HealingUS Podcast

HealingUS Podcast

di Daniel & Ashley Regan
Stagione 6
From Trauma to Transformation with the relentless Lenny Antonina
On this episode of the HealingUS Podcast, we’re honored to sit down with Lenny Antonina—a powerhouse in holistic healing and a beacon of resilience. A registered nurse, holistic health coach, yoga teacher, Reiki Master, and mother of five, Lenny’s story is one of profound healing, spiritual awakening, and unwavering determination. At just nine years old, Lenny lost her brother—a Vietnam War veteran—to suicide, a trauma that led to PTSD and a battle with bulimia. At 19, she endured a major car accident that reshaped her life yet again. Rather than succumb to pain, Lenny turned to holistic healing: embracing yoga, meditation, nutrition, and energy work as pathways to recovery. Today, she empowers others through her comprehensive health framework, The Five Pillars of Lenny, and her podcast, Ageless Vitality with Lenny Antonina. 🎧 In This Episode: Childhood trauma, PTSD & the ripple effects of loss The healing journey from bulimia & physical injury Embracing yoga, Reiki, and nutrition for whole-body wellness What it means to live with ageless vitality Insights from “The Five Pillars of Lenny” Real talk on resilience, motherhood, and mind-body healing Lenny’s wisdom and vulnerability will leave you feeling uplifted, grounded, and inspired to reclaim your own wellness—no matter where you’re starting from. You can find out more about Lenny and follow her here - https://linktr.ee/LennyAntonina?
Pushing Limits: Bodybuilding, Business & Mental Resilience with Nick Pirrera
In this episode of the HealingUS Podcast, we’re joined by Nick Pirrera—NPC bodybuilder, entrepreneur, and founder of Nitro Nutrition. Hailing from Toms River, New Jersey, Nick shares his powerful journey from student athlete to elite competitor and business owner, revealing the mindset and discipline it takes to thrive in both the fitness world and entrepreneurship. We dive deep into his early influences, the mental toll of competitive bodybuilding, and how he overcame major setbacks with grit and purpose. Nick opens up about launching Nitro Nutrition, managing stress under pressure, and the importance of building a supportive fitness community. Whether you're chasing a goal in the gym or life, this episode delivers raw insight into the power of resilience, consistency, and staying mentally strong through it all. 🎧 Topics Covered: Nick’s journey from Toms River to the NPC stage Mental health challenges in bodybuilding Starting Nitro Nutrition & fueling performance Stress management & mindset practices Advice for aspiring athletes and entrepreneurs What’s next for Nick in fitness and business 💥 This is an inspiring listen for anyone passionate about self-improvement, wellness, or chasing their dreams with relentless focus.
Firearms, Fatherhood and Mental Fortitude with Owner & Founder of SC Arms, Derek Pitera
In this episode of the HealingUS Podcast, we sit down with Derek Pitera—entrepreneur, father of two, and founder of SC Arms, one of New Jersey’s largest and most respected firearms dealerships. From building a business in one of the country’s most tightly regulated states to becoming a trusted resource for celebrities, pro athletes, and law enforcement, Derek shares the real story behind his success. We explore Derek’s journey into the firearms industry, the challenges he faces as a business owner in a high-pressure and often controversial space, and how he stays grounded through it all. Derek opens up about fatherhood, mental health, and the resilience it takes to balance personal growth, family, and entrepreneurship. This conversation goes far beyond business—it's about grit, clarity under pressure, and what it means to lead with integrity and heart. 🎧 In This Episode: The origin of SC Arms & navigating NJ gun laws Mental health in entrepreneurship Handling public perception in a controversial industry Balancing fatherhood and business Strategies for stress, resilience, and mental clarity Core values and advice for entrepreneurs & parents 💡 Whether you're a business owner, parent, or simply looking to hear a raw and inspiring story of hustle and heart—this one's for you.
