# Heal Your Roots Podcast > A nervous system-based mental health podcast that challenges the strategies keeping you stuck. Hosted by Kira Yakubov Ploshansky, LMFT. ## About Heal Your Roots Podcast explores why trying to feel better often makes things worse. Through expert conversations, we examine how nervous system patterns drive anxiety, trauma responses, and relationship difficulties — offering clarity over comfort. ## Pages - [Home](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/) - [Episodes](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes): Browse all podcast episodes - [About](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/about): Meet the team and our mission - [Resources](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/resources): Mental health resources, wellness podcasts, recommended books, and crisis contacts - [Blog](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog): In-depth articles, slide decks, and valuable resources related to each episode to deepen your understanding and healing journey - [Contact](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/contact): Get in touch - [Social Hub](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/social-hub): Link-in-bio with all platform links and infographics ## Episodes (37 total) - [Cultural Double Standards: Food and Body Image with Allen-Michael Lewis, LMFT](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/cultural-double-standards-food-body-image-allen-michael-lewis) with Allen-Michael Lewis (2024-06-19): Join us for the season finale of Season 3 on Heal Your Roots Podcast, where Kira Yakubov Ploshansky, LMFT, and Dr. Katie Manganello, host Allen-Michael Lewis, LMFT – one of the newest team members at - [Safe Exercise During Pregnancy: Myths and Facts](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/safe-exercise-during-pregnancy-myths-facts) with Amanda Matrisciano (2024-06-05): Dive deep into the world of prenatal fitness and nutrition with special guest Amanda Matrisciano, a certified personal trainer with expertise in pre and postnatal training. Timestamps: 0:00 – Introd - [Coping Strategies for New Mothers Facing Postpartum Challenges](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/coping-strategies-new-mothers-postpartum-challenges) with Dr Brianna Blis, Dr. Sepncer Brown (2024-05-22): Deep dive into maternal mental health covering postpartum anxiety, depression, and practical coping strategies for new mothers navigating postpartum challenges. - [Nourishing the Mind and Body: Functional Medicine and Pregnancy Health](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/nourishing-mind-body-functional-medicine-pregnancy) with Mari Kharroubi (2024-05-08): Mari Kharroubi shares her journey from overcoming learning disabilities to pioneering holistic approaches in maternal health through functional medicine. - [OCD and Eating Disorders: Unveiling Treatment Synergies with Dr. Alyssa Hertz](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/ocd-eating-disorders-treatment-synergies-dr-alyssa-hertz) with Dr. Alyssa Hertz (2024-04-24): Dr. Alyssa Hertz explores the complexities of treating individuals with both OCD and eating disorders, highlighting treatment synergies and therapeutic approaches. - [From Anxiety to Empowerment: A Deep Dive into Postpartum & Perinatal OCD](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/anxiety-empowerment-postpartum-perinatal-ocd) with Dr. Katie Manganello (2024-04-10): Dr. Katie Manganello returns to explore postpartum and perinatal OCD, discussing anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and the journey towards empowerment for new parents. - [Faith, Doubt, and Healing: Conquering OCD and Religious Trauma Together](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/faith-doubt-healing-ocd-religious-trauma) with Caitlin Harrison, Dr. Katie Manganello (2024-03-27): Exploration of the intersections between OCD, religious trauma, and healing pathways with Dr. Katie Manganello and Caitlin Harrison. - [Expert ADHD Strategies for Children and Families with Dr. Jessica Robb Mazzant](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/expert-adhd-strategies-children-families-dr-jessica-robb-mazzant) with Dr. Jessica Robb Mazzant (2024-03-13): Dr. Jessica Robb Mazzant shares expert ADHD strategies for children and families, covering assessment, treatment approaches, and family dynamics. - [Ayahuasca Healing for PTSD and Trauma Survivors](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/ayahuasca-healing-ptsd-trauma-survivors) with Alex Mayrin (2024-02-28): Alex Mayrin explores the profound impact of Ayahuasca healing on PTSD and trauma, sharing personal transformation stories