Shows
Better High PodcastBest Natural Highs for 2025!Matt interviews several friends of the podcast at post-run coffee about their favorite natural high of 2025 and what natural highs they're looking forward to in 2026. The "cold open" of the episode is literally a cold open, as Matt goes surfing on his birthday in Manasquan, NJ. at sunrise. We hope this episode helps you reflect on your favorite natural high of the year and inspires you to be "dauntless" in 2026!
2025-12-1937 min
Better High PodcastPhilly Marathon with Steve BlumenthalFinishing a marathon is a natural high, perhaps the most well documented of its type. This episode we have the podcast's very own Steve Blumenthal, finishing his first marathon in Philadelphia. Steve battled a head cold and nagging self-doubt but emerged triumphant in his quest! Congrats to Steve on an impressive effort. Matt also recounts nearly losing the footage and the natural high of celebrating his wife's 50th birthday. Jump to 7:51 to get right to the interview.
2025-12-0548 min
Better High PodcastRunning Therapy with Alex WindremThe idea for the Better High Pod started while I was biking along the side my wife's Saturday morning run club. I noticed how open the runners, many of whom did not know me at all, were with opening up to me. The 45-mintue runs felt a lot like an intake interview at the beginning of a therapeutic relationship. This episode features Alex Windrem, a New Jersey native, youth lacrosse coach and fellow pizza lover. Alex opened up about a range of range of mental health struggles on the run without any hesitation. Also in the episode, Matt t...
2025-11-2148 min
Better High PodcastRowing with Susan WeinsteinRowing is both a euphoric and calming natural high, according to our guest this week, long time rower Susan Weinstein. Susan is the Director of Employee Assistance Program and Student Wellness Program at Rutgers University and has lot of experience rowing. On the hand, I do not have much experience which explains why I almost tip us into Carnegie Lake! Join us on a beautiful late summer evening, which was a natural high on its own. Also on this episode, Matt recounts a moment where he rapped Eminem's "Lose Yourself" at a New Jersey high school. In ad...
2025-11-0753 min
Better High PodcastThe Helper's High with Cheryl StavolaThe Helper's High is real and it may feel better than the rest. That's the opinion of this episode's guest, Cheryl Stavola. She's put together a life of helping others, from teaching, volunteering and now working for the Tigger Stavola Foundation. Cherly is my point person at the foundation and accompanies me to the many schools I speak at in New Jersey. It's fitting that I interview her during the Hope Sheds Light a fundraiser for recovery on the boardwalk in Seaside Heights. Also in the episode, Matt talks about his recent gigs and trip to Montclair to see...
2025-10-2438 min
Better High PodcastMusic Is Powerful with Doug CronkhiteMusic has the power to transform to your life. Marine Corps veteran and frontman for the band Star City Syndicate, Doug Cronkhite is a living example of this transformation. Doug shares his talent and his journey in this episode of the Better High Podcast. Matt met Doug in 2014 at the Aroostook Teen Leadership Conference in Presque Isle, Maine. Each year, he looks forward to Doug's infectious laugh and playful energy. He's beloved at ATLC and we know you'll love this interview. Matt also talks about the Yankees season, his many gigs the past week and "going rogue" during a...
2025-10-1047 min
Better High PodcastSummer Streets with Neuroscientist Dr. John CaveWe descended upon Gotham City for this episode to join Summer Streets, an event which involves closing over 400 blocks of New York City streets so runners, bikers and fringe characters can get out of their apartments. Dr. John Cave was our surprise interview! He shared his insights on the natural high of running (and swimming) from the perspective of a guy with two boys, a PhD in chemistry, and a career in neuroscience. Matt also reflects on bombing on stage for a good cause. To jump right to the interview, go to 6:03.
2025-09-2636 min
Better High PodcastLive Like Water: The Swimmer's HighIn the first episode of the second season, we dive into the world of swimming. It's not just an immersive form of exercise, but it's a natural high for the mind and body. From the meditative rhythm of laps to laughing about the crazies who insist on bumping you when they share a lane, we talk about it all. More importantly, we talk about it with my indefatigable wife, Dr. Dara Bellace! She's a clinical psychologist who treats eating disorders by day and a biathlete (running and swimming) by earlier day. She's also a legacy ambassador at Lululemon and...
2025-09-1241 min
Better High PodcastStoic Golfing with Ty SellsIn the final show before summer break, Matt played a round of golf with his buddy, Ty Sells. You may remember him from the episode on public speaking. Ty is a nationally recognized speaker, author and longtime friend. They discuss how golf qualifies as a natural high and how the hang might be the best part. Ty's stoic philosophy about the game of golf comes out after Matt hits several lucky shots. Enjoy listening to the edited highlights, which is a treat compared to Matt listening back to audio of all 18 holes! To skip ahead to the int...
