Beyond Theory

In this special episode of Beyond Theory, host Dominic Lawson sits down with Maddie Corman, creator of the film "Accidentally Brave," to discuss her harrowing experience as the partner of a sex addict. Maddie vulnerably shares her story of the day her world shattered when her husband was arrested for possession of child pornography. She details the trauma, shame, and confusion she and her children...

In the season finale of Beyond Theory, host Dominic Lawson engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Kevin McCauley, a senior fellow at Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, about the latest findings in the neuroscience of addiction. The conversation delves into the complex interplay between brain chemistry, substance abuse, and the journey to recovery.   Dr. McCauley shares his insights on how...

In this episode of Beyond Theory Powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, host Dominic Lawson engages in a compelling conversation with Dr. Claudia Black, a renowned expert in the field of addiction and trauma. The discussion delves into the far-reaching impact of addiction and trauma on families and individuals, offering valuable insights for those seeking to understand and heal from these exper...

In this episode of "Beyond Theory," Dominic Lawson interviews Dr. Tian Dayton, a senior fellow at Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, about the therapeutic methods of sociometrics and psychodrama in treating trauma and addiction. Dr. Dayton emphasizes the significance of embodied therapy, as feelings are experienced within the body. She developed "floor checks" as a psychoeducational exercise to teach...

In this episode of Beyond Theory, Dr. Stephanie Carnes, a leading expert in the field of sexual health and addiction and Senior Fellow at The Meadows, discusses the recently recognized diagnosis of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) and the often-overlooked issue of sexual anorexia. The conversation sheds light on the importance of distinguishing between healthy sexual behaviors and proble...

In this episode of Beyond Theory, Sean Walsh, CEO of Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, discussed the organization's approach to providing comprehensive, specialized behavioral health treatment. The Meadows has a 45-year history of partnering with thought leaders and industry experts to design innovative programs and train staff, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based care.   Walsh emph...

In the second installment of a two-part series, the Beyond Theory podcast, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, continues the inspiring conversation with Erie Hebert, Director of the Meadows Outpatient Services facility in Austin, Texas. This episode delves deep into Erie's personal journey of resilience and his dedication to helping others heal from mental health challenges and addiction.  ...

In this compelling two-part episode of the Beyond Theory Podcast, we dive deep into the inspiring story of Erie Hebert, a behavioral health professional who has overcome immense adversity to help others heal. Part 1 explores Erie's challenging upbringing in New Orleans, his struggles with addiction and trauma, and his journey towards recovery and resilience.   Erie's childhood was marked by limite...

In this episode of the Beyond Theory podcast, host Dominic Lawson and guest Jack Register dive deep into the impact of toxic masculinity on men's mental health and emotional well-being. Drawing from personal experiences and his work as a clinical director in addiction recovery, Register highlights the harmful effects of rigid gender roles and societal pressures that prevent men from expressing vul...

In this episode of the Beyond Theory podcast, host Dominic Lawson interviews Mike Gurr, Executive Director of the Meadows Adolescent Center (TMAC), about the escalating mental health crisis among teenagers and the crucial role of specialized treatment programs in providing hope and healing for struggling adolescents and their families.   The conversation delves into the unique challenges of parent...

In this episode of Beyond Theory, host Dominic Lawson interviews Magnus Johnson, a former Green Beret and founder of the nonprofit organization Mission 22. Johnson shares his personal journey from combat trauma to mental health advocacy, highlighting the often-overlooked challenges veterans face when returning from war.   Johnson's story begins with his decision to enlist in the military following...

In this episode of Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, Tina Aggarwal, Director of Outpatient Services at the Meadows Silicon Valley, delves into the intricacies of complex trauma and its disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is a condition that results from prolonged, repeated exposure to traumatic events, often du...

