Ever notice how the energy you bring into a room can shift everything—good or bad—without saying a word?

In this episode, Annmarie Chereso invites us to rethink how we show up in our most important relationships—whether that’s with our kids, partners, friends, or even ourselves. She shares how tuning into your own energy and learning to trust your instincts can create more ease, better communication, and real connection.

Yes, we talk parenting—but not in the usual “tips and tricks” way. Annmarie goes deeper, helping us see how fear-based habits sneak into the way we relate, and how letting go of control can actually bring us closer to the people we love (even those strong-willed little ones... or stubborn adult children).

You’ll get practical, grounded advice on how to shift from reactive to intentional, and why understanding someone’s true nature—not who we wish they were—is the real key to connection. No fluff. No perfection required. Just real talk, thoughtful tools, and a fresh take that’s as useful in the carpool lane as it is in a tough conversation with your 25-year-old.

BIO:

Author, Meditation Teacher, and Transformational Coach, Annmarie Chereso empowers parents, children and families to discover authentic happiness and true success.

Through her playful, heart-centered approach, Annmarie combines mindfulness mastery with practical tools, helping clients cultivate self-awareness, harness their innate power, and overcome limiting beliefs to embrace their most empowered selves.

With over two decades of expertise, Annmarie has trained educators, students, and parents globally through online courses, coaching, speaking engagements, workshops, and retreats. She's collaborated with renowned leaders including Dr. Shefali Tsabary and The Conscious Leadership Group and has worked with institutions like The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, Francis W. Parker, and KIPP and The Chicago Public Schools.

Based in downtown Chicago Annmarie and her husband co-parent their blended family of nine children and three grandchildren. You'll often find her walking her dog along Lake Michigan, taking deep breaths and embracing her mantra: "It's not about parenting perfectly, it's about parenting authentically.”

RESOURCES/ REFERENCES:

annmariechereso.me

@annmariechereso

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Who will make sure your child with special needs or mental health challenges — even as an adult — is cared for when you no longer can? In this episode of This Way Up, Andrea sits down with Sara Ecklein, a fiduciary specializing in special needs trusts, to tackle this critical question. They unpack what a special needs trust is, why it's essential for securing a stable future, and how it can protect both care and financial support, no matter your child’s age. Sarah also shares what it’s like managing the maze of public benefits and why building a trusted team is key. Whether you're just starting to plan or already deep in advocacy for your child’s mental health or special needs, this conversation offers real-world advice, fresh insights, and peace of mind for the road ahead.

BIO

Sara Ecklein is a California Licensed Professional Fiduciary, a Certified National Guardian, and the founder of Trust & Honor, a Mindful Fiduciary Agency. Her path to fiduciary work was deeply influenced by personal experiences with loss and end-of-life care. After witnessing a loved one's final days, Sara felt a strong calling to provide healing and calm during the end of life transition.

Since 2014, she has dedicated to the private professional fiduciary profession, serving senior and disabled populations, specializing in end-of-life care, proactive planning, navigating complex family dynamics, Special Needs Trust administration and managing public benefits.

As the host of The Legacy of Love podcast, Sara shares valuable insights on trust administration and end-of-life care, featuring expert interviews and personal stories to help listeners create a meaningful legacy.

Sara lives in Silicon Valley with her husband and their young daughter.

Links to share:

LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/sara-ecklein-clpf-97460687

Legacy of Love Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2378190/15381267

Online: https://www.trustandhonor.co

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Parenthood messing with your mind or relationship? Psychologist Marcella Kaplani reveals the truth about Matrescence & Patrescence—and how to survive the emotional shifts.
With 15+ years of experience, she breaks down the real psychological transitions into motherhood and fatherhood that no one talks about. We’re getting raw and real about what changes in your brain, your relationship, and your sense of self when you become a parent—and how to navigate it without losing your mind (or your partner).
Hit play if you're ready to stop pretending everything’s fine and start understanding what’s actually happening behind the scenes of modern parenting. Like, subscribe, and share—because you’re not the only one who needs to hear this.

BIO:

Markella has dedicated her career to assisting adults, parents, and children navigate their mental health challenges.

She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical & Counseling Psychology and has over 15 years of experience in both psychotherapeutic and educational settings.

In working with such a range of people, she’s had the opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of the diverse systems that constitute the human experience. As such, she possesses a holistic point of view, understanding the intricacies of interpersonal relationships and their pivotal role in mental health.

After becoming a mom herself, Markella shifted her focus to mothers and couples, recognizing the challenges that parenthood presents, ironically paired with the inordinate lack of assistance provided by our institutions and systems.

