Strategies for Living

Strategies for Living

di David C. McMillian, Ph.D. and Lauren Leon McMillian, M.S.

Salute mentale Spiritualità

Stagione 32

Neurodiversity & Brain Training: Celebrating 17 Years of LearningRx

In this episode of Strategies for Living, David and Lauren McMillian welcome back life strategist Donesa Walker, Executive Director of the LearningRx Shreveport–Bossier. As LearningRx celebrates its 17th anniversary as the #1 center worldwide, we dive into the power of neurodiversity, brain training, and how personalized cognitive skills programs transform lives. From ADHD and dyslexia to boosting memory, focus, and learning strategies, discover how neuroplasticity allows every brain—young or old—to grow, adapt, and thrive. Plus, hear about a special anniversary offer that makes this the perfect time to take the first step toward unlocking your or your child’s potential. Original airdate: 9/11/2025

The Meaning of Your Past Isn’t Set in Stone: Memory, Trauma & Resilience

In this episode of Strategies for Living, Dr. David McMillian and Lauren Leon McMillian explore how memory reconsolidation shapes the way we understand our past and create meaning in our lives. Inspired by author Charlotte Chun’s book Earliest Memories and an article in Psychology Today by Dr. Jordan Grumet, they uncover how storytelling can transform trauma, victimhood, and emotional triggers into resilience, growth, and “main character energy.” Discover practical strategies for reframing your memories, becoming the hero of your own story, and unlocking the power of narrative retelling for healing and personal freedom. Original airdate: 9/10/2025

Over the Edge: Building a Brighter Shreveport

Get ready to go Over the Edge—literally and figuratively—in this powerful episode of Strategies for Living! David and Lauren welcome two incredible local Shreveport life strategists: Wendy Benscoter, Executive Director of Shreveport Common, and Lee Jeter, Executive Director of the Fuller Center for Housing of Northwest Louisiana. Together, they unveil the story behind one of Shreveport’s most exciting community fundraisers: a 15-story rappel down the historic Fairmont Tower on October 4th. More than just a thrill, this event supports creative placemaking, affordable housing, and revitalization efforts that are transforming Shreveport from blight to bright. Learn how these two powerhouse nonprofits are partnering to build homes, preserve history, and bring neighbors and neighborhoods together. Whether you sign up to be an "edger" or join the CHKN Club from the ground, this is your chance to be part of the change. 👉 Visit shreveportcommon.com or fullercenternwla.org to sign up or support! Original Airdate: 9/9/2025

Earliest Memories: Unlocking the Psychology of Our First Stories with Charlotte Chun

What’s your earliest memory—and why does it matter? In this episode of Strategies for Living, Dr. David and Lauren Leon McMillian sit down with psychologist and author Dr. Charlotte Chun to explore her new book Earliest Memories. Together, they dive into the psychology of memory, the science behind “sticky” emotions and sensations, and the surprising universality of childhood recollections across cultures. From funny turtle tales to profound family stories, discover how revisiting your first memories can reconnect you with your identity, spark healing, and bring families closer through storytelling. Find Charlotte and her book at www.earliestmemoriesbook.com Original airdate: 9/4/2025

The Art of Happiness: Habits for a Joyful Life

What if happiness isn’t luck, but an art you can practice every day? In this episode of Strategies for Living, Dr. David McMillian and Lauren Leon McMillian explore the “Art of Happiness” and share eight simple habits that people who truly love their lives practice daily. From gratitude journaling and meaningful relationships to simplicity, mindfulness, growth mindset, kindness, healthy boundaries, and finding purpose, discover how small choices can create lasting joy and fulfillment. Tune in and learn practical strategies to bring more peace, connection, and happiness into your life today. Original airdate: 9/3/2025