Finding Healing Through the Lens with Photographer AlanaFrancesca Perrotta
In this powerful episode of the HealingUS Podcast, we’re joined by AlanaFrancesca Perrotta—a New Jersey-based photographer, content creator, and storyteller who’s turned her personal pain into profound purpose. With a background in English lit and a heart for creativity, Alana shares her journey of loss and struggles to a whole new lens, using her camera to help others express themselves and find healing. Alana opens up about the devastating loss of her mother in 2011 and how that grief has shaped her perspective, her art, and her mental health journey. Her story is one of transformation—of channeling sorrow into self-expression, and vulnerability into strength. From navigating the demands of a creative career to honoring authenticity online, Alana offers insight, inspiration, and real-life strategies for living a life full of meaning, emotion, and truth. 🎧 In This Episode: Grief, growth & honoring her mother’s legacy Transitioning to photography as a medium of creativity Mental health in creative entrepreneurship Struggles with RJOCD (Reactive Jealousy Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Using art as a healing and expressive outlet Balancing authenticity and social media presence Navigating personal and professional boundaries This is a raw and relatable conversation for anyone seeking healing, courage, or creative inspiration in the face of adversity.
Stagione 5
The Heart of Recovery: Ashley Close on Community Impact and Support
In this episode of the HealingUs Podcast, we sit down with Ashley Close, a dedicated professional working in the field of addiction recovery. Ashley shares her personal journey, revealing the experiences and influences that led her to this meaningful work. We delve into how her understanding of addiction has evolved, the common misconceptions she encounters, and the importance of raising awareness about addiction in our communities. Ashley also discusses the challenges she faces in her role, the balance between work and personal life, and how Wellbridge actively supports individuals and families in their recovery journey. Tune in for valuable advice for families navigating a loved one’s addiction, insights into building community support, and an inspiring look at the impact of compassion and connection in addiction recovery. LinkTree: linktr.ee/hucenters Dan Regan Instagram: instagram.com/danielreganrecovery/?hl=en Relevance Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/relevancerecovery/?hl=en Calusa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/calusa_recovery/?hl=en Avisa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/avisa_recovery/?hl=en Prioritizing Your Mental Health On Your Bingo Card? Discover lasting wellness at our family-owned and operated facilities. Nationally Recognized for our holistic approach to life-changing healing. We specialize in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment at our facilities. Call us today at: 866-382-1522 Can't speak right now? Shoot us a text: 732-795-5250
Maternal Mental Health Matters: Insights from Peg Wright
In this episode, we sit down with Peg Wright, the inspiring President and CEO of The Center for Great Expectations (CGE). Since founding CGE in 1998, Peg has transformed the organization from a single home for homeless, pregnant women into a comprehensive network offering trauma-informed care for women, adolescents, and families. Together, we explore her journey, CGE's mission, and the innovative programs they've developed to break cycles of homelessness, addiction, and trauma. Peg shares the core principles of trauma-informed care, the challenges in maternal mental health, and the transformative impact of CGE's programs. Tune in to hear powerful success stories, insights on the future of mental health care, and the legacy Peg hopes to leave behind. #pregnancyjourney #pregnancycare #pregnancytips #postpartum #postpartumhealth #postpartumwellness #postpartumrecovery LinkTree: linktr.ee/hucenters Dan Regan Instagram: instagram.com/danielreganrecovery/?hl=en Relevance Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/relevancerecovery/?hl=en Calusa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/calusa_recovery/?hl=en Avisa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/avisa_recovery/?hl=en Prioritizing Your Mental Health On Your Bingo Card? Discover lasting wellness at our family-owned and operated facilities. Nationally Recognized for our holistic approach to life-changing healing. We specialize in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment at our facilities. Call us today at: 866-382-1522 Can't speak right now? Shoot us a text: 732-795-5250
A Mother’s Tribute: The Black Poster Project and Silent Memorials
In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Dee Gillen, the creator of the Black Poster Project, and Dawn Pizzolato and her pivotal role as operations manager. The Black Poster Project is an artistic and powerful tribute born from loss and resilience. After the devastating loss of her son Scott to an overdose, Dee channeled her grief into creating a moving exhibit called Silent Memorials. This traveling project, showcased throughout New Jersey and New York, uses impactful black-and-white posters to honor lives lost to addiction and raise awareness about the overdose epidemic. Dee shares her deeply personal story, the inspiration behind the project, and the challenges she’s faced along the way. We discuss the emotional impact of the Silent Memorials exhibit, its reception by the community, and the profound message of hope and awareness