The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com Embark on a journey of self-discovery, health, and wellbeing with The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life podcast by Awaken. Dive deep into the transformative power of mindfulness as we uncover how our guests integrate it into their personal and professional lives, igniting ripples of positive change that resonate far beyond the present moment. Join us as we explore the profound impact of mindfulness practices on our mental health while navigating life’s challenges and fostering inner and outer peace.

]]> Tue, 02 Jun 2026 01:00:00 -0400 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en Copyright 2024 All rights reserved. Health & Fitness:Mental Health 1440 episodic Embark on a journey of self-discovery, health, and well-being with The Ripple Effect podcast hosted by Stephanie Romero, Ed.D. Dive deep into the transformative power of mindfulness as we uncover how our guests integrate it into their personal and professional lives, igniting ripples of positive change that resonate far beyond the present moment. Join us as we explore the profound impact of mindfulness practices on our mental health while navigating life’s challenges and fostering inner and outer peace. Awaken Awaken No false https://feed.podbean.com/awakenrippleeffect/feed.xml https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/17963559/Winner_Winner_1_71a2m.jpg The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com 144 144 Episode 67: Adam Lobel Episode 67: Adam Lobel https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-67-adam-lobel/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-67-adam-lobel/#comments Tue, 02 Jun 2026 01:00:00 -0400 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/b43da54b-bf0e-37be-a3ed-6565c35d76c0 In this thought-provoking episode, Stephanie Romero sits down with longtime meditation teacher, scholar, environmental activist, and community leader Adam Lobel to explore what it means to live, lead, and practice amidst profound personal and societal change.

Adam shares his journey from a young spiritual seeker discovering Tibetan Buddhism and the Shambhala tradition to becoming a respected teacher and leader within the movement. He reflects candidly on the painful collapse of that community, the lessons learned through uncertainty and loss, and how those experiences ultimately led him to develop a new framework for navigating our complex world: The Four Fields.

Together, Stephanie and Adam explore how mindfulness, emotional inquiry, ecological awareness, imagination, and contemplative practice can help us respond to today's overlapping crises—from climate change and social injustice to technological disruption and collective uncertainty. Adam introduces listeners to practical concepts such as the "Three S's" of earth-based practice—slow down, sense, and soften—and discusses the importance of reconnecting with the natural world, embracing emotional complexity, cultivating open awareness, and learning to live with groundlessness.

This conversation is an invitation to move beyond simple answers and into deeper relationship with ourselves, one another, and the living world. Whether you're a contemplative practitioner, a leader navigating uncertainty, or simply someone seeking wisdom in challenging times, you'll find inspiration, insight, and practical guidance for living with greater presence and purpose.

In this episode, you'll learn:

  • How meditation and contemplative practice can support resilience in uncertain times
  • What Adam's Four Fields framework teaches about personal and collective transformation
  • Why ecological awareness is an essential part of wellbeing
  • How emotional inquiry can help us navigate grief, anxiety, and moral injury
  • The role of imagination, vision, and open awareness in shaping a more compassionate future

Join us for a powerful conversation about healing, courage, community, and the possibility of creating a wiser and more connected world.

----more----

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this thought-provoking episode, Stephanie Romero sits down with longtime meditation teacher, scholar, environmental activist, and community leader Adam Lobel to explore what it means to live, lead, and practice amidst profound personal and societal change.

Adam shares his journey from a young spiritual seeker discovering Tibetan Buddhism and the Shambhala tradition to becoming a respected teacher and leader within the movement. He reflects candidly on the painful collapse of that community, the lessons learned through uncertainty and loss, and how those experiences ultimately led him to develop a new framework for navigating our complex world: The Four Fields.

Together, Stephanie and Adam explore how mindfulness, emotional inquiry, ecological awareness, imagination, and contemplative practice can help us respond to today's overlapping crises—from climate change and social injustice to technological disruption and collective uncertainty. Adam introduces listeners to practical concepts such as the "Three S's" of earth-based practice—slow down, sense, and soften—and discusses the importance of reconnecting with the natural world, embracing emotional complexity, cultivating open awareness, and learning to live with groundlessness.

This conversation is an invitation to move beyond simple answers and into deeper relationship with ourselves, one another, and the living world. Whether you're a contemplative practitioner, a leader navigating uncertainty, or simply someone seeking wisdom in challenging times, you'll find inspiration, insight, and practical guidance for living with greater presence and purpose.

In this episode, you'll learn:

  • How meditation and contemplative practice can support resilience in uncertain times
  • What Adam's Four Fields framework teaches about personal and collective transformation
  • Why ecological awareness is an essential part of wellbeing
  • How emotional inquiry can help us navigate grief, anxiety, and moral injury
  • The role of imagination, vision, and open awareness in shaping a more compassionate future

Join us for a powerful conversation about healing, courage, community, and the possibility of creating a wiser and more connected world.

----more----

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 3230 67 full Episode 66: The Practice of Meditation with the Unexpected Episode 66: The Practice of Meditation with the Unexpected https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-66-the-practice-of-meditation-with-the-unexpected/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-66-the-practice-of-meditation-with-the-unexpected/#comments Wed, 27 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/71573f7b-80d5-3e2e-ab9f-3e6d3ccc75d3 In this calming and reflective episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Dawn Lehman guides listeners through A Practice of Meditation with The Unexpected, a gentle mindfulness experience designed to help us meet uncertainty with presence, compassion, and curiosity.

Through grounding awareness, thoughtful pauses, and mindful reflection, Dawn invites listeners to notice how they relate to unexpected moments in life rather than resisting them. Whether you are navigating change, stress, transition, or simply seeking a moment to reconnect with yourself, this guided meditation offers space to slow down, breathe deeply, and build resilience for life’s unfolding moments.

This practice reminds us that while we cannot always control what happens around us, we can cultivate awareness and steadiness within ourselves. Find a quiet space, settle in, and allow yourself these moments of reflection and renewal.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this calming and reflective episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Dawn Lehman guides listeners through A Practice of Meditation with The Unexpected, a gentle mindfulness experience designed to help us meet uncertainty with presence, compassion, and curiosity.

Through grounding awareness, thoughtful pauses, and mindful reflection, Dawn invites listeners to notice how they relate to unexpected moments in life rather than resisting them. Whether you are navigating change, stress, transition, or simply seeking a moment to reconnect with yourself, this guided meditation offers space to slow down, breathe deeply, and build resilience for life’s unfolding moments.

This practice reminds us that while we cannot always control what happens around us, we can cultivate awareness and steadiness within ourselves. Find a quiet space, settle in, and allow yourself these moments of reflection and renewal.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 1068 66 full Episode 65: Connecting with Life Episode 65: Connecting with Life https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-65-connecting-with-life/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-65-connecting-with-life/#comments Tue, 19 May 2026 01:01:00 -0400 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/cc300668-f465-3fef-aeae-e03ebf2fe44b In this gentle guided meditation, Dawn Lehman invites listeners to slow down and cultivate a deeper sense of connection — with their bodies, their breath, their ancestors, loved ones, and the living world around them. Through grounding reflections and compassionate awareness, the practice reminds us that we are never truly separate, but part of an interconnected web of life sustained by shared breath, care, and presence. Dawn’s calming guidance encourages listeners to honor whatever arises with kindness while reconnecting to their own worth and belonging.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this gentle guided meditation, Dawn Lehman invites listeners to slow down and cultivate a deeper sense of connection — with their bodies, their breath, their ancestors, loved ones, and the living world around them. Through grounding reflections and compassionate awareness, the practice reminds us that we are never truly separate, but part of an interconnected web of life sustained by shared breath, care, and presence. Dawn’s calming guidance encourages listeners to honor whatever arises with kindness while reconnecting to their own worth and belonging.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 1242 65 full Episode 64: Gavrila Abramson Episode 64: Gavrila Abramson https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-64-gavrila-abramson/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-64-gavrila-abramson/#comments Tue, 12 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/4833d336-adbc-3948-abfd-08b707c122c7 In this thoughtful and deeply embodied conversation, Stephanie Romero sits down with meditation teacher, somatic psychotherapist, and Dharma practitioner Gavrila Abramson to explore the intersections of Buddhism, trauma-sensitive practice, embodiment, and healing. Gavrila shares her personal journey from burnout and depression while working as an engineer in New York to discovering meditation and spiritual practice in an ashram in the Israeli desert—a turning point that transformed the direction of her life.

Together, Stephanie and Gavrila unpack how many people come to the Dharma through suffering, and how Buddhist teachings can offer not only insight into human pain, but compassionate pathways toward liberation. The conversation dives into trauma-informed meditation, the importance of choice and safety in practice, and the ways modern mindfulness often overlooks the body, ethics, and relational aspects of the Buddha’s original teachings.

They also discuss patriarchy in Buddhist communities, the need for diverse voices in spiritual spaces, and the importance of finding teachers and practices that resonate with one’s lived experience. Gavrila reflects on her evolving work around “Buddhism Beyond Patriarchy,” the healing power of chanting and music, and her philosophy of “Whole Complete Perfect”—a practice of radical acceptance rooted in compassion rather than self-improvement.

This episode is a rich exploration of embodied spirituality, nervous system healing, authenticity, and what it means to belong fully within a liberative path.

Topics include:

  • Trauma-sensitive mindfulness and meditation
  • Somatic psychotherapy and embodiment
  • Buddhism beyond patriarchy
  • Healing through chanting and sacred music
  • The Four Foundations of Mindfulness
  • Ethics, non-harming, and engaged Buddhism
  • Perfectionism, self-acceptance, and wholeness
  • Finding teachers and practices that truly nourish

Recommended resources mentioned in the episode:

  • The First Free Women by Matt Weingast
  • Deepa Ma: The Life and Legacy of a Buddhist Master by Amy Schmidt
  • Listening to the Heart: A Contemplative Journey to Engaged Buddhism by Kittisaro and Thanissara
  • Teachings from Thich Nhat Hanh, Jack Kornfield, and Shunryu Suzuki

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this thoughtful and deeply embodied conversation, Stephanie Romero sits down with meditation teacher, somatic psychotherapist, and Dharma practitioner Gavrila Abramson to explore the intersections of Buddhism, trauma-sensitive practice, embodiment, and healing. Gavrila shares her personal journey from burnout and depression while working as an engineer in New York to discovering meditation and spiritual practice in an ashram in the Israeli desert—a turning point that transformed the direction of her life.

Together, Stephanie and Gavrila unpack how many people come to the Dharma through suffering, and how Buddhist teachings can offer not only insight into human pain, but compassionate pathways toward liberation. The conversation dives into trauma-informed meditation, the importance of choice and safety in practice, and the ways modern mindfulness often overlooks the body, ethics, and relational aspects of the Buddha’s original teachings.

They also discuss patriarchy in Buddhist communities, the need for diverse voices in spiritual spaces, and the importance of finding teachers and practices that resonate with one’s lived experience. Gavrila reflects on her evolving work around “Buddhism Beyond Patriarchy,” the healing power of chanting and music, and her philosophy of “Whole Complete Perfect”—a practice of radical acceptance rooted in compassion rather than self-improvement.

This episode is a rich exploration of embodied spirituality, nervous system healing, authenticity, and what it means to belong fully within a liberative path.

Topics include:

  • Trauma-sensitive mindfulness and meditation
  • Somatic psychotherapy and embodiment
  • Buddhism beyond patriarchy
  • Healing through chanting and sacred music
  • The Four Foundations of Mindfulness
  • Ethics, non-harming, and engaged Buddhism
  • Perfectionism, self-acceptance, and wholeness
  • Finding teachers and practices that truly nourish

Recommended resources mentioned in the episode:

  • The First Free Women by Matt Weingast
  • Deepa Ma: The Life and Legacy of a Buddhist Master by Amy Schmidt
  • Listening to the Heart: A Contemplative Journey to Engaged Buddhism by Kittisaro and Thanissara
  • Teachings from Thich Nhat Hanh, Jack Kornfield, and Shunryu Suzuki

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 2105 64 full Episode 63: Allie Greene Episode 63: Allie Greene https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-63-allie-greene/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-63-allie-greene/#comments Tue, 05 May 2026 01:00:00 -0400 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/1e43d9d5-d902-30ef-a457-120825c28216 In this conversation, Stephanie Romero speaks with Allie Greene about the healing power of mindfulness, somatic therapy, and coming home to the body. Allie shares how her background as a professional dancer, along with her own experience with anxiety and disconnection, led her toward body-based practices that help people regulate their nervous systems and reconnect with themselves. Together, they explore how trauma can show up as busyness, shutdown, disembodiment, or discomfort with stillness, and why meditation and movement are not one-size-fits-all practices. The conversation also broadens into the cultural and collective dimensions of healing, naming somatics as a path toward right relationship with ourselves, others, the earth, and the larger work of liberation.

Resources:

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this conversation, Stephanie Romero speaks with Allie Greene about the healing power of mindfulness, somatic therapy, and coming home to the body. Allie shares how her background as a professional dancer, along with her own experience with anxiety and disconnection, led her toward body-based practices that help people regulate their nervous systems and reconnect with themselves. Together, they explore how trauma can show up as busyness, shutdown, disembodiment, or discomfort with stillness, and why meditation and movement are not one-size-fits-all practices. The conversation also broadens into the cultural and collective dimensions of healing, naming somatics as a path toward right relationship with ourselves, others, the earth, and the larger work of liberation.

