• Mental Health, Military Life & Finding Purpose 🎖️🧠 with Dhiny Mercedes (RCSWI, MSW) Season 02 Episode 05
    May 15 2026

    Share your thoughts with us!

    In this episode, we sit down with Dhiny Mercedes, Army Sergeant and Clinical Social Work Intern (RCSWI, MSW), to talk about mental health, service, and purpose.

    We explore:

    • Mental health in the military
    • PTSD and emotional resilience
    • Serving others through lived experience


    This conversation is powerful, honest, and necessary.

    🎙 About Dhiny Mercedes

    Deneet Mercedes is a U.S. Army Sergeant and registered clinical social work intern passionate about mental health advocacy. With over a decade of experience supporting individuals in both military and civilian settings, he is dedicated to helping people access resources, heal, and grow.

    🤝 CONNECT WITH DHINY MERCEDES

    💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhiny-mercedes-397629321

    📺 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MindPhrame


    📖 About The Embrace Method
    Are you ready to embrace your best life? In The Embrace Method, Vladimir Louissaint shares a powerful roadmap to transform pain into purpose. Through raw storytelling, practical exercises, and hard-won insights, he shows how to turn trauma into a stepping stone toward healing, resilience, and leadership. This book is a beacon of hope for anyone ready to rise above adversity and unlock their fullest potential.

    👉 https://affiliates.naturaleman.com

    Use our affiliate code "ADX" and save 15% Off STAND+!


    Get your next pair: https://www.standshoes.com/discount/ADX

    Support the show

    🎧 Thanks for tuning in to Roots and Rhythm!
    We hope today’s episode resonated with you. Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with us online and join the R&R community!

    🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:

    🌐 Website: https://www.rootsandrhythmpodcast.com
    🎙 Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2469020
    📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootsandrhythmpodcast
    📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandrhythmpod

    📘 RESOURCES & SUPPORT

    📖 The Embrace Method by Vladimir Louissaint

    👉 https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Method-leverage-trauma-dreams/dp/B0CM3V2K5X

    👕 Gallon Gear (Support mental health & community)
    Use code STAYROOTED
    👉 https://gallongear.com

    🎤 WANT TO BE A GUEST?

    We’re inviting listeners to be guests on the podcast and receive live coaching on air.

    📩 Email us: rootsandrhythmpodcast@gmail.com

    🌱 Roots and Rhythm — Where we explore the rhythms of life, one beat at a time.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 14 mins
  • From Corporate Burnout to Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship 💼➡️🔥with Desiree Whitehead | Season 02 Episode 04
    May 8 2026

    Share your thoughts with us!

    In this powerful episode of the Roots & Rhythm Podcast, we sit down with marketing strategist and entrepreneur Desiree Whitehead, who shares her journey from corporate America to building a purpose-driven marketing business rooted in integrity.

    Desiree breaks down what it really means to:

    • Walk away from a six-figure career
    • Build a business aligned with your values
    • Turn your skills into impact and income


    If you’ve ever felt stuck in a job that doesn’t align with your purpose — this episode is for you.

    🎙About Desiree Whitehead

    Desiree Whitehead is a marketing strategist, entrepreneur, and founder of Howl Marketing, a purpose-driven marketing agency focused on helping brands grow with integrity.

    Throughout her career, she has played a key role in strengthening market positioning and supporting companies that have reached $300M+ valuations within their first five years.

    With over 20 years of experience advising founders, CEOs, and leadership teams and years in corporate leadership roles, she transitioned into entrepreneurship to create meaningful impact through ethical and results-driven marketing.


    🤝 CONNECT WITH DESIREE WHITEHEAD!

    🌐 Website: https://howl-marketing.com/

    💼LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/desireewhitehead-mba

    📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/des_fractionalcmo/

    📖 About The Embrace Method
    Are you ready to embrace your best life? In The Embrace Method, Vladimir Louissaint shares a powerful roadmap to transform pain into purpose. Through raw storytelling, practical exercises, and hard-won insights, he shows how to turn trauma into a stepping stone toward healing, resilience, and leadership. This book is a beacon of hope for anyone ready to rise above adversity and unlock their fullest potential.

    👉 https://affiliates.naturaleman.com

    Use our affiliate code "ADX" and save 15% Off STAND+!


    Get your next pair: https://www.standshoes.com/discount/ADX

    Support the show

    🎧 Thanks for tuning in to Roots and Rhythm!
    We hope today’s episode resonated with you. Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with us online and join the R&R community!

    🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:

    🌐 Website: https://www.rootsandrhythmpodcast.com
    🎙 Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2469020
    📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootsandrhythmpodcast
    📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandrhythmpod

    📘 RESOURCES & SUPPORT

    📖 The Embrace Method by Vladimir Louissaint

    👉 https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Method-leverage-trauma-dreams/dp/B0CM3V2K5X

    👕 Gallon Gear (Support mental health & community)
    Use code STAYROOTED
    👉 https://gallongear.com

    🎤 WANT TO BE A GUEST?

    We’re inviting listeners to be guests on the podcast and receive live coaching on air.

    📩 Email us: rootsandrhythmpodcast@gmail.com

    🌱 Roots and Rhythm — Where we explore the rhythms of life, one beat at a time.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 35 mins
  • Healing Generational Trauma & Building Legacy 🌱 with Dr. Gayl Crump-Swaby | Season 02 Episode 03
    May 1 2026

    Share your thoughts with us!

    In this deeply impactful episode, we’re joined by Dr. Gayl Crump Swaby, therapist, professor, and author, to explore generational healing and emotional legacy.

    We discuss:

    • How trauma is passed down
    • What it means to “unlock legacy”
    • How healing impacts parenting, marriage, and identity

    This episode will challenge you to reflect, heal, and grow.

    🎙About Dr. Crump-Swaby

    Dr. Gayl Crump Swaby is an Associate Professor, therapist, and founder of New Generation Consultants & Associates. She specializes in trauma-informed care, multicultural counseling, and family dynamics, helping individuals and families heal and thrive. She is also the author of Unlocking Legacy and Releasing Burdens.

    🤝 CONNECT WITH Dr GAYL CRUMP-SWABY!

    🌐 Website: https://newgenconsults.com/drgaylcrumpswaby/

    💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-gayl-crump-swaby-528a4823

    📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaylcrump/

    📖 About The Embrace Method
    Are you ready to embrace your best life? In The Embrace Method, Vladimir Louissaint shares a powerful roadmap to transform pain into purpose. Through raw storytelling, practical exercises, and hard-won insights, he shows how to turn trauma into a stepping stone toward healing, resilience, and leadership. This book is a beacon of hope for anyone ready to rise above adversity and unlock their fullest potential.

    👉 https://affiliates.naturaleman.com

    Use our affiliate code "ADX" and save 15% Off STAND+!


    Get your next pair: https://www.standshoes.com/discount/ADX

    Support the show

    🎧 Thanks for tuning in to Roots and Rhythm!
    We hope today’s episode resonated with you. Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with us online and join the R&R community!

    🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:

    🌐 Website: https://www.rootsandrhythmpodcast.com
    🎙 Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2469020
    📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootsandrhythmpodcast
    📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandrhythmpod

    📘 RESOURCES & SUPPORT

    📖 The Embrace Method by Vladimir Louissaint

    👉 https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Method-leverage-trauma-dreams/dp/B0CM3V2K5X

    👕 Gallon Gear (Support mental health & community)
    Use code STAYROOTED
    👉 https://gallongear.com

    🎤 WANT TO BE A GUEST?

    We’re inviting listeners to be guests on the podcast and receive live coaching on air.

    📩 Email us: rootsandrhythmpodcast@gmail.com

    🌱 Roots and Rhythm — Where we explore the rhythms of life, one beat at a time.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 37 mins
  • From Self-Doubt to 19 Books: Walking in Purpose ✍🏽🔥with Author Dorian Stewart | Season 2 Episode 02
    Apr 24 2026

    Share your thoughts with us!

    In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dorian Stewart, author, speaker, and founder of Dorian Inspires, who shares her journey from self-doubt to publishing 19 books.

    We also dive into:

    • Her adoption journey as a mother
    • Writing as a form of purpose
    • Helping children build identity and confidence

    This episode is about stepping into your calling — even when you doubt yourself.

    🎙 About Dorian Stewart

    Dorian Stewart is an author, motivational speaker, and founder of Dorian Inspires LLC. She is the creator of the Promise Pals series and other books empowering children and teens through faith-based messages. With over 20 years of experience working with youth and families, she is passionate about identity, healing, and purpose.

    🤝 CONNECT WITH DORIAN!

    🌐 Website: https://dorianinspires.com/

    📺 https://www.youtube.com/@DorianInspiresLLC

    📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/de_stewarts/

    📖 About The Embrace Method
    Are you ready to embrace your best life? In The Embrace Method, Vladimir Louissaint shares a powerful roadmap to transform pain into purpose. Through raw storytelling, practical exercises, and hard-won insights, he shows how to turn trauma into a stepping stone toward healing, resilience, and leadership. This book is a beacon of hope for anyone ready to rise above adversity and unlock their fullest potential.

