In this particular episode of Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast, David welcomed Olivier Mankondo, a speaker, author, and wellness coach specializing in plant-based nutrition. Olivier shared his remarkable journey of transforming his life through diet and how it has significantly improved his physical, mental, and emotional health. David explored Olivier’s story with his audience, focusing on how his experiences could help men over 40 recover from divorce and regain control of their lives.

Olivier explained how an Indian yogi inspired him to try removing animal products from his diet. By going “cold turkey,” he reversed his high blood pressure in four months and shed 77 pounds in nine months. He shared how his life transformed, becoming disease-free for over eight years. David was particularly impressed by Olivier’s youthful appearance at 54 and his ability to maintain energy levels comparable to someone in their 20s.

10 Key Points from the Podcast

1. Introduction of Olivier Mankondo – A wellness coach and advocate for plant-based nutrition who transformed his life through dietary changes.

2. Life Before the Transition – Olivier suffered from obesity, high blood pressure, chronic pain, and fatigue due to unhealthy eating habits.

3. Turning Point – Inspired by an Indian yogi, he adopted a plant-based diet and reversed his chronic illnesses.

4. Health Transformation – Lost 77 pounds in nine months, normalized blood pressure, and became disease-free for over eight years.

5. Challenges in Transition – Faced unsupportive friends and family, but his determination kept him on track.

6. Misconceptions About Plant-Based Diets – Olivier debunked myths about protein deficiency and weakness, emphasizing the energy and strength a plant-based lifestyle provides.

7. Gradual Transition Advice – Suggested easing into a plant-based diet to avoid detox symptoms and ensure sustainability.

8. Improved Relationships – His health journey strengthened his bonds with his wife and children, improving overall family dynamics.

9. Coaching Challenges – Helped clients overcome mindset barriers and lack of supportive communities during their wellness journeys.

10. Ultimate Goal – Olivier aims to show people that aging doesn’t have to mean sickness and that a healthy lifestyle can lead to a disease-free, energized life.
    

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https://oliviermankondo.com

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W: oliviermankondo.com

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In this episode of Don't Pick the Scab Podcast, host David interviews Ryan Christensen, a professional hypnotist, military veteran, and author of Winter Peace: How to End Inner Conflict and Make Success Inevitable. Ryan shares his journey of overcoming autism, bipolar disorder, and a life of emotional struggles to become a guide for others dealing with deep-seated mental and emotional challenges. Drawing from his own experiences, Ryan explains how men over 40 recovering from divorce can rewrite their past narratives, challenge self-blame, and embrace self-acceptance.

Ryan emphasizes the power of the subconscious mind in healing and success. He discusses how divorce often leads men to blame themselves, but reframing these experiences and understanding emotions as survival signals—not wounds—can lead to transformation. He shares insights on recognizing small victories, reframing beliefs about love and relationships, and shifting from societal expectations to genuine personal growth.

Listeners will learn about the concepts of "the cage" and "the treadmill," common traps that hinder men's progress, and how to cultivate curiosity instead of judgment during tough moments. Ryan also highlights the importance of self-care, reclaiming self-worth, and accepting one’s imperfections to move forward. This episode is packed with actionable advice, offering divorced men a roadmap to healing and rediscovery.

10 Important Topics Covered in the Podcast:

1. Reframing Past Experiences: How rewriting the meaning of past events helps men recovering from divorce redefine themselves and move forward.

2. Self-Blame and Divorce: Why men often blame themselves for failed marriages and how to shift that mindset.

3. The Role of Subconscious Beliefs: How deep-seated beliefs about self-worth influence emotional responses and relationship outcomes.

4. Emotions as Survival Signals: Viewing anger, grief, and sadness as signals asking for help rather than wounds to "heal."

5. Recognizing Small Wins: The importance of celebrating survival and small victories as steps toward personal growth.

6. The Cage vs. The Treadmill: Understanding these metaphors for feeling trapped by societal expectations or past pain.

7. Curiosity vs. Judgment: How cultivating curiosity can help men approach emotions and challenges with openness and growth.

8. Self-Worth and Deservedness: How men can stop questioning their inherent worth and focus on what they truly want from life.

9. Redefining Love and Relationships: The importance of self-love and reframing beliefs about love after a divorce.

10. Practical Steps for Emotional Growth: Strategies like seeking external perspectives, embracing forgiveness, and redefining masculinity for personal development.
    

Ryan’s Main Website

Ryan on YouTube

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In this engaging episode of Don't Pick The Scab Podcast, host David sits down with Michael Read, a men’s coach and creator of The Adaptive Male YouTube channel. Michael specializes in helping men understand healthy masculinity by exploring the intersections of science, psychology, history, and culture. Together, they dive deep into how men over 40 can heal from divorce by reclaiming their sense of purpose, rebuilding their identity, and navigating emotions in a healthy way.