Resources:

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 2695 63 full Episode 62: Tensing and Relaxing Episode 62: Tensing and Relaxing https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-62-tensing-and-relaxing/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-62-tensing-and-relaxing/#comments Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/a7b555d3-c42c-3f99-b905-15efe8bb31e4 Often when I sit to meditate, it is the only time that I take a moment to notice what I am holding in my body -- and many times that means tension.  We try to tell our minds to relax, but the body is still holding onto the stress of the day.

Sometimes, we can't just think ourselves into calmness—we have to show our body the way.

In today’s episode, we’re practicing Tensing and Relaxing. This is a physical practice where we intentionally create a small amount of tension in a muscle group and then—very consciously—let it go. It’s a way of speaking the body’s language to signal that it is finally safe to exhale.

If you’ve been feeling restless or "jittery" lately, this practice is a wonderful way to discharge that extra energy so you can find a bit more internal quiet.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Often when I sit to meditate, it is the only time that I take a moment to notice what I am holding in my body -- and many times that means tension.  We try to tell our minds to relax, but the body is still holding onto the stress of the day.

Sometimes, we can't just think ourselves into calmness—we have to show our body the way.

In today’s episode, we’re practicing Tensing and Relaxing. This is a physical practice where we intentionally create a small amount of tension in a muscle group and then—very consciously—let it go. It’s a way of speaking the body’s language to signal that it is finally safe to exhale.

If you’ve been feeling restless or "jittery" lately, this practice is a wonderful way to discharge that extra energy so you can find a bit more internal quiet.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In today’s episode, we’re practicing Tensing and Relaxing. This is a physical practice where we intentionally create a small amount of tension in a muscle group and then—very consciously—let it go. It’s a way of speaking the body’s language to signal that it is finally safe to exhale. Awaken false No 1064 62 full Episode 61: Six Anchors Episode 61: Six Anchors https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-61-six-anchors/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-61-six-anchors/#comments Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/dc2b4838-7851-3b24-89f7-7cbc7677567c This guided Six Anchors meditation invites listeners into a steady, grounding practice that gently moves attention through breath, body, sound, thoughts, emotions, and open awareness. Designed to cultivate presence and reduce stress, the practice offers a simple yet powerful framework for reconnecting with yourself in the midst of daily demands. Whether you are new to mindfulness or deepening your practice, this episode creates space to pause, reset, and return with greater clarity and calm.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> This guided Six Anchors meditation invites listeners into a steady, grounding practice that gently moves attention through breath, body, sound, thoughts, emotions, and open awareness. Designed to cultivate presence and reduce stress, the practice offers a simple yet powerful framework for reconnecting with yourself in the midst of daily demands. Whether you are new to mindfulness or deepening your practice, this episode creates space to pause, reset, and return with greater clarity and calm.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 1235 62 full Episode 60: Tina Raspanti Episode 60: Tina Raspanti https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-60-tina-raspanti/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-60-tina-raspanti/#comments Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/871bc691-fcce-3fea-8b02-c59a4f86c89a In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with educator and mindfulness practitioner Tina Raspanti to explore how a non-linear journey through mindfulness can transform both personal life and professional practice. Tina shares how integrating mindfulness and positive psychology into education creates more compassionate, connected classroom environments and supports both student and teacher wellbeing. The conversation also highlights the power of presence, emotional regulation, and the “next play” mindset in navigating challenges in school, sports, and life. Ultimately, this episode is a reminder that mindfulness is not just something we practice, but how we live.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with educator and mindfulness practitioner Tina Raspanti to explore how a non-linear journey through mindfulness can transform both personal life and professional practice. Tina shares how integrating mindfulness and positive psychology into education creates more compassionate, connected classroom environments and supports both student and teacher wellbeing. The conversation also highlights the power of presence, emotional regulation, and the “next play” mindset in navigating challenges in school, sports, and life. Ultimately, this episode is a reminder that mindfulness is not just something we practice, but how we live.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 2458 61 full Episode 59: Touch and Go Episode 59: Touch and Go https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-59-touch-and-go/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-59-touch-and-go/#comments Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:25:57 -0400 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/fde89768-f592-3078-b1dc-5c0da6fc72b1 In this guided practice, Stephanie Romero invites listeners into a gentle, accessible approach to mindfulness rooted in awareness, compassion, and self-acceptance. Rather than striving for perfection, this episode encourages participants to simply notice what is present in their bodies and minds, using a steady anchor such as the breath or physical sensations to remain grounded.

Through the practice of naming thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment, listeners learn how to relate differently to their inner experiences. Instead of pushing discomfort away, the invitation is to acknowledge it, give it space, and allow it to pass, much like leaves floating down a stream.

This episode also offers practical tools for moments when emotions feel overwhelming, reminding listeners that they can pause, reorient, and return to a place of steadiness. The practice closes with an important reminder: simply showing up to notice what is happening within us is an act of care and healing in itself.

A calming and supportive experience, this episode serves as both a reset for the present moment and a skill-building opportunity for navigating stress, emotion, and attention in everyday life.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this guided practice, Stephanie Romero invites listeners into a gentle, accessible approach to mindfulness rooted in awareness, compassion, and self-acceptance. Rather than striving for perfection, this episode encourages participants to simply notice what is present in their bodies and minds, using a steady anchor such as the breath or physical sensations to remain grounded.

Through the practice of naming thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment, listeners learn how to relate differently to their inner experiences. Instead of pushing discomfort away, the invitation is to acknowledge it, give it space, and allow it to pass, much like leaves floating down a stream.

This episode also offers practical tools for moments when emotions feel overwhelming, reminding listeners that they can pause, reorient, and return to a place of steadiness. The practice closes with an important reminder: simply showing up to notice what is happening within us is an act of care and healing in itself.

A calming and supportive experience, this episode serves as both a reset for the present moment and a skill-building opportunity for navigating stress, emotion, and attention in everyday life.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 584 60 full Episode 58: Fitzhugh Shaw Episode 58: Fitzhugh Shaw https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-58-fitzhugh-shaw/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-58-fitzhugh-shaw/#comments Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/4f8c2b20-d6c9-36c4-9846-3ed731c11462 In this thoughtful episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Stephanie Romero sits down with Fitzhugh Shaw to explore the deep connections between mindfulness, justice, ancestry, and everyday human growth. Their conversation traces Fitzhugh’s spiritual journey through Christianity and Buddhism, his work in food justice, and the ways meditation can help us build the courage, capacity, and self-awareness needed to care for ourselves, our communities, and the world around us.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this thoughtful episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Stephanie Romero sits down with Fitzhugh Shaw to explore the deep connections between mindfulness, justice, ancestry, and everyday human growth. Their conversation traces Fitzhugh’s spiritual journey through Christianity and Buddhism, his work in food justice, and the ways meditation can help us build the courage, capacity, and self-awareness needed to care for ourselves, our communities, and the world around us.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 2367 58 full Episode 57: Janice Martellucci Episode 57: Janice Martellucci https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-57-janice-martellucci/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-57-janice-martellucci/#comments Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:28:04 -0400 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/dce5e886-bb52-386e-91a8-2052500a7e6d In this episode, Dr. Stephanie Romero talks with Janice Martellucci of Peace in Schools about her personal journey into mindfulness, the healing power of contemplative practice, and what it means to build more human-centered, compassionate school communities. Together, they explore how mindfulness can move beyond crisis response to become a universal part of education, helping teens and educators cultivate resilience, belonging, and emotional well-being. Janice also shares how leading with both softness and strength has shaped her work, her leadership, and her vision for transforming schools.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode, Dr. Stephanie Romero talks with Janice Martellucci of Peace in Schools about her personal journey into mindfulness, the healing power of contemplative practice, and what it means to build more human-centered, compassionate school communities. Together, they explore how mindfulness can move beyond crisis response to become a universal part of education, helping teens and educators cultivate resilience, belonging, and emotional well-being. Janice also shares how leading with both softness and strength has shaped her work, her leadership, and her vision for transforming schools.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh!

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 2504 59 full Episode 56: The Practice of The Body Scan Episode 56: The Practice of The Body Scan https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-56-the-practice-of-the-body-scan/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-56-the-practice-of-the-body-scan/#comments Tue, 03 Mar 2026 13:01:54 -0500 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/eca537e8-4012-3b7f-a9d1-2c4091a94ad8 In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Awaken Founder Dr. Stephanie Romero guides listeners through a grounding body scan meditation designed to restore focus, presence, and nervous system balance.

A body scan is a simple yet powerful practice of bringing non-judgmental awareness to physical sensations throughout the body. Rather than trying to change anything, Dr. Romero invites us to notice what is here, moment by moment, cultivating clarity, calm, and deeper connection to ourselves. In doing so, we strengthen our capacity to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting automatically.

Whether you are navigating a demanding workday, preparing for an important conversation, or simply seeking a reset, this guided practice offers a practical tool for sustainable wellbeing. When we learn to listen to our bodies, we gain insight, resilience, and the steadiness required to lead and live well.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Awaken Founder Dr. Stephanie Romero guides listeners through a grounding body scan meditation designed to restore focus, presence, and nervous system balance.

A body scan is a simple yet powerful practice of bringing non-judgmental awareness to physical sensations throughout the body. Rather than trying to change anything, Dr. Romero invites us to notice what is here, moment by moment, cultivating clarity, calm, and deeper connection to ourselves. In doing so, we strengthen our capacity to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting automatically.

Whether you are navigating a demanding workday, preparing for an important conversation, or simply seeking a reset, this guided practice offers a practical tool for sustainable wellbeing. When we learn to listen to our bodies, we gain insight, resilience, and the steadiness required to lead and live well.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 594 58 full Episode 55: A Practice of Loving Kindness Episode 55: A Practice of Loving Kindness https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-55-a-practice-of-loving-kindness/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-55-a-practice-of-loving-kindness/#comments Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:55:58 -0500 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/0eb6fd88-8f61-3c27-a6af-43e9c0f6bb3c In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Awaken Program Deliverer Shannon Jenkins guides listeners through the timeless practice of Loving-Kindness, also known as Metta. With clarity and warmth, Shannon invites us to intentionally cultivate an open heart, especially toward those who challenge us. Rather than forcing emotion or manufacturing feelings, this practice gently encourages us to begin with those who are easy to love and move outward only when we feel ready, simply planting seeds of goodwill and care.

Loving-Kindness is not about pretending everything is fine. It is about shifting our own minds and hearts so that kindness becomes an intentional posture rather than a reactive impulse. In a world that often feels chaotic and divided, this episode offers a simple yet powerful reminder: we always have the capacity to soften the edges of our day and choose compassion. Take a few minutes to pause, breathe, and practice. The ripple begins within you.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Awaken Program Deliverer Shannon Jenkins guides listeners through the timeless practice of Loving-Kindness, also known as Metta. With clarity and warmth, Shannon invites us to intentionally cultivate an open heart, especially toward those who challenge us. Rather than forcing emotion or manufacturing feelings, this practice gently encourages us to begin with those who are easy to love and move outward only when we feel ready, simply planting seeds of goodwill and care.

Loving-Kindness is not about pretending everything is fine. It is about shifting our own minds and hearts so that kindness becomes an intentional posture rather than a reactive impulse. In a world that often feels chaotic and divided, this episode offers a simple yet powerful reminder: we always have the capacity to soften the edges of our day and choose compassion. Take a few minutes to pause, breathe, and practice. The ripple begins within you.

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 1039 57 full Episode 55: Adam Lackett Episode 55: Adam Lackett https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-55-adam-lackett/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-55-adam-lackett/#comments Thu, 19 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500 awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/f5e62e45-a286-3663-84e7-e2603c1c39fe In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Stephanie Romero sits down with Pittsburgh entrepreneur Adam Lackett to explore the hidden costs of “grind culture” and the deeper work of building a life that is both sustainable and meaningful. Adam shares how early assumptions about success shaped a pressure-cooker approach to work, how burnout and dissatisfaction led him toward therapy, and how mindfulness practices like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction became a turning point in learning to relate differently to stress, self-criticism, and constant mental noise. Together, they unpack the difference between reacting and responding, why boundaries often begin with the belief that you deserve care, and how bringing wellbeing into the workplace is less about forcing meditation and more about cultivating a culture that supports people over pure production. 

Resources Adam Mentioned:

  • Books by Jon Kabat-Zinn (including works on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction)

  • 10% Happier by Dan Harris

  • Books and app resources from Headspace

  • The Mind Illuminated by Culadasa (a detailed, analytical roadmap to meditation practice)

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Stephanie Romero sits down with Pittsburgh entrepreneur Adam Lackett to explore the hidden costs of “grind culture” and the deeper work of building a life that is both sustainable and meaningful. Adam shares how early assumptions about success shaped a pressure-cooker approach to work, how burnout and dissatisfaction led him toward therapy, and how mindfulness practices like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction became a turning point in learning to relate differently to stress, self-criticism, and constant mental noise. Together, they unpack the difference between reacting and responding, why boundaries often begin with the belief that you deserve care, and how bringing wellbeing into the workplace is less about forcing meditation and more about cultivating a culture that supports people over pure production. 

