife.com If you enjoyed this episode: please follow, rate, and share Thursday Tea with Sami — it helps more people find the show. Until next time, stay well and keep being your best. Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media @DignusWellness Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or mental health care. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapeutic or clinician–patient relationship. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Dr. Samia Estrada, Psy.D., DipABLM, or Dignus Wellness. Content discussed on this podcast reflects general wellness, lifestyle medicine, and mental health education and may not be appropriate for everyone. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or are in crisis, please seek immediate support from local emergency services or a trusted crisis resource.

    39 min

  2. FEB 6

    Biofeedback Explained: The Science of Stress Reduction and Pain Relief with Kristin Derus Dore

    Send us a text What if stress isn’t only something you “manage” with willpower—but something your body can learn to regulate more effectively? In today’s episode, Dr. Sami Estrada sits down with Kristin Derus Dore, a biofeedback practitioner whose work focuses on FDA-approved biofeedback for stress reduction and pain management. Kristin breaks down what biofeedback is (in normal-people language), what happens in the body during fight-or-flight, and why learning to return to rest-and-digest can impact everything from mood and irritability to headaches, sleep, and chronic pain. Kristin also shares practical tools you can try right away—including a subtle vagus nerve reset technique (yes, you can do it in public without anyone noticing), simple ways to interrupt stress spirals, and why sleep is often the most underrated (and powerful) stress intervention. You’ll also hear real stories of unexpected shifts—like improved social connection, reduced pain, and stress resilience that carries into everyday life. In this episode, we talk about: What biofeedback is and how it worksStress as a full-body experience (not just a mindset)Fight-or-flight vs. rest-and-digest—and why it mattersA discreet vagus nerve calming technique you can use anywhereThe sleep–stress connection (and why you’re your biggest asset)How stress can influence pain, headaches, and inflammationHow support systems can reduce stress (and how to offer help well)Connect with Kristin: Website: EdenBioFeedback.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-derus-dore/ Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media @DignusWellness Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or mental health care. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapeutic or clinician–patient relationship. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Dr. Samia Estrada, Psy.D., DipABLM, or Dignus Wellness. Content discussed on this podcast reflects general wellness, lifestyle medicine, and mental health education and may not be appropriate for everyone. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or are in crisis, please seek immediate support from local emergency services or a trusted crisis resource.

    1h 16m

  3. JAN 29

    Herbalism for Beginners: Everyday “Weeds” for Natural Wellness & Self-Care (with Michelle McAninch)

    Send us a text What if the “weeds” in your backyard are actually part of your wellness toolkit? In this inspiring episode of Thursday Tea with Sami: Your Sip of Wellness and Mental Health, Dr. Samia Estrada, Psy.D., DipABLM sits down with Michelle McAninch, founder of Tamarac Garden, to explore the heart of herbalism and how everyday plants can support natural wellness and self-care. Michelle shares the personal story that sparked her journey—after her son’s serious illness was initially misidentified, she began researching Northwest medicinal plants, learning to forage, and discovering how herbs and “weeds” can help support the body’s natural healing processes. Together, Michelle and Dr. Sami talk about listening to your body, building confidence in your own intuition, and starting small with practical herbal tools that feel approachable—even if you’re brand new to herbalism. You’ll also hear beginner-friendly tips on starter herbs like oregano, peppermint, basil, and garlic, plus everyday wellness go-tos like activated charcoal and cayenne—and how these may be used as part of a broader lifestyle approach alongside nutrition, sleep, stress management, movement, and community connection. As always, this conversation is for educational purposes and encourages listeners to make informed decisions and seek professional care when needed. ✅ In this episode, we cover: What herbalism is (and what it isn’t)“Weeds as medicine” and how to see plants differentlyBeginner-friendly starter herbs for everyday wellnessSimple self-care tools that support the body naturallyMindset, intuition, and why you know your body bestHow herbalism can complement lifestyle medicine🌿 Learn more about Michelle’s work at TamaracGarden.com Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media @DignusWellness Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or mental health care. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapeutic or clinician–patient relationship. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Dr. Samia Estrada, Psy.D., DipABLM, or Dignus Wellness. Content discussed on this podcast reflects general wellness, lifestyle medicine, and mental health education and may not be appropriate for everyone. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or are in crisis, please seek immediate support from local emergency services or a trusted crisis resource.

    1h 1m

  4. JAN 21

    Renewalism: Energy, Conscious Leadership, and Simple Daily Practices to Prevent Burnout

