Shows
Fear LessWhen Anxiety Derails Your Life: How One Young Woman Found Herself AgainWhat does it really take for a young person to rebuild their life after anxiety derails high school and college plans? In this powerful episode Zack sits down with Mountain Valley Treatment Center resident Becca Gorelick, just 48 hours before her graduation from the program. Becca shares how a traumatic home invasion intensified her anxiety, school avoidance, and panic attacks—ultimately leading her to seek residential treatment at Mountain Valley. With honesty and insight, she reflects on her first stay, her return to college at the University of Utah, and how unresolved anxiety, identity struggles, and academic pressure led her ba...
2026-02-1859 minFear LessWhat Anxious Teens REALLY Need: Insights from Eight Years in Anxiety TreatmentWhat actually helps a young person overwhelmed by anxiety or OCD—and how do parents know when it's time for something more than weekly therapy? In this episode Zack sits down with Ashley Metz, a longtime clinician at Mountain Valley Treatment Center, to reflect on her years working closely with adolescents and families. Ashley shares what she has learned from walking alongside young people who felt misunderstood, stuck, or unable to access daily life—and how healing often begins when pressure is reduced and kids are given space to be themselves. This conversation offers parents a thoughtful look...
2026-02-1144 minFear LessAnxiety and the College Transition: A Young Adult's Story of Recovery, Confidence, and GrowthWhat happens when anxiety, self-doubt, and a major life transition collide?—and how do you find your way back? In this episode Zack sits down with Shane Holcomb, a former Mountain Valley resident and current University of Colorado Boulder student, to explore the real challenges of anxiety during the transition to college. Shane reflects on how social anxiety, loss of confidence, and impulsive behaviors—including sports gambling—began to take hold when he assumed his struggles would disappear just by going to college. Through candid storytelling, Shane shares how treatment helped him rebuild self-trust, confront fear through exposur...
2026-02-0449 minFear LessAutism, Anxiety, and OCD: What Parents and Professionals Need to KnowWhat happens when autism, anxiety, and OCD look so similar that even caring parents and professionals can't tell what's driving the behavior? In this episode of the Fear Less podcast, host Zack talks with Dr. Alison LaFollette, Clinical Director at Mountain Valley Treatment Center, about why these conditions so often overlap—and how to start separating what's sensory, what's anxiety, and what's OCD. Dr. LaFollette explains the core autism criteria (social communication differences plus rigidity/routines, transitions, specific interests, and sensory sensitivities) and shares why anxiety is so common for neurodivergent kids navigating a world not built for them....
2026-01-2140 minFear LessFinding Balance: 5 Dichotomies of Parenting an Anxious ChildParenting a teen with anxiety can feel confusing, contradictory, and emotionally exhausting. In this episode Zack breaks down what he calls the five key dichotomies of parenting an anxious child—the opposing truths parents must hold at the same time in order to truly help their teen grow. From being compassionate and firm, to offering support while allowing struggle, this episode speaks directly to parents who feel stuck between "doing too much" and "not doing enough." Drawing from years of clinical work with anxious adolescents, Zach offers practical guidance for navigating common parenting challenges such as school avoidan...
2026-01-1439 minFear LessNew Year, Less Fear: The Psychology of Change and Building HabitsChange is hard—especially when fear and anxiety get in the way. In this solo episode of Fear Less, our host Zack Schafer breaks down why change feels so uncomfortable and how to approach it in a realistic, sustainable way. Drawing from the Stages of Change model and insights from Atomic Habits by James Clear, Zach explains how habits form, why relapse is part of growth, and how small, consistent actions lead to lasting change. Whether you're setting New Year intentions or feeling stuck between wanting change and fearing it, this episode offers practical guidance, reassurance, and a...
2026-01-0751 minFear LessLearning to Live with Anxiety: A Young Women's Journey to AcceptanceWhat does effective anxiety treatment actually look like for teens and young adults—and how do you know when it's time for a higher level of care? In this powerful and deeply thoughtful episode Zack speaks with River, a college student who has lived with anxiety and OCD since early childhood. River shares how her anxiety intensified through adolescence, leading to depression, self-harm, hospitalizations, and ultimately residential treatment. She walks listeners through her experience with OCD, somatic anxiety, fear of illness, and how untreated anxiety can quietly derail school, relationships, and self-confidence. This episode offers parents and yo...
2025-12-1740 minFear LessWhy Teens Are Struggling Now More than Ever: Expert Guidance for Parents Navigating Today's ChallengesWhy are so many teens struggling with anxiety right now—and what can parents actually do to help? In this episode, Zack speaks with psychologist Dr. Rachel Gingold, who brings nearly 30 years of experience treating adolescents and families. Together, they unpack how the COVID years disrupted social development, increased avoidance, and intensified anxiety for teens everywhere. Dr. Gingold explains why previously confident kids may now fear everyday tasks, how to recognize when anxiety is driving behavior, and why supportive challenge—not protection—is the key to rebuilding confidence. Parents will learn practical ways to help teens re-engage with li...
2025-12-1156 minFear LessFrom "Man Up" to Opening Up: A Candid Conversation on Men, Anxiety, and FatherhoodIn this episode Zack talks with Dr. Will White about the hidden ways men experience fear, anxiety, and major life transitions. Will shares candid stories from fatherhood, leadership, loss, and aging, while Zack reflects on overworking, anger, and becoming a father again. Together they highlight how men often express anxiety through anger, shutting down, or work—rather than naming it for what it is. They also explore healthier alternatives: men's retreats, movement, meditation, community, and asking for help before things reach a breaking point. Will explains why nature, honest conversation, and structured support can help men "turn th...
2025-11-2543 minFear LessFear and Fatherhood Pt. 2: Reflections on Becoming A Dad for a Second TimeIs having another child an anxiety provoking experience? Our host Zack Shafer returns for a solo episode reflecting on the arrival of his second child, baby Meli and how becoming a parent again reshaped his understanding of fear and anxiety. He revisits the worries he had before his first child's birth—fears about not having life perfectly organized—and how becoming a dad taught him that anxiety doesn't disappear, but you learn you can handle uncertainty anyway. With more experience under his belt, Zack describes approaching this second birth with less panic and more presence, recognizing how exposure—doing someth...
2025-11-1936 minFear LessAnxiety Journey: From Mountain Valley Client to Anxiety ClinicianWhat happens when a teen who once struggled with anxiety and OCD grows up to help others face those same fears? In this episode Zack welcomes former Mountain Valley client, now Child Mind Institute clinician John Wyetzner, as he shares his powerful journey from school avoidance and OCD to evidence-based recovery. This episode unpacks what Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) truly looks like, how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) supports values-driven change, and the vital role of community in healing. For parents and clinicians, John offers practical insights into tackling intrusive thoughts, reassurance-seeking, and family accommodation. Discover...
2025-11-0542 minFear LessWhat If It's Not About Food? Understanding Fear and Eating DisordersWhat if your child's struggle with food isn't really about food at all—but about fear? In this powerful episode of Fear Less, host Zack sits down with Libby Parker, a registered dietitian, certified eating disorder specialist, and author of Permission to Eat, to explore how fear, anxiety, and control often lie at the heart of eating disorders. Drawing on both her personal recovery and clinical expertise, Libby explains how restrictive or binge cycles develop, why they can be so difficult to break, and how compassionate, evidence-based approaches—like exposure therapy—can help young people find freedom and self-trust again...
2025-10-2257 minFear LessFrom Avoidant to Values Driven: How ACT Helps Teens Embrace AnxietyLicensed professional counselor Kelsey Irving joins Zack to demystify Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and how it helps teens with anxiety and OCD—especially when paired with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). Kelsey breaks ACT down into parent-friendly language: accept tough thoughts and feelings without wrestling them, then commit to actions that serve your child's values (family, school, friendships). She shares clear metaphors teens actually remember (leaves on a stream, "bring the monkey with you") and explains "defusion" and mindfulness as practical skills that make scary moments doable—like showing up for a game, riding in the car, or eati...