Resources Adam Mentioned:

  • Books by Jon Kabat-Zinn (including works on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction)

  • 10% Happier by Dan Harris

  • Books and app resources from Headspace

  • The Mind Illuminated by Culadasa (a detailed, analytical roadmap to meditation practice)

Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 2951 56 full Episode 54: Lawrence Schuessler Episode 54: Lawrence Schuessler https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-54-lawrence-schuessler/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-54-lawrence-schuessler/#comments Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/03906337-4c39-366f-8b0a-dce7aa8439bb On this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Dr. Stephanie Romero is joined by Lawrence Schuessler (he/him) for a deeply human conversation about mindfulness, embodiment, and the search for ease. Lawrence shares his path to meditation through early instability, sobriety, yoga, and community, and reflects on how learning to be present in the body became an act of healing. Together, they explore Nature Dharma—the practice of mindfulness in relationship with the natural world—and how “outside” can be as simple and accessible as a window, a plant, or a few grounded minutes in fresh air. The conversation weaves through themes of trauma, identity, safety, and liberation, as Lawrence speaks candidly about being a trans person in this moment and why compassion, deep listening, and presence are inseparable from social action. The episode closes with a reminder that our identities evolve, permission matters, and wherever we are on the path, we are already enough.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> On this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Dr. Stephanie Romero is joined by Lawrence Schuessler (he/him) for a deeply human conversation about mindfulness, embodiment, and the search for ease. Lawrence shares his path to meditation through early instability, sobriety, yoga, and community, and reflects on how learning to be present in the body became an act of healing. Together, they explore Nature Dharma—the practice of mindfulness in relationship with the natural world—and how “outside” can be as simple and accessible as a window, a plant, or a few grounded minutes in fresh air. The conversation weaves through themes of trauma, identity, safety, and liberation, as Lawrence speaks candidly about being a trans person in this moment and why compassion, deep listening, and presence are inseparable from social action. The episode closes with a reminder that our identities evolve, permission matters, and wherever we are on the path, we are already enough.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 2755 55 full Episode 53: A Practice of Self Compassion Episode 53: A Practice of Self Compassion https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-53-a-practice-of-self-compassion/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-53-a-practice-of-self-compassion/#comments Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:45:55 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/6aec3305-c7b3-373e-abd4-eb11f828a1ce In this new episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Program Deliverer Britt Dorazio gently guides listeners through a grounding practice of self-compassion. So often, we extend understanding and grace to others while holding ourselves to impossible standards. This episode invites a different way of being—one rooted in kindness, presence, and care for our own inner experience. Through a thoughtfully paced, accessible practice, Britt helps listeners notice self-criticism without judgment and cultivate a more supportive inner voice. Whether you are navigating stress, burnout, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself, this session offers a calm, affirming space to slow down, reconnect, and remember that compassion begins within.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this new episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Program Deliverer Britt Dorazio gently guides listeners through a grounding practice of self-compassion. So often, we extend understanding and grace to others while holding ourselves to impossible standards. This episode invites a different way of being—one rooted in kindness, presence, and care for our own inner experience. Through a thoughtfully paced, accessible practice, Britt helps listeners notice self-criticism without judgment and cultivate a more supportive inner voice. Whether you are navigating stress, burnout, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself, this session offers a calm, affirming space to slow down, reconnect, and remember that compassion begins within.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 1283 54 full Episode 52: A Practice of Forgiveness Episode 52: A Practice of Forgiveness https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-52-a-practice-of-forgiveness/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-52-a-practice-of-forgiveness/#comments Tue, 27 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/e34b98ab-ae78-316a-a502-dcd5d901c178 In this week’s episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Dr. Stephanie Romero invites listeners into a compassionate exploration of forgiveness as a powerful mindfulness practice and an act of self-care. Moving beyond the common myths that forgiveness means forgetting or excusing harm, the episode reframes it as the process of releasing the emotional charge that keeps past pain alive in the present. Through reflection and a gentle, guided meditation, listeners are supported in extending compassion toward themselves and others, creating space for emotional resilience, reduced stress, and renewed inner peace. Whether you are carrying a small resentment or a deeper wound, this episode offers a calm, safe container to begin softening, letting go, and reclaiming a sense of ease.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this week’s episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Dr. Stephanie Romero invites listeners into a compassionate exploration of forgiveness as a powerful mindfulness practice and an act of self-care. Moving beyond the common myths that forgiveness means forgetting or excusing harm, the episode reframes it as the process of releasing the emotional charge that keeps past pain alive in the present. Through reflection and a gentle, guided meditation, listeners are supported in extending compassion toward themselves and others, creating space for emotional resilience, reduced stress, and renewed inner peace. Whether you are carrying a small resentment or a deeper wound, this episode offers a calm, safe container to begin softening, letting go, and reclaiming a sense of ease.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 828 53 full Episode 51: Sylva London and Ñeca Rodriguez (Part 2) Episode 51: Sylva London and Ñeca Rodriguez (Part 2) https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-51-sylva-london-and-neca-rodriguez-part-2/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-51-sylva-london-and-neca-rodriguez-part-2/#comments Tue, 20 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/d169d774-b86e-34a6-a7ce-2de48da476b2 In Part 2 of this ongoing conversation, Dr. Stephanie Romero continues her dialogue with Sylva London and Ñeca Rodriguez, Awaken Pittsburgh’s Integrative Community Therapy trainers and facilitators, moving from understanding to application.

This episode explores how Integrative Community Therapy shows up in real communities and everyday life. Sylva and Ñeca reflect on what happens when people are given permission to slow down, listen deeply, and learn from one another’s lived experiences. Together, they discuss the role of facilitators, the importance of trust and safety, and how collective healing can take root when communities reclaim their own wisdom.

Listeners are invited to consider how connection itself can be restorative, and how small, intentional practices can create ripple effects of resilience, compassion, and belonging. This conversation offers both insight and inspiration for anyone curious about community-based healing, facilitation, or simply being more present with others.

As this two-part series comes to a close, Part 2 leaves us with a grounded reminder that healing does not happen alone. It happens together.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of .

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In Part 2 of this ongoing conversation, Dr. Stephanie Romero continues her dialogue with Sylva London and Ñeca Rodriguez, Awaken Pittsburgh’s Integrative Community Therapy trainers and facilitators, moving from understanding to application.

This episode explores how Integrative Community Therapy shows up in real communities and everyday life. Sylva and Ñeca reflect on what happens when people are given permission to slow down, listen deeply, and learn from one another’s lived experiences. Together, they discuss the role of facilitators, the importance of trust and safety, and how collective healing can take root when communities reclaim their own wisdom.

Listeners are invited to consider how connection itself can be restorative, and how small, intentional practices can create ripple effects of resilience, compassion, and belonging. This conversation offers both insight and inspiration for anyone curious about community-based healing, facilitation, or simply being more present with others.

As this two-part series comes to a close, Part 2 leaves us with a grounded reminder that healing does not happen alone. It happens together.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of .

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 2271 52 full Episode 50: Sylva London and Ñeca Rodriguez (Part 1) Episode 50: Sylva London and Ñeca Rodriguez (Part 1) https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-50-sylva-london-and-neca-rodriguez-part-1/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-50-sylva-london-and-neca-rodriguez-part-1/#comments Tue, 13 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/1cf405c3-d33e-3e94-a039-1127cfb69ce9 In this first part of a two-part conversation, Dr. Stephanie Romero is joined by Sylva London and Ñeca Rodriguez, Awaken Pittsburgh’s newest Integrative Community Therapy trainers and facilitators, for a thoughtful and deeply human discussion on healing, belonging, and community.

Together, they explore what Integrative Community Therapy is and why it matters, especially in a world where so many people feel isolated, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Sylva and Ñeca share their personal journeys into this work, what drew them to community-based healing practices, and how ICT creates space for people to be seen, heard, and supported without judgment or hierarchy.

This conversation invites listeners to reflect on the power of shared stories, collective wisdom, and the simple yet profound act of showing up for one another. Part 1 lays the foundation for understanding ICT as both a practice and a posture toward life, one rooted in presence, dignity, and mutual care.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of .

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

 

]]> In this first part of a two-part conversation, Dr. Stephanie Romero is joined by Sylva London and Ñeca Rodriguez, Awaken Pittsburgh’s newest Integrative Community Therapy trainers and facilitators, for a thoughtful and deeply human discussion on healing, belonging, and community.

Together, they explore what Integrative Community Therapy is and why it matters, especially in a world where so many people feel isolated, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Sylva and Ñeca share their personal journeys into this work, what drew them to community-based healing practices, and how ICT creates space for people to be seen, heard, and supported without judgment or hierarchy.

This conversation invites listeners to reflect on the power of shared stories, collective wisdom, and the simple yet profound act of showing up for one another. Part 1 lays the foundation for understanding ICT as both a practice and a posture toward life, one rooted in presence, dignity, and mutual care.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org


Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)


Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of .


Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support


Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

 

]]> Awaken false No 2101 51 full Episode 49: A Practice of Intention Setting for the New Year Episode 49: A Practice of Intention Setting for the New Year https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-49-a-practice-of-intention-setting-for-the-new-year/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-49-a-practice-of-intention-setting-for-the-new-year/#comments Tue, 06 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/da192411-7061-33d9-813b-d55f5121b9bf As we step into a new year, this episode offers a grounded and reflective pause to help you begin with clarity and purpose. Guided by practice leader Danielle Thum, this episode invites listeners into a gentle intention-setting experience rooted in guided visual imagery.

The practice begins with grounding exercises to help you settle into the present moment, followed by guided imagery designed to support reflection and visioning. Listeners are invited to imagine themselves thriving one year from now, explore the opportunities and propelling forces that may support their growth, and shift their focus from external expectations to nurturing their own inner attributes. The practice concludes with intention and gratitude, offering a meaningful way to set a positive, centered tone for the year ahead.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> As we step into a new year, this episode offers a grounded and reflective pause to help you begin with clarity and purpose. Guided by practice leader Danielle Thum, this episode invites listeners into a gentle intention-setting experience rooted in guided visual imagery.

The practice begins with grounding exercises to help you settle into the present moment, followed by guided imagery designed to support reflection and visioning. Listeners are invited to imagine themselves thriving one year from now, explore the opportunities and propelling forces that may support their growth, and shift their focus from external expectations to nurturing their own inner attributes. The practice concludes with intention and gratitude, offering a meaningful way to set a positive, centered tone for the year ahead.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 1056 50 full Episode 48: Dr. Joseph Crosky Episode 48: Dr. Joseph Crosky https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-48-dr-joseph-crosky/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-48-dr-joseph-crosky/#comments Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/b3caae36-87b9-30fe-8a50-8e60a5e905dc In this episode of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, EdD, Stephanie sits down with Joseph Croskey to explore how mindfulness can grow from lived experience into a steady practice that supports resilience, presence, and purposeful living. Joseph shares his winding path from military life to contemplative practice and global wellness work through Peace on Purpose, including how inner peace can ripple outward into families, classrooms, and communities. Together, they reflect on a simple but powerful idea, mindfulness creates the space where we can choose a wiser response.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, EdD, Stephanie sits down with Joseph Croskey to explore how mindfulness can grow from lived experience into a steady practice that supports resilience, presence, and purposeful living. Joseph shares his winding path from military life to contemplative practice and global wellness work through Peace on Purpose, including how inner peace can ripple outward into families, classrooms, and communities. Together, they reflect on a simple but powerful idea, mindfulness creates the space where we can choose a wiser response.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 2484 49 full Episode 47: Dr. Jennifer Joyce Episode 47: Dr. Jennifer Joyce https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-47-dr-jennifer-joyce/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-47-dr-jennifer-joyce/#comments Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/6b46284d-da92-33ca-8284-aad88399dcde In this powerful episode of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, EdD, Dr. Jennifer Joyce shares her transformative journey into Integrative Community Therapy (ICT) and how it intersects with mindfulness, healing, and social justice. Together, they explore the roots of ICT in liberation theology, the importance of authentic connection, and how community-based healing practices can foster equity, resilience, and belonging. This heartfelt conversation challenges conventional ideas of care and invites listeners to imagine a world where everyone’s innate wisdom is honored.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this powerful episode of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, EdD, Dr. Jennifer Joyce shares her transformative journey into Integrative Community Therapy (ICT) and how it intersects with mindfulness, healing, and social justice. Together, they explore the roots of ICT in liberation theology, the importance of authentic connection, and how community-based healing practices can foster equity, resilience, and belonging. This heartfelt conversation challenges conventional ideas of care and invites listeners to imagine a world where everyone’s innate wisdom is honored.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken false No 2772 48 full Episode 46: A Practice of Radical Gratitude Episode 46: A Practice of Radical Gratitude https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-46-a-practice-of-radical-gratitude/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-46-a-practice-of-radical-gratitude/#comments Tue, 18 Nov 2025 11:03:07 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/af404b29-2b62-3cd8-af2a-508dbbd1ce24 This episode offers a gentle guided practice led by Dr. Stephanie Romero that invites listeners into a state of radical gratitude while honoring the complexities of their emotional landscape. She begins by grounding participants in breath, body awareness, and emotional check-ins before moving into a compassionate RAIN practice to hold difficult feelings with curiosity and care. From there, the guidance shifts toward recognizing even a single point of goodness in one’s life and deepening that sense of appreciation through embodied awareness. Listen in wherever you get your favorite podcasts!

