Liz shares her journey of leaving domestic violence and fleeing to a women’s shelter in Big Bear, California in 1990. What followed was a difficult road through single motherhood, loss, and rebuilding life for herself and her children.

In this conversation, Liz reflects on the realities survivors face after leaving abuse, the role faith played in her healing, and how she ultimately found the strength to forgive.

Her story is one of resilience, courage, and the determination to reclaim a life of freedom and purpose.

Show Notes:
Book: The Road to Big Bear: A Memoir of Domestic Violence, Survival, Faith and Forgiveness

Workbook: Safe Haven: A workbook for healing after domestic violence 

Both available on Amazon: amazon.com/author/lizalleywrites

Website with resources for those facing domestic violence: SurvivorLifeStories.com

Emily’s work focuses on uncovering the hidden physical causes that could be contributing to mental health challenges. From hormonal imbalances to nutritional deficiencies, she’ll explain why these overlooked factors might be keeping you or your loved ones from feeling better.

In this episode, Emily will share why optimizing your physical health is a critical step in achieving mental clarity and emotional balance. You’ll learn how endocrine issues, diet, and other physical factors might be contributing to anxiety or depression—and what you can do to start feeling better.

If you’re ready to explore the connection between your body and mind, this episode is for you. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Emily’s expertise and discover practical steps toward lasting mental wellness.

Show Notes:
Emily Allina NP-C, -23+ years combined RN/NP experience-Masters Degree (MSN)-AANP board certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)-Specialties include emergency medicine, urgent care, integrative & longevity medicine, and regenerative medicine.
High Sierra Restorative Health – 775.347.3737

In this episode of The Grapevine Wellness Show, Jolyn Armstrong interviews Dr. Amy Sanguinetti and Dr. Sara Trigero, founders of Achieve Health NV, about the science of metabolic health and obesity medicine.

We discuss:

• Why weight is not just about willpower
• The brain and body’s “defended weight” system
• Why weight regain happens
• Root causes like sleep, stress, insulin resistance, and medications
• Weight bias in healthcare
• Practical, sustainable habits to support metabolic health

If you’re frustrated with dieting, confused about metabolism, or looking for evidence-based weight management without shame or extremes, this conversation offers clarity and hope.

Show Notes:

📍 6490 McCarran Blvd. Bldg. A #3, Reno, NV 89509

📧 greetings@achievehealthnv.com

📞 (775) 346-6596
💻 Learn more about Achieve Health NV: https://www.achievehealthnv.com/

#WeightLoss #MetabolicHealth #ObesityMedicine #PrimaryCare #RenoNV #HealthPodcast #SustainableWeightLoss

Heather’s journey wasn’t easy. After experiencing extreme trauma that made it difficult to function, she tried many different avenues to find relief. You’ll hear her say that the things she tried all helped – a little.  But nothing seemed to bring complete relief from her symptoms—until she discovered a path that changed everything. Today, Heather is not only thriving but is also on a mission to help others find their way to healing and peace.

Heather will share her journey, the challenges she faced, and the approach that ultimately led to her profound transformation. You’ll learn how Heather navigated the darkest periods of her life and emerged stronger, with a renewed sense of purpose.  This is a unique opportunity to be inspired and empowered by someone who has walked through the fire and come out on the other side with a powerful story to tell.
Don’t miss this chance to start your own journey toward healing and reclaiming your future.

Show Notes:
Heather Sallan, speaker, author, entrepreneur, trauma recovery advocate
For speaking inquiries and to be added to Heather’s email / text list – contact Heather at: HSallan@me.com

Paulette is a master’s-level, trauma-informed art therapist who helps individuals reconnect with themselves through creative expression. Together, Jolyn and Paulette explore what art therapy really is, why creativity can access places traditional talk therapy sometimes can’t, and how the body, nervous system, and imagination all play a role in emotional healing.