2025-10-1538 minFear LessProductive Struggle Over Fragility: How to Raise Braver Teens with Lynn Lyons Parents today are swimming in mental-health advice—some helpful, a lot confusing. In this episode Zack sits down with psychotherapist Lynn Lyons (author of Anxious Kids, Anxious Parents and host of the "Flusterclux" podcast) to cut through the noise. Lynn explains why anxiety thrives on over-talking, endless reassurance, and "safety chatter," and how well-meaning accommodations at home and school can accidentally make avoidance worse. She offers concrete, doable shifts for parents: talk 85% less, model approach instead of avoidance, build autonomy, and invite "productive struggle" so teens learn they can handle discomfort. You'll also hear practical guidance for scho...
2025-10-0848 minFear LessFrom Anxious Athlete to Anxiety Expert: Katharine Call on Sports and Mental HealthIn this episode Zack talks with Mountain Valley clinician Katharine Call, who opens up about her journey from professional skiing to living with—and ultimately overcoming—anxiety. Katharine shares how the pressures of competitive athletics, from ski academies to the U.S. national team, intensified her struggles with emetophobia and performance-related fears. She describes how her anxiety often went unnoticed or was misunderstood as physical illness, and the turning point that came when she finally received the right mental health support. Parents of anxious teens—especially those navigating sports—will find this conversation both relatable and hopeful. Katharin...
2025-09-2449 minFear LessAnxious Teens & the Outdoors: How Adventure Therapy Builds ConfidenceIn this week's episode Zack talks with Nichol Ernst, LCSW, CEO/Clinical Director and co-owner of Summit Achievement, to unpack how the outdoors and adventure therapy help anxious teens. Nichol explains Summit's integrated treatment model—weekly rhythms of accredited academics, individualized therapy, and guided outdoor experiences—that turns nature into a practical lab for exposure, executive functioning, and confidence-building. They explore why time outside reduces avoidance, increases presence, and helps reframe fear—especially for school anxiety/school refusal, OCD/ERP carryover, and neurodivergent (ASD) teens who benefit from sensory input and structured challenge. The conversation highlights parent coachin...
2025-09-1739 minFear LessHow Mountain Valley Change My Life: Lessons from Exposure Therapy with Amelia TetaOn this episode Zack talks with Mountain Valley alumna—and current OT grad student—Amelia Teta about what truly helps when anxiety and OCD take over. Amelia traces her path from school avoidance to meaningful engagement, highlighting how Mountain Valley's evidence-based approach—especially Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)—taught her to "be with" difficult emotions instead of resisting them. She unpacks the role of community, stewardship (chores and contribution), routines, and mental-health-informed occupational therapy in building confidence and everyday function. Candid, practical, and hopeful, this conversation offers families and caregivers a clear view of what effective anxiety/OCD treatment looks li...
2025-09-101h 00Fear LessBack to School Anxiety: 5 Tips for Parents to Help Teens Overcome School AvoidanceIn this special back-to-school episode Zack sits down with Mountain Valley's Director of External Affairs and Enrollment, Everett Logan, to share practical strategies for parents whose teens are struggling with school avoidance and anxiety. Everett draws on his background as a teacher, school counselor, and leader at Mountain Valley to outline five key tips that can help families manage back-to-school stress: normalizing anxiety without enabling avoidance, managing your own parental anxiety, setting predictable routines, being proactive with plans, and looking beyond academics to support your teen's overall development. Together, Zack and Everett offer real-world advice to help parents foster resili...
2025-08-2745 min
College and Career ClarityIs It Normal Anxiety—or More? A Guide for Parents with Zack SchaferIn this episode, Lisa and Zack discuss:Understanding the difference between everyday anxiety and an anxiety disorderThe role of technology and social media in contributing to Gen Z anxietyEvidence-based treatment approaches, including exposure therapyParenting strategies to support anxious teens without reinforcing fearKey Takeaways: Anxiety can be defined as an overestimation of threat and an underestimation of one’s ability to cope, and it becomes a disorder when it causes significant dysfunction in daily life.Technology use often serves as a “medication” for uncertainty, providing short-term relief but contributing to worsening anxiety...
2025-08-2640 minFear LessSchool Anxiety in Teens: How Therademics Helps Students Build Resilience In this episode Zack sits down with Patrick Cooke, Assistant Director of Studies at Knower Academics, to explore the powerful intersection of mental health and education. Patrick shares how the partnership between Knower Academics and Mountain Valley Treatment Center has created therademics—an approach where therapeutic goals are woven directly into academic work. Together, they discuss how anxiety and OCD often show up in the classroom, the impact of common accommodations like extra time, and how parents and educators can better support students without unintentionally reinforcing avoidance. Drawing from both his years as an educator and his experiences as a...
2025-08-2050 minFear LessFrom Fear To Love: Stories from Mountain Valley Reunion 2025 In this special live edition of the Fear Less Podcast, recorded at the 2025 Mountain Valley Reunion, Zack brings together alumni, parents, current residents, and staff to share powerful stories of hope, resilience, and transformation. Against the backdrop of a sunny summer day in Plainfield, NH, voices from across the Mountain Valley family reflect on their personal journeys—overcoming debilitating anxiety, OCD, depression, and other mental health struggles—and the pivotal role this community played in their recovery. From heartfelt testimonies of residents who once felt hopeless to the gratitude of parents who witnessed their children's growth, the epis...
2025-08-1351 minFear Less76. "What do I do with my life?" Coaching Young Adults Through Career AnxietyIn this episode Zack sits down with career clarity expert Lisa Marker-Robbins to explore how parents can support their young adults in navigating the often overwhelming path toward school, career, and independence. Drawing on decades of experience and her role as a mom of five, Lisa breaks down the fears, anxieties, and misconceptions that keep both parents and their children stuck. She explains how her three-step framework—focusing on self-awareness, career exploration, and intentional next steps—can bring clarity and confidence to the post-high school journey. Lisa and Zack dive into the emotional dynamics between parents and teen...
2025-08-0645 minFear Less75. The Trade: Helping Young Adults Launch Through Real Work, Mentorship, and CommunityIn this powerful episode, Zack welcomes back two inspiring leaders—Tim Vaughan, Executive Director of The Trade, and Will Laughlin, CEO of The Trade and Mountain Valley Treatment Center. Together, they introduce The Trade, a new work-life preparatory program for young adults (ages 18–30) who feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure about their next steps. Drawing from decades of experience in education, mental health, and mentoring, Tim and Will explain how The Trade provides meaningful work, mentorship, and a supportive community—all on a 2,000-acre mountain campus in New Hampshire. This episode explores how hands-on learning, and genuine human connection can help y...
2025-07-3044 minFear LessWhy Your Teen Is So Sensitive: Understanding Sensory Processing and AnxietyIn this solo episode our host and Executive Director of Mountain Valley Treatment Center, Zack Shafer MSOTR/L unpacks one of the most overlooked components of teen mental health: sensory processing. Speaking directly to parents of adolescents who are anxious, overwhelmed, or emotionally reactive, Zack explains how teens with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, or Autism Spectrum Disorder often experience the world through a different sensory lens—and how those differences can dramatically affect their ability to cope, self-regulate, and function in daily life. With warmth and clarity, Zack breaks down terms like sensory processing vs. sensory integration, and le...
2025-07-2353 minFear LessAutism and Anxiety: Helping Neurodivergent Teens Thrive through a Developmental ApproachIn this insightful episode, Zack sits down with Cam Sherman, executive director at NeuroDev, to explore the intersection of neurodiversity and anxiety in young people. Cam unpacks how traditional academic and clinical approaches often miss a key component: developmental growth. Drawing from his work at NeuroDev—a mentoring-based program for neurodivergent young adults—Cam explains why young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) frequently experience anxiety and stress, particularly around identity formation, social connection, and transitions to independence. Parents will gain valuable insights into how developmental mentoring, lived experience, and community support can offer more than symptom management—they can fo...