Michael explains how societal expectations and "nice guy syndrome" often lead men to neglect self-care, making it crucial for men to prioritize their well-being and emotional health. He highlights the importance of moving past toxic masculinity narratives, embracing emotional expression, and fostering healthy masculinity based on self-regulation and authenticity. Michael also introduces concepts like "emotional language" and the "shadow self," helping men better understand their feelings and behaviors.

The discussion touches on the unique challenges divorced men face, including the loss of identity, purpose, and self-worth. Michael offers actionable strategies for men to rebuild their lives by engaging in self-care, finding purpose outside of relationships, and fostering connections with other men. He also discusses the evolving role of masculinity across different life stages and how co-parenting can be an opportunity to demonstrate healthy masculinity to children. This episode is packed with insights and practical advice for men seeking to heal and thrive after divorce.

10 Important Topics Covered in the Podcast:

1. The Algorithm of Behavior: Understanding how childhood experiences shape adult behaviors and reactions, and how to reprogram these patterns.

2. Emotional Language: Teaching men to reconnect with their emotions by recognizing physical sensations and associating them with emotional experiences.

3. Toxic vs. Healthy Masculinity: Exploring the differences between toxic traits and healthy masculine qualities, such as emotional regulation and authenticity.

4. Nice Guy Syndrome: Examining how trying to please others at the expense of oneself can lead to relationship breakdowns and self-neglect.

5. The Shadow Self: Carl Jung’s concept of the shadow self, where suppressed parts of our personality resurface in unhealthy ways if left unaddressed.

6. Self-Care for Men: Emphasizing the importance of prioritizing self-care to avoid burnout and foster healthier relationships.

7. Rebuilding Identity After Divorce: Helping men rediscover their sense of purpose and self-worth by separating their identity from a failed relationship.

8. Emotional Numbness in Men: Addressing the phenomenon of emotional disconnection and its physical and psychological consequences.

9. Masculinity Across Life Stages: Examining how men’s roles and perceptions of masculinity evolve with age, from physical strength to wisdom and guidance.

10. Co-Parenting with Masculinity: Using healthy masculinity to be a positive parental role model while navigating the challenges of co-parenting post-divorce.

Michael’s YouTube Channel - The Adaptive Male

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Welcome to "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast", the safe space for men over 40 navigating the emotional terrain of divorce recovery. I'm your host, David, here to guide you toward healing, growth, and rediscovery. Divorce can leave wounds, but here, we focus on healing one layer at a time—without reopening the scab. Whether you're struggling to move forward, wondering how to rebuild your life, or simply looking for tools to thrive post-divorce, this is your tribe.

Today, we have an extraordinary guest, Junie Moon, a transformational love coach and empowerment leader. Junie is an expert in helping people heal toxic relationship patterns, uncover blind spots, and create the love life they truly desire. She’s passionate about guiding men and women through the complexities of relationships and helping them embrace healthy, next-level love.

In this episode, we’ll dive into the importance of self-care, rebuilding self-confidence, setting boundaries, and breaking free from destructive patterns.

Junie will also share powerful insights from her expertise in shadow work, helping you uncover the hidden beliefs that keep you stuck.

So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and prepare to be inspired. Remember, healing is a journey, not a destination. You’re not alone, and together we’re going to help you rediscover the best version of yourself. Welcome to the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast. Let’s get started.

10 Important Points Junie Moon Presented:

1. The Importance of Self-Care: Men often neglect self-care, but proper rest, good nutrition, and surrounding yourself with supportive people are crucial for healing and thriving.

2. Unpacking the Past: Taking time to reflect on past relationships and patterns is vital before moving into new relationships. Jumping into the next chapter without healing can lead to repeating cycles.

3. Beliefs About Women and Relationships: Many beliefs about women—such as “women only want money” or “women bring drama”—stem from past experiences and societal conditioning. Breaking these beliefs is key to healthier relationships.

4. Listening Over Fixing: Women don’t always want solutions; they often just want to be heard. Learning how to hold space and listen without jumping to fix things can strengthen communication and connection.

5. The Role of Boundaries: Setting clear boundaries is essential for healthy relationships. Knowing what you want and what you will accept helps you communicate effectively and avoid being taken advantage of.

6. Healing Blind Spots with Shadow Work: Unresolved issues from childhood or past relationships often influence current relationship choices. Shadow work helps uncover and heal these hidden patterns.

7. Avoiding the Fixer Mindset: Men and women often fall into the trap of finding a “project” to fix in a partner. This stems from insecurity or a need to feel valuable, but it leads to unhealthy dynamics.