and therapeutic applications. - [People Pleasing Origins: Unraveling Childhood and Cultural Influences](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/people-pleasing-origins-childhood-cultural-influences) with Gabrielle Larin (2024-02-14): Kira Yakubov Ploshansky and Gabrielle Larin explore the origins of people-pleasing behaviors, examining childhood and cultural influences on relationship patterns. - [Holistic Healing: Mind-Body Techniques in Therapy](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/holistic-healing-mind-body-techniques-therapy) with Lindsay Bauer (2024-01-31): Exploration of mind-body approaches in therapy, focusing on meditation, mindfulness, and body awareness for healing and emotional management. - [Unveiling Patterns: Understanding Family Dynamics](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/unveiling-patterns-understanding-family-dynamics) with Allen-Michael Lewis (2024-01-17): Allen Michael Lewis explores family dynamics through genograms, examining intergenerational patterns and their impact on current relationships and mental health. - [Navigating Non-Monogamy: Communication and Boundaries](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/navigating-non-monogamy-communication-boundaries) with Caitlin Harrison (2024-01-03): Open discussion about non-monogamous relationships, covering communication, trust, boundaries, and addressing common misconceptions about alternative relationship structures. - [Beyond Anxiety: A Deeper Dive into OCD Diagnosis](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/beyond-anxiety-deeper-dive-ocd-diagnosis) with Katie Manganello (2023-12-20): Year-end reflection episode focusing on processing personal growth, acknowledging progress, and preparing for upcoming transitions and changes. - [Pathways to Healing: Trauma, Addiction, and Recovery Strategies](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/pathways-to-healing-trauma-addiction-recovery-strategies) with Laura Schneider (2023-12-06): Practical strategies for managing holiday stress, family dynamics, and maintaining mental health during the challenging and joyful holiday season. - [Combatting Anxiety: Tools, Techniques, and Humor with Joslyn Justi](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/combatting-anxiety-tools-techniques-humor-joslyn-justi) with Joslyn Justi (2023-07-05): Examination of social media's impact on anxiety and mental health, with practical strategies for creating healthier relationships with technology. - [Embracing Cultural Identity in Therapy with Gabrielle Larin, LMFT](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/embracing-cultural-identity-therapy-gabrielle-larin) with Gabrielle Larin (2023-06-21): Exploration of self-compassion versus self-criticism, with practical techniques for developing a kinder inner voice and supportive self-relationship. - [Working with the Consensual Non-Monogamy Community](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/working-with-consensual-non-monogamy-community) with Courtney Burkhardt (2023-06-07): Comprehensive exploration of different types of grief and loss, with guidance for processing complex emotions during difficult life transitions. - [Resiliency: The Key to Overcoming Domestic Violence](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/resiliency-key-to-overcoming-domestic-violence) with Michele Finneran (2023-05-24): Examination of perfectionism's impact on mental health, distinguishing healthy striving from harmful perfectionism with strategies for balance. - [Delving into the Neuropsychology of ADHD, Autism, and Learning Disorders: A Chat with Dr. Karen Wilson](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/neuropsychology-adhd-autism-learning-disorders-dr-karen-wilson) with Karen Wilson (2023-05-10): Exploration of vulnerability as a strength in relationships, with practical guidance for building deeper, more authentic connections through emotional openness. - [Trust, Trauma, and Technology: An Intimate Chat with Emily Shaw, NP](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/trust-trauma-technology-emily-shaw) with Emily Shaw (2023-04-26): Comprehensive exploration of depression beyond sadness, covering various forms, symptoms, and evidence-based treatment approaches for healing. - [Support Systems and Relationships: The Importance of Building and Maintaining Connections](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/support-systems-relationships-building-maintaining-connections) with David Koppisch (2023-04-12): Essential guide to understanding and establishing healthy boundaries in relationships, covering practical techniques for setting limits without guilt. - [Perinatal Mental Health: