Best CASAT Learning Podcasts (2025)

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Season 6 Episode 4 | Advocacy, Treatment, and Education: Breaking Barriers in Problem Gambling with Denise Quirk 50:23

6d ago50:23

50:23

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we welcome Denise Quirk, a seasoned addiction counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, and nationally recognized advocate in the field of problem gambling. With over three decades of experience, Denise has played a pivotal role in shaping treatment, education, and policy for those affected by gambling disord…

1
Season 6 Episode 3 | Navigating Challenges and Inspiring Change: Agata Gawronski’s Career in Behavioral Health 43:59

13d ago43:59

43:59

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we’re joined by Agata Gawronski, Executive Director of the State of Nevada Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug, and Gambling Counselors. Originally from Poland, Agata’s journey into the field of substance use and problem gambling began after earning her master’s degree in social work and immigrating to the U…

1
Season 6 Episode 2 | Lessons in Leadership: Nancy Roget on Workforce Development and the Future of Behavioral Health 1:01:11

20d ago1:01:11

1:01:11

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we are honored to welcome Nancy Roget, Executive Director of CASAT, whose decades-long career has been dedicated to advancing substance use and mental health services. From her early days as a direct care provider to her leadership in workforce development and training, Nancy has remained steadfast in her mis…

1
Season 6 Episode 1 | Unlocking Transformation: David Mee-Lee’s Wisdom on Behavior Change and Person-Centered Care 54:44

27d ago54:44

54:44

In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we are honored to welcome Dr. David Mee-Lee, a psychiatrist and addiction specialist whose decades-long career has been dedicated to bridging the mental health and addiction treatment fields. Known for his innovative approach to person-centered care, Dr. Mee-Lee has worked tirelessly to dismantle stigma, fost…

1
Season 5 Episode 10: Cultivating Healthy Bonds: Insights from Attachment Theory and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Nurturing the Human Psyche 1:07:50

1+ y ago1:07:50

1:07:50

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Cornelius Sheehan, LCSW, as we delve into the intricate relationship between social connections and mental health. In this episode, we explore the profound impact of loneliness and isolation on well-being, drawing from Cornelius's extensive experience with attachment theory and Emotionally Focused Therapy…

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Season 5 Episode 9: Ayurveda: The Science of Life 1:04:35

1+ y ago1:04:35

1:04:35

Join us for an illuminating conversation with Dr. Sheila Patel, a board-certified family physician and Chief Medical Officer for Chopra. Dr. Patel explains the foundational principles of Ayurveda, along with her journey in the field of medicine and how she came to practice Ayurveda alongside Western medicine. The holistic approach of Ayurveda aims …

1
Season 5 Episode 8: Everything is Related: Exploring the Ancient Wisdom of Classical Chinese Medicine for Mental Well-being 58:13

1+ y ago58:13

58:13

Join us as we bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern mental health solutions with Dr. Howard Chen. Dr. Chen takes us on a fascinating journey through the principles and practices of Classical Chinese Medicine. He explains how emotions are connected to the organs and the interrelated nature of mental and physical wellness. Whether you're a…

1
Season 5 Episode 7: Roots of Resilience: Nurturing Mental Wellness through the Lens of Adverse Childhood Experiences 1:09:07

1+ y ago1:09:07

1:09:07

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Fabricia Prado. In this episode, we examine the profound impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their role as the root cause of both physical and mental illness. We discuss the importance of developing a mindful relationship with our bodies and the need for understanding how healing from…

1
Season 5 Episode 6: The Power of Faith: Nurturing Mental Health with Dr. Harold Koenig 51:23

1+ y ago51:23

51:23

Join us for a captivating interview with Dr. Harold Koenig, professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University. In this enlightening episode, we explore the vast benefits that religion offers for mental health. Dr. Koenig explains the difference between spirituality and religion, shedding light on their unique aspects, and the chall…

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Season 5 Episode 5: Going Against Your Natural Rhythm: Exploring the Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Mental Health 1:02:00