2025-07-0245 minFear LessFrom Perfectionism to Self-Compassion: Izzy's Journey Through Teen Anxiety and Recovery"In this heartfelt episode Zack sits down with former Mountain Valley resident Izzy Carosi, who courageously shares her journey through anxiety, depression, and the perfectionism that once consumed her. From the outside, Izzy appeared to have it all—strong academics, athletic talent, and a vibrant personality—but beneath the surface, she struggled with crippling anxiety and perfectionism. Her path led her to Mountain Valley Treatment Center, where she experienced both a painful early departure and a powerful return. In her honest retelling, Izzy opens up about learning to accept help, understanding attachment and perfectionism, and rediscovering her authentic self—"Little...
2025-06-2541 minFear LessWhy Every Teen with Anxiety Should Learn DBT: Insights from Brittany Little LCSWIn this episode Zack is joined by Brittany Little, LCSW, clinical director at Moosilauke Counseling Solutions and former therapist at Mountain Valley Treatment Center. Brittany shares her deep expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and how it can be a transformative tool for teens struggling with anxiety, OCD, and emotional dysregulation. While often associated with borderline personality disorder, Brittany explains how DBT's practical, skills-based approach is incredibly useful for adolescents with intense emotions—even before they're ready for exposure therapy. Topics covered include mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, as well as how DBT lays a crucial fo...
2025-06-1844 minFear Less"I Hate the Way I Look": Addressing Anxiety and Body Image IssuesIn this compelling episode Zack is joined once again by clinical psychologist Dr. Roberto Olivardia to explore body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)—a deeply misunderstood and often overlooked condition, especially in adolescent boys and young men. Dr. Olivardia, co-author of The Adonis Complex, shares his decades of clinical and research experience in working with individuals who struggle with distorted body image, anxiety, and co-occurring disorders like OCD and depression. He breaks down how BDD presents, the dangerous cultural messages that fuel it, and why it often goes undiagnosed in young men. For parents of teens grappling with anxiety, ap...
2025-06-0456 minFear LessTreating OCD and Eating Disorders: What Clinicians, Clients, and Families, Need to KnowIn this episode of Fear Less, Zack talks with licensed therapist Elian Beattie, the owner of Insights Group, an outpatient therapy practice in Rye, New Hampshire. Elian specializes in treating OCD, anxiety, and eating disorders, and shares her rare expertise in addressing both OCD and disordered eating at the same time—something many treatment providers avoid. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of how these two conditions often overlap, from perfectionism and control to compulsive behaviors around food and body image. Elian breaks down how both disorders can be identified, assessed, and treated with evidence-based approaches like Exposure and Re...
2025-05-2148 minFear LessIs an Eating Disorder Actually OCD? Dee Franklin on Redefining TreatmentIn this episode Zack welcomes Dee Franklin, a licensed mental health counselor, to explore the striking overlap between eating disorders (ED) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Drawing from her decades of clinical experience and a widely-discussed article she co-authored, Dr. Franklin shares how many eating disorder behaviors—like ritualized eating patterns, perfectionism, and sensory avoidance—mirror the core functional mechanisms of OCD. Together, she and Zach dive into the controversial but increasingly accepted view that ED and OCD may not be as separate as traditionally thought, and how treatment models that embrace this overlap can lead to more effective, sustainable outcomes. The co...
2025-05-1459 minFear LessLeaning Into Fear and Loss: Myra Sack on Losing a Child and Finding Her WayIn this deeply moving episode Zack sits down with Myra Sack, author of 57 Fridays: Losing Our Daughter, Finding Our Way and Executive Director of Emotion, Inc.—a nonprofit that helps people navigate grief through movement, ritual, and community. Myra shares her profound journey of losing her daughter Javi to Tay-Sachs disease, how that loss reshaped her understanding of fear and anxiety, and how the emotional tools she and her husband developed became the foundation for her organization's healing model. Together, they explore how grief intersects with fear and anxiety, especially the difference between anxiety's imagined threats and fear's real ones—and how...
2025-05-0751 min
Demystifying DivinityEpisode 15: Zack Michael Dives Deep into Shadow Work & Heart-Led LivingIn this episode, Joanna and Jenny interview Zack Michael, self-mastery coach. In this soulful conversation, Zack tells us about his beginnings as a 'stress coach' to his current role of self-mastery coach and how he helps people embody their highest potential. Zack opens up about the importance of doing shadow work and how it helps us open our hearts to become a conscious creator. Giving us tangible examples of how to focus our thoughts toward heart-led living, Zack inspires all of us to become a soldier of consciousness in this deep discussion. - Find Zack on Instagram: @mr.z...
2025-05-0635 minFear LessAnxiety, OCD, and Addiction: Andy Benckart's Journey to RecoveryIn this powerful episode of Fear Less, Zack sits down with Andy Benckart, a master's-level social work student and young adult in recovery, to dive deep into the complex intersections of anxiety, OCD, and addiction. Andy shares his lived experience navigating chronic migraines, anxiety, substance use, and an eventual OCD diagnosis, shedding light on how these challenges are often intertwined. His story takes listeners from early struggles in high school and college to the transformative impact of wilderness therapy and transitional living programs. Andy also discusses the vital role that surfing and nature have played in his recovery journey...
2025-04-2347 minFear LessBefriending Fear: Why We Have Anxiety and How to Use It In this powerful solo Zack dives deep into the functional purpose of anxiety and how it can actually serve us rather than sabotage us. Drawing on his clinical experience and personal reflections, Zack reframes anxiety as a messenger, something that, when listened to and understood, can be a powerful motivator and guide. Using real-life examples from his own life and his work at Mountain Valley Treatment Center, Zack explores the physiological, cognitive, and behavioral responses triggered by anxiety and how we can tune into those responses to prepare, adapt, and thrive rather than shut down or avoid. He breaks...
2025-04-1636 minFear LessFear of Letting Go: The Intersection of OCD and Hoarding Disorder with Christin Brown LICSWIn this episode Zack welcomes Christin Brown, a licensed independent clinical social worker and OCD specialist based in Massachusetts. Christin has a subspecialty in Hoarding Disorder, and in this conversation, her and Zack delve into this often-misunderstood diagnosis and its relationship to OCD. Christin shares her professional insights as well as her personal experiences with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive tendencies, offering a nuanced understanding of hoarding behaviors—ranging from emotional attachment to objects to digital hoarding like excessive photo saving or unopened tabs. This episode is a must-listen for mental health professionals, families, and individuals navigating hoarding-related struggles. The...
2025-04-0249 minFear LessOCD & Addiction: Hidden Connections and Concurrent Paths to Healing with Jayme Valdez LMHCIn this episode Zack welcomes Jayme Valdez, a licensed mental health counselor and founder of Clearview OCD Counseling. Jayme specializes in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma, and addiction, and she shares her unique approach to addressing the overlap between OCD and addictive disorders. She challenges the traditional belief that OCD and addiction must be treated separately, advocating for a concurrent treatment model that acknowledges their shared compulsive patterns. Drawing from both her clinical expertise and personal experience, Jayme highlights the importance of evidence-based interventions, harm reduction, and fostering connection as means to support long-term recovery. Throughout the episode, Jayme provides invaluable ins...
2025-03-1955 minFear LessMountain Valley's History, Culture, and Alumni Support Network with Carl LovejoyIn this episode Zack welcomes Carl Lovejoy, one of the co-founders of Mountain Valley Treatment Center, to reflect on the center's origins and evolution. Carl shares his journey from working in independent schools to helping establish Mountain Valley in 2011, recognizing the need for specialized support for high-achieving students struggling with anxiety and related disorders. He recounts the center's humble beginnings in Pike, New Hampshire, with just four families and how it grew into a nationally recognized residential treatment program. Carl and Zack discuss the transition to the Plainfield campus, which offered greater accessibility and a more structured, home-like environment...