This episode gently challenges common misconceptions about art therapy, explains why clients are the true experts of their own inner worlds, and offers listeners simple, accessible ways to use art for regulation, insight, and self-awareness — no artistic skill required.

Whether you’re curious about art therapy, navigating stress or life transitions, or simply interested in holistic approaches to wellness, this conversation offers insight, compassion, and practical takeaways you can use right away.

Show Notes:

• Studio: Art Therapy Studio of Reno
• Website: arttherapystudioofreno.com
• Email: paulette@arttherapystudioofreno.com 
• Phone: 775-741-0221

This episode of the Grapevine Wellness Show features Mai Tran, Area Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in Nevada. With years of experience in suicide prevention, Mai is dedicated to educating and spreading awareness.

Our conversation begins by discussing tools to recognize and prevent suicide, covering risk factors and steps to protect those at risk. We then focus on healing from the grief and trauma of losing someone to suicide, guiding you toward peace and healing.

Don’t miss this chance to gain the support you need to restore hope in your life and those you care about. I know you’ll benefit from this crucial conversation.

Mai Tran, Area Director
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Nevada

Guest: Craig Nielson, M.A., CPC, CCPC
Book: Love is our True DNA – available on Amazon
Business | Website: My Internal Image | MyInternalImage.com
Email: Craig@MyInternalImage.com

Welcome to the Grapevine Wellness Show.
I'm Jolyn — trauma recovery specialist, grief specialist, and guide for those navigating the deep waters of loss, anxiety, depression or emotional pain.
Each episode is a safe space to explore healing tools for trauma recovery, grief support techniques, and nervous system regulation strategies — so you can move from surviving to truly living.
Whether you’re carrying unresolved grief, managing chronic stress, or feeling stuck in depression, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm, you’re not alone. Let’s reclaim your peace — one step at a time.
💜 Subscribe for weekly episodes on trauma-informed care, grief recovery, mental wellness, and somatic healing practices.
 
📞 Free 15-min. Consultation: (916) 415-8619
🌐 Website: https://grapevineinnerwellness.com
📧 Email: Connect@GrapevineInnerWellness.com
📍 Location: Reno, Nevada | Online Internationally
 
Follow Us:
Instagram – @traumacoachjolyn
Facebook – Grapevine Inner Wellness

Grab Jolyn’s book here: https://tinyurl.com/4kjh3uac

You can find the show on all podcast players.
 
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and click the bell to be notified of new videos.

In this exclusive webinar you’ll hear the incredible story of Connor Martin.

Connor was raised by an abusive home and endured years of extreme abuse. Forced to grow up quickly, she escaped her abusive home at the age of 19. As an adult, Connor faced a string of abusive partners, and at one point, a partner even tried to kill her before she escaped. The trauma and stress led to massive health problems, but Connor never gave up.

Through a decade of therapy and relentless determination, Connor has broken the cycle of trauma. Today, she runs her own business where she helps others to heal from childhood trauma and overcoming their past lives.

Connor will share her journey, the challenges she faced, and the tools she used for healing. This is a unique opportunity to be inspired and empowered by someone who has walked the path and found true fulfillment.
Don’t miss this chance to start your journey to healing and reclaiming your future. Register now and take the first step toward living the life you’ve always dreamed of.

Welcome to the Grapevine Wellness Show.
I'm Jolyn — trauma recovery specialist, grief specialist, and guide for those navigating the deep waters of loss, anxiety, depression or emotional pain.
Each episode is a safe space to explore healing tools for trauma recovery, grief support techniques, and nervous system regulation strategies — so you can move from surviving to truly living.
Whether you’re carrying unresolved grief, managing chronic stress, or feeling stuck in depression, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm, you’re not alone. Let’s reclaim your peace — one step at a time.
💜 Subscribe for weekly episodes on trauma-informed care, grief recovery, mental wellness, and somatic healing practices.

Back pain is miserable and it can affect every area of your life.  But many people are suffering from it when they don’t have to.