Markella is passionate about elevating and empowering parents to reconnect with themselves, their partners, their children, and their dreams. She stands with compassion beside them and offers a path toward a new normal that contains even more love, even more growth, even more connection.

RESOURCES/ REFERENCES:

@markella.kaplani markellakaplani.com/podcast

www.markellakaplani.com

Instagram.com/markella.kaplani

Facebook.com/markella.kaplani

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Parenting is never easy—but when you’re raising a high-needs child, the challenges can feel overwhelming. In this episode, we sit down with Michelle McVittie, a seasoned child life specialist and parenting coach, to unpack the complexities of family dynamics. With over two decades of experience in pediatric medical and mental health settings, Michelle shares practical strategies for creating balance in the home.

We explore key topics like co-regulation—learning to manage your own emotions while guiding your child through theirs, the power of structure and self-reflection, and why rescuing your child from discomfort can actually hinder resilience. Michelle also discusses how to strengthen partnerships, sibling dynamics, and community support, ensuring that every family member—not just the child in need—gets the care and attention they deserve.

If you’ve ever felt stuck navigating the emotional rollercoaster of parenting, this conversation is packed with insights, tools, and encouragement to help you lead with confidence.

BIO:

Michelle McVittie is a child life specialist, author, and, parenting coach. Michelle has over two decades of experience in pediatric medical and mental health, with young offenders, and in daycares as a behaviour specialist.

Michelle’s first book, “I Quit! Oh, wait I’m the Mom” is a self-help book with practical tips to help Moms find their joy again in motherhood. Michelle specializes in ADHD, anxiety, strong-willed children, parenting teens, communication, collaborative problem-solving, and emotion coaching.

Michelle is the CHCH morning live parenting expert and was the host of her own tv show Life with Children, on Cable 14. She works with parents 1:1 and has on-demand parenting programs.

Michelle is the mother of two, a teen and a young adult and has been married to her for 21 years.

RESOURCES/ REFERENCES:

https://momthemanager.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/michellemcvittiemomthemanager

https://www.instagram.com/momthemanager/

https://www.tiktok.com/@momthemanager

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Emotions shape everything we do—how we think, react, and connect with others. In this episode of This Way Up, I sit down with Matt Sandoval, CEO of Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona, for a deep, thought-provoking conversation about emotions and their role in our daily lives. We explore how curiosity can help us better understand what we feel and how creative expression—both traditional and unconventional—can be a powerful tool for emotional growth and healing. Get ready for an insightful discussion that just might change the way you see your own emotions!

BIO:

Matt Sandoval is an Arizona native who has served as an executive leader in human services and non-profit organizations for over 15 years. He is the Chief Executive Officer at Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona, which provides trauma-informed art activities through trained adult mentors for children and teens who have experienced the trauma of abuse, neglect, and homelessness. Matt is a public speaker and trainer on mental health and youth-related topics. He is also the host of Canvas of the Heart, the Free Arts podcast.

Matt leads the Free Arts' strategic vision to offer programs in Arizona and the effort to establish Free Arts as a sector thought leader in child well-being and mentoring through expressive art programming. Formerly, Matt served as the VP of Community Initiatives at the YMCA, focusing on workforce development, alternative education, juvenile justice, and mentoring for teens and young adults. Additionally, Matt has served as the Executive Director of an independent living community for adults with developmental disabilities and as a Clinical Therapist.

Matt has served on several non-profit and charter school boards for groups that support youth and community development in the greater Phoenix area. Matt holds a Master of Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University and a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University. He is a Licensed Master Social Worker with the Arizona Behavioral Health Board of Examiners.

RESOURCES/ REFERENCES:

• Canvas of the Heart Podcast (The Free Arts Podcast) https://open.spotify.com/show/7JMia7Ab7t7qtpvZGIzw8h?si=d02209e6229248ba
• Podcast on YouTube (1) Canvas of the Heart Podcast - Art, Mentoring, and Trauma Recovery for Children, Youth, and Families - YouTube
• @freeartsaz on Instagram/FB
• On the web at www.freeartsaz.org
• Matt Sandoval on LinkedIn

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

What if self-care wasn’t a luxury, but your secret weapon for surviving—and thriving—in the chaos of daily life? In this episode of This Way Up, I sit down with Drew Greisel to unpack self-care in a way that’s actually doable—no guilt, no fluff, just real strategies that fit into your busy life. Drew is all about helping busy parents and professionals optimize their well-being without making it feel like another full-time job. We chat about why self-care isn’t selfish (seriously, it’s survival), how small daily habits—like drinking enough water, moving more, and getting quality sleep—can have a massive impact, and how to finally ditch the burnout cycle. Plus, Drew shares insights from his 10-week transformation program designed to help you feel stronger, healthier, and more energized—without the overwhelm. If you’ve ever felt like taking care of yourself is at the bottom of the to-do list, this episode is for you!