2025-03-1237 minFear LessFrom Struggle to Strength: Parenting an Anxious ChildIn this episode Zack sits down with Nicole Carosi, the mother of a former Mountain Valley Treatment Center resident, Isabella. Nicole shares an intimate look into her family's journey with Isabella's anxiety, perfectionism, and depression, detailing the struggles that led them to seek intensive treatment. She reflects on the challenges of parenting an anxious child, the decision to enroll Isabella at Mountain Valley, and the nonlinear path toward healing. Throughout their discussion, Zack, who was Isabella's therapist during her time at Mountain Valley, offers unique insight into her therapeutic journey, including the pivotal moments that led to breakthroughs for...
2025-03-0543 minFear LessOT's Role in Mental Health with Mountain Valley's Executive Director Zack SchaferIn this insightful solo episode, Zack dives into the vital role of occupational therapy (OT) in mental health treatment, particularly at Mountain Valley Treatment Center. Zack shares his personal journey into the OT field, the therapeutic power of meaningful activity, and how Mountain Valley integrates OT principles into their residential program for adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety and OCD. Through personal stories and professional insights, Zack highlights how occupational therapy fosters healing through engagement, functionality, and community connection. Listeners will gain a rich understanding of the history of OT and its practical applications within the f...
2025-02-1942 minFear LessOccupational Therapy & Mental Health: Camille's Journey to Helping Teens Overcome Anxiety In this episode Zack talks with Camille Wrege, an occupational therapist at Mountain Valley Treatment Center, about her journey into occupational therapy (OT) and how she applies it to mental health treatment for teenagers with anxiety and OCD. Camille shares her personal background, including how early experiences with her grandfather and a passion for holistic care led her to pursue occupational therapy. She highlights the role of OT in supporting young people by improving functional skills like hygiene, social participation, executive functioning, and independent living. Camille also discusses the intersection of OT and exposure therapy, emphasizing the importance of g...
2025-02-1242 minFear LessBreaking the Cycle of Fear: A Mother and Son's Story of HealingIn this episode Zack sits down with Hayden Fleischer and his mother, Amy, to discuss Hayden's transformative journey through Mountain Valley Treatment Center. Hayden, who once struggled with debilitating anxiety that kept him out of school for months at a time, shares his experience of overcoming fear, rebuilding his confidence, and ultimately returning to Mountain Valley as a residential counselor. Amy, a psychotherapist, reflects on the challenges of recognizing Hayden's anxiety, the difficult decision to send him to treatment, and the powerful impact of family therapy. Together, they explore the emotional highs and lows of treatment, the importance of...
2025-02-0551 minFear LessBuilding Resilient Youth: Russell Shaw on Parenting, Technology, and EducationIn this episode Zack interviews Russell Shaw, Head of School at Georgetown Day School in Washington D.C., and a contributing writer for The Atlantic. The conversation explores Russell's journey from politics to education and his profound insights on the intersection of parenting, technology, and education. Russell shares the rationale and impact of implementing a cell phone ban in his high school to foster deeper social connections among students and reduce the mental health challenges exacerbated by excessive screen time. He also introduces the concept of "lighthouse parenting," a metaphor encouraging parents to guide their children from a stable d...
2025-01-2240 minFear LessHow to Parent Anxious Children Using S.P.A.C.E. with Amy Killy LICSWIn this episode Zack interviews Amy Killy, a licensed clinical social worker from Washington D.C. who specializes in working with anxious children and their parents. Amy provides a deep dive into S.P.A.C.E. (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) treatment, a model designed to empower parents to effectively respond to their child's anxiety. Through focusing on parent behavior and shifting their responses to their child anxiety, research shows there can be a significant and long lasting reduction in anxiety symptoms. Amy discusses the common pitfalls parents of anxious children face, such as being...
2025-01-1549 minFear LessFrom Fear to Confidence: How Supportive Immersion Sparks Youth ResilienceIn this episode Zack engages in a dynamic conversation with Dr. Heather Tracy and Dr. Danny Recio, co-founders of New Summit Academy and the Bridge program in Costa Rica. They dive into their unique approach called "Supportive Immersion," a model that combines cultural integration, experiential learning, and relationship-centered scaffolding to help adolescents and young adults face anxiety, fear, and self-doubt. Drawing on decades of experience, Dr. Tracy and Dr. Recio explain how designing intentional, real-world challenges—backed by empathy, mentorship, and collaborative problem-solving—empowers students to develop resilience, purpose, and agency. Throughout the episode, the pair emphasize the...
2025-01-0848 minFear LessEmbracing Sensitivity and Strength: Gin Majka's Journey through AnxietyIn this inspiring episode Zack talks with former Mountain Valley resident, Gin Majka, who candidly shares her journey through anxiety, perfectionism, and the path to self-discovery. As an 18-year-old facing severe panic attacks and academic pressure, Gin's time at Mountain Valley served as a turning point in her young life. Now, nearly a decade after graduating the program, Gin reflects on how the supportive environment and exposure-based therapies helped her accept discomfort, embrace vulnerability, and set her on a path towards healing and self-discovery. Today, Gin thrives as a freelance photographer, harmonizing her passions for creativity, environmental...
2024-12-1843 minFear LessThe Homing Instinct: Mentoring Teens Through Fear, Vulnerability, and GrowthIn this episode Zack talks with Ciara Fanlo, founder of The Homing Instinct, a mentoring program for teens. Drawing on her own experience as a "troubled teen," Ciara recounts the challenges she faced in adolescence—ranging from crippling anxiety and perfectionism to questioning her sense of belonging. Through wilderness therapy, therapeutic boarding schools, and a series of transformative treatment programs, she forged a deeper understanding of herself. Ciara's story highlights how facing discomfort and embracing vulnerability can help individuals discover their inner compass, ultimately guiding them toward resilience, clarity, and personal growth. Today, Ciara pays her journey fo...
2024-12-1147 minFear LessBreaking the Cycle: The Role of Fear in Addiction and Recovery with Chris LestonIn this heartfelt episode Zack sits down with Chris Leston, the Executive Director and founder of Away Recovery, a treatment program dedicated to helping individuals overcome substance use challenges located in Pike, N.H. Chris shares his personal journey through addiction and recovery, offering deep insight into the complex world of substance use disorders and the pivotal role the fear and anxiety play in the process. Chris discusses how underlying issues like perfectionism, control, and fear of judgment contributed to his struggles and how confronting these anxieties was crucial for his healing. He emphasizes the importance of vu...
2024-12-0445 minFear LessThe Power of Growth Mindset for Anxiety: Insights from Therapist Ira HayesIn this enlightening episode Zack welcomes back Ira Hayes, a licensed clinical social worker from New Jersey, to discuss the transformative power of the growth mindset. Ira has an incredible passion for the transformative power of growth mindset and has extensive experience integrating growth mindset into school systems and therapeutic practices. In this episode, Ira unpacks the essence of what growth mindset, how it differs from a fixed mindset, and its profound impact on anxiety, resilience, and personal development. Throughout the conversation, Ira discusses the latest research behind growth mindset, highlighting key figures like Dr. Carol Dweck...
2024-11-2050 minFear LessGuiding Families Through Anxiety Treatment: An Interview with Admissions Manager Becca WinantIn this episode Zack interviews Becca Winant, the Admissions Manager at Mountain Valley Treatment Center. With nearly eight years of experience at Mountain Valley, Becca shares her journey from starting as a residential counselor to becoming a key figure who guides families through the admissions process. She discusses her passion for working with adolescents struggling with anxiety and related disorders, drawing from her background in health education and yoga instruction. Becca offers valuable insights into Mountain Valley's unique approach to treating anxiety, including their three-phase treatment model and holistic methods like outdoor activities and mindfulness practices. She...