2025-06-2441 min
Better High PodcastCentral Park Softball with Tom BurnettThis episode focuses on Central Park softball in New York City. Specifically, the Gotham Comedy Club softball team and its longtime manager, Tom Burnett. Tom invites Matt to play a few times a year when the team needs players since he used to co-manage the team in the late 2000's. Explore the natural highs and natural lows of softball through the course of one game. Jump to 6:50 to hear the interview.
2025-06-0740 min
Better High PodcastWalking with Climate Scientist Bill HurlinIs walking a natural high? We'll answer the question while out for a vigorous walk with a climate scientist affiliated with Princeton University and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Bill Hurlin. Walking tends to be a default natural high after an injury, but it might be the most convenience and low cost natural high in the world. In this interview, Matt and Bill chat about the benefits of nature, coping during the pandemic and earning your daily ice cream. In addition, Matt talks about an adorable painted turtle that walked up to his garage door this week and mu...
2025-05-2440 min
Better High PodcastTraveling with Cousin John BellaceThis episode explores the natural high of traveling with Matt's first cousin, John Bellace. He's a physical therapist for Penn Medicine in South Jersey and has traveled the world. John reflects on big moments during trips to Sicily, the Vatican, the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador. Matt also talks about recent speaking gigs and escaping the kids for a night to be with his wife at the Broad Street Run in Philadelphia.
2025-05-1042 min
Better High PodcastCooking for fun with Phil JanuszewskiPhil Januszewski is a dynamic keynote speaker dedicated to spreading positivity and well-being. Many years ago, he worked as a line cook and decided he loved food too much to make a meal for people and not see them enjoy it. He brought his passion for food into the high school physics classroom, where he taught for over a decade. Now, Phil is embarking on a career as a professional speaker. He's already been on the circuit for many years, part of the duo M&P Presentations, with fellow educator Matt Matkovich. I caught up with Phil at his ho...
2025-04-2658 min
Better High PodcastPublic Speaking with Ty SellsIs public speaking a natural high? How about a traveling around and being paid to speak? This episode's guest is a longtime professional speaker and friend, Ty Sells. After decades on the stage, Ty knows as well as anyone the highs and lows of public speaking. The episode takes place during Matt and Ty's training for prevention specialists in Columbus, Ohio. Ty brings energy, genuine humor and heart to everything he does. He's been working with young people and adults for over thirty years. He believes change comes through connection and connecting with audiences is his specialty. If you...
2025-04-1237 min
Better High PodcastPrinceton Professor on the RunIn this episode, Matt bikes alongside Shahram Hejazi, Princeton professor, entrepreneur and investor. Shahram reflects on his first few years in America and what it's like to live alone at 15 years old! We learn about his philosophy of "things could always be worse" and how that helps in him today. In addition, Matt sums up his packed week of natural highs and lows traveling throughout New Jersey and to Chicago. Editor's Note: To jump right to the interview, go to 9:51.
2025-03-2741 min
Better High PodcastComedian Joe Matarese Trying Not to TryPerforming stand-up comedy can be a powerful natural high. Join Dr. Matt as he interviews veteran comedian Joe Matarese (Last Comic Standing, Late Show with David Letterman), exploring when stand-up comedy delivers a natural high for him. For Joe, delivering self-deprecating humor keeps him in the moment and makes it easier to "try not to try." Also, find out about Dr. Matt's gigs this week and where he ate the best risotto of his life. Editor's Note: To jump to the interview, go to 6:17 on the recording.
2025-03-0728 min
Better High PodcastRussian SpaFollow Dr. Matt into the Russian Spa with Ed Stelmach and friends. The interview is a little light on this one because everyone's brains were boiling. The episode takes you through the Russian Spa experience, which is helpful if you decide to go because it's a bit chaotic. Dr. Matt also reviews his highs and lows of the week speaking in New Jersey and Northern California. Editor's Note: If you'd like to skip right to the interview, jump to 10:15.
2025-02-2037 min
Better High PodcastThe Runner's Trauma Bond with Andrew HillExplore the runner's high in the first episode of the Better High Podcast! Listen as Dr. Matt Bellace bikes next to musician and MLS Senior Manager Andrew Hill. The conversation explores the impact of running on mental health, social connections and focus. Also, find out what it was like for Dr. Matt to speak at his son's high school and deal with the "traffic to nowhere in Houston." Editors note: If you'd like to skip right to the interview, jump to 7:40.