1+ y ago1:02:00

1:02:00

Join us for another insightful conversation on CASAT Conversations. This week, Dr. Russel Foster joins us to discuss the importance of sleep on mental health. We discuss why sleep is crucial and how you know if you are getting enough sleep. We discuss the catastrophic impacts of not getting enough sleep and the effects of shift work. He offers real…

1
Season 5 Episode 4: Food for Thought: Unraveling the Gut-Mind Connection for Optimal Mental Well-being 57:10

1+ y ago57:10

57:10

Join us as we unravel the intricate connection between our gut microbiota and its profound impact on mental well-being. Dr. Dinan shares his decades of research findings and discusses how a nutrient rich diet can become a powerful tool in supporting mental health. He also discusses how certain foods and pharmaceuticals can negatively impact the gut…

1
Season 5 Episode 3: Mind in Motion: Unleashing the Power of Physical Activity for Mental Health 40:08

1+ y ago40:08

40:08

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Felipe Schuch as he explores the profound impact of physical activity on mental well-being, including its profound effects on the biology of the brain. Discover how finding the exercise that suits a person best can yield remarkable benefits for mental health. Dr. Schuch sheds light on the psychologica…

1
Season 5 Episode 2: Decoding Genetics: Illuminating Mental Health and Beyond 52:23

1+ y ago52:23

52:23

Join us for an intriguing and enlightening interview as we delve into the world of genetics research with Dr. Alessandro Serretti, a renowned psychiatrist and genetic researcher. Prepare to gain valuable insights into the current landscape of genetics research, as well as a captivating glimpse into its historical development and future prospects. D…

1
Season 5 Episode 1: The Importance of Relationship with Self: Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Life 53:35

1+ y ago53:35

53:35

Join us for a dynamic conversation with Dr. Tanya Crabb as we explore the complex interplay of mental health, physical health, culture, trauma, adverse childhood experiences, gender roles and family history. She emphasizes the importance of a mind-body approach to mental health, encouraging health professionals to peel back the layers and look deep…

1
Season 4 Episode 12: Everyone Has A Role In Implementing Crisis Care 46:42

2y ago46:42

46:42

Dr. Charlie Smith is the Regional Director for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In this important episode, you'll hear about the evolution of the crisis care system, and how 988 is working to meet the burgeoning demand of our mental health crisis. We discus…

1
Season 4 Episode 11: Moving Out of the Shadows and Into the Light with Sam Quinones 59:17

2y ago59:17

59:17

Sam Quinones joins us to discuss his book, The Least of Us: True Tales of America and Hope in the Time of Fentanyl and Meth. He shares what he has learned about the opioid epidemic over the last 10 years, and how the landscape has changed. We discuss the power of storytelling, and how it helps people to making meaning of their experience and how it…

1
Season 4 Episode 10: Remembering Our Humanity 40:24

2y ago40:24

40:24

Dr. Anne Weisman is the Director of Well-Being & Integrative Medicine with Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV. She joins us to discuss how she has worked to restore well-being within the field of medicine, along with her wealth of experience teaching mind-body medicine. She shares practical ways she supports herself when working with people who h…

1
Season 4 Episode 9: The Role of Spirituality in Healing from Trauma 50:49

2y ago50:49

50:49

Dr. Michael Christie is a chaplain for the Department of Correction. He has been working within the prison system for over a decade. In this conversation, he shares the role of spirituality in healing from trauma, and lessons he learned about the need for trauma-informed care. Key words: spirituality, trauma, healing, mindfulness meditation, non-vi…

1
Season 4 Episode 8: Mental Health is Health: The Need for Services 56:47

2+ y ago56:47

56:47

Melissa Petersen, a practicing Marriage and Family Therapist, joins us to discuss her experience as a Wildland Firefighter, along with her passion for supporting the mental health of first responders. She shares how she has seen the first responder culture change with regards to mental health over the course of her career, along with how she hopes …