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> This episode offers a gentle guided practice led by Dr. Stephanie Romero that invites listeners into a state of radical gratitude while honoring the complexities of their emotional landscape. She begins by grounding participants in breath, body awareness, and emotional check-ins before moving into a compassionate RAIN practice to hold difficult feelings with curiosity and care. From there, the guidance shifts toward recognizing even a single point of goodness in one’s life and deepening that sense of appreciation through embodied awareness. Listen in wherever you get your favorite podcasts!

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 1490 47 full Episode 45: Bonnie Weiss Episode 45: Bonnie Weiss https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-45-bonnie-weiss/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-45-bonnie-weiss/#comments Tue, 04 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/79567840-b12f-3023-a169-626423c7ac86 This episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast features an insightful conversation between Stephanie Romero and Bonnie Weiss, who shares her personal and professional journey with meditation. Bonnie discusses how discovering meditation in 2011 transformed her life, particularly in coping with trauma and grief following her husband's death. She highlights the role of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in supporting mental and physical health, while emphasizing that meditation isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The episode also explores the evolution of Bonnie’s work from teaching children to guiding adults, advocating for compassionate, individualized approaches to mindfulness and healing.

Resources Mentioned:

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> This episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast features an insightful conversation between Stephanie Romero and Bonnie Weiss, who shares her personal and professional journey with meditation. Bonnie discusses how discovering meditation in 2011 transformed her life, particularly in coping with trauma and grief following her husband's death. She highlights the role of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in supporting mental and physical health, while emphasizing that meditation isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The episode also explores the evolution of Bonnie’s work from teaching children to guiding adults, advocating for compassionate, individualized approaches to mindfulness and healing.

Resources Mentioned:

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2742 46 full Episode 44: Dr. Ken Thompson Episode 44: Dr. Ken Thompson https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-44-dr-ken-thompson/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-44-dr-ken-thompson/#comments Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/768f01fd-3b18-3bbe-9e1c-586b66d53ffd In this powerful episode, psychiatrist Dr. Kenneth Thompson joins Awaken Pittsburgh’s Executive Director, Stephanie Romero, to explore the deep connections between mindfulness and Integrative Community Therapy (ICT). Together, they reflect on how collective healing, compassion, and community dialogue can complement individual mindfulness practices to build stronger, more resilient communities.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this powerful episode, psychiatrist Dr. Kenneth Thompson joins Awaken Pittsburgh’s Executive Director, Stephanie Romero, to explore the deep connections between mindfulness and Integrative Community Therapy (ICT). Together, they reflect on how collective healing, compassion, and community dialogue can complement individual mindfulness practices to build stronger, more resilient communities.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 3153 45 full Episode 43: Lora McKnight Episode 43: Lora McKnight https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-43-lora-mcknight/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-43-lora-mcknight/#comments Tue, 07 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/018214da-6f0f-304d-891a-d1467d8d89ac In this heartfelt episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Lora McKnight—Vedic meditation teacher, community builder, and COO of Vibrant Pittsburgh—opens up about her personal journey with anxiety, healing, and the transformative power of stillness. She shares how meditation helped her reconnect with herself during motherhood and the pandemic, and how that practice now shapes her approach to leadership and community.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this heartfelt episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Lora McKnight—Vedic meditation teacher, community builder, and COO of Vibrant Pittsburgh—opens up about her personal journey with anxiety, healing, and the transformative power of stillness. She shares how meditation helped her reconnect with herself during motherhood and the pandemic, and how that practice now shapes her approach to leadership and community.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 3324 44 full Episode 42: Dr. Alice Fox Thompson Episode 42: Dr. Alice Fox Thompson https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-42-dr-alice-fox-thompson/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-42-dr-alice-fox-thompson/#comments Thu, 18 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/3c04538c-5faf-36e2-9aaa-0e513d6cf972 In this episode of The Ripple Effect, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with Dr. Alice Fox Thompson, co-founder of Visible Hands Collaborative and a psychiatry resident at the University of Texas, Austin. Drawing from her background in political science, community organizing, and medical training, Dr. Thompson shares how an unexpected detour during the pandemic led her to discover Integrative Community Therapy—a grassroots mental health approach rooted in Brazilian practice. Together, Stephanie and Alice explore the intersections of public psychiatry, community care, and the power of collective healing, offering listeners a fresh perspective on building supportive, inclusive spaces in mental health and beyond.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with Dr. Alice Fox Thompson, co-founder of Visible Hands Collaborative and a psychiatry resident at the University of Texas, Austin. Drawing from her background in political science, community organizing, and medical training, Dr. Thompson shares how an unexpected detour during the pandemic led her to discover Integrative Community Therapy—a grassroots mental health approach rooted in Brazilian practice. Together, Stephanie and Alice explore the intersections of public psychiatry, community care, and the power of collective healing, offering listeners a fresh perspective on building supportive, inclusive spaces in mental health and beyond.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 3513 43 full Episode 41: Kathy Flynn-Somerville Episode 41: Kathy Flynn-Somerville https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-41-kathy-flynn-somerville/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-41-kathy-flynn-somerville/#comments Wed, 03 Sep 2025 14:22:42 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/e8017e27-edce-33cc-912a-ae78f1b279ad In this latest episode of The Ripple Effect, Stephanie Romero sits down with longtime friend and educator Kathy Flynn-Somerville for a heartfelt conversation about purpose, resilience, and mindfulness. Kathy shares how a formative experience as a child led her to a lifelong career in special education and why creating an “equal playing field” for all students became her guiding principle. She also opens up about her early introduction to mindfulness—long before it was a mainstream buzzword—and how that practice has shaped both her personal life and her work in public schools. This episode offers an inspiring look at how compassion, creativity, and meditation can ripple through classrooms and communities alike. 

Resources discussed in this episode:

  • CASEL
  • Jon Kabat Zinn
  • Jack Kornfield
  • Tara Brach
  • Viktor Frankl - Man's Search for Meaning
  • U. Cal. Berkely's Greater Good Center
  • Mind & Life 
  • Mindful Schools
  • Patricia Jennings & Mark Goldberg's research 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this latest episode of The Ripple Effect, Stephanie Romero sits down with longtime friend and educator Kathy Flynn-Somerville for a heartfelt conversation about purpose, resilience, and mindfulness. Kathy shares how a formative experience as a child led her to a lifelong career in special education and why creating an “equal playing field” for all students became her guiding principle. She also opens up about her early introduction to mindfulness—long before it was a mainstream buzzword—and how that practice has shaped both her personal life and her work in public schools. This episode offers an inspiring look at how compassion, creativity, and meditation can ripple through classrooms and communities alike. 

Resources discussed in this episode:

  • CASEL
  • Jon Kabat Zinn
  • Jack Kornfield
  • Tara Brach
  • Viktor Frankl - Man's Search for Meaning
  • U. Cal. Berkely's Greater Good Center
  • Mind & Life 
  • Mindful Schools
  • Patricia Jennings & Mark Goldberg's research 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 3157 42 full Episode 40: Christine Tapu Episode 40: Christine Tapu https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-40-christine-tapu/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-40-christine-tapu/#comments Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:11:29 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/54769c3c-76e3-3e79-a941-e4a8c5cb3d93 What happens when two lifelong friends and educators sit down to reflect on decades of shared experiences, growth, and purpose? In this heart-opening conversation, Dr. Stephanie Romero and Christine Tapu explore the power of education, resilience, and relationships that stand the test of time.

Christine shares stories from her 30+ year career as a public school and ESL teacher, offering wisdom from inside the classroom and beyond. Together, she and Stephanie discuss how their paths have woven together in unexpected ways, what it means to live a life of service, and how connection ripples through every stage of our journeys. This is more than just a conversation about education. It’s about friendship, purpose, and the kind of impact that lasts long after the lesson ends. Tune in today!

Resources discussed in this episode:

 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> What happens when two lifelong friends and educators sit down to reflect on decades of shared experiences, growth, and purpose? In this heart-opening conversation, Dr. Stephanie Romero and Christine Tapu explore the power of education, resilience, and relationships that stand the test of time.

Christine shares stories from her 30+ year career as a public school and ESL teacher, offering wisdom from inside the classroom and beyond. Together, she and Stephanie discuss how their paths have woven together in unexpected ways, what it means to live a life of service, and how connection ripples through every stage of our journeys. This is more than just a conversation about education. It’s about friendship, purpose, and the kind of impact that lasts long after the lesson ends. Tune in today!

Resources discussed in this episode:

 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2853 41 full Episode 39: Annamarie Fernyak Episode 39: Annamarie Fernyak https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-39-annamarie-fernyak/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-39-annamarie-fernyak/#comments Tue, 29 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/1bbf607b-b1b6-3f5f-909f-8cd083f95712 In this deeply personal and enlightening episode, host Stephanie Romero welcomes Annamarie Fernyak, a lifelong spiritual seeker, author, and mindfulness teacher, for a powerful conversation about the transformative path of awareness. Annamarie shares how her Catholic upbringing and early exposure to diverse world religions sparked a lifelong journey toward personal growth, curiosity, and spiritual awakening.

Listeners will hear about pivotal moments in her life—from college theology classes that introduced her to Buddhism and Hinduism, to eye-opening experiences in the Landmark Forum and the profound influence of Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now. Together, Stephanie and Annamarie explore how curiosity, critical thinking, and a willingness to question inherited beliefs can lead us toward a more compassionate, present, and authentic way of living.

 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this deeply personal and enlightening episode, host Stephanie Romero welcomes Annamarie Fernyak, a lifelong spiritual seeker, author, and mindfulness teacher, for a powerful conversation about the transformative path of awareness. Annamarie shares how her Catholic upbringing and early exposure to diverse world religions sparked a lifelong journey toward personal growth, curiosity, and spiritual awakening.

Listeners will hear about pivotal moments in her life—from college theology classes that introduced her to Buddhism and Hinduism, to eye-opening experiences in the Landmark Forum and the profound influence of Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now. Together, Stephanie and Annamarie explore how curiosity, critical thinking, and a willingness to question inherited beliefs can lead us toward a more compassionate, present, and authentic way of living.

 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2441 40 full Episode 38: Donald Brucker Episode 38: Donald Brucker https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-38-donald-brucker/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-38-donald-brucker/#comments Tue, 15 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/a108dace-93cc-317b-97af-6a2d3f324c3d In this heartfelt episode of The Ripple Effect, Stephanie Romero welcomes Don Brucker, a lifelong public servant whose path to becoming a fire marshal was deeply influenced by family legacy and meaningful community connections. Don shares how early memories with his grandfather and a desire to understand the "why" behind fire scenes sparked a lifelong journey of learning, service, and resilience. Their conversation explores how seemingly small moments create profound ripples across time, impacting careers, values, and relationships. Tune in for a story that honors generational wisdom, purpose-driven work, and the unseen impact we have on one another.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this heartfelt episode of The Ripple Effect, Stephanie Romero welcomes Don Brucker, a lifelong public servant whose path to becoming a fire marshal was deeply influenced by family legacy and meaningful community connections. Don shares how early memories with his grandfather and a desire to understand the "why" behind fire scenes sparked a lifelong journey of learning, service, and resilience. Their conversation explores how seemingly small moments create profound ripples across time, impacting careers, values, and relationships. Tune in for a story that honors generational wisdom, purpose-driven work, and the unseen impact we have on one another.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 3817 39 full Episode 37: Lovie Jackson Foster Episode 37: Lovie Jackson Foster https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-37-lovie-jackson-foster/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-37-lovie-jackson-foster/#comments Tue, 01 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/5004bb44-acbc-3d5c-b20b-736eb8988fa4 In this deeply moving episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Stephanie Romero sits down with Dr. Lovie Jackson Foster—researcher, educator, and advocate—for an intimate conversation about trauma, healing, and the powerful role mindfulness can play in breaking intergenerational cycles of harm. Dr. Foster shares her personal and professional journey into mindfulness, sparked by a vision to support survivors of sexual abuse—especially those who are or want to become parents. Together, they explore the connection between trauma and relationship-building, the burdens of shame and self-blame, and how healing practices can offer safety, connection, and hope.

Whether you're interested in trauma-informed care, community wellness, or mindful parenting, this episode offers heartfelt insight and inspiration.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this deeply moving episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Stephanie Romero sits down with Dr. Lovie Jackson Foster—researcher, educator, and advocate—for an intimate conversation about trauma, healing, and the powerful role mindfulness can play in breaking intergenerational cycles of harm. Dr. Foster shares her personal and professional journey into mindfulness, sparked by a vision to support survivors of sexual abuse—especially those who are or want to become parents. Together, they explore the connection between trauma and relationship-building, the burdens of shame and self-blame, and how healing practices can offer safety, connection, and hope.