    👉 https://affiliates.naturaleman.com

    Use our affiliate code "ADX" and save 15% Off STAND+!


    Get your next pair: https://www.standshoes.com/discount/ADX

    Support the show

    🎧 Thanks for tuning in to Roots and Rhythm!
    We hope today’s episode resonated with you. Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with us online and join the R&R community!

    🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:

    🌐 Website: https://www.rootsandrhythmpodcast.com
    🎙 Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2469020
    📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootsandrhythmpodcast
    📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandrhythmpod

    📘 RESOURCES & SUPPORT

    📖 The Embrace Method by Vladimir Louissaint

    👉 https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Method-leverage-trauma-dreams/dp/B0CM3V2K5X

    👕 Gallon Gear (Support mental health & community)
    Use code STAYROOTED
    👉 https://gallongear.com

    🎤 WANT TO BE A GUEST?

    We’re inviting listeners to be guests on the podcast and receive live coaching on air.

    📩 Email us: rootsandrhythmpodcast@gmail.com

    🌱 Roots and Rhythm — Where we explore the rhythms of life, one beat at a time.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 20 mins
  • Addiction, Recovery & Redemption: A Real Conversation with Joshua Kephart | Season 2 Episode 01
    Apr 17 2026

    Share your thoughts with us!

    In this raw and honest episode, we sit down with Joshua Kephart, a recovery coach and father, who shares his journey through addiction and what it truly takes to rebuild your life.

    We explore:

    • What addiction really is (beyond the stereotypes)
    • The mindset shift required for recovery
    • How purpose is built after pain

    This is a must-listen for anyone navigating healing — or supporting someone who is.

    🎙 ABOUT JOSHUA KEPHART


    Joshua Kephart is a certified addictions recovery coach and father of two who has been in recovery since 2019. He is passionate about helping others rebuild their lives, rediscover their worth, and pursue meaningful goals through healing and accountability.

    Connect with Joshua: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-kephart-4753833a9

    📖 About The Embrace Method
    Are you ready to embrace your best life? In The Embrace Method, Vladimir Louissaint shares a powerful roadmap to transform pain into purpose. Through raw storytelling, practical exercises, and hard-won insights, he shows how to turn trauma into a stepping stone toward healing, resilience, and leadership. This book is a beacon of hope for anyone ready to rise above adversity and unlock their fullest potential.

    👉 https://affiliates.naturaleman.com

    Use our affiliate code "ADX" and save 15% Off STAND+!


    Get your next pair: https://www.standshoes.com/discount/ADX

    Support the show

    🎧 Thanks for tuning in to Roots and Rhythm!
    We hope today’s episode resonated with you. Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with us online and join the R&R community!

    🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:

    🌐 Website: https://www.rootsandrhythmpodcast.com
    🎙 Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2469020
    📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootsandrhythmpodcast
    📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandrhythmpod

    📘 RESOURCES & SUPPORT

    📖 The Embrace Method by Vladimir Louissaint

    👉 https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Method-leverage-trauma-dreams/dp/B0CM3V2K5X

    👕 Gallon Gear (Support mental health & community)
    Use code STAYROOTED
    👉 https://gallongear.com

    🎤 WANT TO BE A GUEST?

    We’re inviting listeners to be guests on the podcast and receive live coaching on air.