8. The Power of Self-Confidence: Divorce often shatters self-confidence. Rebuilding it comes from trying new things, believing in yourself, and creating a vision for the future that aligns with your values.

9. The Magnet of Repeating Patterns: Without healing, people unconsciously attract partners who reflect unresolved issues. Growth requires breaking free from these patterns by addressing the root causes.

10. Seeking Support: Healing is not a solo journey. Whether through coaches, therapists, or shadow work practitioners, having someone to guide you can accelerate progress and help you create healthier relationships.

Junie’s Website

Junie’s Free Consultation

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Welcome to another episode of Don’t the Scab Podcast, the podcast dedicated to empowering men over 40 as they navigate the challenges of divorce and embrace healing, growth, and self-discovery. Today, we’re diving into the complexities of mental health, self-care, and redefining identity with an incredible guest, Dr. Marie Dona. Dr. Dona is a triple board-certified psychiatrist and therapist based in Tampa, Florida, who specializes in treating a wide range of mental health conditions while emphasizing holistic approaches to wellness. As a first-generation Filipino American with a deeply personal connection to the mental health field, Dr. Dona shares her inspiring journey, expert insights, and actionable advice to help men rebuild their lives after divorce. From advocating for mental health to fostering self-confidence and exploring creative outlets, this conversation is packed with wisdom and strategies you don’t want to miss. Let’s jump in with Dr. Marie Dona on Don’t the Sky.

Dr. Marie Dona’s 10 Most Important Points:

1. Mental health is for everyone – Therapy and counseling are beneficial for all, and seeking help should never feel stigmatized or shameful.

2. Differences between psychiatrists and psychologists – Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medications, but Dr. Dona uniquely combines psychotherapy and behavioral interventions in her private practice.

3. The importance of addressing mental health early – Identifying and treating mental health concerns in children and adolescents can significantly impact their future well-being.

4. Advocating for mental health – Removing stigma and normalizing discussions about therapy and mental health care is crucial in today’s society.

5. Self-care is non-negotiable – Maintaining routines like exercise, healthy eating, and hobbies are vital for emotional and physical well-being, especially during challenging times.

6. Co-parenting with empathy – Focusing on the children’s needs rather than unresolved anger or frustration with an ex can create a healthier dynamic.

7. Signs men need help – Outbursts of anger, isolation, substance reliance, and neglect of hygiene or responsibilities are indicators that support is needed.

8. Reclaiming identity post-divorce – Exploring past hobbies, building new skills, and reconnecting with supportive people can help redefine a sense of self.

9. Creative and physical outlets – Activities like running, swimming, or even trying something new like pickleball can foster mental health and joy.

10. New advancements in psychiatry – Innovations like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and ketamine treatments offer hope for those with treatment-resistant conditions.

Everything Marie Dona

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Welcome to Don’t Pick The Scab Podcast, the podcast that helps men over 40 heal, grow, and thrive after divorce. Today, we’re diving into an inspiring conversation with Lucy Airs, a seasoned resilience coach and psychological safety expert. Lucy brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, offering practical tools and insights to help you rebuild your life and create stronger relationships post-divorce.

In this episode, Lucy shares how resilience isn’t just about bouncing back—it’s about growing stronger through adversity. She’ll unpack the concept of psychological safety, showing how to create environments where you and your children can thrive emotionally. If you’ve struggled with co-parenting challenges, identity loss, or finding a balance between self-care and supporting your kids, Lucy’s wisdom will guide you. Get ready for actionable advice, heartfelt stories, and strategies to turn your toughest moments into stepping stones for growth and happiness.

10 Important Points Lucy States in the Interview

1. Resilience as Growth Through Adversity: Resilience isn’t just recovering from hardship but growing stronger because of it, embracing challenges instead of avoiding them.

2. The Importance of Building Resilience Daily: Resilience is like a muscle that must be built and maintained daily, much like physical fitness, to prepare for life’s heavy emotional weights.

3. Psychological Safety Defined: It’s the ability to take interpersonal risks and be yourself without fear of judgment or ridicule, crucial in both family and workplace environments.

4. Rebuilding Psychological Safety Post-Divorce: After separation, individuals must create new “safe spaces” for themselves and their children to heal and thrive.

5. Self-Care as Essential for Resilience: Good sleep, nutrition, exercise, and positive emotions fuel the brain’s ability to regulate emotions and face life’s challenges.

6. Emotional Intelligence for Better Relationships: Understanding and regulating emotions helps individuals connect better with others, including ex-partners, by fostering empathy and reducing conflict.

7. Co-Parenting Challenges and Control: Lucy emphasizes focusing on what you can control in your home rather than stressing about the other parent’s household, as this benefits children.