1
Season 4 Episode 7: Metahab: Moving Beyond Trauma 55:55

2+ y ago55:55

55:55

Within this conversation, Dr. Joyce Mikal-Flynn, an expert in resilience and trauma care joins us. We discuss post traumatic growth, and the 6 stages of meta-rehabilitation that Dr. Joyce has discovered from her many conversations with trauma survivors. She highlights commonalities found among trauma survivors, and the program she’s developed based…

1
Season 4 Episode 6: Social Connection and Belonging: The Keys to Navigating Sanctuary Trauma 54:59

2+ y ago54:59

54:59

Description: Dr. Steven Rose joins us this week to discuss his research with Verteran's and how social connection plays an important role in preventing and healing trauma. We discuss many relevant theories including transitional injury, sanctuary trauma, and moral injury and how these theories may apply to first responders and health care professio…

1
Season 4 Episode 5: Real Stories of Healing 53:35

2+ y ago53:35

53:35

Nick Brown shares his lived experience as a veteran, paramedic, firefighter and peer support specialist. He gives voice to the impact of unhealed PTSD on his personal life, and the many techniques he's tried to heal over the last couple of years. He also notes what's been most helpful. You won't want to miss this real and vulnerable conversation. K…

1
Season 4 Episode 4: The Emotional Residue of Responding to Trauma 56:13

2+ y ago56:13

56:13

In episode 4, you’ll hear from Dr. Steven Nicholas an author and practicing marriage and family therapist. He shares about his work with first responders and highlights how their emotional needs are different from the general public. He describes what it means to be a culturally competent clinician when it comes to working in the first responder co…

1
Season 4 Episode 3: Under the Influence of Survival Physiology 1:06:54

2+ y ago1:06:54

1:06:54

Kathy Kain joins us for her second enlightening conversation. Kathy is a wealth of information with her 42 years of experience, and she shares the impact that she’s seen both on herself, and in colleagues who do the work of supporting trauma survivors. We discuss trauma physiology and survival habits due to secondary traumatic stress, along with re…

1
Season 4 Episode 2: Understanding Compassion Fatigue and the Inherent Impact of Caring 1:05:24

2+ y ago1:05:24

1:05:24

In this episode Beverly Kyler, an author, speaker, and compassion fatigue specialist shares the wisdom she's developed over the course of her career. Through her own personal experience with compassion fatigue, along with her research, she now dedicates her career to helping those who help others. We discuss symptoms people should look out for in t…

1
Season 4 Episode 1: The Myth of Normal: An Interview with Daniel Maté 55:20

2+ y ago55:20

55:20

You won't want to miss this dynamic interview with Daniel Maté, co-author of the The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture. We discuss the pervasiveness of trauma within society, and interplay between trauma and health. You'll also hear about his unique mental chiropractic practice where he helps make adjustments in client's …

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Season 3 Bonus Episode: Giving Voice to Racism, Intergenerational Trauma, and Health Inequity in America 41:46

3y ago41:46

41:46

In this powerful episode, Claudia shares her lived experience of racism, intergenerational trauma, and health inequity. She discusses her healing journey, and the need for people to share their stories. Claudia Martinez, Crisis Intervention Specialist Claudia Martinez has over 25 years of experience in healthcare. Claudia feels that she has been bl…

1
Season 3 Episode 10: Living in a Rural Community: Examining the Impact on Health 39:44

3y ago39:44

39:44

Marena Works discusses important considerations for policy and services in order to promote health equity in rural communities. She shares barriers to health for citizens living in rural communities, and innovative strategies for overcoming these challenges. In addition, she highlights health disparities and what needs to be done in order to suppor…

1
Season 3 Episode 9: Understanding the State of Health Equity in Nevada 42:24

3y ago42:24

42:24

Jose Meléndrez joins us to discuss what is being done within the State of Nevada to promote health equity for all Nevadans. He shares how community partnerships and grassroots movements are positively impacting minority populations. He also highlights the need to mobilize each community in order to move the needle to a more health equitable society…

1
Season 3 Episode 8: Democracy, Equity and Health Care 56:48

3y ago56:48

56:48

In this episode, Dr. Eloisa Gordon-Mora discusses the connection between our understandings of democracy, and with respect to equity and health care. From her political science formation, she analysis the notion of “democracy” itself, addressing its historical evolution and from comparative, global perspectives, as well as myths, assumptions and va…