Overcoming Shame and Seeking Help](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/perinatal-mental-health-overcoming-shame-seeking-help) with Nicole Bolognini (2023-03-29): Introduction to trauma-informed care, exploring how traumatic experiences affect mental health and relationships, with principles for healing and support. - [Breaking the Silence: Mental Health and First Responders with Majet Reyes, LPC](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/breaking-silence-mental-health-first-responders-majet-reyes) with Majet Reyes (2023-03-15): Scientific exploration of anxiety and the nervous system, with evidence-based techniques for managing stress responses and feeling more in control. - [Disrupting Cultural Norms: Mental Health Perspectives on Career Choices](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/disrupting-cultural-norms-mental-health-career-choices) with Elijah Jackson (2023-03-01): Guide to developing emotional intelligence skills for better mental health and relationships, covering emotion management and interpersonal connection. - [Let's Talk Sex with Maureen McCarthy, LSW](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/lets-talk-sex-maureen-mccarthy) with Maureen McCarthy (2022-12-07): Season 2 premiere focusing on the therapeutic relationship and finding the right therapist fit, with guidance for evaluating therapy effectiveness. - [Navigating Substance Use and Recovery](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/navigating-substance-use-and-recovery) with Brooke Aymes (2022-11-23): Exploration of attachment theory and its impact on adult relationships, covering the four attachment styles and strategies for building secure connections. - [Mental Health Support for Men](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/mental-health-support-for-men) with David Koppisch (2022-11-09): Examination of intergenerational trauma patterns and therapeutic approaches for breaking cycles of inherited trauma in families and communities. - [Communication and Connection](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/communication-and-connection) with Joslyn Justi (2022-10-26): Exploration of somatic healing approaches and the mind-body connection, covering body-based therapies for processing trauma and emotional experiences. - [Understanding Therapy: Insights from 40 Years of Couples Counseling](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/understanding-therapy-insights-40-years-couples-counseling) with Jean Thayer Meston (2022-11-23): Introduction to therapy, breaking down the therapeutic process and explaining what to expect for those new to mental health treatment. - [Dating Talk with The Therapy Gal Leeor Gal LMFT](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/dating-talk-therapy-gal-leeor-gal) with Leeor Gal (2022-11-09): Addressing mental health stigma and misconceptions, exploring how to break down barriers and create supportive environments for mental health discussions. - [Movement Integration & Couple Support Through Life Transitions](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/movement-integration-couple-support-life-transitions) with Lindsay Bauer (2022-10-26): Exploration of genuine self-care versus temporary self-soothing, with practical strategies for sustainable mental wellness practices. - [Exploring Identities with Elijah Jackson](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/exploring-identities-elijah-jackson) with Elijah Jackson (2022-10-12): Comprehensive guide to relationship communication, covering verbal and non-verbal skills, active listening, and navigating difficult conversations. - [Adolescence and Mental Health Management with Emily Shaw](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/adolescence-mental-health-management-emily-shaw) with Emily Shaw (2022-09-28): Personal exploration of mental health journeys, with tools for self-reflection and understanding individual patterns in thoughts and behaviors. - [Couples Therapy Discussion with Joslyn Justi LMFT](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/couples-therapy-discussion-joslyn-justi) with Joslyn Justi (2022-09-14): Introduction to mindfulness for mental health, exploring benefits and practical techniques for incorporating present moment awareness into daily life. - [Affirmative Therapy with Maureen McCarthy LSW](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/affirmative-therapy-maureen-mccarthy) with Maureen McCarthy (2022-08-31): Exploration of how childhood experiences and early relationships shape adult mental health patterns, providing insights for healing and growth. - [First Steps into Heal Your Roots