Whether you're interested in trauma-informed care, community wellness, or mindful parenting, this episode offers heartfelt insight and inspiration.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2720 38 full Episode 36: Helen Stickney Episode 36: Helen Stickney https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-36-helen-stickney/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-36-helen-stickney/#comments Tue, 17 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/6295ad6b-6133-3abd-9694-e10b4b1b8363 In this moving episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero sits down with Helen Stickney—an experienced meditation guide, grief companion, and end-of-life doula—to explore the intersections of mindfulness, mortality, and healing. With over 40 years of meditation practice and a background in both hospice administration and green burial, Helen brings profound insight into how we can meet death, grief, and the unknown with presence and compassion. Listeners will find not only a deeply personal reflection on Helen's early start in meditation but also a tender, empowering invitation to approach life’s hardest moments with courage and care. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in mindful living, conscious dying, and the power of human connection.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this moving episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero sits down with Helen Stickney—an experienced meditation guide, grief companion, and end-of-life doula—to explore the intersections of mindfulness, mortality, and healing. With over 40 years of meditation practice and a background in both hospice administration and green burial, Helen brings profound insight into how we can meet death, grief, and the unknown with presence and compassion. Listeners will find not only a deeply personal reflection on Helen's early start in meditation but also a tender, empowering invitation to approach life’s hardest moments with courage and care. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in mindful living, conscious dying, and the power of human connection.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2660 37 full Episode 35: Shawn Meredith Episode 35: Shawn Meredith https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-35-shawn-meredith/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-35-shawn-meredith/#comments Tue, 03 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/28681ab6-67be-3b9d-935f-017fcc10ddab In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Dr. Stephanie Romero speaks with special guest Shawn Meredith about the transformative power of vulnerability, healing, and leadership shaped by lived experience. Shawn shares his powerful journey through childhood trauma, addiction, and incarceration, revealing how these painful experiences ultimately led him to a path of redemption and service. The conversation highlights the role of empathy and storytelling in breaking cycles of shame and fostering connection, especially within systems like education and social services. Dr. Romero emphasizes that true leadership doesn’t come from perfection but from the courage to lead through one's wounds. Together, they invite listeners to reflect on their own stories and consider how healing can become a force for rippling hope and change in the world.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Dr. Stephanie Romero speaks with special guest Shawn Meredith about the transformative power of vulnerability, healing, and leadership shaped by lived experience. Shawn shares his powerful journey through childhood trauma, addiction, and incarceration, revealing how these painful experiences ultimately led him to a path of redemption and service. The conversation highlights the role of empathy and storytelling in breaking cycles of shame and fostering connection, especially within systems like education and social services. Dr. Romero emphasizes that true leadership doesn’t come from perfection but from the courage to lead through one's wounds. Together, they invite listeners to reflect on their own stories and consider how healing can become a force for rippling hope and change in the world.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2084 36 full Episode 34: Dinnie Goldring Episode 34: Dinnie Goldring https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-34-dinnie-goldring/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-34-dinnie-goldring/#comments Tue, 20 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/4ebaa596-c3b5-37ca-894d-286f9f9c015f In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero sits down with Dinnie Goldring—psychotherapist, mindfulness teacher, and former midwife—for a profound conversation about healing, presence, and transformation. They explore the power of embodied awareness, the wisdom gained through life transitions, and how spiritual and emotional growth ripple outward into our communities. Tune in for a calming, insightful dialogue that gently invites you to reconnect with your inner self and the world around you.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero sits down with Dinnie Goldring—psychotherapist, mindfulness teacher, and former midwife—for a profound conversation about healing, presence, and transformation. They explore the power of embodied awareness, the wisdom gained through life transitions, and how spiritual and emotional growth ripple outward into our communities. Tune in for a calming, insightful dialogue that gently invites you to reconnect with your inner self and the world around you.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 3222 35 full Episode 33: Sheba Gittens Episode 33: Sheba Gittens https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-33-sheba-gittens/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-33-sheba-gittens/#comments Tue, 06 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/ee0a63e1-fd80-38b1-95f0-07dd381fb00b Join host Stephanie Romero in a heartfelt conversation with artist and activist Sheba Gittens as they explore collective healing, emergent strategy, and the power of dreaming new futures into being. Together, they reflect on community-building, radical imagination, and how vulnerability shapes the movements we long to see. Tune in for an inspiring dialogue that invites you to show up authentically in the work of transformation.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Join host Stephanie Romero in a heartfelt conversation with artist and activist Sheba Gittens as they explore collective healing, emergent strategy, and the power of dreaming new futures into being. Together, they reflect on community-building, radical imagination, and how vulnerability shapes the movements we long to see. Tune in for an inspiring dialogue that invites you to show up authentically in the work of transformation.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2940 34 full Episode 32: Annie To Episode 32: Annie To https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-32-annie-to/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-32-annie-to/#comments Wed, 16 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/1838731f-218f-3b35-825f-60441378ba0e In this powerful episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with actress and educator Annie To, known for her role on HBO’s The Pitt. Annie shares her journey navigating identity, healing generational trauma, and finding strength in storytelling. Together, they explore how representation in media can shift cultural narratives and create deeper connections across communities. Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation on resilience, authenticity, and the ripple effects of embracing your truth.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this powerful episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with actress and educator Annie To, known for her role on HBO’s The Pitt. Annie shares her journey navigating identity, healing generational trauma, and finding strength in storytelling. Together, they explore how representation in media can shift cultural narratives and create deeper connections across communities. Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation on resilience, authenticity, and the ripple effects of embracing your truth.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2389 33 full Episode 31: Dr. Danella Hafeman Episode 31: Dr. Danella Hafeman https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-31-dr-danella-hafeman/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-31-dr-danella-hafeman/#comments Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:31:09 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/45a6ac33-d2b9-3e0f-9fd4-f6fda8eb1278 In this warm and insightful episode of The Ripple Effect, Dr. Stephanie Romero hosts Dr. Danella Hafeman for a reflective conversation on mindfulness, mental health, and the intersection of personal practice with professional impact. The two reconnect over their shared roots in mindfulness training and discuss the evolution of Dr. Hafeman’s journey—from early exposure to meditation in high school and college to integrating mindfulness into her clinical work through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Dr. Hafeman shares how mindfulness became a cornerstone of both her personal growth and her research on emotion regulation among youth. 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this warm and insightful episode of The Ripple Effect, Dr. Stephanie Romero hosts Dr. Danella Hafeman for a reflective conversation on mindfulness, mental health, and the intersection of personal practice with professional impact. The two reconnect over their shared roots in mindfulness training and discuss the evolution of Dr. Hafeman’s journey—from early exposure to meditation in high school and college to integrating mindfulness into her clinical work through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Dr. Hafeman shares how mindfulness became a cornerstone of both her personal growth and her research on emotion regulation among youth. 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2522 32 full Episode 30: David Wible Episode 30: David Wible https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-30-david-wible/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-30-david-wible/#comments Tue, 18 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/fac8f096-51b9-3fa0-a001-0ce100a1df12 In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Stephanie Romero sits down with David Wible for a conversation about career evolution, connection, and purpose. David shares his unconventional journey from heavy industrial manufacturing to e-commerce and digital media, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his path. They explore the power of authentic connections—starting with something as simple as a cup of coffee—and how embracing change can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities. The discussion serves as an inspiring reminder of the ripple effect that small moments and relationships can have on our personal and professional lives.

 

Learn More About Tim's Services: https://www.vn-co.com/our-story.html

Purchase a copy of his book: https://a.co/d/bmmq3FO

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Stephanie Romero sits down with David Wible for a conversation about career evolution, connection, and purpose. David shares his unconventional journey from heavy industrial manufacturing to e-commerce and digital media, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his path. They explore the power of authentic connections—starting with something as simple as a cup of coffee—and how embracing change can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities. The discussion serves as an inspiring reminder of the ripple effect that small moments and relationships can have on our personal and professional lives.

 

Learn More About Tim's Services: https://www.vn-co.com/our-story.html

Purchase a copy of his book: https://a.co/d/bmmq3FO

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2553 31 full Episode 29: Tim Van Ness Episode 29: Tim Van Ness https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-29-tim-van-ness/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-29-tim-van-ness/#comments Tue, 04 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/4db3bca5-b6de-3a61-bb0a-1e2efe9c9bc1 In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Stephanie Romero welcomes special guest Tim Van Ness to explore the theme of "welcoming." Tim shares his lifelong journey with mindfulness and meditation, rooted in his upbringing as the son of a Presbyterian minister and a Christian educator. He discusses how his background in music, education, and theater shaped his understanding of presence, connection, and self-awareness. The conversation highlights the power of intentional listening, storytelling, and creating spaces where people feel truly seen and valued.

Learn More About Tim's Services: https://www.vn-co.com/our-story.html

Purchase a copy of his book: https://a.co/d/bmmq3FO

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Stephanie Romero welcomes special guest Tim Van Ness to explore the theme of "welcoming." Tim shares his lifelong journey with mindfulness and meditation, rooted in his upbringing as the son of a Presbyterian minister and a Christian educator. He discusses how his background in music, education, and theater shaped his understanding of presence, connection, and self-awareness. The conversation highlights the power of intentional listening, storytelling, and creating spaces where people feel truly seen and valued.

Learn More About Tim's Services: https://www.vn-co.com/our-story.html

Purchase a copy of his book: https://a.co/d/bmmq3FO

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 3047 30 full Episode 28: Dr. Jay Huguley Episode 28: Dr. Jay Huguley https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-28-dr-jay-huguley/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-28-dr-jay-huguley/#comments Tue, 18 Feb 2025 13:34:42 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/18469670-3554-3bad-98d0-6497b81d019c In this episode of The Ripple Effect with Dr. Stephanie Romero, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with Dr. Jay Huguley to discuss their collaborative work and the broader impact of his research. They explore themes of social justice, systemic change, and the power of community-driven solutions. Dr. Huguley shares insights from his experience, offering thought-provoking perspectives on creating meaningful change. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the intersection of research, advocacy, and real-world impact.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect with Dr. Stephanie Romero, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with Dr. Jay Huguley to discuss their collaborative work and the broader impact of his research. They explore themes of social justice, systemic change, and the power of community-driven solutions. Dr. Huguley shares insights from his experience, offering thought-provoking perspectives on creating meaningful change. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the intersection of research, advocacy, and real-world impact.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2533 29 full Episode 27: Matt Price Episode 27: Matt Price https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-27-matt-price/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-27-matt-price/#comments Tue, 04 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/3d01b55d-5a59-32eb-96a5-e2e64e0f0352 In this engaging episode, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with Matt Price for a thought-provoking conversation about transformation, adaptability, and the power of new beginnings. From rebranding a business to embracing change with confidence, this discussion offers valuable insights for anyone navigating personal or professional shifts. Don’t miss this inspiring exchange—listen now and ride the ripple of positive change!

Learn more about Matt: drumnexus.co

Matt Price is the founder of DrumNexus, a company specializing in drum circle facilitation that uses drumming and rhythm to bring people together. A lifelong drummer, Matt graduated from Berklee College of Music in 2009 and has been teaching drum lessons to individuals of all ages ever since. In 2017, he discovered the art of drum circle facilitation through Jim Donovan, sparking a passion that has led him to lead numerous drum circles for diverse groups and settings. Matt has also trained with Arthur Hull of Village Music Circles and is an active member of the Drum Circle Facilitators Guild.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this engaging episode, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with Matt Price for a thought-provoking conversation about transformation, adaptability, and the power of new beginnings. From rebranding a business to embracing change with confidence, this discussion offers valuable insights for anyone navigating personal or professional shifts. Don’t miss this inspiring exchange—listen now and ride the ripple of positive change!

Learn more about Matt: drumnexus.co

Matt Price is the founder of DrumNexus, a company specializing in drum circle facilitation that uses drumming and rhythm to bring people together. A lifelong drummer, Matt graduated from Berklee College of Music in 2009 and has been teaching drum lessons to individuals of all ages ever since. In 2017, he discovered the art of drum circle facilitation through Jim Donovan, sparking a passion that has led him to lead numerous drum circles for diverse groups and settings. Matt has also trained with Arthur Hull of Village Music Circles and is an active member of the Drum Circle Facilitators Guild.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 3271 28 full Episode 26: Larissa Evans Episode 26: Larissa Evans https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-26-larissa-evans/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-26-larissa-evans/#comments Tue, 21 Jan 2025 12:57:57 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/ef5b32cd-b69a-35ab-ab76-b31ba9f3d6d6 In this episode of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero Ed.D, Stephanie and guest Larissa Evans delve into Larissa's professional practice and its impact on her life. Larissa shares insights into her career journey, emphasizing the value of mindfulness, self-awareness, and dedication to personal growth.

The conversation explores themes of resilience, the influence of practice on decision-making, and strategies for achieving balance in challenging situations. 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero Ed.D, Stephanie and guest Larissa Evans delve into Larissa's professional practice and its impact on her life. Larissa shares insights into her career journey, emphasizing the value of mindfulness, self-awareness, and dedication to personal growth.