That’s why I invited Dr. Dan Welch to be my guest on the Grapevine Wellness Show.  Dr. Welch is a chiropractor and the owner of Northern Nevada Chiropractic.

You’re going to learn about the latest advances in back treatment that can eliminate pain without surgery.  Even if you’ve seen a chiropractor, or are considering surgery, you need to be aware of these advances that could help you.

You’ll also learn…

•  The most common causes of back pain
•  Steps you can take right now to remain physically active as you age
•  How you can look and feel better again, and get a full night’s sleep
•  How you can finally end the pain and get your life back.

If you have back pain, even if you’ve seen a chiropractor, this one-hour event could have a big impact on your life.  

Enjoy this recording of our live interview!

Dr. Daniel Welch
Northern Nevada Chiropractic
Website: https://www.NorthernNevadaChiropractic.com/

We all know it’s important that we take care of ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally.  But it’s easy to get so busy with work, family, and obligations that we neglect to give ourselves the care we need and deserve.  

Heidi Nelson is a licensed massage therapist and the owner of Reno Massage & Wellness.  She’s going to reveal why self-care is so important, and how it’s so critical to good health.  But best of all, she’s going to reveal the secret of “habit stacking,” and how it will empower you to quickly and easily incorporate self-care WITHOUT adding more to your already packed schedule.  

Heidi is passionate about wellness, and is devoted to helping people experience wellness without the overwhelm.  I know you’ll find this interview informative and inspiring, especially if you know you want to take better care of yourself, but feel like you don’t have time.  

Heidi Nelson
Website: https://www.renomassageandwellness.com/

In this heartfelt episode, host Jolyn Armstrong sits down with Johnathan and Noel Perryman, co-founders of Sierra Nevada Home Health, to share their deeply personal journey through the National Kidney Registry’s paired-donation program. You’ll hear how Noel’s kidney saved the life of a four-year-old boy, how Johnathan received his own life-saving transplant months later, and how both experiences strengthened their marriage, their faith, and their commitment to serving others.

This is a story about generosity, resilience, and the quiet heroism that changes lives.

Connect with Johnathan & Noel Perryman
📧 Johnathan@SierraNevadaHH.com
📧 Noel@SierraNevadaHH.com
📞 775.800.1300
🌐 sierranevadahh.com

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

• Nevada Donor Network
• National Kidney Registry
• Donor Shield

Do you have dreams for your life you want to accomplish, but you feel stuck?  Are there things that have meaning, purpose and value to you, but you’re not doing them because of fear, procrastination, depression, or other obstacles?

For this episode I’ve invited my husband and business partner, Jim Armstrong, to be my guest.  You’re going to learn how Jim has battled treatment-resistant depression since his late twenties, and how in the Summer of 2019 he hit a crisis point, a pit that he couldn’t seem to climb out of.  And how in this moment of darkness he followed an inner calling to, in his words, “Go jump out of an effing plane,” and how this journey led him to become a licensed skydiver and ultimately a wingsuiter.

This is a fun, laughter-filled, and inspiring interview that you won’t want to miss.  

Jim Armstrong
Website: https://elevenwireband.com/

In this live episode of the Grapevine Wellness Show, host Jolyn Armstrong sits down with Dr. Mindy Lokshin, retired family physician and founder of the Parkinson Support Center of Northern Nevada. Dr. Lokshin started the Center after seeing the enormous need for better resources, understanding, and hope—especially after her own family and friends were diagnosed.

You’ll discover:

• What Parkinson’s really is—and how it affects people differently
• Early signs and symptoms most people don’t recognize
• Common myths and misconceptions that can delay support
• Risk factors you can work to avoid
• Why exercise is the only thing proven to slow progression
• How to access the most effective Parkinson’s-specific exercise programs
• Resources and support systems that make a real difference

Event Details:
📅 Date: Tuesday, September 9th, 2025
⏰ Time: 6pm PT (7pm MT, 8pm CT, 9pm ET)
📍 Location: Live Online (link sent after registration)

Whether you’re living with Parkinson’s, caring for someone who is, or simply want to understand more—this conversation will leave you informed, encouraged, and empowered.