Podcast](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/episodes/first-steps-heal-your-roots-podcast) with Kira Yakubov Ploshansky (2022-08-17): Inaugural episode introducing the Heal Your Roots Podcast mission, vision for accessible mental health content, and host Kira Yakubov Ploshansky. ## Blog Posts (22 total) - [Mindfulness & Holistic Health: Communication and Connection](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/mindfulness-holistic-health-body-connection-communication-and-connection) (2026-08-12): Exploration of somatic healing approaches and the mind-body connection, covering body-based therapies for processing trauma and emotional experiences. - [Relationships & Communication: Pathways to Healing: Trauma, Addiction, and Recovery Strategies](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/relationships-communication-pathways-to-healing-trauma-addiction-recovery-strategies) (2026-08-09): Practical strategies for managing holiday stress, family dynamics, and maintaining mental health during the challenging and joyful holiday season. - [Family & Parenting: Pathways to Healing: Trauma, Addiction, and Recovery Strategies](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/family-parenting-dynamics-pathways-to-healing-trauma-addiction-recovery-strategies) (2026-08-06): Practical strategies for managing holiday stress, family dynamics, and maintaining mental health during the challenging and joyful holiday season. - [Mental Health & Wellness: Beyond Anxiety: A Deeper Dive into OCD Diagnosis](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/mental-health-wellness-beyond-anxiety-deeper-dive-ocd-diagnosis) (2026-08-03): Year-end reflection episode focusing on processing personal growth, acknowledging progress, and preparing for upcoming transitions and changes. - [Identity & Self-Discovery: Beyond Anxiety: A Deeper Dive into OCD Diagnosis](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/identity-self-discovery-beyond-anxiety-deeper-dive-ocd-diagnosis) (2026-07-31): Year-end reflection episode focusing on processing personal growth, acknowledging progress, and preparing for upcoming transitions and changes. - [Trauma & Healing: Unveiling Patterns: Understanding Family Dynamics](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/trauma-healing-trauma-unveiling-patterns-understanding-family-dynamics) (2026-07-28): Allen Michael Lewis explores family dynamics through genograms, examining intergenerational patterns and their impact on current relationships and mental health. - [Mindfulness & Holistic Health: Holistic Healing: Mind-Body Techniques in Therapy](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/mindfulness-holistic-health-healing-holistic-healing-mind-body-techniques-therapy) (2026-07-25): Exploration of mind-body approaches in therapy, focusing on meditation, mindfulness, and body awareness for healing and emotional management. - [Identity & Self-Discovery: People Pleasing Origins: Unraveling Childhood and Cultural Influences](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/identity-self-discovery-influences-people-pleasing-origins-childhood-cultural-influences) (2026-07-22): Kira Yakubov Ploshansky and Gabrielle Larin explore the origins of people-pleasing behaviors, examining childhood and cultural influences on relationship patterns. - [Family & Parenting: People Pleasing Origins: Unraveling Childhood and Cultural Influences](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/family-parenting-people-pleasing-origins-childhood-cultural-influences) (2026-07-19): Kira Yakubov Ploshansky and Gabrielle Larin explore the origins of people-pleasing behaviors, examining childhood and cultural influences on relationship patterns. - [Anxiety & OCD: People Pleasing Origins: Unraveling Childhood and Cultural Influences](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/anxiety-ocd-pleasing-people-pleasing-origins-childhood-cultural-influences) (2026-07-16): Kira Yakubov Ploshansky and Gabrielle Larin explore the origins of people-pleasing behaviors, examining childhood and cultural influences on relationship patterns. - [Therapy & Treatment: Expert ADHD Strategies for Children and Families with Dr. Jessica Robb Mazzant](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/therapy-treatment-expert-adhd-strategies-children-families-dr-jessica-robb-mazzant) (2026-07-13): Dr. Jessica Robb Mazzant shares expert ADHD strategies for children and families, covering assessment, treatment approaches, and family dynamics. - [Identity & Self-Discovery: From Anxiety to Empowerment: A Deep Dive into Postpartum & Perinatal OCD](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/identity-self-discovery-anxiety-empowerment-postpartum-perinatal-ocd) (2026-07-10): Dr. Katie