The conversation explores themes of resilience, the influence of practice on decision-making, and strategies for achieving balance in challenging situations. 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 1791 27 full Episode 25: JC Carter Episode 25: JC Carter https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-25-jc-carter/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-25-jc-carter/#comments Wed, 08 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/24decbc4-49fd-3705-b591-5cc525adcc99 In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero engages in a heartfelt conversation with JC Carter about the transformative power of mindfulness and meditation throughout different stages of life. JC reflects on beginning meditation as a child, exploring abstract concepts like infinite time and space, and later connecting to prayer, spirituality, and self-discovery. They also discuss nurturing in the context of mindfulness, likening it to a therapeutic process of reparenting, where one learns to deeply see, hear, and validate themselves. This rich dialogue highlights the importance of curiosity, playfulness, and compassion in personal growth.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero engages in a heartfelt conversation with JC Carter about the transformative power of mindfulness and meditation throughout different stages of life. JC reflects on beginning meditation as a child, exploring abstract concepts like infinite time and space, and later connecting to prayer, spirituality, and self-discovery. They also discuss nurturing in the context of mindfulness, likening it to a therapeutic process of reparenting, where one learns to deeply see, hear, and validate themselves. This rich dialogue highlights the importance of curiosity, playfulness, and compassion in personal growth.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2313 26 full Episode 24: Gaby Isturiz Episode 24: Gaby Isturiz https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-24-gaby-isturiz/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-24-gaby-isturiz/#comments Tue, 17 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/e7d410f7-589e-3cde-8671-0597a783fdd8 In this episode of The Ripple Effect, Stephanie Romero, Ed.D., sits down with Gaby Istruiz, an accomplished entrepreneur and co-founder of several successful ventures, including the SaaS platform Curu. Together, they explore the intersections of entrepreneurship, community impact, and personal growth. Gaby shares her journey of innovation, overcoming challenges, and creating solutions that empower others, offering listeners valuable insights into building businesses that inspire and uplift.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect, Stephanie Romero, Ed.D., sits down with Gaby Istruiz, an accomplished entrepreneur and co-founder of several successful ventures, including the SaaS platform Curu. Together, they explore the intersections of entrepreneurship, community impact, and personal growth. Gaby shares her journey of innovation, overcoming challenges, and creating solutions that empower others, offering listeners valuable insights into building businesses that inspire and uplift.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2484 25 full Episode 23: Sara Urbanic Episode 23: Sara Urbanic https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-23-sara-urbanic/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-23-sara-urbanic/#comments Tue, 03 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/194bc250-4370-3dcf-95df-77550f32a274 This episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast features a conversation between Stephanie Romero and Sarah Urbanic, focusing on their long-standing collaboration. They discuss Sarah's significant contributions as a volunteer supporting their online community through Mighty Networks and her involvement over the past four years. The dialogue explores the impact of their joint efforts in fostering community engagement and building resources for mindfulness and connection. Listeners gain insight into the transformative power of volunteerism and shared purpose in creating positive change.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> This episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast features a conversation between Stephanie Romero and Sarah Urbanic, focusing on their long-standing collaboration. They discuss Sarah's significant contributions as a volunteer supporting their online community through Mighty Networks and her involvement over the past four years. The dialogue explores the impact of their joint efforts in fostering community engagement and building resources for mindfulness and connection. Listeners gain insight into the transformative power of volunteerism and shared purpose in creating positive change.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2398 24 full Episode 22: Brandon Phillips Episode 22: Brandon Phillips https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-22-brandon-phillips/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-22-brandon-phillips/#comments Tue, 19 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/d5e079bc-2e5f-3767-90d6-247a8d542efa In this insightful episode of Awaken Pittsburgh's podcast, Executive Director Stephanie Romero sits down with Brandon Phillips, a licensed professional counselor, school counselor, and community cultivator. Together, they explore the importance of mental health in schools, strategies for empowering parents through community-based initiatives, and the intersection of counseling and personal development. Brandon shares his experiences working with elementary school children in Pittsburgh public schools and his facilitation of innovative programs at the University of Pittsburgh. Their conversation sheds light on nurturing emotional resilience and fostering community healing.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> In this insightful episode of Awaken Pittsburgh's podcast, Executive Director Stephanie Romero sits down with Brandon Phillips, a licensed professional counselor, school counselor, and community cultivator. Together, they explore the importance of mental health in schools, strategies for empowering parents through community-based initiatives, and the intersection of counseling and personal development. Brandon shares his experiences working with elementary school children in Pittsburgh public schools and his facilitation of innovative programs at the University of Pittsburgh. Their conversation sheds light on nurturing emotional resilience and fostering community healing.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2850 23 full Episode 21: Britt Dorazio Episode 21: Britt Dorazio https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-21-britt-dorazio/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-21-britt-dorazio/#comments Tue, 05 Nov 2024 10:24:32 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/98d1316d-6272-3740-ad88-e13a0856a128 Dr. Stephanie Romero and Britt Dorazio engage in a heartfelt conversation on The Ripple Effect podcast, where they explore the profound impact of kindness, mindfulness, and meditation. Britt shares her transformative journey with mindfulness, emphasizing how it has been a life-saving practice and discussing the importance of integrating these principles into everyday life to cultivate compassion and resilience.

Britt's Resource: Social Change Ecosystem Map

 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

 

]]> Dr. Stephanie Romero and Britt Dorazio engage in a heartfelt conversation on The Ripple Effect podcast, where they explore the profound impact of kindness, mindfulness, and meditation. Britt shares her transformative journey with mindfulness, emphasizing how it has been a life-saving practice and discussing the importance of integrating these principles into everyday life to cultivate compassion and resilience.

Britt's Resource: Social Change Ecosystem Map

 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Campaign Music:  "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

 

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2759 22 full Episode 20: Alex Lisowski Episode 20: Alex Lisowski https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-20-alex-lisowski/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-20-alex-lisowski/#comments Tue, 15 Oct 2024 14:02:34 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/5b5f9673-f183-3ff5-bd85-743331258e86 In this episode of "The Ripple Effect Podcast," Stephanie and Alex Lisowski reflect on the role of appreciation and mindfulness in personal and professional growth. Alex shares his journey into mindfulness, which began after the loss of his mother, and how practices like yoga and meditation helped him process trauma and anxiety. The discussion highlights the importance of acknowledging both positive and negative experiences, with Alex emphasizing how appreciation—especially for challenging moments—can lead to personal growth.  

 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> In this episode of "The Ripple Effect Podcast," Stephanie and Alex Lisowski reflect on the role of appreciation and mindfulness in personal and professional growth. Alex shares his journey into mindfulness, which began after the loss of his mother, and how practices like yoga and meditation helped him process trauma and anxiety. The discussion highlights the importance of acknowledging both positive and negative experiences, with Alex emphasizing how appreciation—especially for challenging moments—can lead to personal growth.  

 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2103 21 full Episode 19: Shawn Fertitta Episode 19: Shawn Fertitta https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-19-shawn-fertitta/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-19-shawn-fertitta/#comments Tue, 01 Oct 2024 10:29:21 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/697b47f4-7fef-3791-bf77-4c2c58e74700 In this episode of "The Ripple Effect Podcast," Stephanie Romero interviews Shawn Fertita, who shares his journey of overcoming depression through mindfulness and meditation, discussing the importance of appreciation, connection, and vulnerability in both personal practice and leadership, while also introducing a new retreat series aimed at fostering mindful workplaces and supportive team cultures.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> In this episode of "The Ripple Effect Podcast," Stephanie Romero interviews Shawn Fertita, who shares his journey of overcoming depression through mindfulness and meditation, discussing the importance of appreciation, connection, and vulnerability in both personal practice and leadership, while also introducing a new retreat series aimed at fostering mindful workplaces and supportive team cultures.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2345 20 full Episode 18: Neysha Arcelay Episode 18: Neysha Arcelay https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-18-neysha-arcelay/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-18-neysha-arcelay/#comments Tue, 17 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/deb624e9-08ff-36ac-8988-330c456d85a8 On this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero and Neysha Arclay delve into the theme of "welcoming," exploring how mindfulness, meditation, and self-compassion can help individuals welcome life’s challenges with curiosity. Neysha shares her personal journey with meditation, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, emotional healing, and the ability to observe and welcome one's triggers. Together, they discuss how embracing imperfections and setting healthy boundaries can lead to personal growth and transformation.

----more----

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> On this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero and Neysha Arclay delve into the theme of "welcoming," exploring how mindfulness, meditation, and self-compassion can help individuals welcome life’s challenges with curiosity. Neysha shares her personal journey with meditation, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, emotional healing, and the ability to observe and welcome one's triggers. Together, they discuss how embracing imperfections and setting healthy boundaries can lead to personal growth and transformation.

----more----

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2639 19 full Episode 17: Jennifer Blue Episode 17: Jennifer Blue https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-17-jennifer-blue/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-17-jennifer-blue/#comments Wed, 04 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/7cab13bd-0dc8-3d3e-a089-adce2e3d873e In this episode of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, special guest Jennifer Blue shares her journey into mindfulness, which began unexpectedly through writing and evolved into a life-changing practice that helped her navigate personal and professional challenges. The conversation explores how mindfulness can help individuals reclaim control of their lives, make conscious choices, and embrace non-attachment.

----more----

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, special guest Jennifer Blue shares her journey into mindfulness, which began unexpectedly through writing and evolved into a life-changing practice that helped her navigate personal and professional challenges. The conversation explores how mindfulness can help individuals reclaim control of their lives, make conscious choices, and embrace non-attachment.

----more----

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2643 18 full Episode 16: Richard Stachel Episode 16: Richard Stachel https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-16-richard-stachel/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-16-richard-stachel/#comments Tue, 20 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/0c83868f-95c1-3745-b8ec-6187e999dc30 In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero, Ed.D., sits down with Richard Stachel, the Board President of Awaken Pittsburgh and a lifelong practitioner of transcendental meditation. Richard, who is also a university professor and director of the Healthcare Administration Program at Gannon University, shares insights from his extensive research on mindfulness and well-being. They delve into his journey with meditation, beginning in his early teens, and how it has influenced his personal and professional life. Richard discusses his research on improving the subjective well-being of COPD patients through digital tools, as well as his current work exploring the impact of loneliness on college freshmen. This conversation offers a deep exploration of the role of awareness in fostering mental health and resilience in both individuals and communities.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero, Ed.D., sits down with Richard Stachel, the Board President of Awaken Pittsburgh and a lifelong practitioner of transcendental meditation. Richard, who is also a university professor and director of the Healthcare Administration Program at Gannon University, shares insights from his extensive research on mindfulness and well-being. They delve into his journey with meditation, beginning in his early teens, and how it has influenced his personal and professional life. Richard discusses his research on improving the subjective well-being of COPD patients through digital tools, as well as his current work exploring the impact of loneliness on college freshmen. This conversation offers a deep exploration of the role of awareness in fostering mental health and resilience in both individuals and communities.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 3121 17 full Episode 15: Jackson Kerchis Episode 15: Jackson Kerchis https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-15-jackson-kerchis/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-15-jackson-kerchis/#comments Tue, 06 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/e545460f-535a-3f6e-a122-8f9cf985be50 We're excited to invite you to tune into the latest edition of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, Ed.D. This episode features a compelling conversation with our special guest, Jackson Kerchis. Jackson Kerchis is a speaker, author, and trusted adviser to the US military and private sector clients on employee happiness. He prefers the job title given to him by a Canadian radio host: "Happiness Nerd." He is passionate about happiness research and education. As a former startup executive, management consultant, and Zen monk he brings a unique perspective to the how of happiness. As a program deliverer with Awaken Pittsburgh he loves helping people build the habits of mind which are the foundation for happiness. This is something he covers in his recent book "How to Stick to Meditation: The Science of Habit Meets the Art of Mindfulness."

----more----

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

----more----

]]> We're excited to invite you to tune into the latest edition of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, Ed.D. This episode features a compelling conversation with our special guest, Jackson Kerchis. Jackson Kerchis is a speaker, author, and trusted adviser to the US military and private sector clients on employee happiness. He prefers the job title given to him by a Canadian radio host: "Happiness Nerd." He is passionate about happiness research and education. As a former startup executive, management consultant, and Zen monk he brings a unique perspective to the how of happiness. As a program deliverer with Awaken Pittsburgh he loves helping people build the habits of mind which are the foundation for happiness. This is something he covers in his recent book "How to Stick to Meditation: The Science of Habit Meets the Art of Mindfulness."

----more----

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

----more----

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2206 16 full Episode 14: Summerly Kelly Episode 14: Summerly Kelly https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-14-summerly-kelly/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-14-summerly-kelly/#comments Wed, 24 Jul 2024 21:41:53 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/de81547a-fe0c-31af-abdd-2fa06a5e0f8b In this edition of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, Ed.D., we are thrilled to welcome our special guest, Summerly Kelly. Summerly, a graduate of Point Park University with a degree in psychology, is deeply passionate about holistic healing. Her journey through spiritual and psychological contemplation has led her to explore and practice mindfulness meditation and nervous system regulation, which have been instrumental in her own healing. Summerly's dedication to homeopathy and self-care practices, including yoga, has enabled her to overcome chronic pain and achieve a balanced life. Join us as we delve into her transformative experiences and insights on holistic wellness.

----more----

Connect with Summerly!

Email: summerlyavett@gmail.com

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> In this edition of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, Ed.D., we are thrilled to welcome our special guest, Summerly Kelly. Summerly, a graduate of Point Park University with a degree in psychology, is deeply passionate about holistic healing. Her journey through spiritual and psychological contemplation has led her to explore and practice mindfulness meditation and nervous system regulation, which have been instrumental in her own healing. Summerly's dedication to homeopathy and self-care practices, including yoga, has enabled her to overcome chronic pain and achieve a balanced life. Join us as we delve into her transformative experiences and insights on holistic wellness.

----more----

Connect with Summerly!