1
Season 3 Episode 7: Human Dynamics in Healthcare 1:00:32

3y ago1:00:32

1:00:32

This week we are joined by Zhizhong (Z) Li. Z is a seasoned trauma and critical care nurse, who is now nursing faculty at the University of Nevada, Reno. Z highlights inequities seen in emergency care, and how stigma can impact patient care. He shares how human dynamics play a role in patient treatment and patient outcomes. We discuss how leadershi…

1
Season 3 Episode 6: Food Unites Us In Health 59:47

3y ago59:47

59:47

Lorena Drago, MS, RDN, CDN, CDE discusses how food/nutrition play an essential role in health equity. We discuss the importance of language in health education, along with how assumptions about culture are a detriment to health. She shares important questions for clinicians to ask regarding food insecurity. Lastly, we discuss barriers in diabetes e…

1
Season 3 Episode 5: I'm Not Crazy: Breaking Down Stigma in Mental Health 33:40

3y ago33:40

33:40

Within this episode Dr. Lorraine Benuto discusses the stigma associated with mental health in the LatinX population. She shares creative ways she and her team have worked to address mental stigma and break down language barriers. She talks about important ways to reduce health disparities, and improve health for minority populations. Key Words: men…

1
Season 3 Episode 4: Giving Voice to the LGBTQ+ Community 47:42

3y ago47:42

47:42

Description: André Wade highlights key policy issues and needs for supporting health equity within the LGBTQ+ community. André also discusses important considerations for healthcare providers to be aware of when working with the LGBTQ+ population. He shares his own personal experience and professional insights in this important conversation. Key te…

1
Season 3 Episode 3: How Neighborhoods Make Us Sick: The Lived Consequences of Health Inequity 53:17

3y ago53:17

53:17

Within this episode you'll hear from author's Breanna Lathrop & Veronica Squires as they share how the neighborhood you live in (your zip code) impacts your health. We hear how their own lived experiences have impacted the way they think, and practice medicine. We discuss the policies and practices that have contributed to health inequities, and so…

1
Season 3 Episode 2: Healing Isn't As Hard As We Might Expect 48:24

3y ago48:24

48:24

Brandon Jones shares a wealth of information regarding healing from trauma in this powerful episode. He shares his insights regarding healing as a lifelong process, and outlines the ABC's of resilience. We discuss best practices for cultural competency training, and he shares his important perspective on how we can develop cultural intelligence bot…

1
Season 3 Episode 1: It's OK to be Uncomfortable: The Importance of Talking about Health Equity 46:19

3y ago46:19

46:19

Within this episode you’ll hear from Will Rucker, a dynamic and engaging speaker who shares how health equity pertains to our common humanity. Will describes the importance of compassion, non-judgement, and self-awareness as important skills for creating a more equitable world. He also shares about the importance of diversity and how it shapes our …

1
S2 Episode 12: Bonus Episode: The Nevada Resilience Project 30:47

3+ y ago30:47

30:47

Kendal Holcomb and Diana Lara share information about the Nevada Resilience project. The Nevada Resilience Project supports families and individuals experiencing struggles and behavioral health challenges. This important resource helps to connect people with local resources, and access care. Within this episode we discuss mental health statistics f…

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S2 Episode 11: Anxiety RX: Healing the Root Cause of Anxiety 55:10

3+ y ago55:10

55:10

We are joined this week by Dr. Russel Kennedy, The Anxiety MD. Dr. Russ shares his own journey with anxiety as a healthcare provider, which led him to write his new book, Anxiety RX. He integrates neuroscience with wisdom practices to support healing the root cause of anxiety. You'll want to hear his unique perspective! Key Words: Anxiety, worry, f…

1
S2 Episode 10: Exploring How Humans Respond to Disasters 49:08

3+ y ago49:08

49:08

Dr. Cohen Silver joins us this week to share her research findings on how people respond to large scale disasters. We discuss the role of media exposure (both news and social media) on stress and well-being, and how important it is to practice technology hygiene when it comes to media exposure. Dr. Cohen Silver also shares important things to consi…