2025-02-0739 min
Better High PodcastTrailerWhat if the best highs in life didn't come from substances, but from experiences, and the world around us? The Better High Podcast is the show that explores the science, stories, and strategies behind natural highs - the moments that make us feel alive, energized and deeply connected. Join Dr Matt Bellace and his guests as they dive deep into the psychology of happiness, the thrill of adventure, the power of human connection and the simple joys that elevate our mood naturally. If you're looking for a fresh perspective on feeling good, this is the sh...
2025-02-0207 min
ISS EDUlearn: Ask Me AnythingFrom Dopamine to Disappointment: Mental Health and Connection in the Digital Age (Summer Series 24')In today’s digital world, our constant use of social media can affect our mental health in surprising ways. At first, checking notifications gives us a quick dopamine boost, making us feel happy and connected. However, this quick fix can lead to a cycle of disappointment. We may compare our lives to others and feel left out or anxious. The more we rely on digital connections, the less we may feel satisfied or valued. It’s important to balance our online activities with face-to-face interactions and take breaks from screens. Understanding how digital habits impact our emotions can help us m...
2024-08-3033 min
PodfulnessMark and Matt talk about “Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade"Jersey boy Matt Bellace talks about his favorite podcast: Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade. Along the way, we learn that Matt is a clinical psychologist who performs stand-up comedy, he finds militant yoga instructors fascinating, and believes satire makes us feel like we are going to be okay. Plus, Mark and Matt play a round of “The Question is”.
Learn more about Fly on the Wall at https://shows.cadence13.com/podcast/fly-on-the-wall
Wanna connect with Matt Bellace? You can find him on Instagarm and Twitter @mattbellaceHe’s also on the web at www.mattbellace.com
Be s...
2023-07-1938 min
Upgrade My ClassroomReaching Teens Through A Balance Of Fact And Funny With Matt Bellace PhD.Reaching teens can be tough. I found someone who has figured out how to do it…very well! Today on the show I sit down with Dr. Matt Bellace and learn how he uses comedy to present scientific evidence regarding substance abuse. We discuss his background as a clinical psychologist and the convergence of his comedy career, all at the same time while pursuing his PhD. When he works with students, Matt focuses on helping teens find natural highs as an alternative to drug and alcohol abuse. Many high school students are struggling with issues of identity, se...
2023-03-2245 min
The Scotty P Inspiration ShowMoving Through Disappointment with Psychologist Dr. Matt BellaceToday I'm talking with Psychologist Dr. Matt Bellace on how we can use the disappointments of life to fuel our success!
2022-08-1325 min
Toward Well BeingCombatting Loneliness and DisappointmentJoin LAP associate director Denise Perme and neuroscience educator and comedian Dr. Matt Bellace as we explore ways to take action to alleviate loneliness, accept disappointments and keep moving toward your goals.
To learn more about how the D.C. Bar Lawyer Assistance Program can help, click here.
Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar or its Board of Governors.
2022-05-1028 min
The Friday Mental Health Power Hour w/ Scotty P and Ev on WWDB 860 AM and 97.5 FM HD2 PhiladelphiaEpisode 20: A Conversation With Dr. Matt Bellace About Mental Health in 2022 - The Friday Mental Health Power Hour w/ Scotty P and Ev on WWDB 860 AM and 97.5 FM HD2 PhiladelphiaThe Friday Mental Health Power-Hour with Scotty P and Ev, professional motivational speakers with lived mental health experiences, is a show dedicated to having meaningful conversations around mental health. Unlike many other mental health programs, The Friday Mental Health Power Hour is designed to leave the listener feeling both inspired and empowered to tackle even the largest of mental health challenges!
Due to their own journeys with mental health, Scott Prendergast (aka Scotty P) and Evan Transue (aka Ev) feel it is part of their path here on earth to share what they have gone through and...
2022-02-1957 min
Northern Lights Pulse PodcastEp. 6: What is Mindfulness? A Conversation With Matt BellaceIn this episode, Peter talks with Comedian, Psychologist, and Professional Speaker Matt Bellace about what mindfulness is and how to be more mindful in your daily life.
2021-03-0337 min
Left of Str8 PodcastsLeft of Str8 Show 7-2-2020: Thursday Foodie Minute with Remeice Ellis, Speakers Greg Baird and Matt BallaceThe Left of Str8 Radio Network is a progressive talk radio channel, created by Scott Fullerton, for the LGBT Community and it's Allies, with shows of interest in Entertainment, Foodies, Current Events, Pop Culture, and Mental Health. Current shows include the "Left of Str8 Show," " Voices for Change 2.0," and "The Randy Report."
7-2-2020: Today's Guests: We start off with our Thursday Foodie Minute with Remeice Ellis, followed by two great interviews. First up is Speaker, Foodie, and Advocate Greg Baird, and then we will talk substance abuse and how to overcome with Matt Bellace.