2024-11-1339 minFear LessA Mother's Journey: Helping My Anxious Teen Find His WayIn this heartfelt episode Zack sits down with Emma, a psychotherapist and mother of two, who shares her deeply personal journey of helping her son navigate severe anxiety and OCD during his adolescence. Despite her professional background, Emma found herself grappling with the overwhelming challenges of her son's mental health struggles, which began to surface intensely when he was in sixth grade. From school refusal and debilitating fears to the complexities of co-parenting and the judgment of others, Emma opens up about the myriad obstacles she faced in trying to support her son. Emma discusses the difficult...
2024-11-0554 minFear LessBoosting Mental Health in Kids: The Power of Mattering and ContributionIn this episode Zack sits down with Sarah Bennison, the co-founder and CEO of The Mattering Movement. They explore the profound impact of "mattering"—the feeling of being valued and making meaningful contributions—on mental health, particularly among adolescents struggling with anxiety and related disorders. Drawing from her extensive background in education and service learning, Sarah discusses how integrating mattering into school curricula can combat toxic achievement culture and improve students' mental well-being. She shares insights on how experiential learning and community engagement empower kids to realize their inherent value, thereby reducing stress and anxiety. The conversation delv...
2024-10-3044 minFear LessOvercoming Anxiety Through Interdisciplinary Care: A Presentation by Zack Schafer and Alison LaFolletteIn this special episode of the Fear Less podcast, host Zack Schafer and Mountain Valley's clinical director Alison LaFollette present live from the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) Conference on how the integration of occupational therapy (OT) and counseling psychology can transform mental health treatment. Their talk explores the shared theoretical foundations of both disciplines—such as humanistic psychology, systems thinking, and a strengths-based perspective. They discuss how combining OT's focus on meaningful, everyday activities with counseling psychology's emphasis on personal development and holistic care, help those struggling with fear, anxiety, and related disorders. In...
2024-10-161h 04Fear LessThe Intersection of Anxiety and Substance Use: A Deep Dive with Patrick BabcockIn this episode of the Fear Less podcast, Zack interviews Patrick Babcock, the founder and CEO of Foundation House, a behavioral health and substance abuse treatment program for young men in Portland, Maine. They explore the deep connections between fear, anxiety, and substance use, discussing how these factors intertwine in the lives of individuals struggling with addiction. Patrick shares his personal journey through fear, anxiety, and substance abuse, detailing how his experiences have shaped the innovative approaches employed at Foundation House. The conversation delves into the broader definitions of substance use, emphasizing that addictions can extend beyond d...
2024-10-0949 minFear LessEmpowering Kids with Anxiety: Expert Advice from Dr. Anne Marie AlbanoIn this episode of the Fear Less Podcast, Zack interviews Dr. Anne Marie Albano, renowned expert in anxiety and founder of the Columbia University Clinic for Anxiety and Related Disorders. Dr. Albano shares her deep insights on childhood and ado lescent anxiety, the importance of family involvement in treatment, and her developmental approach to helping children overcome anxiety while navigating key milestones. She offers practical advice for parents struggling to support their anxious children and discusses how enabling behaviors can unintentionally maintain anxiety. Dr. Albano and Zack explore how parents can foster independence by stepping back and...
2024-10-0251 minFear LessA Story of Resilience: Danielle's Journey through Anxiety, Self-Harm, and HealingIn this powerful episode of the Fear Less Podcast, host Zack welcomes Danielle, a former resident of Mountain Valley Treatment Center, who courageously shares her personal journey of battling anxiety, self-harm, and other mental health challenges. Danielle opens up about the pivotal moments that led her to seek treatment, including how her anxiety-driven self-harm became a coping mechanism. She offers valuable insights into how exposure therapy and other treatment modalities at Mountain Valley helped her develop healthier coping strategies. Danielle discusses the challenges she faced in transitioning out of treatment, the role of self-acceptance in her healing, and how...
2024-09-1836 minFear LessBreaking Free from Fear: How Risk Aversion Impacts Mental Health CareIn this episode of the Fear Less Podcast, host Zack interviews Professor Mary Beth Gallagher from Duke University. With over 25 years of experience in occupational therapy across the U.S. and abroad, Mary Beth shares her insights on how fear shapes and impacts mental health care systems. The conversation highlights the risk-averse nature of mental health care environments and how fear of litigation often leads to conservative treatment decisions, which can hinder patient progress. Mary Beth discusses her perspective on occupational therapy's role in promoting well-being and how practitioners can balance safety with evidence-based interventions. The episode...
2024-09-1140 minFear LessNavigating Young Adult "Transition Anxiety" with Joanna LilleyIn this episode Zack is joined by Joanna Lilley, a therapeutic consultant and podcaster who specializes in helping young adults and their families navigate the complex transitions of young adulthood. As a therapeutic consultant, Joanna offers proactive support that helps young adults "launch" into a college, gap year program, vocational opportunity, etc. Joanna also offers reactive support, helping young adults and their families pivot from their current plan to find opportunities best suited to help them launch. In this conversation, Zack and Joanna discuss how anxiety and fear impact this transitional period for young adults. Joanna shares th...
2024-09-0443 minFear LessThe Connection Between Sensory Processing and Anxiety: A Deep Dive with Dr. Heather KuhaneckIn this episode of the Fear Less podcast, host Zack engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Heather Kuhaneck, a seasoned expert in occupational therapy and sensory processing. Dr. Kuhaneck, who has dedicated over 30 years to the field, shares her insights into the complexities of sensory processing and how it intertwines with fear and anxiety. The discussion delves into the eight sensory systems, emphasizing the lesser-known ones—proprioception, vestibular, and interoception—and their critical roles in emotional regulation and daily functioning. Through this dialogue, Dr. Kuhaneck sheds light on how sensory processing challenges can exacerbate anxiety and offers practical strat...
2024-08-1547 minFear LessHealing Through Stewardship: The Therapeutic Power of Animals and Agriculture In this episode of Fear Less, Zack interviews Hann Bernardi, the Animal and Farm Coordinator at Mountain Valley Treatment Center. Hann shares their journey from working as a conventional farmer to now using animal husbandry and farm work to help youth heal from their mental health challenges. Hann discusses how the farm at Mountain Valley is used to help residents overcome fears and anxieties, emphasizing the therapeutic impact of fostering a deeper connection between humans, animals, and the land. They dive into the concept and philosophy of "stewardship", and how working with animals on the farm helps residents develop l...
2024-08-0739 minFear LessFrom Testing to Teamwork: Dr. Alison LaFollette's Journey to Mountain Valley In this week's episode of the Fear Less Podcast, Zack sits down with the new clinical director of Mountain Valley, Dr. Alison LaFollette. Alison brings a wide array of expertise and experience to Mountain Valley. With a PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of Kansas, extensive post-doctoral work at the University of Utah Neuropsychiatric Institute, and a wide range of professional experiences across multiple mental health settings, Alison has fostered a deep and holistic understanding mental health and how to support individuals with a variety of mental health challenges. Her unique approach, which focuses on leveraging clients' strengths...
2024-07-2436 minFear LessFear, Fatherhood, and Transformation: Zack's Journey to Becoming a Dad In this heartfelt solo episode of the Fear Less Podcast, host Zack Schafer shares his intimate journey into fatherhood. Zack opens up about the fears and anxieties he experienced through the process of welcoming his first son, Micah James, into the world. Reflecting on his experiences from late pregnancy, through childbirth, and now one month into fatherhood, Zack discusses how fear served as an ally and played a crucial role in helping him transform into becoming the dad he wants to be. This episode takes a raw and insightful look into the realities of parenthood and the powerful role...
2024-07-1728 minFear LessBeyond the Classroom: Integrating Mental Health Support in Schools with Dr. Caroline Trustey In this week's episode of the Fear Less Podcast, Zack sits down with Dr. Caroline Trustey, a licensed professional counselor who holds a PhD in counseling from UNC Greensboro and currently works at all-girls private school in Washinton, D.C. In this episode, she shares her innovative perspective on how to support youth mental health within the school system and discusses the initiatives she has undertaken to ensure that social-emotional support is integrated into the everyday curriculum at her school, making it accessible for all students. This conversation delves into the many challenges faced by adolescents today, including the i...