1
S2 Episode 9: Giving Voice to Your Trauma and Using Creativity in Resilience Building 42:10

3+ y ago42:10

42:10

Dr. Meghan Corrado shares her resilience journey as she has learned to tap into sources of strength and creativity in order to support her own healing journey. She discusses how healthcare professionals work in difficult environments, and how critical it is to honor the reality of the challenges faced on a daily basis. She shares practical ways to …

1
S2 Episode 8: Understanding Vicarious Trauma 30:53

3+ y ago30:53

30:53

Within this episode, Henry Tobey shares his wealth of experience regarding secondary trauma. He shares what he has found to be helpful, along with what he doesn't find to be helpful when it comes to supporting health-care providers in dealing with the stress and trauma of their work. He shares his vicarious trauma dialogue, which he and his colleag…

1
S2 Episode 7: Beginning to Understand the Psychological Impacts of COVID-19 37:55

3+ y ago37:55

37:55

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Dana Rose Garfin, a researcher at UC Irvine. She and her colleagues have been conducting research to under the impact of both the acute and chronic stress of COVID-19. She has been studying how we respond to disasters for the past decade, and how to cope with stress. We discuss a balanced approach to looking at…

1
S2 Episode 6: Connecting the Mind & Body As a Pathway for Resilience 53:55

3+ y ago53:55

53:55

Within this episode Dr. Gordon discusses the importance of mind-body medicine to support healthcare providers. He shares the importance of looking inward, and the importance of practicing self-care techniques, so that you can bring compassionate presence to the people you serve. Key terms: mind-body medicine, self-discovery, compassionate presence,…

1
S2 Episode 5: CPR for Healthcare Providers 58:06

3+ y ago58:06

58:06

Within this episode Joshua Michael Wenner shares best practices for dealing with stress and trauma. He discusses the importance of creating a warrior culture, and how to practice self-regulation so that you can have better relationships with those that you love. Key terms: Trauma, self-regulation, emotional-regulation, resilience, warrior culture F…

1
S2 Episode 4: Addressing Burnout through Integrative Medicine 50:42

3+ y ago50:42

50:42

Within this episode, Alaine Duncan discusses the role of Integrative Medicine in treating burnout and compassion fatigue. She discusses how she has combined Eastern and Western philosophies to treat physical symptoms of stress and trauma within the body. Her approach to treating the body, and helping to support the parasympathetic nervous system is…

1
S2 Episode 3: The Cost of Doing Business in High Stress Environments 1:00:11

3+ y ago1:00:11

1:00:11

Dr. Kathy Kain discusses the science behind a somatic approach to help heal the impacts of stress and trauma. She also describes how the body responds to the experiences of our lives, and gives important recommendations for how to support ourselves when working in high stress environments. Key Topics: allostatic load, interoception, exteroception, …

1
S2 Episode 2: Stress First Aid 45:45

3+ y ago45:45

45:45

Dr. Patricia Watson has been supporting people in stressful jobs (i.e. military, first responders, healthcare providers) with her work at the National Center for PTSD for many years. She discusses the stress continuum, along with the five key elements for supporting a person who is experiencing stress, burnout and fatigue. In addition, she discusse…

1
S2 Episode 1: Little Moments of Light 48:47

3+ y ago48:47

48:47

Within this episode, Dr. Michael Ungar shares his wealth of knowledge on the key elements of resilience. His research focuses on the impact of the environment on our resilience. You’ll hear about the complexities of resilience and what healthcare providers can do to support their own resilience. Key Topics: Resilience, rugged individualism vs a res…

1
Episode 14: The Power of Community 24:16

4y ago24:16

24:16

Within this episode, Mariah (a wife of a firefighter, and school teacher) shares how creating community beyond the family has supported her and her family. She believes in the power of creating a community of support, and does that through her work as the founder of the Northern Nevada Fire Wives.

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