Finding Sanctuary

Episode Summary:

This episode of "Finding Sanctuary" brings together three remarkable voices tackling the mental health challenges facing young Aussies today. Host Debbie Draybi sits down with Fr Ron Hassarati—educator turned recently ordained priest—and Leena Dib, her friend and fellow education expert, for a raw conversation about parenting, faith, and finding your way in our digital world.

Father Ron and Leena don't...

Key Takeaways:

• Community Building through Activity: The Marunite Run Club successfully brings people together, blending physical exercise with opportunities for community-building and faith exploration.
• Casual Settings Promote Connection: A non-intimidating environment, like casual run/walk meet-ups, significantly eases social interactions and encourages new friendships.
• Inclusive Approach: The initiative is not limited to runners...

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of creating a safe and supportive network by sharing vulnerabilities and authentic experiences within a community.
• How raw and unedited podcasts foster genuine connections and provide relatable content that resonates with a broad audience.
• Imposter syndrome is a universal experience, and embracing it can lead to greater personal accountability and growth.
• The critical role of empathy and authenticity i...

Eddie Reaiche sits down with Monsignor Shora and Honi Lattouf to explore the life-changing impact of the Alpha program. Rhey dive into how this eleven-week course has become a guiding light for those seeking faith development, a sense of belonging, and clarity amid life’s challenges.

Alpha creates space for honest conversations, offering a path to personal growth and spiritual renewal—especially for people feeling lost, disconnected...

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Finding Sanctuary, we sit down with Melissa D’Cruz—a powerhouse florist and wedding planner whose story is as inspiring as the blooms she works with. From dreaming of being a psychologist to becoming a trusted presence at some of life’s most emotional moments, Melissa opens up about how deep personal loss and grief reshaped her path and fuelled her passion for bringing comfort through creativity

Me...

Key Takeaways:

• The critical role of securing a sense of belonging and acceptance in shaping one’s identity and choices.
• How Andrew’s journey illustrates the deep links between trauma, addiction, and the search for masculine identity.
• The importance of seeking spiritual guidance and community support in overcoming personal challenges.
• The concept of “I am” and its influence on personal identity and behavior as demonstrated through A...

About the Guest:

Dr. Peter Holmes is a senior lecturer in theology at the University of Notre Dame. Recently Dr. Holmes published a book titled “Redeeming Masculinity,” which delves into understanding masculine identity from a theological perspective. To add to his list of credentials, he is now completing studies in counselling/ psychology.

Key Takeaways:

• The Evolution of Masculinity: Peter discusses how his personal and academic...

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Faith: Pamela Chedid emphasizes how her faith in Christ helped her carry the burden of grief after the loss of her child.
• Writing as Therapy: Through writing, Pamela found solace and a means to process her emotions, leading to the creation of her poetry book.
• Honor and Memory: Remembering and honoring lost loved ones through personal rituals and sharing stories aid in the healing journey.
• Support Network...

The content of this podcast is intended for general information purposes only and does not take into account individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for personal medical or therapeutic advice. Please consult your GP, therapist, or another qualified health professional for guidance tailored to your specific needs.

Key Takeaways:

• Holistic Approach to Mental Health: Combining medication with therapy and spiritual practices ...

About the Guest:

Berta Azzi is a distinguished holistic health coach and nutritionist with a rich history in the wellness industry. Over her expansive career, Berta has transformed her personal health journey into a professional mission to empower others. With expertise in holistic approaches to wellness, she emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and soul in achieving optimal health. Berta is also a Pilates instructor and has an...

Resources:

• George John Photography on Instagram
• Dodie Jay Hair on Instagram

About the Guests:

Dodie Jay: Dodie Jay is a renowned hairstylist in the wedding industry, known for her authentic and candid approach to her craft. With a commitment to building her clients' self-esteem, Dodie has crafted a career that balances personal passion and professional excellence. Her journey has been marked by resilience, having triumphe...

About the Guest:

 Jade El-Choueifati is a seasoned Master of Ceremonies who has emceed numerous prominent events throughout Sydney. He is well known for his event management and charisma and specialises in coordinating weddings and celebrations within the Maronite community. His focus on fostering community spirit and emphasising the deeper significance of matrimonial celebrations highlights his dedication to creating memorable and ...

Key Takeaways:

• Anthony Salame has successfully merged his love for comedy with his deep-rooted faith, creating content that is both entertaining and enriching.
• His children's books aim to simplify and communicate complex values in an accessible way for young minds.
• Comedians often face mental health challenges, and Anthony emphasizes the importance of a strong faith foundation to navigate these struggles.
• The discussion unders...

Key Takeaways:

• The "Finding Sanctuary" podcast invites community members to share their voices, effectively breaking the silence on mental health issues.
• Hosting the podcast provides personal growth and deeper connections for both the hosts and the listeners.
• Special guests bring new insights into episodes, enriching conversations with their unique perspectives.
• Workshops following episodes allow for further community eng...

About the Guest:

Helena Roumanus: Helena Roumanus is very involved in community service and is known for her passionate commitment to helping those in need. She has been instrumental in organizing charitable activities, particularly around Christmas, where she engages friends and family to support young mothers and children in crisis shelters. Helena is a dedicated wife and mother of four, balancing her family responsibilities with ...

About the Guest:

Dr. Greg Bottaro is a Catholic psychologist and the founder of the Catholic Psych Institute. Based in the United States, Dr. Bottaro integrates Catholic philosophy and theology with contemporary psychology to address mental health issues. He is passionate about aligning spiritual and scientific approaches to enrich lives affected by psychological struggles. Dr. Bottaro has extensively explored themes of happiness, s...

Key Takeaways:

• Forgiveness as a Choice: Leila advocates that forgiveness is a conscious decision to let go of anger and bitterness, promoting personal and communal healing.
• Community Support: Emphasizing the role of community, Leila describes how collective support can facilitate healing and reconnection, outstretching the isolation caused by grief.
• Strength in Vulnerability: Leila’s openness about her grief underscores the streng...

Key Takeaways:

• Artificial Intelligence Overview: AI is fundamentally about simulating human intelligence through machines, enabling smarter decision-making processes in our everyday lives.
• Technology Adoption: Effective change management is crucial in technology projects, ensuring smoother transitions and stronger stakeholder engagement.
• Potential of AI: AI offers vast opportunities for improving life quality, from automating repe...

Key Takeaways:

• Holistic Health Over Aesthetics: Prioritize mental wellness and emotional health through exercise, as physical fitness provides measurable psychological benefits.
• Moderation in Nutrition: Mindful eating and balanced nutrition directly impact mental health, with serotonin production closely linked to our dietary choices.
• Community and Connection: Engagement in group exercises or shared physical activity promotes ment...