
87.2K
Downloads
1116
Episodes
Welcome to Healthy Mind By Avik ™ - ”Healthy Mind, Healthy Life”, a podcast that explores the connection between mental health and overall well-being. Join us each week as we delve into topics related to positive psychology, mindfulness, and personal development, and provide practical tips and strategies for cultivating a healthy and balanced mind. Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? Send Avik a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik
Episodes

Friday May 02, 2025
Friday May 02, 2025
In this deeply inspiring episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik sits down with Benjamin Nevares—former Team USA powerlifter, published exercise scientist, and founder of multiple companies—to unpack what it really means to rebuild your life from the inside out. From growing up in a Texas town where less than 1% make it to college, to battling addiction even while competing at elite levels, Ben shares his raw, powerful story of grit, purpose, and transformation.
Together, they explore how fitness anchored his sobriety, why redefining success matters, and how choosing discipline over comfort—day after day—can change your life.
About the Guest:
Benjamin Nevares is a former Team USA powerlifting competitor, researcher in exercise science, founder of iE Health, and host of The Ben Thinking Podcast. From near-collapse to coaching others, Ben now helps individuals break through their mental and physical barriers using science-backed methods and lived experience.
Key Takeaways:
-
Sobriety isn’t just quitting—it’s rewriting your identity.
-
The gym became Ben’s mirror—reflecting his choices, habits, and healing.
-
Success is more than money; it’s impact, integrity, and peace.
-
You don’t need a roadmap to greatness—just the courage to begin.
-
Grind culture can be toxic. Sustainable success requires presence and balance.
Connect with Benjamin Nevares:
Follow Ben’s work, podcast, and coaching programs:
-
Instagram: @bennevares
-
Podcast: Ben Thinking
-
IE Health: iehealth.co
Podcast: The Ben Thinking Podcast
Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?
DM on PodMatch – Let’s share your story!
-
DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik
-
Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/
-
Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind
Stay Tuned And Follow Us!
-
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/
-
Threads – https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club
-
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind
-
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/
#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #sobrietyjourney #teamUSA #strength #mindset #healing #successmindset

Friday May 02, 2025
Sober Socializing & the Rise of Kava Culture with Benjamin McQueen
Friday May 02, 2025
Friday May 02, 2025
In this transformative episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Benjamin McQueen—recovered addict, family man, and CEO of Karuna Kava Bar & Beverage Company. Together, they explore the journey from addiction to healing, and how creating zero-proof social spaces like Karuna is revolutionizing how we connect, celebrate, and cope—without alcohol.
Ben shares his powerful story of early exposure to drinking, hitting rock bottom, and the life-changing discovery of kava—a traditional South Pacific beverage that supports relaxation, community, and clarity without the buzz. They unpack why so many social settings revolve around alcohol, how kava helps reduce cravings, and what it really takes to build a meaningful sober life filled with purpose and connection.
About the Guest:
Benjamin McQueen is the founder and CEO of Karuna Kava Bar, a wellness-driven space rooted in community, comfort, and clarity. Once homeless and addicted, he now champions a culture of conscious consumption and sober healing. Through kava, tea, and other botanical beverages, Ben is building a movement of mindful connection for those seeking alternatives to alcohol.
Key Takeaways:
-
Kava is a traditional, non-alcoholic drink that supports calm, clarity, and social connection without impairment.
-
Recovery isn't the end of fun—it's the beginning of deeper joy, purpose, and relationships.
-
Zero-proof social spaces like Karuna Kava Bar create safe havens for those reimagining their lives.
-
True friends stick around beyond the bottle.
-
Healing happens in community, not isolation—and starts with one brave decision to change.
Connect with Benjamin McQueen:
-
Website: https://karunakava.com
-
Visit: Karuna Kava Bar, Boise, Idaho
-
Social: Find Karuna Kava on Instagram and Facebook
Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch
-
DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik
-
Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/
-
Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind
Stay Tuned And Follow Us!
-
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/
-
Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club
-
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind
-
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/
#podmatch #healthymind #sobercurious #kavaculture #karunakava #soberliving #alcoholfree #mindfulliving #healingjourney #mentalhealthmatters