6-9...
2020-07-031h 57
Mental Illness Happy HourMental Illness Happy Hour: 244 Natural Highs - Neuropsychologist Dr Matt Bellace"244 Natural Highs - Neuropsychologist Dr Matt Bellace" from traffic.libsyn.com was assembled into the "Mental Illness Happy Hour" podcast by Fourble.
Episode 237 of 375.
2020-01-3100 min
2019-04-0225 min
What's Going On This Week With Joe Matarese#53 Season 3 Motivational Matt Bellace Sits InJoe's cousin motivational speaker and comedian Matt Bellace sits in for the podcast and they discuss some movies and life overload. You can still donate to Joe's Philly Special shoot that happened on May12th at Helium Comedy Club since he's still short of the budget. Joe will also give you some really cool rewards for your donation go to www.gofundme.com/PhillySpecial To donate directly to the Fixing Joe Podcast and get special locked recordings of the podcast not heard for free, and a lot more go to www.Patreon.com/FixingJoe Liv...
2017-05-301h 18
Your Life Is Now! With Fletcher EllingsonEpisode 58. Want a better high? Here's how you do it.Do you want a Better High? Listen as I interview Author Matt Bellace who discusses how to get a better High. Good stuff! Gocoachfletch coachcasts-Learn to take 100% control and responsibility for your life. Implement these strategies of knowledge and action to absolutely transform your relationships, finances, health and any area of life. If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired then listen up...Someday Has Arrived
2016-03-0632 min
Mental Illness Happy Hour#244 Natural Highs - Neuropsychologist Dr. Matt BellaceThe neuropsychology PhD shares natural ways for us to improve our mood and take care of our brains.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2015-09-242h 24
Fixing Joe Season 3#170 My Cousin Dr Matt BellaceJoe talks to his psychologist cousin Dr. Matt Bellace about having trouble disciplining his son and the trouble he's having getting him excited about playing sports at the age of 6.
This podcast is sponsored by Tweaked Audio. For a 30 percent discount on all the merchandise they sell go to www.tweakedaudio.com and put FixingJoe in the promo window.
This podcast is also sponsored by Go Daddy. To get a domain for only a 1.99 go to www.Joematarese.com and click on the Go Daddy banner.
Go see Joe Live:
This Fri...
2014-05-081h 16What's Going On This Week With Joe Matarese#170 My Cousin Dr Matt BellaceJoe talks to his psychologist cousin Dr. Matt Bellace about having trouble disciplining his son and the trouble he's having getting him excited about playing sports at the age of 6.
This podcast is sponsored by Tweaked Audio. For a 30 percent discount on all the merchandise they sell go to www.tweakedaudio.com and put FixingJoe in the promo window.
This podcast is also sponsored by Go Daddy. To get a domain for only a 1.99 go to www.Joematarese.com and click on the Go Daddy banner.
Go see Joe Live:
This Fri...
2014-05-081h 16Fixing Joe Season 3Episode #122-#124 number mistake Self-InvolvementThis week Joe welcomes guest host Dr. Matt Bellace, a comedian, psychologist, motivational speaker, and Joe's third cousin. Dr. Bellace speaks about self-involvement and narcissism with guidance from renowned author and psychologist Guy Winch. Together, they decode human behavior with insight and humor. Check out Joe this Friday, June 28 at Stand Up NY. Sign up for his comedy class starting July 2nd at the Stress Factory. www.stressfactory.com Keep watching his web series at officialcomedy.com
2013-06-271h 16What's Going On This Week With Joe MatareseEpisode #122-#124 number mistake Self-InvolvementThis week Joe welcomes guest host Dr. Matt Bellace, a comedian, psychologist, motivational speaker, and Joe's third cousin. Dr. Bellace speaks about self-involvement and narcissism with guidance from renowned author and psychologist Guy Winch. Together, they decode human behavior with insight and humor. Check out Joe this Friday, June 28 at Stand Up NY. Sign up for his comedy class starting July 2nd at the Stress Factory. www.stressfactory.com Keep watching his web series at officialcomedy.com
2013-06-271h 16
Comical RadioFixing Joe Ep 5: Lee Camp & Dr. Matt BellaceThis week, Joe is still struggling. It's a constant struggle with this guy! But at least Joe isn't so much of a Debbie Downer today. Or a Negative Nancy for that matter. The big questions for this episode are: How much money is too much money to invest in his career? Should Joe hire a personal assistant? Is there a place Joe can hire a nerd squad to take his career to that next level? Would this make family life more enjoyable? Is this blog Socratic or what?
Joe's guest for episode five are psychologist Dr. M...
2010-12-201h 30