2024-07-1043 minFear LessClimbing Mount Moosilauke: Therapy, Adventure, and Personal Triumph In this week's episode Zack sits down with Will White, producer of the Fear Less podcast and clinical supervisor at Mountain Valley Treatment Center, to discuss their recent hike up Mount Moosilauke. They recount the challenging hike taken on Memorial Day with ten residents and adventure coordinator TJ Bauman, exploring the profound physical and emotional benefits of outdoor adventures to help people with anxiety. The episode delves into exposure therapy, adventure therapy, and the therapeutic effects of nature, highlighting how these experiences foster personal growth and resilience. Zack also shares a deeply personal story about the significance of the...
2024-06-1944 minFear LessFrom Resident to Mentor: Bailey Cohen's Inspiring Journey at Mountain Valley In this week's episode of Fear Less, Zack sits down with Bailey Cohen, a former resident of Mountain Valley and now, a thriving member of the organization as residential staff member. Bailey is currently studying forensic psychology at Johnson and Wales College and is employed as a summer intern at Mountain Valley after working this past year as per diem staff on weekends and holidays. In this discussion, Bailey shares about her transformative journey from a resident struggling with severe anxiety and emetophobia to a dedicated member of the treatment team, supporting others who face similar challenges.
2024-06-1240 minFear LessFacing Fears in the Classroom: Exposure-Based Learning with Knower AcademicsIn this episode Zack interviews Kayte Knower, the co-founder and executive director of Knower Academics. Kayte discusses the origins of her organization, which she started with her husband to fill gaps in traditional academic support systems. She emphasizes the importance of addressing academic anxiety with exposure-based approaches rather than over-accommodation, a method that aligns with the philosophy of Mountain Valley Treatment Center, where her team provides educational support. Kayte highlights the necessity of specialization in education to truly help students with learning differences and anxiety, noting that teachers are often overburdened and unable to provide the individualized support some...
2024-06-0548 minFear LessTransforming Workplaces Through Fear Less Leadership with Tim Vaughan In this insightful episode of Fear Less, Zack welcomes Tim Vaughan, the Director of Learning, Leadership, and Employee Programs at Moosilauke Visions. Tim shares his extensive experience in organizational development and leadership training. He highlights the common challenges faced within organizations and the importance of addressing systemic issues within the workplace environment rather than focusing on individual employee problems. He emphasizes how fulfilling three basic human needs—belonging, autonomy, and mastery—can play a huge role in reducing fear and anxiety in the workplace and help foster a healthy environment where both the employees and the organization can thrive.
2024-05-2945 minFear LessBecoming a "Fearless" Clinician with Keeleigh Mahler, LCSW In this episode of Fear Less, Zack sits down with Keeleigh Mahler, a licensed clinical social worker who previously worked at Mountain Valley and currently works at the Anxiety Institute in Washington D.C. In this discussion, Keeleigh shares candid reflections from her first few years of practice, highlighting the parallel process and internal anxiety that many new clinicians experience as they learn and grow alongside their clients. Despite being in the first few years of her career, Keeleigh is incredibly talented, insightful, and wise. In this conversation she highlights the common insecurities that arise for new...
2024-05-0846 minFear LessOvercoming OCD and Finding Acceptance with Ivy Wydler In this week's episode of Fear Less, Zack welcomes Ivy Wydler, a young adult with OCD who graduated from Mountain Valley in the summer of 2023. Ivy shares vulnerability about her journey with OCD, what led her to Mountain Valley, and insight she has gained over her past year of intensive mental health treatment. In this conversation, Ivy discusses her battles with perfectionism, her complicated relationship with OCD, and the profound impact that therapy and a sense of community had on her recovery. Ivy's story extends beyond struggle, and is one of transformation, growth, and triumph. T...
2024-05-0140 min
PICOBELLOS03E47 Fünf-Sterne-MarkierungJeder von euch kennt es: man hat lange auf ein freies Projekt hingearbeitet, war am Set, man hat danach alles Gewünschte im Kasten, und dann steht die Bild- oder Videoauswahl an. An dieser Stelle gibt es zwei Typen Mensch: Typ 1: direkt sichten, Auswahl treffen und sich direkt an die Postproduction setzen. Dann gibt es aber auch Typ 2, der/die die Auswahl erstmal ein paar Tage (oder Wochen) liegen lässt, da man erstmal satt ist von dem ganzen Projekt. Und an dieser Stelle steigen wir mit der heutigen PICOBELLO Episode ein: der Hustle hinter dem kleinen Bruder der Postproduction: di...
2024-04-2253 minFear LessExperiential Therapy for Anxiety with Meg Paul In this week's episode of Fear Less, Zack welcomes Meg Paul, a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience working with youth and families in adventure-based programs, therapeutic boarding schools, and now through her new outpatient practice, Crosswinds Counseling. In this conversation, Meg recounts her journey from direct care staff at an adventure therapy residential treatment program to her current role as a community-based clinician, running her own private practice. She dives deep into the benefits of experiential therapy, emphasizing the importance of a hands-on "practical" approach to therapy that brings therapy i...
2024-04-1740 minFear LessOvercoming School Phobia and Building Resiliency with Ira Hayes In this week's episode of Fear Less, Will and Zack discuss school phobia and the state of youth anxiety with Ira Hayes, a licensed clinical social worker who owns his own outpatient practice and serves as the Director of Programs at the Center for Wellness in New Jersey. Ira is a practitioner, educator, and professional speaker who specializes in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders, with a specific focus on "school phobia." In this discussion, Ira shares his insights on the rise of anxiety disorders among students in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and how he utilizes...
2024-04-1051 minFear LessTreating Anxiety: Innovative Insights from Dr. Dan Villiers of The Anxiety Institute In this episode Fear Less, co-host Zack Schafer welcomes Dr. Dan Villiers, one of the founding team of Mountain Valley Treatment Center and the co-founder and current president of the Anxiety Institute. In this discussion, Dr. Villiers shares how his personal struggles with anxiety and his own experience with exposure-based treatment led him to spend the last fourteen years creating, owning, and operating innovative anxiety treatment programs across the country. Dr. Villier's discusses the early days of starting Mountain Valley, what he learned through that experience, and how he still applies those same principles to the anxiety treatment he s...
2024-04-031h 12
BühnenMenschen#08 Hildegart Scholten: "Brille, Haarspange - zack, ist man ein anderer Mensch."In intimer Aftershow-Atmosphäre trifft Pierre Schäfer Künstlerinnen und Künstler aus den Bereichen Musik, Stand-up und Kabarett zum persönlichen Gespräch.Backstage - ein beinahe mystischer Ort, in dem KünstlerInnen ihre persönlichsten Geheimnisse verraten und über ihr Tourleben philosophieren. In der 8. Folge ist Hildegart Scholten zu Gast. Produzent: Marvin Fischerwww.fischermarvin.de
2024-03-271h 00Fear LessFear Less with More Fun: The Role of Recreational Therapy in Anxiety Treatment with J'Amy Chamberlain In this episode Zack interviews his colleague and friend, J'Amy Chamberlain, a certified recreational therapist at Mountain Valley Treatment Center. They explore the influential role of recreational therapy in treating anxiety and fostering well-being among youth. J'Amy explains how recreational therapy utilizes fun, connection, and real-life experiences to complement traditional exposure therapy, helping kids to face and overcome their fears. Through activities like rock climbing, swimming, and even video gaming, recreational therapy at Mountain Valley encourages kids to reengage with passions and activities they've shied away from due to anxiety, thus broadening their worlds and enhancing their treatment experience.