BIO:

Founded in 2020 by Drew Greisel, Primal Wellness Coaching emerged as a guiding force during a time of global uncertainty. Witnessing the mental and physical toll of lockdowns, Drew felt compelled to help others take control of their well-being. With a deep passion for fitness, nutrition, longevity, and biohacking, he became a trusted resource for friends, family, and students at the Krav Maga school where he volunteered. His commitment led him to pursue formal certifications, turning his passion into a mission to make wellness accessible and sustainable.

What started as a grassroots effort quickly evolved into a dynamic coaching platform. Today, Primal Wellness Coaching offers structured fitness and nutrition programs, including The Superhuman Blueprint: A 10-Week Wellness Transformation, designed to create lasting physical and mental change. Reaching a global audience through online coaching and The Superhuman Blueprint Podcast, Drew and his team continue to empower individuals with practical, science-backed strategies for achieving optimal health—without the overwhelm.

RESOURCES/ REFERENCES:

https://www.primalwellnesscoaching.com/

Superhuman Blue Print Podcast

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Ever find yourself staring at a blank page, pen in hand, with your mind just as empty? You're not alone. But here's the good news: journaling can be your secret weapon for emotional healing and mental clarity.

Samantha Hawley, a seasoned journaling expert and host of the "Journal Entries" podcast, has cracked the code with her five-step process designed to get your thoughts flowing and your emotions in check.

This isn't your typical journaling prompt. Samantha's method digs deep, helping you connect with your inner voice and navigate your feelings like a pro.

By embracing this five-step process, you can transform your journaling sessions into powerful tools for emotional healing and personal growth.

Ready to take control of your emotions and start your journey toward a more fulfilling life? Tune in to this episode and discover how journaling can be the game-changer you've been searching for.

BIO:

Samantha is a Journal Expert who has experienced many life transitions that accompany big emotions. Everything from moving 8 times in 10 years, going through pregnancy & new mom life, getting divorced, and feeling complacent and unfulfilled in her Corporate job. She opened up in her journal to vent about feeling overwhelmed with it all and ended up finding her voice, elevated her self worth & started living her life more intentionally. Now, she teaches women who are also going through transitions how to create the same level of awareness, inner peace, decisiveness & fulfillment in their own lives.

RESOURCES/ REFERENCES:

Journal Entries Podcast

Samantha Hawley Facebook

Samantha Hawley Instagram

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

We all remember those awkward puberty moments—the breakouts, the “We must, we must, we must increase our bust” chant, and maybe a few emotional roller coasters. But puberty is more than just acne and awkwardness; it’s a natural, transformative phase that starts in the brain, setting off a cascade of changes—emotional and physical. Puberty expert Kimberly Grustus helps reframe this time of life as a positive and empowering experience. She reminds us that 50% of mental health issues are established during this stage, and it’s crucial to approach these changes with empathy and support.

In this video, Kimberly also touches on the impact of harmful chemicals, how early puberty affects mental health, and why positive language and self-care should be the focus, not just reproductive health. Whether it's journaling or simply being open to conversation, Kimberly encourages parents to help their daughters process their emotions and embrace their changing bodies. Plus, she highlights how menopause can be a chance for deeper connection with our kids, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.

Kimberly’s clean skincare line, Good For You Girls, also offers a safe, gentle approach to self-care for young girls, making it easier to support their journey. Puberty is a superpower, and with the right mindset, it can set the stage for a confident, empowered future!

BIO:

Brand Visionary Kimberly Grustas started Good For You Girls to keep girls away from toxic chemicals during puberty. With over 15 years in the natural product and nutrition industries, Kim had advanced knowledge of the dangers of even trace levels of estrogenic chemicals during the delicate transformation from girlhood to adult. Kim’s two daughters had asthma and allergies and when they were entering puberty, she was appalled at the ingredients in products marketed to young girls. The lack of safe, effective and age-appropriate products combined with her knowledge about the lowering age of puberty was all she needed to launch this transformative brand to help other moms keep their daughters safe. Kim has been called the O.G. of tween skincare and it’s not hard to see why. Good For You Girls was the first line of clean skincare dedicated to girls in the US and is a thought leader in helping moms connect to their daughters during these precious years.

RESOURCES/ REFERENCES:

To learn more, visit: https://www.goodforyougirls.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimgrustas/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/goodforyougirls

IG: https://www.instagram.com/goodforyougirls/

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.