Parkinson’s Support Center of Northern Nevada

Website: https://www.pscnn.org/

Email: Mindy@pscnn.org

Phone: 775.525.0205

29% of Americans have been diagnosed with depression at least once in their lives, and 17.8% of Americans are currently suffering, according to a February, 2023 Gallup poll.

Dr. Watson is an MD, a board certified Surgeon, and Ketamine practitioner.  He will discuss the causes of depression, and why so many people suffer from this often debilitating condition.  He’ll also discuss why pharmaceuticals—the most common treatment for depression—can be problematic. You’ll also learn about how Ketamine is a safe and effective alternative, how it works, and if it might be a good option for you.  

This is going to be a fascinating interview, especially if you suffer from chronic depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD or other mental health disorders and haven’t gotten the relief you’ve wanted from traditional approaches.  

Dr. Robert Watson
Website: https://wellcentrichealth.com/

Have you ever wondered what people really think about in their final moments? What they really feel is important?  Or what wisdom the dying leave behind that can inspire us to live more meaningful, connected lives?

In this powerful episode, I’m honored to welcome Chaplain Chaz Blackburn, the man behind Great Basin Chaplain Corps and a leader at Circle of Life Hospice Foundation.

Chaz will share his journey—how he walked away from a high-paying corporate career in search of deeper purpose, how volunteering at a homeless shelter opened his heart, and how his father’s encouragement led him to the calling of chaplaincy.

You’ll hear how Chaz faced the danger of becoming numb to grief, and instead chose a path of radical vulnerability, peer support, and compassionate presence.

Most of all, Chaz will share moving stories from his work in hospice—stories of the “Gifts of the Dying”—the simple, powerful lessons that can help all of us focus on what truly matters in life.

This is a conversation you won’t want to miss.  So, register here on this page and we’ll see you there. 

Contact Chaplain Chaz Blackburn, CCISM Here:

Circle of Life Hospice Foundation: https://www.colhospice.com/

Great Basin Chaplain Corps: https://nvpsn.org/chaplain%20corps.html

Email: chaz@greatbasinchaplains.com

This is according to research reported by the American Psychological Association.

Chronic stress not only makes you miserable, it creates a laundry list of health risks, including weight gain, Anxiety, Depression, Digestive problems, Heart disease, sleep problems, and high blood pressure to name a few.  

Molly McCune is a massage therapist and owner of Body In Knead, with locations in Reno & Sparks.  She will reveal the causes and effects of stress, and four steps you can take to reduce and even eliminate chronic stress.  You’ll learn how you can overcome stress, get your life back, and start feeling good again.

Molly McCune
Website: https://bodyinknead.com/

Date / Time: July 8th at 1pm (NOT 6pm, Natalie runs out of steam in the evening so we’re filming early)

Have you ever faced a moment so overwhelming, so life-altering, that you didn’t know how to move forward? Or watched someone you love struggle through a battle that seemed impossible to fight? If so, you’re not alone—and this episode will show you that even in the hardest moments, there is hope.

You don’t want to miss this powerful and inspiring conversation with Natalie Stevenson, founder of Cancer Community Clubhouse. When Natalie was diagnosed with cancer, she was forced to develop resilience in ways she never imagined. But instead of letting the experience break her, she turned it into something remarkable—a thriving support community for others navigating the same journey.

Through Cancer Community Clubhouse, Natalie and her team provide a place of connection, resources, and encouragement for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. From emotional support to practical guidance, this community helps people move from isolation to empowerment.

In this episode, Natalie shares her personal story—how she found strength in the face of uncertainty, why community makes all the difference, and how turning pain into purpose has transformed not only her life but the lives of so many others.

If you’ve ever wondered how resilience is built, how support changes everything, or how you can bring hope to someone facing cancer, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Join us for this inspiring episode. Register on this page and we’ll see you on the webinar.  