2024-03-1939 minFear LessDon't Fear the Future: Insights on Innovation in Youth Mental Health Care with Greg Hitchcock In this episode of Fear Less, Will Laughlin sits down Greg Hitchcock, an expert in the field of education and therapeutic programs. Greg has over 30 years' experience working with youth and families in the education and therapeutic industry. In this conversation, Greg shares his personal journey from an adventure seeking youth, to being parent of a child in treatment, to becoming one of the most sought out leaders in the world of youth mental health treatment. Through personal stories and anecdotes, Will and Greg touch on shed light on how to leverage fear for growth, the complex...
2024-03-1346 minFear LessNavigating the Digital Divide: Dr. Will White on Technology's Impact on Youth Mental Health On this week's episode of Fear Less Zack is joined by the show's producer, Dr. Will White, who is a leader in mental health care with over 30 years in the field and is currently serving as Mountain Valley's Clinical Supervisor. Will is an author, podcaster, historian, and mental health provider who has owned and operated a successful mental health treatment program for adolescents that emphasized the use of time in the outdoors as a healing modality. As a seasoned veteran in the field of outdoor therapy, Will shares his reflections on the evolution of mental health challenges am...
2024-03-0644 minFear Less20. Mastering Empathy: Using Nonviolent Communication in Anxiety Treatment with Nathan ThoeleIn this episode, we delve deep into the transformative power of nonviolent communication (NVC) with Nathan Thoele, the Residential Director at Mountain Valley. Nathan's ability to listen, empathize, and communicate effectively is core to who is and has played an influential role in his journey from a nature center employee in Vermont, to his current leadership role at Mountain Valley. Nathan is responsible for introducing Mountain Valley to NVC and through this unique approach, he has been able to significantly influence the therapeutic environment, creating a culture where compassionate communication is core tenet of the therapeutic milieu. ...
2024-02-1443 minFear LessNavigating Anxiety: Personal and Professional Perspectives with Clinician Ashley MetzIn a heartfelt episode of "Fear Less," Zack speaks with Ashley Metz, a dedicated clinician at Mountain Valley, about her transformative seven-year journey from a residential counselor to a clinician. Ashley shares deep insights into the evolving landscape of anxiety treatment, emphasizing the unique challenges and strategies developed to address the complex needs of youth struggling with anxiety and OCD, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her personal and professional experiences offer a rich perspective on the importance of adaptability, compassion, and innovative approaches in mental health care. Ashley also opens up about her own...
2024-02-0732 minFear LessInsights from Noah's Journey at Mountain Valley: Facing Fear and Overcoming Resistance In OCD TreatmentIn this episode host Zack interviews Noah a former student of Mountain Valley Treatment Center and a current student-athlete at Colby College. The discussion centers around Noah's journey through mental health challenges, focusing on his struggle with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and his treatment experience at Mountain Valley. Noah shares his story, starting from the onset of his OCD symptoms during his junior year of high school, which escalated and led him to Mountain Valley for treatment when in college. He talks about the difficulty in accepting the need for help and his initial resistance to long-term t...
2024-01-1755 minFear LessEmbracing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: Insights from Antoinette Moody In this episode Zack interviews Antoinette Moody MA, a clinician with over a decade of experience in the mental health field and an expert in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Antoinette explains ACT as a therapy that involves accepting one's inner experiences to commit to living a valued life. She breaks down the acronym ACT, where 'A' stands for acceptance of internal experiences, 'C' for connecting with values, and 'T' for taking effective action towards those values. She emphasizes that ACT is about changing how one responds to internal experiences rather than the experiences themselves. This approach is particularly...
2024-01-1041 minFear LessHarnessing the Hero's Journey: Transforming Anxiety with Narrative Therapy at Mountain Valley In this episode of the Fear Less podcast, Will and Zack talk with TJ Bauman, a milieu specialist at Mountain Valley Treatment Center, about how Narrative Therapy and Jospeh Cambell's "Hero's Journey" framework are integrated into their unique approach to anxiety treatment. TJ specializes in experiential education, helps lead Mountain Valley's adventure-based programming, and facilitates a therapeutic class titled "Journal Your Journey" where participants use a modified version of Hero's Journey framework to reflect on their process in treatment. This discussion explores Narrative Therapy, narrative reasoning, and how "story" can used in treatment to help provide structure...
2024-01-0354 minFear LessMaking Fear Less: A Conversation with Zack Schafer, Licensed Mental-Health Occupational TherapistInterview: In this episode, Zack Schafer, OTR/L, provides insight into the unique approach to anxiety treatment offered by Mountain Valley—the treatment program where he serves as executive program director. In addition to highlighting exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP)—a method that involves gradually exposing patients to their fears to rewrite their narratives and reduce anxiety—Zack also describes the program's use of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) combined with experiential activities like art, farming, and outdoor adventures. These activities play a crucial role in the therapeutic process, helping residents conquer fears like ago...
2023-12-1944 minFear LessRunning Towards Resilience: Will Laughlin's Journey from Extreme Athlete to Fear Less Father and CEO Interview: In this episode, we immerse ourselves in the inspiring story of our co-host Will Laughlin, an ultra-runner, devoted father, and the innovative CEO of Mountain Valley Treatment Center. Will's exceptional journey as an athlete includes braving the intense heat of Death Valley and the extreme cold of the Yukon, experiences that have shaped his understanding and management of fear and anxiety. He shares insightful reflections on how ultra-running serves as a vital coping mechanism and therapeutic resource in his life. Will explains how these experiences as an extreme athlete have shaped his understanding and management of fear and a...
2023-12-1248 minFear LessJumping into Fear: Life in the Air Force Special OperationsInterview: In this gripping episode of the Fear Less podcast, we sit down with TJ, a member of the elite Air Force Special Warfare Pararescue team, also known as PJs. TJ gives us an inside look into the harrowing world of a Pararescue jumper, whose primary mission is to rescue and provide medical treatment to downed pilots, special forces operators, and others who find themselves in danger behind enemy lines. These highly skilled experts are trained to handle any environment—from skydiving, scuba diving, and rock climbing to braving arctic conditions—all in the name of saving lives. TJ t...
2023-12-0557 minFear LessChanneling Poseidon: How Max Augliere Uses Spearfishing to Generate Fear…and GrowthInterview: In this compelling episode of "Fear Less," host Will and Zack interview Max Augliere, a professional spearfishing guide. The discussion explores the physical and mental challenges of one of the world's most dangerous sports: free-dive spearfishing. Max shares the intricacies of spearfishing in the open ocean without scuba equipment and details the sport's hazards, which include marine predators and shallow water blackout. He also highlights the sport's mental aspects, discussing how he intentionally engages his own fear of spearfishing ("I'm nervous before every dive") as a means to achieve personal growth and self-discovery. In his...
2023-11-211h 02Fear LessEmpowering Parents of Anxious Youth with Mountain Valley's Parent Coach Dr. Lisa Rosen Interview: In this episode of Fear Less, we delve into the world of parenting anxious youth with Mountain Valley's parent coach, Dr. Lisa Rosen. With her background in psychology, Lisa is the driving force behind the Mountain Valley Treatment Center's robust parent coaching program. Having earned her BA in psychology from the University of Pennsylvania and her doctorate in clinical psychology from Ferkauf Graduate School in 1997, Dr. Rosen has spent decades immersed in the psychological community. After witnessing the transformative impact of Mountain Valley's residential program on her youngest daughter in the fall of 2018, she joined the team to...
2023-11-0144 minFear LessConquering Fear and Anxiety with Gray Thomas: Insights from a Mountain Valley Client Interview: In this episode of the Fear Less podcast, we sit down with Gray Thomas, a Middlebury College student, lacrosse player, and former resident at Mountain Valley Treatment Center. Gray shares the story of stepping back from college, sports, and life to face his fears head-on and enroll at Mountain Valley. During our conversation, Gray shares the valuable lessons he learned through Exposure Response Prevention therapy and practical daily habits, such as the Wim Hof Method, that have become a crucial part of his anxiety management toolkit. He also discusses how talk therapy, community, and peer connection played a p...