Manganello returns to explore postpartum and perinatal OCD, discussing anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and the journey towards empowerment for new parents. - [Identity & Self-Discovery: Cultural Double Standards: Food and Body Image with Allen-Michael Lewis, LMFT](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/identity-self-discovery-standards-cultural-double-standards-food-body-image-allen-michael-lewis) (2024-06-19): Join us for the season finale of Season 3 on Heal Your Roots Podcast, where Kira Yakubov Ploshansky, LMFT, and Dr. Katie Manganello, host Allen-Michael Lewis, LMFT – one of the newest team members at - [Family & Parenting: Safe Exercise During Pregnancy: Myths and Facts](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/family-parenting-safe-exercise-during-pregnancy-myths-facts) (2024-06-05): Dive deep into the world of prenatal fitness and nutrition with special guest Amanda Matrisciano, a certified personal trainer with expertise in pre and postnatal training. Timestamps: 0:00 – Introd - [Mental Health & Wellness: Safe Exercise During Pregnancy: Myths and Facts](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/mental-health-wellness-safe-exercise-during-pregnancy-myths-facts) (2024-06-05): Dive deep into the world of prenatal fitness and nutrition with special guest Amanda Matrisciano, a certified personal trainer with expertise in pre and postnatal training. Timestamps: 0:00 – Introd - [Identity & Self-Discovery: Safe Exercise During Pregnancy: Myths and Facts](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/identity-self-discovery-safe-exercise-during-pregnancy-myths-facts) (2024-06-05): Dive deep into the world of prenatal fitness and nutrition with special guest Amanda Matrisciano, a certified personal trainer with expertise in pre and postnatal training. Timestamps: 0:00 – Introd - [Mindfulness & Holistic Health: Safe Exercise During Pregnancy: Myths and Facts](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/mindfulness-holistic-health-safe-exercise-during-pregnancy-myths-facts) (2024-06-05): Dive deep into the world of prenatal fitness and nutrition with special guest Amanda Matrisciano, a certified personal trainer with expertise in pre and postnatal training. Timestamps: 0:00 – Introd - [Family & Parenting: Coping Strategies for New Mothers Facing Postpartum Challenges](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/family-parenting-health-coping-strategies-new-mothers-postpartum-challenges) (2024-05-22): Deep dive into maternal mental health covering postpartum anxiety, depression, and practical coping strategies for new mothers navigating postpartum challenges. - [Identity & Self-Discovery: Nourishing the Mind and Body: Functional Medicine and Pregnancy Health](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/identity-self-discovery-nourishing-mind-body-functional-medicine-pregnancy) (2024-05-08): Mari Kharroubi shares her journey from overcoming learning disabilities to pioneering holistic approaches in maternal health through functional medicine. - [Mindfulness & Holistic Health: Nourishing the Mind and Body: Functional Medicine and Pregnancy Health](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/mindfulness-holistic-health-medicine-nourishing-mind-body-functional-medicine-pregnancy) (2024-05-08): Mari Kharroubi shares her journey from overcoming learning disabilities to pioneering holistic approaches in maternal health through functional medicine. - [Identity & Self-Discovery: OCD and Eating Disorders: Unveiling Treatment Synergies with Dr. Alyssa Hertz](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/identity-self-discovery-disorders-ocd-eating-disorders-treatment-synergies-dr-alyssa-hertz) (2024-04-24): Dr. Alyssa Hertz explores the complexities of treating individuals with both OCD and eating disorders, highlighting treatment synergies and therapeutic approaches. - [Mental Health & Wellness: Understanding Mental Health in Therapy](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/blog/mental-health-wellness-mental-health-therapy) (): Explore the foundations of mental health awareness and how therapy can help individuals navigate their emotional well-being. ## Platforms - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/healyourrootspodcast - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-your-roots - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@healyourrootspodcast - Buzzsprout: https://healyourrootspodcast.buzzsprout.com ## Full Content For complete episode and blog post content including transcripts, show notes, and full article bodies, see [llms-full.txt](https://healyourrootspodcast.com/llms-full.txt).