Guest Name: Dr. Liz DeBetta

https://www.lizdebetta.com/unmothered

Instagram: dr.liz.debetta

TikTok: @dr.liz.debetta

Summary

In this powerful episode of Poddin’ My Noggin, Dr. Liz DeBetta opens up about her journey as an adoptee and the lifelong emotional impact of navigating identity, belonging, and healing. She discusses how poetry, theater, and education helped her process her feelings and led to the development of her healing framework, Migrating Toward Wholeness. Through expressive writing and storytelling, Dr. Liz empowers others to reclaim their narratives, fostering connection, self-compassion, and deeper emotional understanding. Her solo show Un-M-Othered gives voice to the often-unspoken complexities of adoption and the transformative power of self-expression

Takeaways

- Dr. Liz DeBetta shares her journey of being adopted and the emotional challenges that came with it.

- Writing poetry helped Dr. Liz process her emotions during her teenage years.

- Therapy can sometimes miss the mark, especially regarding adoption-related issues.

- Dr. Liz emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own story in healing.

- Education played a crucial role in Dr. Liz's self-discovery and healing journey.

- The act of writing can be a powerful tool for emotional expression and healing.

- Dr. Liz created a framework called Migrating Toward Wholeness to help others heal.

- Connection with others is essential for healing from trauma.

- Dr. Liz's solo show, Un-M-Othered, explores the complexities of adoption.

- Expressive writing can help individuals articulate their feelings and experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Liz DeBetta

01:22 The Impact of Adoption on Identity

06:06 Emotional Turmoil and Creative Expression

10:45 Therapy and the Search for Self

17:19 Breaking Unhealthy Patterns

22:43 The Journey of Autobiographical Writing

29:05 Reflection and Moving Forward

36:57 The Journey of Self-Discovery

39:08 Pursuing Higher Education and Personal Growth

42:52 Understanding Trauma and Adoption

45:12 The Art of Storytelling and Healing

50:17 Framework for Healing: Migrating Toward Wholeness

54:39 Creating Connections Through Writing

59:34 Bridging the Gap to Healing

01:04:29 The Power of Healing Conversations

Keywords

#adopteevoices #adoptionhealing #adoptionjourney #adoptionstories #authenticexpression #connectionmatters #creativehealing #emotionalresilience #expressivearts #expressivewriting #healingfromtrauma #healingjourney #identityandbelonging #identityhealing #mentalhealthawareness #migratingtowardwholeness #narrativehealing #poddinmynoggin #poetrytherapy #selfcompassion #selfdiscoveryjourney #selfexpression #soloartshow #storytellingforhealing #therapeuticwriting #traumaawareness #traumarecovery #unmothered #womensvoices #writingtoheal

Guest Name: Hersh Rephun

yesbrandbuilders.com

Instagram: hersh4all

Summary:

In this inspiring episode of Poddin' My Noggin, host C.K. Simms sits down with Hersh Rephun, a comedian turned branding expert, to unpack a life shaped by creativity, courage, and authenticity. Hersh shares reflections from his early days in New York, his career evolution in Los Angeles, and how the pandemic pushed him to realign with his true purpose. They explore the concept of "Yes Brands," drawn from improv comedy, and the lessons from his book Selling Truth, which encourages people to embrace self-acceptance and lead with authenticity in business and life. Through stories of personal transformation, professional pivots, and the pursuit of passion, this conversation is a masterclass in choosing kindness, truth, and gratitude as guiding forces.

Takeaways:

- Hersh Rephun emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and gratitude in one's journey.

- He reflects on his early career in New York and the lessons learned from it.

- The transition to Los Angeles marked a significant turning point in his career.

- Hersh discusses the challenges of balancing personal and professional life, especially during family growth.

- He highlights the importance of pursuing one's true passions and not just societal expectations.

- The pandemic forced him to recalibrate his career and focus on personal branding.

- His book 'Selling Truth' aims to help others find their authentic selves in business.

- Hersh introduces the concept of 'Yes Brands' based on improvisational comedy principles.

- He believes that authenticity is key to successful personal branding.

- The conversation touches on the importance of kindness and self-love in navigating life and career.