Email: summerlyavett@gmail.com

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2219 15 full Episode 13: Richard Citrin, PhD Episode 13: Richard Citrin, PhD https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-13-richard-citrin-phd/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-13-richard-citrin-phd/#comments Tue, 16 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/f49df843-6afc-3c19-9463-759f4b62df65 Tune in to this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast with Stephanie Romero, Ed.D! This week, we're thrilled to feature Dr. Richard Citrin, a distinguished clinical psychologist, healthcare entrepreneur, and leadership advisor. Join us as Dr. Citrin shares his unique insights on leadership, talent development, and how we can harness our strengths to create real change and success.

Don't miss this enlightening conversation with one of the foremost experts in bridging the gap between business and psychology!

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Tune in to this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast with Stephanie Romero, Ed.D! This week, we're thrilled to feature Dr. Richard Citrin, a distinguished clinical psychologist, healthcare entrepreneur, and leadership advisor. Join us as Dr. Citrin shares his unique insights on leadership, talent development, and how we can harness our strengths to create real change and success.

Don't miss this enlightening conversation with one of the foremost experts in bridging the gap between business and psychology!

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 3313 14 full Episode 12: Ashley Cifone Episode 12: Ashley Cifone https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-12-ashley-cifone/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-12-ashley-cifone/#comments Tue, 09 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/e8d8afd6-3de3-39fd-8b7f-c2ee09c405a6  

In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Stephanie Romero, Ed.D., sits down with Ashley Cifone to explore the transformative journey of unlearning individualism and fostering community through nurturing practices. Ashley Cifone, a dedicated counselor and advocate for collective liberation, brings her extensive experience in education and mindfulness to the conversation. With a career spanning over 20 years in service to children and their families, Ashley has seamlessly integrated mindfulness into her approach, promoting deep emotional connections and resilience. Join Stephanie and Ashley as they delve into the significance of relationships in personal growth and the role of mindfulness in nurturing community. Together, they discuss practical strategies for incorporating mindfulness into daily life and the broader impact of social justice work in dismantling systems of oppression.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]>  

In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Stephanie Romero, Ed.D., sits down with Ashley Cifone to explore the transformative journey of unlearning individualism and fostering community through nurturing practices. Ashley Cifone, a dedicated counselor and advocate for collective liberation, brings her extensive experience in education and mindfulness to the conversation. With a career spanning over 20 years in service to children and their families, Ashley has seamlessly integrated mindfulness into her approach, promoting deep emotional connections and resilience. Join Stephanie and Ashley as they delve into the significance of relationships in personal growth and the role of mindfulness in nurturing community. Together, they discuss practical strategies for incorporating mindfulness into daily life and the broader impact of social justice work in dismantling systems of oppression.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2626 13 full Episode 11: Alex Conley Episode 11: Alex Conley https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-11-alex-conley/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-11-alex-conley/#comments Tue, 25 Jun 2024 08:31:18 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/3497a40c-1e11-3992-a1e3-099a1c0989c3  

Our upcoming episode of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero features special guest Alex Conley, founder of KONO Nutrition. Alex's journey to health advocacy began at just four years old when he was diagnosed with leukemia, a severe blood and bone marrow cancer. After a grueling battle, he celebrated his twelfth birthday cancer-free, a milestone that ignited his lifelong passion for health and fitness. His personal experience and professional insights led him to dedicate his life to helping others navigate the complexities of modern health challenges.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

 

]]>  

Our upcoming episode of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero features special guest Alex Conley, founder of KONO Nutrition. Alex's journey to health advocacy began at just four years old when he was diagnosed with leukemia, a severe blood and bone marrow cancer. After a grueling battle, he celebrated his twelfth birthday cancer-free, a milestone that ignited his lifelong passion for health and fitness. His personal experience and professional insights led him to dedicate his life to helping others navigate the complexities of modern health challenges.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

 

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2300 12 full Episode 10: Danielle Thum Episode 10: Danielle Thum https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-10-danielle-thum/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-10-danielle-thum/#comments Tue, 25 Jun 2024 08:30:01 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/58ae0d79-37bf-32c0-b75c-99e119fcdf5b In this edition of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, Stephanie is joined by  Danielle Thum. Danielle serves as the Health & Prevention Program Manager at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh’s Family Care Connection centers. With her extensive experience working closely with families and staff, Danielle has developed a deep understanding of the daily struggles families in our region face in accessing healthcare services and meeting basic health needs. She collaborates with the Community Health team to integrate family input, co-create meaningful health and prevention programs, and address social determinants of health. 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> In this edition of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, Stephanie is joined by  Danielle Thum. Danielle serves as the Health & Prevention Program Manager at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh’s Family Care Connection centers. With her extensive experience working closely with families and staff, Danielle has developed a deep understanding of the daily struggles families in our region face in accessing healthcare services and meeting basic health needs. She collaborates with the Community Health team to integrate family input, co-create meaningful health and prevention programs, and address social determinants of health. 

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2036 11 full Episode 9: Dan Jarvis Episode 9: Dan Jarvis https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-9-dan-jarvis/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-9-dan-jarvis/#comments Tue, 04 Jun 2024 00:16:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/be373c55-e7a7-3999-a061-28e92c530043 In this edition of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, Stephanie talks trauma recovery with Dan Jarvis. A retired Deputy Sheriff and Army Combat Veteran, Dan is the co-founder of 22ZERO, an organization dedicated to ending the suicide epidemic in military and first responder communities. He also helped form Anxiety Guys, LLC to provide non-clinical interventions to civilians, addressing the overwhelming requests for help through 22ZERO. Join Stephanie and Dan as they delve into his journey, the mission of 22ZERO, and how innovative approaches are making a significant impact on trauma recovery and mental health support.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

 

]]> In this edition of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, Stephanie talks trauma recovery with Dan Jarvis. A retired Deputy Sheriff and Army Combat Veteran, Dan is the co-founder of 22ZERO, an organization dedicated to ending the suicide epidemic in military and first responder communities. He also helped form Anxiety Guys, LLC to provide non-clinical interventions to civilians, addressing the overwhelming requests for help through 22ZERO. Join Stephanie and Dan as they delve into his journey, the mission of 22ZERO, and how innovative approaches are making a significant impact on trauma recovery and mental health support.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

 

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 3039 10 full Episode 8: Julius Boatwright, MSW, LSW Episode 8: Julius Boatwright, MSW, LSW https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-8-julius-boatwright-msw-lsw/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-8-julius-boatwright-msw-lsw/#comments Tue, 21 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/1cbcb5f1-266e-32b7-bf54-556410633d2c In this episode, we are honored to have Julius A. Boatwright, MSW, LSW, the Founder and Managing Director of Steel Smiling, join us to discuss the importance of kindness during Mental Health Awareness Month. With a wealth of experience in community mental health, nonprofit leadership, and trauma-informed practices, Julius will share his insights on fostering mental wellness and the impact of kindness on our communities.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> In this episode, we are honored to have Julius A. Boatwright, MSW, LSW, the Founder and Managing Director of Steel Smiling, join us to discuss the importance of kindness during Mental Health Awareness Month. With a wealth of experience in community mental health, nonprofit leadership, and trauma-informed practices, Julius will share his insights on fostering mental wellness and the impact of kindness on our communities.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2814 9 full Episode 7: MaryBeth Salama Episode 7: MaryBeth Salama https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-7-marybeth-salama/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-7-marybeth-salama/#comments Tue, 07 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/dacc5a2a-4780-32a0-ac24-643a64f81ced In this enlightening episode of "The Ripple Effect with Dr. Stephanie Romero," we delve into the profound impact of kindness in our daily lives, drawing insights from the remarkable journey of special guest MaryBeth Salama M.D.. With a wealth of experience as a retired Family Physician specializing in Hospice and Palliative Medicine, MaryBeth has dedicated her life to serving others, even in her retirement.

As Dr. Stephanie Romero guides the conversation, MaryBeth shares how her work experiences have shaped her understanding of kindness and compassion, and how she has seamlessly integrated these principles into her everyday life. From her volunteer work at Awaken and The Neighborhood Resilience Project, providing healthcare to the uninsured, to her involvement with 412 Food Rescue, combating local hunger by redistributing surplus food, MaryBeth exemplifies the transformative power of kindness in action.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into practical ways to infuse kindness into their own lives, drawing from MaryBeth's wisdom and expertise. Additionally, MaryBeth discusses her role as a faculty member at The Academy of Communication in Healthcare (ACH), highlighting the importance of effective communication and nurturing relationships in the healthcare setting.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> In this enlightening episode of "The Ripple Effect with Dr. Stephanie Romero," we delve into the profound impact of kindness in our daily lives, drawing insights from the remarkable journey of special guest MaryBeth Salama M.D.. With a wealth of experience as a retired Family Physician specializing in Hospice and Palliative Medicine, MaryBeth has dedicated her life to serving others, even in her retirement.

As Dr. Stephanie Romero guides the conversation, MaryBeth shares how her work experiences have shaped her understanding of kindness and compassion, and how she has seamlessly integrated these principles into her everyday life. From her volunteer work at Awaken and The Neighborhood Resilience Project, providing healthcare to the uninsured, to her involvement with 412 Food Rescue, combating local hunger by redistributing surplus food, MaryBeth exemplifies the transformative power of kindness in action.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into practical ways to infuse kindness into their own lives, drawing from MaryBeth's wisdom and expertise. Additionally, MaryBeth discusses her role as a faculty member at The Academy of Communication in Healthcare (ACH), highlighting the importance of effective communication and nurturing relationships in the healthcare setting.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2041 8 full Episode 6: Dawn Lehman Episode 6: Dawn Lehman https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-6-dawn-lehman/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-6-dawn-lehman/#comments Tue, 16 Apr 2024 00:58:26 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/54574b46-04f5-398f-87b5-d2489fd5ac2d In this enlightening episode of The Ripple Effect, we're joined by Dawn Lehman, an expert in mediation and restorative practices. With over a decade of experience in conflict resolution, Dawn has facilitated more than 100 restorative dialogues addressing issues ranging from minor school infractions to serious violent felonies. A Professional Coach and a steadfast practitioner of mindfulness in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, Dawn brings a wealth of knowledge on living in alignment with one's ideals.

 

Throughout our discussion, Dawn shares her insights on how individuals, organizations, and communities can foster environments that reflect shared values and support mutual growth. She delves into the transformative power of restorative practices in healing and strengthening relationships, and provides practical advice for anyone looking to navigate conflicts with grace and effectiveness.

Join us as Dawn Lehman enlightens us on the paths towards peace and understanding, both within ourselves and in our interactions with others, reinforcing the profound impact of mindfulness and empathy in everyday life. Whether you're dealing with personal challenges or professional disputes, this episode is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to create more harmonious and effective interactions in their life. Tune in to discover how you can be a part of the ripple effect that transforms conflict into collaboration.

----more----

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> In this enlightening episode of The Ripple Effect, we're joined by Dawn Lehman, an expert in mediation and restorative practices. With over a decade of experience in conflict resolution, Dawn has facilitated more than 100 restorative dialogues addressing issues ranging from minor school infractions to serious violent felonies. A Professional Coach and a steadfast practitioner of mindfulness in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, Dawn brings a wealth of knowledge on living in alignment with one's ideals.

 

Throughout our discussion, Dawn shares her insights on how individuals, organizations, and communities can foster environments that reflect shared values and support mutual growth. She delves into the transformative power of restorative practices in healing and strengthening relationships, and provides practical advice for anyone looking to navigate conflicts with grace and effectiveness.

Join us as Dawn Lehman enlightens us on the paths towards peace and understanding, both within ourselves and in our interactions with others, reinforcing the profound impact of mindfulness and empathy in everyday life. Whether you're dealing with personal challenges or professional disputes, this episode is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to create more harmonious and effective interactions in their life. Tune in to discover how you can be a part of the ripple effect that transforms conflict into collaboration.

----more----

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2220 7 full Episode 5: Dr. Randy Bartlett Episode 5: Dr. Randy Bartlett https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-5-dr-randy-bartlett/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-5-dr-randy-bartlett/#comments Tue, 02 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/79b0da1b-523f-3f43-8cf6-76f281176422 In this enriching episode of The Ripple Effect, host Stephanie Romero welcomes a visionary in the world of education, Randy Bartlett, the Head of School and Founder at City of Bridges High School. With a profound journey spanning over two decades in education and non-profit organizations, Randy has shaped minds across various roles—public school teacher, principal, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment, and more. His extensive academic background, including a BA in History and Religion, a M.Ed. in Integrated Learning, a certificate in Educational Leadership, and a Ph.D. in Leadership and Change, underscores his deep commitment to transformative education.

As someone who has designed and directed the Pittsburgh Urban Teaching Corp and imparts wisdom at Chatham University, Randy brings a wealth of experience and insight into creating educational environments that thrive on mindfulness and appreciation. This conversation delves into how educators can integrate these values into their teaching methodologies to cultivate a more empathetic, aware, and engaged student body.

Stephanie and Randy explore the practicalities and philosophies behind making educational spaces not just centers of learning but sanctuaries of growth and personal development. They discuss the impact of mindfulness practices in the classroom, the power of appreciating diverse perspectives, and the importance of nurturing emotional and social intelligence alongside academic achievements.