In this episode of the Beyond Theory podcast, host Dominic Lawson and guests Brianna Mylius, Clinical Director of Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, and Yvonne Marchese, host of the Late Bloomer Living Podcast, delve into the pervasive issue of ageism and its detrimental effects on mental health across generations. Ageism, defined as stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination based on age, is a widesp...

In the season six premiere of Beyond Theory, host Dominic Lawson explores the power of running and community support for individuals in addiction recovery. The episode features interviews with Coach Mike Ferullo, founder of the Boston Bulldogs Running Club, and Meghan Langlois, the club's Director of Programs and Outreach, who share insights on their integrative approach to wellness.   Coach Mike...

A preview of season six of Beyond Theory. New episode premiere October 6. 

In this episode of Beyond Theory Podcast, we delve into the complex world of racialized trauma and its profound impact on Black mental health. Through candid conversations with Deran Young, founder of Black Therapist Rock, and Dr. Sheldon Jacobs, a member of the Board of Directors at NAMI, we explore how the legacy of slavery, segregation, systemic racism, and police brutality have created layers...

In this episode of Beyond Theory, a podcast powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, host Dominic Lawson interviews Tamu Lewis, co-founder and board president of the Lee Thompson Young Foundation. Tamu shares the story of her talented younger brother, actor Lee Thompson Young, and his struggles with bipolar disorder and tragic death by suicide.   Lee, best known for his roles in Disney's "The Fam...

In this episode of the Beyond Theory podcast, host Dominic Lawson engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, renowned trauma expert and author of "The Body Keeps the Score." The conversation delves into the pervasive and complex nature of trauma, its far-reaching impacts on mental and physical health, and the urgent need for a more trauma-informed society.   Dr. van de...

In this podcast episode, Dominic Lawson delves into the alarming rise of fentanyl abuse and overdose deaths in the United States. Fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, has become the leading cause of death for American adults aged 18-45, surpassing suicides, COVID-19, and car accidents. This episode explores the origins, dangers, and impact of the fentanyl epidemic through a compelling mix o...

In this episode of the Beyond Theory podcast by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, host Dominic Lawson interviews therapist and author Britt Frank about the pervasive experience of feeling stuck in life. Whether in the context of unfulfilling careers, toxic relationships, or cycles of addiction, feeling stuck is a phenomenon that affects many individuals. Frank shares insights from her book, "The Scie...

In this episode of the Beyond Theory podcast, host Dominic Lawson and guest Breanna Mylius, Clinical Director at Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, delve into the pervasive issue of hustle culture and its detrimental effects on mental health, physical well-being, and interpersonal relationships.   Hustle culture, a prevalent mindset in American society and other achievement-oriented cultures, glorifie...

In this episode of Beyond Theory, host Dominic Lawson interviews Kelly Kiley, a national mental health media expert and author, about the pervasive issue of "mommy drinking culture" and its impact on women's mental health and well-being. Kiley shares her personal journey with alcohol abuse and her path to sobriety, emphasizing the societal pressures and expectations that often drive moms to rely o...

In this episode of Beyond Theory, host Dominic Lawson interviews Dr. Elisa Hallerman, author of "Soul-briety: A Plan to Heal Your Trauma, Overcome Addiction and Reconnect with Your Soul." The discussion delves into the importance of inner work and soul-centered healing for achieving long-term addiction recovery and personal fulfillment.   Dr. Hallerman shares her personal journey from a successful...

The holiday season, while often associated with joy and celebration, can be a time of significant stress and emotional challenges for many individuals. In this podcast episode, we explore the various factors contributing to holiday stress and discuss strategies for coping with these difficulties from a behavioral health perspective.   One of the primary sources of holiday stress is the pressure to...

This podcast episode from Beyond Theory highlights the often-overlooked mental health struggles faced by women veterans as they transition from military service to civilian life. Guests Cat Corchado, a veteran and community relationship ambassador, and Kelly Walch, a therapist specializing in trauma recovery, provide insights into the unique challenges and paths to healing for women who have serve...