Chapters:

00: and Guest Introduction

01:55 Early Career and Reflections

06:46 Transition to Los Angeles and Career Growth

10:28 Navigating Personal and Professional Life

13:46 The Birth of a New Identity

17:36 Redefining Success and Personal Fulfillment

20:17 The Shift in Dreams and Aspirations

23:17 Looking Ahead: New Projects and Future Goals

25:34 Selling Truth: A Semoir

28:59 Navigating Authenticity in a Post-Truth World

30:50 Self-Love and Its Impact on Relationships

33:41 The Inevitable Yes: Embracing Positivity

38:49 Building a Personal Brand with Integrity

48:43 Connecting with Yes Brand Builders

Keywords:

#authenticbranding #brandingjourney #careertransition #comedyroots #creativeliving #emotionalresilience #entrepreneurinsight #gratitudepractice #hershrephun #improvbranding #intentionalcareer #kindnessmatters #losangeleslife #mindfulsuccess #nyccomedy #pandemicpivot #poddinmynoggin #podcastconversation #podcastguest #pursueyourpassion #purposefulcareer #realstories #selfacceptance #selfgrowth #sellingtruthbook #standupstories #storytellingpower #trueauthenticity #yesbrands #youareenough

Guest Name: Bruce Chalmer

https://brucechalmer.com/

https://couplestherapyinsevenwords.com/

YouTube: brucechalmer

Summary

In this thought-provoking episode of Poddin’ My Noggin, Dr. Bruce Chalmer delves into the emotional terrain of betrayal, forgiveness, and faith. With an unconventional path to becoming a therapist, Dr. Chalmer shares insights into why couples therapy often creates deeper transformation than individual therapy alone. He explores the internal nature of forgiveness—how it involves not just letting go of resentment toward others, but also forgiving oneself and even God. Faith, curiosity, and self-reflection emerge as core tools for navigating difficult relationships and understanding the human condition. This conversation offers powerful tools for healing, growth, and reclaiming agency in the face of emotional pain.

Takeaways

- Dr. Chalmer's journey to becoming a therapist was unconventional.

- Therapy can be a powerful tool for personal growth and healing.

- Couples therapy is often more impactful than individual therapy.

- Forgiveness is primarily an internal process, not dependent on the other person.

- Faith plays a crucial role in navigating difficult relationships.

- External influences can complicate personal decisions in relationships.

- Understanding betrayal requires recognizing the human condition.

- The process of forgiveness involves forgiving oneself, the other person, and even God.

- Curiosity about one's thoughts and feelings can lead to deeper understanding.

- Self-reflection is essential for personal and relational growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Bruce Chalmer

01:14 The Journey to Becoming a Therapist

05:25 The Complexity of Couples Therapy

12:45 Understanding Betrayal and Infidelity

20:16 Navigating Trust After Betrayal

24:44 Faith as a Tool in Therapy

29:13 Bridging Divides Through Conversation

32:28 The Limitations of Labels

33:03 Understanding Ideologies in Therapy

35:44 The Process of Forgiveness

38:21 Forgiveness as an Inside Job

41:42 The Three Steps to Forgiveness

44:54 Rebuilding Trust After Betrayal

47:38 Navigating External Influences in Relationships

50:34 The Complexity of Human Reactions

55:54 Curiosity and Kindness in Self-Reflection

01:01:19 Looking Ahead: Future Projects

Keywords

#betrayalrecovery #brucechalmer #communicationtools #couplestherapy #emotionalhealing #faithandforgiveness #forgivenessjourney #growthmindset #healingrelationships #innerpeace #internalforgiveness #kindnessmatters #mentalhealthawareness #navigatingbetrayal #personaldevelopment #podcastlife #poddinmynoggin #psychologicalgrowth #relationshipadvice #relationshiphealing #relationshiptools #selfawareness #selfcompassion #selfdiscovery #selfreflection #spiritualhealing #therapyinsights #therapytalks #understandingfaith #wellnessjourney