    Send us a text What if renewal didn’t require a major life overhaul—but simply a shift in awareness? In this deeply grounding episode of Thursday Tea with Sami, Dr. Samia Estrada sits down with Sandeep Nath, creator of the Renewalism Movement, to explore how energy, consciousness, and simple daily habits can help prevent burnout and restore clarity—both personally and professionally. Sandeep shares his journey from corporate leadership to spiritual exploration, including time spent learning from Vedic masters, Tibetan monks, and Taoist traditions. Together, they unpack what renewalism really means and how aligning body, mind, and spirit can transform the way we work, lead, and live. In this conversation, you’ll learn: Why burnout is often an energy imbalance, not just stressA powerful 30-second breathing practice you can use between tasksHow gratitude and awareness can shift experiences from “happening to you” to “happening for you”The role of conscious leadership in creating healthier workplacesHow renewalism aligns naturally with the six pillars of lifestyle medicineWhy small, consistent habits matter more than big, dramatic changesSandeep also introduces the concept of renewal tourism—an immersive approach to personal and professional transformation through travel, reflection, and conscious practices. This episode is a reminder that renewal doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it starts with a breath. ✨ Perfect for professionals, leaders, and anyone feeling stretched thin as we move into a new year. Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media @DignusWellness Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or mental health care. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapeutic or clinician–patient relationship. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Dr. Samia Estrada, Psy.D., DipABLM, or Dignus Wellness. Content discussed on this podcast reflects general wellness, lifestyle medicine, and mental health education and may not be appropriate for everyone. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or are in crisis, please seek immediate support from local emergency services or a trusted crisis resource.

    1h 11m

  5. JAN 15

    Strength Over Weight Loss: Sustainable Wellness, Strength Training & Metabolic Health (Fjorino Musaku)

    Send us a text What if “getting healthy” wasn’t about dieting or chasing a number on the scale—but about building strength, consistency, and confidence in your body? In this episode of Thursday Tea with Sami: Your Sip of Wellness and Mental Health, Dr. Samia Estrada (clinical psychologist and lifestyle medicine specialist) sits down with Fjorino Musaku, a wellness professional with a powerful story: from being the overweight kid in high school to earning a master’s degree in exercise science, working with elite athletes (including the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Lions), and helping thousands of endocrinology patients build sustainable health habits. You’ll learn practical, realistic strategies for sustainable wellness—without obsession, restriction, or perfection—including: Why strength training and flexibility often create better long-term results than focusing only on weight lossHow to restart exercise if you’ve been sedentary (including the simple 1,000-step approach)The mindset shift that makes movement easier: “I get to exercise” vs. “I have to”Nutrition without dieting: adding more fruits and vegetables instead of relying on restrictionHow building muscle supports metabolic health, blood sugar control, and overall wellbeingHow community support improves consistency—and why peer encouragement mattersHow technology (including Frisca AI CCM) can support habit change between appointmentsA hopeful message for anyone managing diabetes, chronic health challenges, or motivation struggles: prepare for good newsIf you’re looking for a healthier relationship with food, a more sustainable approach to fitness, or a way to feel stronger in daily life—this conversation is for you. Connect with Fjorino / Frisca AI CCM: Search “Frisca AI CCM” in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and schedule your first consultation. Hosted by: Dr. Samia Estrada, Psy.D., DipABLM Thursday Tea with Sami: Your Sip of Wellness and Mental Health — Your Journey to Wellness Starts Here. Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media @DignusWellness Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or mental health care. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapeutic or clinician–patient relationship. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Dr. Samia Estrada, Psy.D., DipABLM, or Dignus Wellness. Content discussed on this podcast reflects general wellness, lifestyle medicine, and mental health education and may not be appropriate for everyone. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or are in crisis, please seek immediate support from local emergency services or a trusted crisis resource.

    36 min

  6. JAN 8

    Balance Is in Motion: Acupuncture, Stress, and Resilience with Dr. Haley Parker

    Send us a text What if balance isn’t something you “achieve”… but something you practice—over and over again? In this episode of Thursday Tea with Sami, Dr. Sami Estrada sits down with Dr. Haley Parker, integrative medicine leader and educator, to explore East Asian Medicine and how acupuncture, herbs, breathwork, and movement can support real-life wellness—especially for stress, burnout, pain, and women’s health. Dr. Parker shares her personal “conversion moment” into acupuncture after stubborn athletic injuries, the misconceptions that still keep people from trying East Asian Medicine, and what a first acupuncture visit actually feels like (yes—there are funny intake questions, and no—it’s not as scary as you think). Together, Sami and Haley dive into why stress quietly builds in the body, how burnout shows up in early red flags, and why healing often starts with the simplest step: a deep breath and a small shift forward. You’ll also hear: Why “balance is in motion” (and why life keeps testing us!)How acupuncture supports the nervous system’s rest-and-digest stateThe East Asian Medicine view that “where there is blockage, there is pain”Movement tips for chronic pain (stretching, walking, gentle cardio, and more)Women’s health insights across the lifespan: cycles, fertility, and transitionsThe difference between supporting athletes vs. everyday bodiesWhy early education and prevention could transform healthcare as we know itIf you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or stuck in pain, this episode is a grounding reminder that you’re not alone—and that healing doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Learn more / Connect with Dr. Haley Parker & VUIM: University: VUIM.eduClinic: VUIMclinic.comCampuses/clinics mentioned: Tyson’s Corner, VA • Ridgefield, NJ • Duluth, GAEnjoy the episode? Follow Thursday Tea with Sami for weekly conversations that translate mental health and lifestyle medicine into real-life tools you can use. And if this one helped you, share it with a friend who needs a little support today. Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media @DignusWellness Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or mental health care. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapeutic or clinician–patient relationship. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Dr. Samia Estrada, Psy.D., DipABLM, or Dignus Wellness. Content discussed on this podcast reflects general wellness, lifestyle medicine, and mental health education and may not be appropriate for everyone. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or are in crisis, please seek immediate support from local emergency services or a trusted crisis resource.