Hit RESET: A 5-Step Method to Calm, Clear, and Centered

In this episode of Strategies for Living, Dr. David McMillian and psychotherapist Lauren Leon McMillian explore how to break free from emotional overwhelm with the RESET method—a simple, science-backed 5-step framework: Recognize, Exhale, See clearly, Embrace, and Take action. Together they dive into the neuroscience behind emotional hijacking, the role of the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, and why mindfulness, breathwork, and self-compassion are essential tools for resilience. Whether you’re battling stress, anxiety, or repeating negative thought loops, you’ll discover practical strategies to calm your nervous system, regain clarity, and return to values-based living. If you’ve ever wished for a reset button in life—this conversation shows you how to press it. Original airdate: 9/2/2025

Lights, Camera, Community: Behind the Screens at Robinson Film Center,

Step behind the scenes at one of Shreveport’s most vibrant cultural landmarks—the Robinson Film Center. In this inspiring episode of Strategies for Living, Dr. David and Lauren Leon McMillian sit down with Executive Director Wendell Riley to explore how RFC is more than just a theater—it's a hub for film education, community engagement, and nonprofit collaboration. Discover how Abby Singer’s Bistro became a dining destination, how film festivals like Out North La and Louisiana Film Prize are reshaping our local arts scene, and how RFC is innovating team-building through film-based leadership training and corporate retreats. From Food Network chef battles to community karaoke with the mayor, this episode is a celebration of storytelling, culture, and connection through cinema. 🎬 Don’t miss this engaging conversation about movies, memory, and the power of place! Original airdate: 8/29/2025

Notes to Self: Daily Reminders for a Resilient Mindset

In this episode of Strategies for Living, David and Lauren dive into the wisdom of “7 Notes to Self We Should All Read Every Day.” Through stories of second chances, lessons from grief, and practical mindset shifts, they explore how small daily reminders can spark resilience, inner peace, and growth. From embracing change to valuing genuine relationships, these notes to self act as powerful affirmations that help us thrive—not just survive—in life’s ups and downs. Tune in for inspiration, encouragement, and strategies you can use today to create a more meaningful tomorrow. Original airdate: 8/28/2025

Lessons from the Best Psychology & Self-Help Books

What if the wisdom of the world’s bestselling psychology and self-help books could be distilled into just 20 practical rules? In this episode of Strategies for Living, David, Lauren, and Jay unpack insights from classics like The Body Keeps the Score, Emotional Agility, Atlas of the Heart, Atomic Habits, The Happiness Trap, and more. Together they explore how these timeless lessons reveal the truth about trauma, emotions, relationships, boundaries, and self-compassion. Learn why your brain isn’t designed to make you happy, how secure relationships can rewire your mind, why curiosity heals more than judgment, and why you’re not broken—you’re becoming. Perfect for anyone on the journey of personal growth, emotional healing, or building a healthier mindset. Original airdate: 8/27/2025 🔑 Keywords for Podcast Platforms psychology books, self-help books, personal growth, emotional intelligence, trauma healing, self-compassion, mental health, secure relationships, boundaries, emotional regulation, anxiety, self-awareness, healing journey, strategies for living, David McMillian, Lauren Leon, Jay Murrell

Starting From Here: Paula Saunders on Resilience, Self-Forgiveness & the Power of Story

In this inspiring episode of Strategies for Living Radio, Dr. David McMillian and Lauren Leon McMillian welcome acclaimed novelist Paula Saunders, author of The Distance Home and her brand-new release Starting From Here. Saunders opens up about her writing journey under the mentorship of Toni Morrison, the struggles and resilience woven into her family-centered coming-of-age stories, and the universal need for self-forgiveness, empathy, and spiritual growth. Together, we explore how past wounds shape us, why emotional honesty matters, and how every transition in life is an opportunity to “start from here.” This conversation is not just about literature—it’s about healing, resilience, and finding meaning in our personal stories. Perfect for anyone seeking strategies to navigate life’s challenges with grace, courage, and compassion. Original Airdate: 8/26/2025 🔑 Suggested Keywords: Paula Saunders, Starting From Here, The Distance Home, Strategies for Living Radio, David McMillian, Lauren Leon McMillian, Toni Morrison, coming of age, family resilience, self-forgiveness, empathy, healing, emotional honesty, women’s empowerment, spirituality, resilience in relationships, writing process, personal growth podcast, holistic living, mental health podcast

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