Feeling angry, helpless, and overwhelmed by the state of the world? You're not alone. In this raw and unfiltered solo episode of Poddin’ My Noggin, host C.K. Simms opens up about the emotional toll of 2025, from political division and social injustice to personal grief and healing.The unexpected challenges of raising a puppy, and the chaos in Canadian and U.S. politics, C.K. speaks truth to power. He tackles everything from white Christian nationalism and echo chambers to the genocide in Gaza and the rise of extremism in North America. A political commentary podcast — it’s a profoundly human conversation about grief, anger, helplessness, and ultimately, hope. C.K. calls on listeners to protect their mental health, find moments of stillness, and choose love even when the world feels like it’s on fire. In This Episode:Anger and helplessness in today’s political climateCanada’s 2025 election and why Pierre Poilievre was a hard “no”The Trump effect and white Christian nationalismGrieving the death of a pet and finding love in unexpected placesSocial media toxicity and how to protect your peaceThe importance of speaking the truth, even on a small platformJoin the Conversation:Have you felt helpless in 2025? Angry? Grieving? What helps you cope? Drop your thoughts below — let’s support each other through this.#poddinmynoggin #politicalcommentarypodcast #griefandhealing #trump2025 #canadianpolitics2025 #mentalhealthawareness #rawsolopodcast #loveoverhate #helplessness #cksimms #ChristianNationalism#WhiteSupremacy#FarRightExtremism#HumanRightsViolations#IsraelPalestineConflict#GazaGenocide#SystemicRacism#BlackLivesMatter#ICEDeportations#PoliticalPolarization#PopulistRhetoric#EthnoNationalismDonald TrumpJD VanceMarjorie Taylor GreeneElon MuskChristian nationalismWhite Christian nationalismWhite supremacyFar-right extremismReplacement theoryNeo-fascismMAGA movementAlt-rightRacist rhetoricAnti-immigrant policiesIslamophobiaPierre PoilievreMark CarneyCanadian conservatismRight-wing populism in CanadaCanada First movementAnglo-Saxon political traditionsAnti-immigration policies in CanadaIsrael-Palestine conflictGaza genocideEthnic cleansingHuman rights violationsInternational lawWar crimesIslamophobiaAnti-SemitismICE deportationsRacial profilingSystemic racismPolice brutalityBlack Lives MatterChristian nationalismWhite Christian nationalismReligious extremismCultural supremacyNational identity politicsEthno-nationalismPopulist rhetoricIdentity politicsPolitical polarization

Guest Name: Elizabeth Bruckner

https://createwellnessproject.com/

Summary

In this episode of Poddin' My Noggin, host C.K. Simms sits down with Elizabeth Bruckner, acupuncturist and author of The Homesteader Mindset, to discuss her path from facing health challenges as a child to becoming a passionate advocate for alternative medicine and sustainable living. Elizabeth shares insights on the evolution of urban homesteading, the gut-health benefits of fermentation, and how habit stacking supports long-term wellness. The episode also explores the stigma around chronic pain, the healing power of authenticity, and grounding techniques for mental health. Elizabeth previews her upcoming course on chronic pain relief and a new book that aims to revolutionize how we think about healing from the kitchen out.

Takeaways

- Elizabeth Bruckner's journey began with a challenging childhood and a drive for alternative medicine.

- She transitioned to acupuncture after realizing the limitations of Western medicine.

- The concept of homesteading is evolving, allowing urban dwellers to embrace sustainable living.

- Fermentation is a powerful method for enhancing nutrition and gut health.

- Habit stacking can help integrate new healthy habits into daily routines.

- Authenticity and relatability are key in sharing knowledge and experiences.

- Chronic pain is often normalized, but it doesn't have to be accepted as a way of life.

- Healing is a journey, and sharing experiences can inspire others.

- The importance of grounding techniques in managing mental health.

- Future projects include a course on healing chronic pain and a new book on kitchen revolution.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Elizabeth Bruckner

02:26 Early Life and Health Challenges

08:03 Journey into Acupuncture and Alternative Medicine

12:45 Mental Health and Wellness Focus

22:35 Accidental Homesteading Journey

32:31 The Power of Small Changes

33:39 Learning Through YouTube

36:09 Understanding Fermentation

42:04 The Benefits of Lacto-Fermentation

49:27 Gut Health and Mental Well-being

50:56 Habit Stacking for Better Health

52:48 Creating Healthy Routines

55:40 The Importance of Habit Tracking

57:53 Authenticity in Conversations

01:00:59 Future Projects and Healing Chronic Pain

Keywords

#acupuncturehealing #authenticliving #chronicpainawareness #fermentationbenefits #guthealthmatters #habitstacking #healingjourney #healthylifestyle #homesteadermindset #homesteadinglife #integrativehealing #kitchenrevolution #mentalhealthsupport #modernhomesteading #naturalremedies #nutritionmatters #painmanagement #plantbasedhealing #podcastconversation #podcastguest #poddinmynoggin #selfhealingjourney #sustainableliving #urbanhomesteading #wellbeingmatters #wellnessadvocate #wellnessjourney #womenshealth #womenswellness #youarenotalone