    1h 15m

  7. JAN 1

    Mindful Eating for Real Life: Food Freedom, Sustainable Healthy Habits & Wellness with Barry Abrams

    Send us a text What does “healthy” look like when you’re living in the real world—busy schedules, stress, travel, cravings, and all? In this warm, honest conversation, Dr. Sami Estrada sits down with Barry Abrams, a voice artist who used the pandemic as a turning point to create sustainable lifestyle changes alongside his wife. Barry shares how his mindset shifted from dieting to wellness, why the goal of eating is simply to be “not hungry” (not stuffed), and how he balances discipline with compassion—because sometimes you just need a diner burger, and that’s part of being human. You’ll also hear Barry’s practical, doable strategies: “Dinner and done” (and why nighttime snacking—even on “healthy” foods—adds up)A simple way to enjoy “treats” without overdoing it (especially on vacations/cruises)Carb timing for energy and better sleepEasy, satisfying swaps (hello portobello mushroom “bun” and rutabaga fries)Why stretching is his #1 daily practice (free, simple, and makes you feel good)How movement supports presence, performance, and stamina—especially in voice workThe power of support at home: “First they ask why… then they ask how.”If you’re tired of all-or-nothing wellness, this episode is a grounding reminder: you don’t need perfection—you need a plan you can repeat. Connect with Barry: Website: BarryAbramsVoice.com Find his audiobook performances on Audible & Amazon Social: @BAbramsVoice (plus his thoroughbred racing vlog, The Far Turn) Connect with Dr. Sami / Dignus Wellness: DignusWellness.com Your journey to wellness starts here. 💛 Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media @DignusWellness Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or mental health care. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapeutic or clinician–patient relationship. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Dr. Samia Estrada, Psy.D., DipABLM, or Dignus Wellness. Content discussed on this podcast reflects general wellness, lifestyle medicine, and mental health education and may not be appropriate for everyone. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or are in crisis, please seek immediate support from local emergency services or a trusted crisis resource.

    55 min

  8. 12/11/2025

    Healing From the Inside Out: A Conversation with Cancer Survivor Vera Ventura

    Send us a text In today’s powerful episode of Thursday Tea with Sami, I’m joined by the remarkable Vera Ventura — life coach, yoga instructor, founder of Breast Cancer Goddess, and four-time cancer survivor whose story defies all odds. Diagnosed with stage IV cancer and given only months to live, Vera chose a radically integrative path: combining Western medicine with fasting, mindset work, metabolic approaches, and deep spiritual practice. What unfolds is not just a story of survival, but of awakening. Together, we explore: How fasting became a life-saving tool in Vera’s healingThe role of mindset, gratitude, and spiritual presence in navigating illnessWhy so many people feel disconnected from themselves and othersHow to support a loved one with cancer without overwhelming themPractical, compassionate steps for anyone seeking prevention or deeper wellnessThe emotional themes — fear, resentment, guilt — that often surface in healingThe truth about community, mindfulness, and rebuilding your inner resilienceVera’s journey is raw, courageous, deeply human, and overflowing with wisdom. Whether you're experiencing illness, supporting someone you love, or simply wanting to live more intentionally — this conversation is one you’ll feel long after the episode ends. 🌿 Learn more about Vera’s nonprofit and fasting programs: breastcancergoddess.org Instagram: @breastcancergoddess | @verathecancergoddess Thank you for tuning in to Thursday Tea with Sami: Your Sip of Wellness and Mental Health. Until next time — stay well and keep being your best. Support the show Find Samia Estrada of Dignus Wellness on social media @DignusWellness Enjoying the show? Your support means the world to me. ☕ buymeacoffee.com/thursdayteawithsami 🎶Special thanks to Nothing Short of Tragic for creating the amazing music you hear in our intro and outro—bringing the perfect vibe to each episode! Curious about more? Check out everything I’m working on at Dignus Wellness. https://DignusWellness.com Sign up for my newsletter at https://subscribe.dignuswellness.com/ Email me at: SamiaEstrada@DignusWellness.com Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or mental health care. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapeutic or clinician–patient relationship. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Dr. Samia Estrada, Psy.D., DipABLM, or Dignus Wellness. Content discussed on this podcast reflects general wellness, lifestyle medicine, and mental health education and may not be appropriate for everyone. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or are in crisis, please seek immediate support from local emergency services or a trusted crisis resource.

    56 min
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About

 "Thursday Tea with Sami" offers insightful conversations on living well, blending practical tips and inspiring stories to help you nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Each episode dives into everyday habits that can lead to a healthier, more balanced life. 

Information

  • Creator
    Samia Estrada, PsyD, DipABLM
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Thursday Tea with Sami
  • Show Website
    Thursday Tea with Sami