    📩 Email us: rootsandrhythmpodcast@gmail.com

    🌱 Roots and Rhythm — Where we explore the rhythms of life, one beat at a time.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 10 mins
  • The Ingredients of a Long-Term Loving Relationship | 20 Years of Marriage, Trust & Real Love | Episode #30
    Feb 13 2026
    Share your thoughts with us!Marriage doesn’t survive on vibes alone.In this Valentine’s weekend episode — and the final episode of Season 1 — Vlad and Angie break down the real ingredients that make a relationship last.As Angie celebrates 14 years of marriage, we explore what actually sustains love long-term — not just butterflies, not just chemistry, but the deeper foundations that keep couples rooted through life’s shifts.From raising kids and moving states… To learning how to trust, forgive, and communicate better… To why friendship might be the most underrated relationship skill…This episode is honest, practical, and deeply relatable.And it’s the perfect way to close out an incredible first season of Roots & Rhythm.🌿 Season 1 Wrap-UpThis marks the end of Season 1.From navigating parenting and culture… To healing childhood wounds… To honest conversations about love, growth, and emotional maturity…Season 1 has been about laying the foundation.But we’re just getting started.🎧 Season 2 premieres later this year.Make sure you’re following us on all social platforms so you don’t miss the official announcement, new content drops, behind-the-scenes updates, and bonus clips.We’ll be back — deeper, sharper, and even more rooted.🧂 The 6 Ingredients We Break Down:Trust – The flour. The binder. Nothing holds without it.Communication – The heat. Too much burns. Too little leaves things raw.Friendship – The sugar. What keeps it sweet.Respect – Non-negotiable.Forgiveness – The oil. Keeps things from sticking and breaking.Evolution – You cannot stay the same person forever.We also discuss:Parenting without letting kids divide the marriageEmotional maturity in conflictGrowing up Caribbean and learning emotional regulationHyper-independence and learning to softenWhy “that’s just how I am” is not a healthy excuse💬 Key Reflection Question:Do you have the ingredients in your relationship right now?🔔 STAY CONNECTED FOR SEASON 2!🌐 Website: https://www.rootsandrhythmpodcast.com🎙 Buzzprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2469020📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootsandrhythmpodcast📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandrhythmpod📘 RESOURCES & SUPPORT📖 The Embrace Method – Vladimir Louissaint 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Method-leverage-trauma-dreams/dp/B0CM3V2K5X👕 Gallon Gear – Support Mental Health & Community Use code STAYROOTED 👉 https://gallongear.com🎤 WANT TO BE A GUEST IN SEASON 2?We’re inviting listeners to join the podcast and receive live coaching on air.📩 rootsandrhythmpodcast@gmail.comTurn on notifications. Stay rooted. We’ll see you in Season 2!📖 About The Embrace Method Are you ready to embrace your best life? In The Embrace Method, Vladimir Louissaint shares a powerful roadmap to transform pain into purpose. Through raw storytelling, practical exercises, and hard-won insights, he shows how to turn trauma into a stepping stone toward healing, resilience, and leadership. This book is a beacon of hope for anyone ready to rise above adversity and unlock their fullest potential.👉 https://affiliates.naturaleman.com Use our affiliate code "ADX" and save 15% Off STAND+!Get your next pair: https://www.standshoes.com/discount/ADXSupport the show🎧 Thanks for tuning in to Roots and Rhythm! We hope today’s episode resonated with you. Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with us online and join the R&R community!🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:🌐 Website: https://www.rootsandrhythmpodcast.com🎙 Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2469020📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootsandrhythmpodcast📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandrhythmpod📘 RESOURCES & SUPPORT📖 The Embrace Method by Vladimir Louissaint 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Method-leverage-trauma-dreams/dp/B0CM3V2K5X👕 Gallon Gear (Support mental health & community) Use code STAYROOTED👉 https://gallongear.com🎤 WANT TO BE A GUEST?We’re inviting listeners to be guests on the podcast and receive live coaching on air.📩 Email us: rootsandrhythmpodcast@gmail.com🌱 Roots and Rhythm — Where we explore the rhythms of life, one beat at a time.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 29 mins
  • 2016 in 2026: Pokemon Go, Bodybuilding, Pop Culture & Personal Growth | Episode #29
    Feb 6 2026
    Share your thoughts with us!In Episode #29 of the Roots & Rhythm Podcast, Vlad and Angie take a deep, reflective trip down memory lane to revisit one of the most defining years of the last decade. From Snapchat, Vine, Pokémon Go, and iconic music, to personal turning points, political shifts, and cultural moments that reshaped how we experience the world today — 2016 was a year that left a mark.Vlad opens up about major life transitions, including relationship struggles that ultimately strengthened his marriage, his bodybuilding journey, career pivots, and the moment that set him on the path toward becoming a Massachusetts State Trooper. Angie reflects on moving north from Florida, finding community, navigating change, and the joy that came from building a new life with Wallace.Together, they explore:Why the internet is suddenly nostalgic for 2016How social media felt more authentic before endless scrollingThe music, shows, memes, and trends that defined the eraWhat we should leave behind in 2016 — and what we should bring backThis episode blends humor, vulnerability, cultural commentary, and personal growth — reminding us that sometimes looking back helps us better understand where we’re headed next.Where we explore the rhythms of life, one beat at a time. New episodes drop weekly on all major platforms.🔗 LISTEN & CONNECT🌐 Website: https://www.rootsandrhythmpodcast.com🎙 Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootsandrhythmpodcast📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandrhythmpod📘 RESOURCES & SUPPORT📖 The Embrace Method (Second Edition) by Vladimir Louissaint A powerful guide to healing trauma, reclaiming purpose, and living authentically. 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Method-leverage-trauma-dreams/dp/B0CM3V2K5X👕 Gallon Gear — Support Mental Health & Community Use code STAYROOTED 👉 https://gallongear.com(Using our affiliate link supports the podcast at no additional cost to you.)🎤 WANT TO BE A GUEST?We’re inviting listeners to be guests on the podcast and receive live coaching on air.📩 Email us: rootsandrhythmpodcast@gmail.com#RootsAndRhythmPodcast #StayRooted #HealingInCommunity #GenerationalHealing #HealthyRelationships #TraumaHealing #BlackMentalHealth #AfroCaribbeanVoices #IdentityAndPurpose #ParentingWithIntention #MenAndWomenHealingTogether📖 About The Embrace Method Are you ready to embrace your best life? In The Embrace Method, Vladimir Louissaint shares a powerful roadmap to transform pain into purpose. Through raw storytelling, practical exercises, and hard-won insights, he shows how to turn trauma into a stepping stone toward healing, resilience, and leadership. This book is a beacon of hope for anyone ready to rise above adversity and unlock their fullest potential.👉 https://affiliates.naturaleman.com Use our affiliate code "ADX" and save 15% Off STAND+!Get your next pair: https://www.standshoes.com/discount/ADXSupport the show🎧 Thanks for tuning in to Roots and Rhythm! We hope today’s episode resonated with you. Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with us online and join the R&R community!🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:🌐 Website: https://www.rootsandrhythmpodcast.com🎙 Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2469020📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootsandrhythmpodcast📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandrhythmpod📘 RESOURCES & SUPPORT📖 The Embrace Method by Vladimir Louissaint 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Method-leverage-trauma-dreams/dp/B0CM3V2K5X👕 Gallon Gear (Support mental health & community) Use code STAYROOTED👉 https://gallongear.com🎤 WANT TO BE A GUEST?We’re inviting listeners to be guests on the podcast and receive live coaching on air.📩 Email us: rootsandrhythmpodcast@gmail.com🌱 Roots and Rhythm — Where we explore the rhythms of life, one beat at a time.
    Show More Show Less
    58 mins
  • All is NOT Fair in Love | Navigating Healthy Conflict in Marriage | Roots and Rhythm Podcast | Episode #28
    Jan 16 2026