Guest Name: Larry Bograd

https://www.larrybograd.com/

Instagram: larrybograd

Summary

In this heartfelt episode of Poddin' My Noggin, host C.K. Simms speaks with author Larry Bograd about his memoir Blood Flow: A Son's 40-Year Journey to Understand His Father's Suicide. Together, they explore the emotional aftermath of suicide, the stigma of mental illness in the 1960s, and how Larry’s decades-long writing process helped him reframe his father’s death with compassion. The episode unpacks themes of trauma, gratitude, family healing, and the resilience born from pain. Larry also shares a glimpse into his upcoming work exploring the American West and emphasizes how storytelling can foster connection, healing, and hope.

Takeaways

- Larry's father's suicide deeply impacted his family dynamics.

- Mental health treatment in the 1960s was primitive and stigmatized.

- Larry chose compassion over anger towards his father's actions.

- The creative process for 'Blood Flow' evolved over decades.

- Larry's experiences shaped his understanding of resilience and survival.

- He emphasizes the importance of gratitude in life.

- Larry's family is now a loving and supportive unit.

- He believes in the power of storytelling to heal and connect.

- Larry's future projects include exploring the American West.

- The conversation highlights the importance of open discussions about mental health.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Trauma and Healing

10:02 Understanding the Impact of Suicide

20:08 Navigating Grief and Compassion

30:09 The Journey of Writing and Reflection

35:09 Family Bonds and Expressions of Love

38:18 Surviving Trauma: A Shift in Perspective

41:55 The Complexity of Victimhood and Healing

48:18 The Journey of a Writer: Banned Books and Censorship

55:18 Creative Endeavors: Documentaries and Personal Stories

01:02:02 Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Aspirations

Keywords

#authorinterview #bloodflowbook #compassionatehealing #creativejourney #familyhealing #griefawareness #healingthroughwriting #mentalhealth #mentalhealthadvocacy #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #memoirwriting #openconversations #poddinmynoggin #resiliencejourney #selfcompassion #sonsstory #storytellingheals #storytellingpower #suicideawareness #suicideimpact #suicideprevention #suicidestigma #traumahealing #traumaresilience #understandinggrief #vulnerabilityinwriting #writingastherapy #writingmemoirs #writingtoheal #Podmatch

Guest Name: Clementine Moss

https://www.clemthegreat.com/

https://www.zepparella.com/

Instagram & Facebook: clementinemossmusic

Summary

In this inspiring episode of Poddin' My Noggin, host C.K. Simms sits down with Clementine Moss, musician, spiritual counselor, and drummer for the American Led Zeppelin tribute band, Zepparella. Clementine shares her journey from a writer in Southern California to a drummer in New York City, detailing how the bar scene unexpectedly led her to discover her passion for drumming.

She discusses the profound role that spirituality plays in her creative life, her experiences as a shamanic counselor, and the personal growth reflected in her memoir, “From Bonham to Buddha and Back: The Slow Enlightenment of the Hard Rock Drummer”. Throughout the conversation, Clementine offers insights on overcoming negative self-talk, finding self-worth, and embracing creative expression. She also gives a glimpse into her exciting upcoming projects, including new music and a forthcoming album release from Zepparella.

Takeaways

- Clementine moved to New York City to pursue writing.

- She transitioned from writing to music through her experiences in the bar scene.

- Drumming became a passion for Clementine after trying it for the first time.

- She emphasizes the importance of spiritual practice in her life and music.

- Clementine's book explores the connection between rock and roll and spirituality.

- She uses drumming in her work as a shamanic counselor.

- Clementine believes in the power of creativity and self-expression.

- Her journey includes overcoming negative self-talk and finding self-worth.

- She encourages listeners to pick one thing and commit to it.