2023-10-2445 minFear LessAdventurer Ray Zahab on How to Conquer Fear and Make the Impossible Possible Interview: As an ultra-distance runner and professional explorer, Ray has set numerous records in the most extreme environments on earth--from the Sahara Desert to the South Pole. After several years of quiet success as a professional mountain biker and ultra runner, Ray exploded onto the expedition scene with an incredible feat: running across the entire North African continent in 111 days. This epic journey can be relived in the documentary Running the Sahara, available on Netflix and narrated by none other than Matt Damon. But Ray's story doesn't end there; with over 40 sponsored expeditions in extreme environments, there's no terrain h...
2023-10-101h 05Fear LessSwimming Against the Current: Kurt Kroeche's Journey from Fear to TriumphInterview: In this episode, host Will Laughlin is joined by world-class swimmer, scholar, educator, and actor, Kurt Kroesche. Kurt shares candidly about his life-long battle with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and its pervasive influence on his life and achievements. From his early days, Kurt was haunted by an overwhelming fear of contracting cancer, which shaped his thoughts, actions, and life in significant ways. Despite these challenges, Kurt used the same obsessive-compulsive tendencies to fuel his dedication and discipline as a swimmer, eventually joining Stanford's esteemed swim team and becoming a national champion. Kurt opens up about a dark p...
2023-10-0342 min
Stories from the Field: Mental Health and the OutdoorsAddressing Anxiety & OCD with Mountain Valley Techniques: Zack Schafer's 'Fear Less' Insight'sIn this enlightening episode of "Stories from the Field: Mental Health and the Outdoors," we sit down with Zack Schafer, the Executive Program Director at Mountain Valley Treatment Center. With a rich background in occupational therapy, Zack opens up about how the center uniquely addresses the challenges faced by young people battling anxiety and OCD. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding exposure response prevention (ERP) therapy, as Zack shares stories aboout this technique as well as juxtaposes ERP with adventure therapy and other ways to address anxiety. The conversation also delves into the intricacies of school phobia and the...
2023-10-0342 minStories from the Field: Mental Health and the OutdoorsAddressing Anxiety & OCD with Mountain Valley Techniques: Zack Schafer's 'Fear Less' Insight'sIn this enlightening episode of "Stories from the Field: Mental Health and the Outdoors," we sit down with Zack Schafer, the Executive Program Director at Mountain Valley Treatment Center. With a rich background in occupational therapy, Zack opens up about how the center uniquely addresses the challenges faced by young people battling anxiety and OCD. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding exposure response prevention (ERP) therapy, as Zack shares stories aboout this technique as well as juxtaposes ERP with adventure therapy and other ways to address anxiety. The conversation also delves into the intricacies of school phobia and the...
2023-10-0342 minFear LessThe Stress Reset Methodology with Isabelle Tierney In this episode, Will and Zack chat with therapist and mental health innovator, Isabelle Tierney. Isabelle is the brain and force behind Stress Reset (stressreset.co) and two other mental health and wellness companies. As founder and CEO of Stress Reset, Isabelle's mission is to deliver effective stress management solutions to corporations globally to improve employee retention, productivity, and well-being. And she comes well-equipped for the task. With two graduate degrees, a private practice spanning over two decades, and a reputation as an inspiring international keynote speaker, Isabelle is a wellspring of knowledge and passion in the realm of s...
2023-09-261h 08Fear LessWonder Woman is Blonde and Lives in Reno: Jill Andersen's Epic Battle with Wildfires and Lightning BoltsInterview: In this episode of the Fear Less Podcast, Nevada firefighter, paramedic, ultra-runner, and adventurer Jill Andersen, describes her epic life of risk with humility and humor. Jill fights wildfires and structure fires; conducts aquatic, helicopter, and backcountry search and rescue operations; and provides life-saving medical care as part of the very busy Lake Tahoe/Incline Village Fire Department. Oh, and to wind down between disasters, she runs ultra-marathons! Jill gives us an inside look at how first responders experience and copes with the high-intensity, high-stakes, high-risk situations they see every day. Despite her courage in the face of towering...
2023-09-1257 minFear LessWork-Rest-Repeat: A Yin-Yang Approach to Tackling Anxiety In this episode hosts Zack and Will explore how restorative practices such as mindfulness, breathing, yoga, rest, and play can turbocharge the hard work of exposure-based therapy, vastly improving outcomes. They compare this combination of complementary approaches to the work-rest approach of athletes and other high performers. This episode also delves into our physical responses to anxiety, the benefits of exposure therapy, and the importance of engaging the parasympathetic nervous system through relaxation. It also addresses the challenges faced by high achievers in slowing down and the role of breathwork in anxiety treatment. Listen to learn a variety of...
2023-09-0653 minFear LessFear Trauma Less! Dr. Meghan Golden Explores EMDR, CBT, and Healing TraumaExpert Interview: Past trauma can function as a “fear accelerator” for many, increasing one’s sensitivity and vulnerability to everyday anxieties. In this episode of the Fear Less podcast, Mountain Valley’s clinical director, Dr. Meghan Golden, unpacks the intricacies of anxiety and trauma and describes the pivotal role of exposure therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy in effectively addressing these conditions. Get inspired as Dr. Golden recounts her personal journey into the world of Trauma and EMDR therapy, underscoring her commitment to healing and positively impacting lives. Anxiety Hack: For most people, it’s normal and adaptive to feel some...
2023-08-291h 03
Vertriebsverliebt. Verkaufserfolg mit Persönlichkeit#29 Verkaufstrick Zusatzverkäufe - kinderleicht Umsatz steigern mit bewährter Verkaufspsychologie
Stell dir vor, du stehst an der Kasse, wie früher mit deinen Eltern. Die verlockenden Süßigkeiten neben dir rufen förmlich nach dir. "Mama, kann ich ein Ü-Ei haben?" Du erinnerst dich, oder? Genau so funktionieren Zusatzverkäufe im Vertrieb – nur etwas raffinierter!
Das Schöne an Zusatzverkäufen? Du kannst im Verkaufsgespräch easy deinen Umsatz steigern und deinen Kunden obendrein einen echten Mehrwert bieten.
Ich zeige dir, wie's geht: Upselling, Crossselling und Aktionen – das sind deine Top-Tools!
Upselling bedeutet mehr von allem: größere Mengen, mehr Leistung, längere Laufzeit – du weißt schon!
...
2023-08-2118 minFear LessThe Power of Exposure Therapy with Sharon McCallie-Steller If you've ever heard exhortations like "Get back on the horse!" or "Face your fears!" or "Do something that scares you every day!" then you are at least vaguely familiar with the concept behind exposure therapy. But these quotes belie the highly sophisticated, evidence-based nature of actual exposure therapy, known more formally as exposure and response prevention therapy, or ERP. In today's episode, we take a deep dive into ERP with our guest, Sharon McCallie-Stellar, a psychotherapist and exposure therapy expert. Sharon reveals that exposure therapy is not just about facing fears head-on; it's also...
2023-08-1549 minVertriebsverliebt. Verkaufserfolg mit Persönlichkeit#28 Aktives Empfehlungsmarketing – Neukunden gewinnen ohne Kaltakquise-Stress
Kennst du das? Manchmal scheint es, als ob alle auf Empfehlungen warten. Aber warum warten, wenn du selbst die Initiative ergreifen kannst? Heute zeige ich dir, wie du mit dem aktiven Empfehlungsmarketing mächtige Türöffner für Neukunden werden kannst.
Stichwort: Empfehlungsmarketing – klingt cool, oder? Wusstest du, dass es zwei Seiten davon gibt? Ich zeig's dir anhand zweier Szenarien: Stell dir vor, du suchst in einer neuen Stadt nach dem besten Friseur und fragst Bekannte. Oder als selbstständiger Handwerker öffnest du deine Mails und entdeckst eine Empfehlung von jemandem – zufällig, ohne dass du danach gefra...
2023-08-1417 min