Listeners will leave this episode inspired by Randy’s innovative approaches to education, armed with practical tips and thoughtful strategies to bring mindfulness and appreciation into their own educational practices or learning environments. Whether you're an educator, parent, or someone passionate about positive change in education, this episode offers valuable insights into creating more inclusive, mindful, and appreciative educational experiences for all.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> In this enriching episode of The Ripple Effect, host Stephanie Romero welcomes a visionary in the world of education, Randy Bartlett, the Head of School and Founder at City of Bridges High School. With a profound journey spanning over two decades in education and non-profit organizations, Randy has shaped minds across various roles—public school teacher, principal, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment, and more. His extensive academic background, including a BA in History and Religion, a M.Ed. in Integrated Learning, a certificate in Educational Leadership, and a Ph.D. in Leadership and Change, underscores his deep commitment to transformative education.

As someone who has designed and directed the Pittsburgh Urban Teaching Corp and imparts wisdom at Chatham University, Randy brings a wealth of experience and insight into creating educational environments that thrive on mindfulness and appreciation. This conversation delves into how educators can integrate these values into their teaching methodologies to cultivate a more empathetic, aware, and engaged student body.

Stephanie and Randy explore the practicalities and philosophies behind making educational spaces not just centers of learning but sanctuaries of growth and personal development. They discuss the impact of mindfulness practices in the classroom, the power of appreciating diverse perspectives, and the importance of nurturing emotional and social intelligence alongside academic achievements.

Listeners will leave this episode inspired by Randy’s innovative approaches to education, armed with practical tips and thoughtful strategies to bring mindfulness and appreciation into their own educational practices or learning environments. Whether you're an educator, parent, or someone passionate about positive change in education, this episode offers valuable insights into creating more inclusive, mindful, and appreciative educational experiences for all.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2477 6 full Episode 4: Brian Walsh Episode 4: Brian Walsh https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-4-brian-walsh/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-4-brian-walsh/#comments Tue, 19 Mar 2024 00:01:00 -0400 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/7133a87b-0491-37d5-90b5-ad5945522370 We've got a special treat for you on "The Ripple Effect Podcast with Stephanie Romero" this week. Dive into the fascinating world of Online Content Design with none other than Brian Walsh as our guest!

Brian, a proud alumnus of the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in Supply Chain Management, found his calling through mindfulness and giving back to the community. His journey with Awaken Pittsburgh since 2020 has been nothing short of inspiring, emphasizing the transformative power of welcoming not just for the self but for everyone around us.

Join us as Brian opens up about welcoming us into his unique world of Online Content Design. It's an episode filled with insights, stories, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from truly embracing the art of mindfulness and community service.

Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation! Tune in to "The Ripple Effect Podcast with Stephanie Romero" on your favorite podcast platform. Whether you're on your morning walk, driving to work, or just looking for some inspiration, let Brian's journey remind you of the incredible impact mindfulness can have on our lives and careers.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

 

]]> We've got a special treat for you on "The Ripple Effect Podcast with Stephanie Romero" this week. Dive into the fascinating world of Online Content Design with none other than Brian Walsh as our guest!

Brian, a proud alumnus of the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in Supply Chain Management, found his calling through mindfulness and giving back to the community. His journey with Awaken Pittsburgh since 2020 has been nothing short of inspiring, emphasizing the transformative power of welcoming not just for the self but for everyone around us.

Join us as Brian opens up about welcoming us into his unique world of Online Content Design. It's an episode filled with insights, stories, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from truly embracing the art of mindfulness and community service.

Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation! Tune in to "The Ripple Effect Podcast with Stephanie Romero" on your favorite podcast platform. Whether you're on your morning walk, driving to work, or just looking for some inspiration, let Brian's journey remind you of the incredible impact mindfulness can have on our lives and careers.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

 

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2341 5 full Episode 3: Adam Paulisick - CEO, SkillBuilder.io Episode 3: Adam Paulisick - CEO, SkillBuilder.io https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-3-adam-polisick/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-3-adam-polisick/#comments Mon, 04 Mar 2024 23:59:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/df590d0a-ae79-38d7-9bb3-6eb4928bffb6 Join Stephanie Romero on this riveting episode of The Ripple Effect as she dives deep into the heart of entrepreneurship and personal growth with guest Adam Paulisick -  CEO, SkillBuilder.io, a renowned entrepreneurial powerhouse known for his innovative approach to business and life. In a world that's constantly pushing towards more, Adam brings a refreshing perspective on mindfulness and the transformative concept of "welcoming."

As they explore the intricacies of building a business in today's fast-paced environment, Stephanie and Adam discuss how embracing mindfulness can lead to profound changes not just in the boardroom, but in every aspect of our lives. Adam shares his journey, revealing how the practice of "welcoming" — accepting every moment and challenge with openness and readiness — has been a game-changer in his approach to entrepreneurship and personal fulfillment.

This episode is more than just a conversation; it's an invitation to rethink the hustle culture that dominates the entrepreneurial world. Through engaging stories and actionable insights, Stephanie and Adam will guide you through the practical steps of integrating mindfulness into your daily routine, transforming challenges into opportunities, and how to truly welcome the journey of entrepreneurship with all its ups and downs.

Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply someone interested in enhancing your personal development, this episode offers valuable lessons on the power of mindfulness and welcoming in achieving success and harmony. Tune in to The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero and let this conversation inspire you to embrace a more mindful approach to your entrepreneurial endeavors and life itself.

Book Resources:

  • People of the Lie
  • 59 Seconds
  • Never Split the Difference
  • King, Warrior, Magician, Lover
  • Quiet by Susan Cain
  • The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Join Stephanie Romero on this riveting episode of The Ripple Effect as she dives deep into the heart of entrepreneurship and personal growth with guest Adam Paulisick -  CEO, SkillBuilder.io, a renowned entrepreneurial powerhouse known for his innovative approach to business and life. In a world that's constantly pushing towards more, Adam brings a refreshing perspective on mindfulness and the transformative concept of "welcoming."

As they explore the intricacies of building a business in today's fast-paced environment, Stephanie and Adam discuss how embracing mindfulness can lead to profound changes not just in the boardroom, but in every aspect of our lives. Adam shares his journey, revealing how the practice of "welcoming" — accepting every moment and challenge with openness and readiness — has been a game-changer in his approach to entrepreneurship and personal fulfillment.

This episode is more than just a conversation; it's an invitation to rethink the hustle culture that dominates the entrepreneurial world. Through engaging stories and actionable insights, Stephanie and Adam will guide you through the practical steps of integrating mindfulness into your daily routine, transforming challenges into opportunities, and how to truly welcome the journey of entrepreneurship with all its ups and downs.

Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply someone interested in enhancing your personal development, this episode offers valuable lessons on the power of mindfulness and welcoming in achieving success and harmony. Tune in to The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero and let this conversation inspire you to embrace a more mindful approach to your entrepreneurial endeavors and life itself.

Book Resources:

  • People of the Lie
  • 59 Seconds
  • Never Split the Difference
  • King, Warrior, Magician, Lover
  • Quiet by Susan Cain
  • The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 2814 4 full Episode 2: Sarah Hamilton Episode 2: Sarah Hamilton https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-2-sarah-hamilton-1708278698/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-2-sarah-hamilton-1708278698/#comments Mon, 19 Feb 2024 23:59:00 -0500 awakenpittsburghtherippleeffect.podbean.com/f6722acc-eed3-303a-b50b-8d5559093945 Dive into an exhilarating journey on The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, Ed.D podcast, where the transformative magic of mental health, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence unfolds in every episode. This time, Stephanie Romero, visionary Executive Director of Awaken Pittsburgh, embarks on an enlightening discussion with Sarah Hamilton. A powerhouse in the CPG industry and a Board Member at Awaken Pittsburgh, Sarah brings her dynamic leadership skills from her vast experiences in government, enterprise software, and sales to the forefront. With her exceptional talent in quantitative data analysis, category management, and unlocking the secrets of shopper/consumer insights, Sarah has been instrumental in propelling Fortune 500 CPG companies to new heights.

Her impressive ability to lead sales teams, clinch strategic deals, and deliver unparalleled value to clients is nothing short of inspiring. Beyond her professional achievements, Sarah serves as the Treasurer for The Seats Foundation, championing civic engagement and community connection with an innovative mobile app. Living in Idaho with her husband and their two beloved dogs, Kona and Bella, Sarah embraces the great outdoors with zeal.

Prepare to be captivated by this episode's deep dive into how cultivating awareness can be a powerful catalyst for personal transformation and emotional wellness. Join us for an adventure of insight and inspiration on The Ripple Effect.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

 

]]> Dive into an exhilarating journey on The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero, Ed.D podcast, where the transformative magic of mental health, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence unfolds in every episode. This time, Stephanie Romero, visionary Executive Director of Awaken Pittsburgh, embarks on an enlightening discussion with Sarah Hamilton. A powerhouse in the CPG industry and a Board Member at Awaken Pittsburgh, Sarah brings her dynamic leadership skills from her vast experiences in government, enterprise software, and sales to the forefront. With her exceptional talent in quantitative data analysis, category management, and unlocking the secrets of shopper/consumer insights, Sarah has been instrumental in propelling Fortune 500 CPG companies to new heights.

Her impressive ability to lead sales teams, clinch strategic deals, and deliver unparalleled value to clients is nothing short of inspiring. Beyond her professional achievements, Sarah serves as the Treasurer for The Seats Foundation, championing civic engagement and community connection with an innovative mobile app. Living in Idaho with her husband and their two beloved dogs, Kona and Bella, Sarah embraces the great outdoors with zeal.

Prepare to be captivated by this episode's deep dive into how cultivating awareness can be a powerful catalyst for personal transformation and emotional wellness. Join us for an adventure of insight and inspiration on The Ripple Effect.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

 

]]> Awaken Pittsburgh false No 1085 3 full Episode 1: Shannon Jenkins Episode 1: Shannon Jenkins https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-1-shannon-jenkins/ https://awakenrippleeffect.podbean.com/e/episode-1-shannon-jenkins/#comments Sat, 03 Feb 2024 17:46:25 -0500 communicationss4.podbean.com/7b9755f1-a787-33e7-907b-9e6d6782f06a Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, where we dive deep into the transformative power of mental health, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence. In this episode, host Stephanie Romero, Executive Director of Awaken Pittsburgh, engages in a captivating conversation with Shannon Jenkins. Shannon is an Awaken Pittsburgh facilitator and dedicated tutor for neurodivergent learners. Together, they explore the profound topic of "Awareness" and its pivotal role in Shannon's personal and professional practices. Shannon shares her journey of becoming intimately aware of her emotions, describing it as the key to navigating life's challenges with grace and resilience. She reflects, "Emotional awareness provides me with a road map to navigate difficult or unpleasant emotions in my life. Not only did I not know what to do with them before, I didn't even notice them or even denied them, at times. I'm not a passenger in an unmanned car without shock absorbers any longer." 

Shannon has had two life events that have placed her squarely in the experience of life-before and life-after: cancer and the loss of mobility as-she-knew-it at age twelve, and the death of her brother when she was 27. Both carved the paths she would take to working with neurodivergent learners and the gravitation to mindfulness practice. Shannon began teaching neurodivergent learners in 1999, and has worked as a caseworker for non-profits and government agencies as well. She has been in relationship with meditation and mindfulness practice for 11 years. Shannon finds putting hands in soil, petting animals, laughter, silliness, movement, and deep hugs to be an important part of this practice. She believes learning to love where you are is a radical act.

This episode promises to be an enlightening exploration of how awareness can serve as a fundamental tool for personal growth and emotional health.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, where we dive deep into the transformative power of mental health, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence. In this episode, host Stephanie Romero, Executive Director of Awaken Pittsburgh, engages in a captivating conversation with Shannon Jenkins. Shannon is an Awaken Pittsburgh facilitator and dedicated tutor for neurodivergent learners. Together, they explore the profound topic of "Awareness" and its pivotal role in Shannon's personal and professional practices. Shannon shares her journey of becoming intimately aware of her emotions, describing it as the key to navigating life's challenges with grace and resilience. She reflects, "Emotional awareness provides me with a road map to navigate difficult or unpleasant emotions in my life. Not only did I not know what to do with them before, I didn't even notice them or even denied them, at times. I'm not a passenger in an unmanned car without shock absorbers any longer." 

Shannon has had two life events that have placed her squarely in the experience of life-before and life-after: cancer and the loss of mobility as-she-knew-it at age twelve, and the death of her brother when she was 27. Both carved the paths she would take to working with neurodivergent learners and the gravitation to mindfulness practice. Shannon began teaching neurodivergent learners in 1999, and has worked as a caseworker for non-profits and government agencies as well. She has been in relationship with meditation and mindfulness practice for 11 years. Shannon finds putting hands in soil, petting animals, laughter, silliness, movement, and deep hugs to be an important part of this practice. She believes learning to love where you are is a radical act.

This episode promises to be an enlightening exploration of how awareness can serve as a fundamental tool for personal growth and emotional health.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events.

Give Today! awakenpittsburgh.org/support

]]> In this episode, host Stephanie Romero, Executive Director of Awaken Pittsburgh, engages in a captivating conversation with Shannon Jenkins. Shannon is an Awaken Pittsburgh facilitator and dedicated tutor for neurodivergent learners. Awaken Pittsburgh false No 1852 1 full