- Clementine's upcoming projects include new music and a tribute band album.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Clementine Moss

01:43 Clementine's Journey to New York City

04:08 Transition from Writing to Music

08:49 Discovering the Drums

12:27 Understanding Drumming and Music Theory

15:51 The Role of Intention and Commitment

19:00 Clementine's Musical Projects and Inspirations

23:00 Exploring Original Music and Creative Process

28:15 The Art of Storytelling and Music Creation

31:20 Journey Through Music and Healing

32:25 Spiritual Practices and Personal Growth

38:12 The Intersection of Music and Therapy

41:01 Understanding Shamanism and Healing Modalities

46:34 Transforming Negative Internal Dialogue

52:22 From Bonham to Buddha: A Memoir of Growth

57:50 Future Endeavors and Musical Releases

Keywords

#artistjourney #bonhamtobuddha #creativeexpression #creativitymatters #drummerlife #drummingpassion #femaleartists #femaleentrepreneurs #femalemusicians #findingpurpose #healingthroughmusic #inspirationalstories #ledzeppelin #meditativepractice #mindfulnessmatters #musicheals #musicianlife #newyorkmusic #personalgrowthjourney #podcastguest #poddinmynoggin #rockandroll #rockdrumming #selfexpression #shamaniccounseling #spiritualawakening #spiritualgrowth #spiritualjourney #womeninmusic #zepparella

Guest Name: Shellie R. Warren

Read articles by Shellie at https://www.xonecole.com/u/shellie-r-warren

Contact: missnosipho@gmail.com

Summary:

In this heartfelt episode of Poddin’ My Noggin, C.K. Simms welcomes Shellie R. Warren—writer, speaker, and doula—for a deep dive into personal transformation, the sacrifices we make for self-acceptance, and the layered beauty of human relationships. Together, they unpack the emotional truths of parenting, identity, creativity, sexuality, and the healing journey through divorce.

Shellie reflects on her path to becoming a doula as both a personal calling and a means of birthing healing—literally and metaphorically. From discussing why quality friendships matter more than quantity, to the essential role of open conversations around sex and pleasure, this episode is a powerful exploration of adulting, accountability, forgiveness, and the courage to set boundaries. Listeners will walk away feeling seen, inspired, and reminded that they are a blessing to those around them.

Takeaways:

- Self-acceptance is a journey that often requires sacrifices.

- Understanding one's identity can lead to profound personal growth.

- Parents may struggle to accept the unique traits of their children.

- Healthy relationships require mutual respect and understanding.

- Quality friendships are more valuable than quantity.

- Becoming a doula can be a healing experience for both the doula and the clients.

- Creativity can be seen as a form of birthing new ideas and projects.

- Open communication about sex is essential for healthy relationships.

- Sexual education should encompass all aspects of sexual health and pleasure.

- Divorce can be an opportunity for personal growth and reflection. Compassion is more important than being non-judgmental.

- Accountability is essential in relationships.

- Marriage should be valued and approached seriously.

- Divorce rates increase with each subsequent marriage.

- Self-reflection is crucial before entering a new relationship.

- Forgiveness requires acknowledgment and a willingness to change.

- Setting boundaries is necessary for personal peace.

- Sacrificing something good can lead to something greater.

- Adulthood involves overcoming childhood traumas.

- You are a blessing to those around you.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

03:06 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Sacrifice

07:55 Parenting and the Challenges of Raising Unique Children

10:50 Romanticizing Family and Relationships

12:58 Improvement vs. Change in Relationships

14:55 The Value of Quality Friendships

18:29 Becoming a Doula and Birthing Creative Ideas

28:38 Exploring Sex and Divorce

31:18 Exploring Sexual Memory and Orgasm

34:16 The Role of Churches in Sexual Education

37:37 Understanding Andropause and Aging

42:38 Navigating Divorce and Reconciliation

50:45 The Importance of Self-Reflection in Relationships

57:30 Navigating Forgiveness and Boundaries

01:00:45 The Impact of Family Dynamics

01:02:39 Personal Growth Through Adversity

01:06:00 The Role of Social Media in Relationships

01:11:02 Embracing Conversations and Learning from Others

01:15:36 Preparing for the Future and Personal Stability

Keywords:

#adulthoodjourney #authenticliving #birthingcreativity #boundariesmatter #compassionateconversation #creativeliving #divorcehealing #doulaexperience #emotionalgrowth #empoweredrelationships #forgivenessjourney #friendshipgoals #healingthroughdivorce #identitymatters #innerpeace #intentionalrelationships #marriagematters #mutualrespect #opencommunication #parentingrealities #personalgrowth #podcastlife #poddinmynoggin #PodMatch #selfacceptance #selfdiscoveryjourney #sexualhealthmatters #shellierwarren #traumahealing #valuingfriendship #womensstories