    Share your thoughts with us!

    In this episode of the Roots and Rhythm podcast, hosts Vlad and Angie delve into the complexities of fighting fair in relationships. They discuss the inevitability of conflict, the importance of communication, and the foundational role of emotional safety. The conversation highlights strategies for navigating disagreements, the psychological aspects of conflict, and the four relationship killers: criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling. The hosts emphasize the need for sincere apologies and commitment to repair after conflicts, encouraging listeners to prioritize their partnerships while maintaining healthy communication.


    🔗 LISTEN & CONNECT
    🌐 Website: https://www.rootsandrhythmpodcast.com
    🎙 Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com
    📺 YouTube: / @rootsandrhythmpodcast

    📖 About The Embrace Method
    Are you ready to embrace your best life? In The Embrace Method, Vladimir Louissaint shares a powerful roadmap to transform pain into purpose. Through raw storytelling, practical exercises, and hard-won insights, he shows how to turn trauma into a stepping stone toward healing, resilience, and leadership. This book is a beacon of hope for anyone ready to rise above adversity and unlock their fullest potential.

    👉 https://affiliates.naturaleman.com

    Use our affiliate code "ADX" and save 15% Off STAND+!


    Get your next pair: https://www.standshoes.com/discount/ADX

    Support the show

    🎧 Thanks for tuning in to Roots and Rhythm!
    We hope today’s episode resonated with you. Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with us online and join the R&R community!

    🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:

    🌐 Website: https://www.rootsandrhythmpodcast.com
    🎙 Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2469020
    📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootsandrhythmpodcast
    📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandrhythmpod

    📘 RESOURCES & SUPPORT

    📖 The Embrace Method by Vladimir Louissaint

    👉 https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Method-leverage-trauma-dreams/dp/B0CM3V2K5X

    👕 Gallon Gear (Support mental health & community)
    Use code STAYROOTED
    👉 https://gallongear.com

    🎤 WANT TO BE A GUEST?

    We’re inviting listeners to be guests on the podcast and receive live coaching on air.

    📩 Email us: rootsandrhythmpodcast@gmail.com

    🌱 Roots and Rhythm — Where we explore the rhythms of life, one beat at a time.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 21 mins