it conveys to families and individuals affected by addiction. Join us as Dee reflects on Scott's legacy, her proudest moments with the project, and her advice for others seeking to transform grief into meaningful action. This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength found in love, loss, and community. #blackposterproject #theblackposterproject #healingus #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthsupport LinkTree: linktr.ee/hucenters Dan Regan Instagram: instagram.com/danielreganrecovery/?hl=en Relevance Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/relevancerecovery/?hl=en Calusa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/calusa_recovery/?hl=en Avisa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/avisa_recovery/?hl=en Prioritizing Your Mental Health On Your Bingo Card? Discover lasting wellness at our family-owned and operated facilities. Nationally Recognized for our holistic approach to life-changing healing. We specialize in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment at our facilities. Call us today at: 866-382-1522 Can't speak right now? Shoot us a text: 732-795-5250
Turning Points and Deep Breaths: Sydney Pentland on Healing and Recovery
In this episode, Sydney shares her personal journey of overcoming challenges and the pivotal moments that inspired her to help others. Discover the transformative impact of breathwork, as Sydney explains how it can aid in the healing process and offers insights into the programs at Vital Breathwork. Whether you're curious about starting your own breathwork journey or seeking inspiration in recovery, this episode dives deep into the benefits, misconceptions, and personal experiences that make breathwork a vital tool for healing. Tune in to explore how breath can be a powerful force for change! LinkTree: linktr.ee/hucenters Dan Regan Instagram: instagram.com/danielreganrecovery/?hl=en Relevance Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/relevancerecovery/?hl=en Calusa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/calusa_recovery/?hl=en Avisa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/avisa_recovery/?hl=en Prioritizing Your Mental Health On Your Bingo Card? Discover lasting wellness at our family-owned and operated facilities. Nationally Recognized for our holistic approach to life-changing healing. We specialize in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment at our facilities. Call us today at: 866-382-1522 Can't speak right now? Shoot us a text: 732-795-5250
Stagione 4
Revived by Purpose: Steve Sunquist and Sam Hewitt on Recovery and Resilience
In this episode of the HealingUs Podcast, Danny & Ashley sit down with Steve Sundquist and Sam Hewitt from Ascend Recovery Centers and Port Charlotte Detox for a powerful conversation about addiction, recovery, and the challenges of the treatment world. Steve shares his personal battle with addiction, including a terrifying moment when he overdosed twice in a 24-hour period and was revived with 8 doses of Narcan. Now, with a renewed purpose in life, Steve dedicates himself to helping others through his work, finding joy in being a father and an entrepreneur. Both Steve and Danny discuss how helping others in their recovery not only supports those in need but also keeps them grounded in their own sobriety—offering humility and perspective. Sam, equally passionate about the work, thrives off the success stories that make their efforts worthwhile. Together, they discuss creating safe spaces for people to recover and the constant battle with insurance companies that often make it difficult to provide the proper treatment. Balancing the tough realities of the treatment world with their own mental health is crucial for both Steve and Sam. They share stories of hope and talk about their mission to bring treatment to places where it's scarce, providing essential resources to those in need. Tune in for an insightful episode filled with resilience, purpose, and a commitment to helping others recover.
Legally Blind, Unstoppably Strong: Matt Strout’s Journey of Fitness and Adaptation
In this episode of the HealingUs Podcast, Danny sits down with Matt Strout for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation. The two share how they first met and how Matt has dedicated his life to helping kids thrive, taking them under his wing and helping them blossom into well-rounded individuals. A true community person at heart, Matt opens up about his passion for creating a safe space for those who lack strong support systems, driven by his own experience of having a solid foundation at home. Matt shares his personal journey of being an overweight kid, growing up with active parents—his father a competitive bodybuilder and Air Force veteran. While he resisted the fitness lifestyle in his early years, a shift happened when he turned 12, sparking his lifelong passion for health and fitness. From playing sports to becoming a certified trainer in high school, Matt’s path seemed clear until his life was turned upside down by a devastating genetic disease that left him legally blind. Matt reveals the emotional toll of his diagnosis, describing the deep depression he faced when he felt his dreams were crushed. But instead of giving up, he learned to adapt to his illness and channeled his negative energy into positive actions, including learning how to box as a legally blind man. Tune in to hear Matt’s powerful story of resilience, finding light in the darkness, and setting positive examples for others, even when life throws its toughest challenges.
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