Friday May 02, 2025
Friday May 02, 2025
In this thought-provoking episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik sits down with Alexandra Mell-Taylor, a trans, nonbinary writer and fierce cultural commentator, to explore the intersection of identity, pop culture, and mental wellness. Alexandra shares how community—online and offline—can be both healing and harmful, depending on how we show up. From their work in DC activist circles to creating speculative fiction spaces, Alexandra unpacks how storytelling, media, and digital spaces affect marginalized identities and mental health. Tune in for a raw conversation on resilience, representation, and reclaiming community power.
About the Guest:
Alexandra Mell-Taylor is a trans, nonbinary writer known for their cultural commentary and speculative fiction. They are the founder of After the Storm, a futurist magazine curating global voices. With a personal blog that has garnered hundreds of thousands of readers, Alexandra dives deep into pop culture and politics, always with an intersectional lens. Their work examines how systems shape identity and well-being—especially for queer communities.
Key Takeaways:
-
Identity can be both healing and heavy—especially when it’s shaped by others.
-
Community isn't just a backdrop; it’s a vital part of mental health.
-
Digital spaces can offer care, but in-person support often runs deeper.
-
Pop culture has power—it can perpetuate harm or create representation.
-
Fiction, especially fan fiction, can be a tool of mental resilience and identity empowerment.
-
Communities must be actively nurtured—they don’t survive on autopilot.
Connect with Alexandra:
Website: https://alexhasopinions.medium.com
Magazine: After the Storm (Details on Alexandra’s Medium blog)
Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?
DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch:
-
DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik
-
Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/
-
Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind
Stay Tuned And Follow Us!
-
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/
-
Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club
-
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind
-
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/
#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #mentalhealth #communitycare #identityhealing #intersectionality #queervoices #podcastshow #popcultureanalysis

Friday May 02, 2025
Friday May 02, 2025
In this transformational episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty is joined by Dr. Albert Bramante—Ph.D. in Psychology, certified Hypnotist and NLP Practitioner, and a seasoned talent agent. Together, they explore how to rewire the mindset, embrace the power of positive psychology, and bounce back from setbacks. Dr. Bramante opens up about his rare journey combining psychology and the entertainment world and shares practical tools to overcome self-sabotage, imposter syndrome, and fear of success. If you’ve ever held yourself back, this episode is your cue to step into a new script.
About the Guest:
Dr. Albert Bramante is a talent agent with over 20 years in the entertainment industry. With a Ph.D. in Psychology and certifications in hypnosis and NLP, he helps creatives and professionals break free from mental roadblocks. His work focuses on helping people rise above fear, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs to reach their full potential.
Key Takeaways:
-
Self-sabotage is often rooted in disguised fear—fear of success, failure, or change.
-
Even high achievers fall into negative patterns without realizing it.
-
Awareness is the first step—track behavioral patterns and question your logic.
-
Rejection isn’t personal; it’s redirection.
-
Build a "happy file" to reinforce your wins and rewire self-belief.
-
Success is safe when you stay connected to your “why.”
-
Positivity should be grounded in humility and a willingness to keep learning.
Connect with Dr. Albert Bramante:
Explore his coaching, books, and tools at http://www.albertbramante.com/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertbramante/
Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/dralbramante
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/albertbramante
Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?
DM on PodMatch: DM Me Here
Subscribe To Newsletter:
Join Here
Join Our Community:
Connect Now
Stay Tuned and Follow Us:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind
LinkedIn: Avik Chakraborty | Reema Chatterjee
#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness #positivemindset #resilience #mentalhealth #rewireyourbrain #nlp #psychologytools #selfsabotage

Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
The Journey of Healing and Growth - Avik's Life Story
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Introduction: Avik, the host, shares his personal story, diverging from his usual role of hosting guests. He reflects on life's unexpected turns and the journey that led him to create a movement focused on healing and unity.
Key Discussions:
-
Life's Unexpected Challenges:
-
Avik recounts the roller coaster of experiences including toxic friendships, job losses, and the impact of the global pandemic. These challenges led to emotional breakdowns but also accidental healing.
-
-
The Birth of a Movement:
-
Amidst chaos, Avik founded "Healthy Mind by Avik," a movement aimed at helping people heal through raw stories and real conversations. This initiative grew organically, one listener at a time.
-
-
Support and Growth:
-
An encouraging email from Alex Sanfilippo, founder of Podmatch, motivated Avik to continue his work. This support helped him expand his reach, leading to over 50,000+ downloads and the creation of a podcast network and community.
-
-
Personal Reflections:
-
Avik shares personal anecdotes about his childhood, his academic journey, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career and personal life. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and the power of storytelling in healing.
-
-
Community and Connection:
-
Through LinkedIn and other platforms, Javik connected with individuals globally, offering support and creating a space for mental health discussions. This community engagement became a therapeutic outlet for both him and his audience.
-
Takeaways:
-
Life's challenges can lead to unexpected growth and healing.
-
Building a supportive community can be a powerful tool for personal and collective healing.
-
Sharing personal stories can inspire and connect people across different walks of life.
Conclusion: Avik invites listeners to join the "Ride of Healthy Mind" and the "Voices of Unity" movement, emphasizing that everyone's story and healing journey matter.

Sunday Apr 27, 2025
The Power of Stories: A Conversation with Lucinda Sage Midgarden
Sunday Apr 27, 2025
Sunday Apr 27, 2025
In this episode of "Healthy Mind, Healthy Life," host Sana welcomes Lucinda Sage Midgarden, a passionate storyteller and lifelong learner. Lucinda shares her journey from a childhood filled with family movie nights to becoming a podcaster, blogger, and YouTuber. Her work emphasizes the transformative power of stories in personal growth and empathy.
Key Discussions:
-
Early Influences and Storytelling:
-
Lucinda reflects on how family movie nights nurtured her love for stories. Her parents, despite their busy schedules, used films and TV shows as tools to teach life lessons and human behavior
-
-
The Role of Stories in Personal Growth:
-
Lucinda discusses how stories allow individuals to experience different lives and challenges, fostering empathy and understanding without having to endure the hardships personally
-
-
Podcasting and Global Connections:
-
Lucinda shares how podcasting has provided her with a platform to connect with people worldwide, offering a space to share and learn from diverse experiences
-
-
Challenges in Storytelling:
-
The conversation touches on the modern challenges of engaging audiences with stories, especially in an era of short attention spans and media shifts
-
-
The Arts and Education:
-
Lucinda expresses her concern about the diminishing focus on arts in education, highlighting the importance of arts and humanities in touching human emotions
-
-
Diverse Storytelling Mediums:
-
The episode explores how stories can be conveyed through various mediums, including graphs and equations, which tell stories in their unique ways
-
Takeaways:
-
Stories are powerful tools for growth, empathy, and transformation.
-
Engaging with stories allows for a deeper understanding of human experiences.
-
Despite challenges, storytelling remains a vital part of education and personal development.
Connect with Lucinda:
-
Podcast: Story Power Podcast
-
YouTube Channel: Classic Cinema with the Sage Sisters
-
Blog: Sage Woman Chronicles on WordPress
-
Social Media: LucindaSage MidGordon on LinkedIn and Facebook
Closing Remarks:
Sana wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to explore Lucinda's work and keep their minds open to the enriching world of stories. Until next time, keep your mind healthy, your heart open, and your stories alive.
#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

Disclaimer
"Healthy Mind, Healthy Life" is a part of Healthy Mind By Avik ™ an engaging podcast designed to provide informative and thought-provoking content. The views expressed by participants are their own and not necessarily endorsed by the podcast or its host. While we strive for accuracy, our content is not a substitute for professional advice, so consult experts before making decisions based on our episodes. Occasionally, our guests share their own perspectives, which we don't guarantee.
Our podcast is intended for general audiences, but listener discretion is advised for sensitive or controversial topics. By tuning in, you acknowledge that we're not responsible for your actions or decisions based on our content. We aim to provide valuable and entertaining episodes, so please engage responsibly and respectfully.
"Healthy Mind, Healthy Life" is for entertainment purposes; seek professional advice for specific concerns