Whole by Design

Whole by Design

Welcome to Whole by Design, a transformative podcast that challenges traditional mental health narratives and reminds us that our experiences make perfect sense no matter how challenging. Join Dr. Julie Lopez, founder of the Viva Center, as she brings her expertise in human systems to illuminate the complexities of mental health with compassion and clarity. Each month, Dr. Lopez and her remarkable guests explore beyond conventional thinking to reveal the brilliance of our human system and its innate resources for healing and adaptation. Through intimate conversations and powerful storytelling, you’ll discover fresh perspectives backed by science that pave the way to flourishing and authentic joy. Whether you’re navigating your own healing path or supporting loved ones, each episode offers practical insights, inspiring stories, and evidence-based approaches that honor your unique experience. Tune in to any episode that speaks to you and join a community that’s redefining wellness through a trauma-informed lens. When we understand ourselves more accurately as whole by design we shortcut the path to healing and thriving.

Episodes

September 23, 2025 23 mins

Disordered eating impacts millions of Americans, yet so many people face it in silence. If you’re struggling, you are not alone.

In this episode, Dr. Julie Lopez sits down with Christie Dondero Bettwy, Executive Director of Rock Recovery, to talk about her personal journey of disordered eating recovery and her work making treatment more accessible. Together, they explore how cultural messages about food and bodies fuel shame, why s...

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Psychedelics and breathwork may seem like very different paths to healing, but what if the breath alone could unlock the same powerful states of awareness?

In this episode, Dr. Julie Lopez speaks with Mark Worster, a psychiatric nurse, entrepreneur, and trauma survivor, about how deep breathwork can be a psychedelic experience without substances. Together, they explore non-ordinary states of consciousness, shadow work, and how acce...

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In this deeply honest conversation, Dr. Julie Lopez sits down with author, filmmaker, and advocate Zara Phillips to explore how co-dependency and hyperfixation act as survival mechanisms that can spiral into addictive patterns.   They unpack why we overthink, people-please, or fixate compulsively when safety feels uncertain, and reveal the two key components Zara credits with sustaining lasting recovery.    From Zara's gro...
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Psychiatric medication can be life-changing, but for some teens, it becomes the only solution offered. If you or someone you love is on medication but still facing challenges and wondering why, this episode is for you. Discover how a personalized whole-body approach to teen mental health can create more lasting results. Dr. Britta Zimmer, Chief Medical Officer of Pacific Quest and expert in integrative psychiatry, shares what hap...

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Disorders of the gut aren’t just digestive issues; they’re often signals from your nervous system. If you’ve been struggling with gut issues, anxiety, or chronic discomfort that doctors can’t explain, this episode is for you. Dr. Ali Navidi, licensed clinical psychologist and co-founder of GI Psychology, breaks down the science and psychology of the gut-brain connection. He explains how trauma, stress, and emotional survival patt...

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In this episode of Whole by Design, Robyn Brickel, an expert in trauma-informed clinical work, sheds light on how we are all built for survival. Robyn explores how healing deep-rooted wounds can lead to healthier connections, improved emotional regulation, and a more peaceful life. Tune in for valuable insights on recognizing trauma's impact and practical steps for healing that can transform the way you relate to yourself and other...

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Did you know you can use your imagination to rewire your brain and heal trauma? In this episode, Tracy, a leading expert in brain science, explains how visualizing nurturing experiences can create new neural pathways. Learn how the powerful therapeutic approach of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)  can reduce emotional reactivity and transform your mental health, helping you break free from old patterns and creat...

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Feeling stuck, drained, or unsure of your next step? You’re not alone. In this episode of Whole by Design, Dr. Julie Lopez sits down with Pascale Cook-Fernandes—coach, Reiki master, and founder of Women Finding Clarity—to explore how overwhelm and self-doubt can keep us from fully showing up in our lives.

Pascale shares her powerful approach to stepping out of the fog and into clarity, drawing from energy work, self-awareness pract...

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Have you ever felt like there's a powerful voice inside you, just waiting to be discovered? In this episode of Whole by Design, we explore the profound impact of the human voice and how it can be a tool for healing, confidence building, and authentic self-expression, enabling you to live more fearlessly.

We will examine the common inhibitions that prevent individuals from fully expressing themselves and offer strategies for overcom...

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Join host Julie for a groundbreaking conversation with Aditi Manocha, gut and hormone nutrition coach, as they challenge the dismissive "it's all in your head" approach and explore empowering strategies to advocate for your health.

In this episode, we unpack the pervasive issue of medical gaslighting and delve into Aditi's personal journey through the maze of chronic health issues. Discover how connecting the dots in your health pu...

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Ready to reframe your pain perception, build resilience, and take control of your life?

In this episode, Dr. Julie sits down with Jen Uschold to discuss a holistic, science-based approach to understanding and managing pain. By exploring the intricate relationship between the nervous system, mental fitness, and well-being, Uschold provides listeners with practical strategies to change their relationship with pain. Through her three-...

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Join host Dr. Julie Lopez for a conversation with Sabrina Hansen of The Relational Mastery Institute as they challenge the conventional thinking around Relationship OCD and explore a more empowering perspective on this debilitating experience.

In this episode, we move beyond the limitations of labels like "Relationship OCD" to understand the deeper needs driving these thought patterns and behaviors. Sabrina shares her insights on h...

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DESCRIPTION:

This episode of Viva View delves into the complexities of Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), from the perspective of the adoptee. Host Dr. Julie Lopez sits down with Haley Radke, a prominent adoptee advocate and founder of the popular podcast "Adoptees On."

Together, they challenge the traditional view of RAD as a disorder and explore it through a more compassionate lens.

This episode offers a powerful message for any...

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Ready to understand a key element of depression and all other mental struggles that can unlock healing? Dr. Julie Lopez sits down with intuitive, trauma-informed speaker Claudia Cauterucci for a powerful conversation on redefining depression. Claudia, a renowned psychotherapist, bestselling author, and founder of Dynamic R-Evolution, shares her deep insights into the complexities of mental health. Together, they explore why it is s...

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In this month's episode, Dr. Julie Lopez sat down with Colin Drummond, a trailblazing street journalist with a rich background in traditional and social media. Together, they explore the common experience of anxiety, its origins, and its deeper meanings. Join us for this insightful conversation on anxiety, its roots, and how to navigate it with understanding and compassion. 

 

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In this debut episode of the Viva View, Dr. Julie Lopez engages in a compelling conversation with Kathleen Hanagan on redefining mental health. Together they explore the dangerous effects of mis-labeling individuals who have experienced trauma. Highlighting the transformative power of compassion and a more accurate view of the human condition, they delve into why it is one of the most crucial elements of effective healing. Join us ...

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