37.3 million Americans have diabetes, and 96 Million are pre-diabetic, and most don’t even know it.   

Diabetes is the eighth leading cause of death in the United States, an estimated $327 billion in medical costs and lost work and wages occur annually, and people diagnosed diabetes have more than twice the average medical costs than people without diabetes.

Dr. Dale Kelly is a functional health practitioner and chiropractor, and the owner of Balanced Health Solutions in Sparks, Nevada. He’s going to discuss the traditional treatment for diabetes, and the drawbacks to this approach.  He’ll also reveal alternative approaches for not only treating diabetes, but avoiding it in the first place.  

Enjoy this recording of our live interview!

Dr. Dale Kelly
Website: https://www.drdalekelly.com/

In this episode, Dr. Julia Miller, owner of Affinity Chiropractic, will uncover simple, natural ways to restore your body’s energy and vitality.

Dr. Miller will reveal:

• Why energy issues often start from within—and how small changes can make a big difference.
• The surprising connection between body alignment and sleep quality.
• How stress, hormones, and lifestyle habits impact your energy levels.
• Simple, natural ways to feel more vibrant—without relying on stimulants.

If you’ve ever struggled with fatigue, midday slumps, or just want to feel more energized every day, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Watch our conversation below!

Dr. Julia Miller, Affinity Chiropractic
Phone:  775.358.3590

LINKS MENTIONED DURING THE PODCAST
Fatty15: https://partners.fatty15.com/DRJULIAM
NutriDyn: https://affinitychironv.nutridyn.com/all-products/index/ndcp?cat_key=Cardiometabolic%20Health
Metagenics: https://juliamiller.metagenics.com/ – JULMIL0378 prof ID if you call
LMNT: http://elementallabs.refr.cc/drjulia
Thirdzy: https://thirdzy.com
Delta e: https://mydeltae.idevaffiliate.com/10025.html

Researchers or Podcasters referenced
Dr. Gabrielle Lyon, MD    https://drgabriellelyon.com
Andrew Huberman, neurobiologist and neuroscientist https://www.hubermanlab.com
Jay Shetty  https://www.jayshetty.me/podcast

My life was shattered by a traumatic family event. I felt like I’d been swept away in a powerful hurricane. I was overwhelmed with grief.

I felt lost, afraid, and isolated, which led to severe depression and anxiety.

I simply couldn’t imagine life ever being good again. (Maybe you can relate.)

So, I embarked on a journey…

To “wake up” from the nightmare and achieve inner wellness, I knew I had to get help. So, I did.

In therapy, I learned insights and practical techniques to overcome depression, anxiety, and trauma.

I slowly rebuilt my life. As I returned to “normal,” peace and joy entered those once-dark spaces.

After my recovery, I began another journey…

It was a journey to help others. That’s why I’m here: to help you rebuild a beautiful life you’ll love!

I am a Grief Recovery Specialist, a Certified Trauma Recovery Coach, and I hold a certification in Somatic Embodiment and Regulation.  I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Polyvagal Theory.

Using a these modalities, we’ll move through your suffering and put you on the path to healing.

Through our work together, you’ll once again experience hope and joy. You’ll enjoy the holidays again, restart hobbies, spend time with friends, and sleep restfully.

When I’m not helping people…

I love visiting new places with my business partner and husband, Jim. I have three sons and enjoy spending time with them.

I also like bike riding, Harry Potter, and documentaries.

And if you have a cake with buttercream frosting, I’m in! It’s one of my weaknesses!

I’ve helped many people just like you rediscover peace and joy while reclaiming control of their lives.

In a safe and non-judgmental space, we’ll collaborate to create a treatment plan uniquely tailored to your needs and put that grief, cloud of depression, or traumatizing event behind you once and for all.

Imagine waking up in the morning feeling refreshed and excited about the day. How great would it feel to be in control of your thoughts and emotions again? A better future is possible.