8. Nonviolent Communication Techniques: Identifying emotions and their underlying needs can help diffuse co-parenting conflicts and foster effective, respectful communication.

9. Positive Psychology in Recovery: Recovery isn’t just about filling gaps left by divorce but building a new life by focusing on strengths, opportunities, and personal growth.

10. The Role of Parents in Modeling Resilience: Demonstrating resilience and emotional stability to children is the greatest gift parents can give, teaching them life skills for future challenges.

All things Lucy Airs on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucyairs-pp/

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Hey there, warriors of the heart! Welcome to "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast," where we dive deep into the raw, real, and sometimes painful journey of divorce recovery for men over 40. I'm your host, David, and today, we have a truly transformative conversation lined up for you. If you're feeling stuck, lost, or simply searching for a new path after a major life shift, you're in the right place. Our special guest today is Mark Collins, a beacon of hope and transformation. Mark is the mastermind behind the "Freedom For Life" initiative and the author of "Life Mastery: Living Life by Design, Not by Default." He's dedicated his life to helping men unlock their inner hero, guiding them to not just survive, but thrive through life's challenges. Together, we're going to explore the power of self-identity, mastering your thoughts, and building a life of purpose and fulfillment. So, whether you're driving, working out, or just relaxing with a cup of coffee, get ready to be inspired, motivated, and equipped with the tools you need to rebuild a life filled with meaning and joy. Let's dive in and start this journey of healing and discovery together. Remember, it's not just about recovery—it's about rediscovery. Welcome to the tribe!

10 Important Points by Mark Collins:

1. Identity is Key: Understanding and embracing who you are is crucial for personal growth and overcoming life challenges.

2. Mastering Thoughts: Your life is shaped by your thoughts; focusing on positive, constructive thoughts can lead to a better life experience.

3. Self-Care Importance: Prioritize self-care to maintain emotional and mental well-being, akin to putting on your oxygen mask first.

4. Living by Design: Shift from living life by default to living intentionally and by design for greater fulfillment.

5. Handling Past Influences: Recognize and heal from past experiences to stop them from defining your current and future identity.

6. Co-Parenting Challenges: Stability in self-identity helps manage the challenges and emotional complexities of co-parenting.

7. Changing Personal Relationships: Growth and change may alter friendships and relationships, often requiring boundary setting.

8. Failure as Feedback: View failures as opportunities for learning and growth rather than as permanent setbacks.

9. Developing Self-Assurance: True confidence comes from knowing who you are, not from external validation or accomplishments.

10. Transformation Takes Time: Change is a journey that involves gradual shifts and aha moments, requiring patience and persistence.

11. 
    

All Things Mark Collins

Website: http://freedom-for-life.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreedForLife/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_freedomforlife_/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw1A7tteCrpLj_d9ejzDWRg

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mark-collins-freedom-for-life

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Welcome to "Don't Pick The Scab Podcast," the podcast where we take a light-hearted dive into the world of men over 40 recovering from divorce. This week, we chat with Greg Payne, a certified life coach and holistic healer. Greg, a self-proclaimed IT-to-healing convert, shares his journey from tech grad to energy worker, proving that even spreadsheets can have a soul.

Greg co-founded Awakened Roots with his wife, creating a healing hub that’s part advice column, part energy spa. They offer everything from Brainspotting to Kambo—yes, that’s frog sweat medicine—and if that doesn’t sound intriguing, nothing will. Greg explains that Brainspotting maps trauma to a specific point in your visual field, kind of like finding your emotional North Star, while Kambo boosts your immune system with Amazonian frog peptides. Who knew amphibians could be so therapeutic?

Breathwork and Reiki also make the list, with Greg highlighting how these practices can tune you into your emotional radio station, clearing static and finding clarity. He emphasizes using breathwork to address emotions held in the body, making it easier to navigate life’s tricky transitions, like divorce.

Ultimately, Greg’s message is simple: Self-care isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a lifeline. Whether it’s reaching out to a friend or indulging in a little pampering, taking time for yourself is crucial. So, grab your metaphorical toolkit and prepare to rebuild because healing is just a breath away.

Greg gave it to us fast with no chaser. New but refreshing. Got to get him back on the show! We have more to discuss!

Important Points:

IT grad turned holistic healer and life coach.

Awakened Roots combines energy healing and life coaching.

Brainspotting maps trauma to specific visual field spots.

Kambo uses frog peptides for immune and energy boosts.

Breathwork releases emotions held in the body.

Reiki promotes relaxation, aiding emotional and physical healing.

Self-care and outreach prevent isolation post-divorce.

Men face isolation and need connection for healing.

Emotional intelligence aids in navigating post-divorce challenges.

Everything Greg!

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