Peace Begins at Home with Cynda Collins Arsenault, founder of Secure World Foundation, Our Secure Future and Women Powering Change

This conversation with Cynda Collins Arsenault explores the connections between personal experience, community, and global change. Cynda reflects on how her journey—rooted in her role as a mother and community-builder—has shaped her decades-long work in peace, inclusion, and female leadership. The discussion moves through themes of respectful relationships, the transformative power of grief, and the importance of inclusive communities. Cynda shares stories about creating networks of support for her daughter with disabilities, building organizations that foster peace on earth and in outer space, and highlighting the essential leadership strengths that women bring to collective action. Throughout the conversation, she encourages listeners to find meaning by engaging authentically with their own communities, caring for themselves, and supporting causes that resonate with their passions, all while embracing both the joys and vulnerabilities that come with connection.

Show Notes:

Secure World Foundation

Our Secure Future

Erin JC Arsenault

Women Powering Change

Lead Your Love Life

Radiant Connection Lab

Shaping High Performance Cultures for Real Connection with Brett Goldstein, host of Grow to Gold

In this conversation, Brett Goldstein reveals a refreshingly honest and relatable approach to both work and life—he and Sarah move fluidly between stories of vulnerability, reflections on personal growth, and practical wisdom cultivated from real mistakes and successes. Their dialogue uncovers how Brett’s leadership style is grounded in emotional openness and “human connection,” exploring how trust and authenticity ripple out from daily professional choices to transform family life, friendships, and even self-understanding. With humor, a bit of grit, and plenty of actionable insights, their exchange highlights that success isn’t measured in numbers, but in the quality of our relationships and our willingness to show up, learn together, and embrace imperfection along the way.​

Show notes:

Grow2Gold Podcast

Why Research Matters for Relational Healing with Dr. Jae Sevelius of The Rebel Lab

Dr. Jae Sevelius joins host Sarah Melissa Oswald for a deeply insightful conversation about the future of relational healing. As the Senior Research Strategist at Relational Life Foundation, Jae is leading groundbreaking research to establish Relational Life Therapy (RLT) as an evidence-based, widely accessible modality. Together they discuss why research matters for the future of RLT, how it can shape graduate training programs, and what makes this model so transformative for therapists and clients alike.
​
Jae also shares how their decades of work at Columbia University and with LGBTQ+ and trans communities have shaped their understanding of relationships as both a source of trauma and a pathway to healing—and how this understanding connects to their exploration of psychedelic-assisted therapy. This episode shines a light on the critical role of research, community, and compassion in building a more relational world.
​
Available October 17, 2025: 
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Amazon Music 
Apple Music 
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​iHeartRadio


“Relational Life Therapy gives clinicians permission to bring their full selves into the room, to speak the truth with love—and that’s why it works.”

-Dr. Jae Sevelius


Show Notes

Connect with Dr.Jae Sevelius​​

When Love Becomes Culture: Translating RLT into Community Peace with Chiddie Anyasodo of Chotayah

In this powerful episode, host Sarah Melissa Oswald sits down with therapist and peace facilitator Chiddie Anyasodo to explore her remarkable journey from oil and gas engineer to relational healer. Drawing on her background in engineering systems and her training in Relational Life Therapy (RLT), Chiddie has pioneered a groundbreaking approach to conflict resolution, transforming age-old community tensions in Nigeria through the creation of the “Five Masquerades” metaphor.
​
Chiddie shares how she helped a village locked in a 19-year conflict find common ground, peace, and even laughter by translating complex relational dynamics into cultural stories that resonated deeply with her community. From navigating patriarchal structures to disarming resistance and shame, Chiddie demonstrates how relational skills can heal not just couples, but entire communities.
​
This conversation is both inspiring and practical, a glimpse into how systemic change begins with relational courage, creativity, and compassion.
​
Available October 3, 2025: 
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​iHeartRadio


"If we can translate relational wisdom into the metaphors of each culture, we really can build world peace. Village by village, relationship by relationship."

-Chiddie Anyasodo


Show Notes

Chiddie's Website: https://chotayah.com/
Chiddie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chidiebereanya/
Bringing Peace Home, through RLT practitioner, Chiddie Anyasodo (blog)
Scholarship application for RLT

Building Resilience in the Next Generation: Supporting Teens & Preventing Suicide ​​with Iuri Melo, founder of School Pulse

In this episode of Facets of Connection, host Sarah Melissa Oswald sits down with Iuri Melo to explore the urgent youth mental health crisis and the power of proactive solutions. 

Iuri is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience and the proud father of five. He’s the co-founder of SchoolPulse, a nationwide student support service that delivers positivity, optimism, and growth mindset tools to students, parents, and faculty via text and email. After several teen suicides in his community, Iuri co-created SchoolPulse in 2017 to proactively support student well-being. He’s also the author of Mind Over Grey Matter and the teen best-seller Know Thy Selfie, and the developer of “Adventure Based Therapy.” With over 300 schools in 25+ states, Iuri’s mission to “bless the human family” is inspiring students every day through kindness, psychology, and powerful weekly videos.

Together, Sarah and Iuri dive into:

  • Why positive relationships are the #1 protective factor for student well-being.

  • How proactive, daily check-ins can prevent crises before they escalate.

  • The role of positive psychology and growth mindset in helping teens thrive.

  • How schools, parents, and communities can build stronger systems of support.

​
This heartfelt conversation is filled with optimism, practical strategies, and a shared commitment to ending the epidemic of loneliness by fostering connection at home, in schools, and across communities.
​
Available September 19, 2025: 
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Amazon Music 
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​iHeartRadio


“Positive relationships are the number one factor in short and long-term happiness."

-Iuri Melo


Show Notes

Shaping Our Built Environment for Personal Transformation ​​with Kathi Burns of Organized and Energized

In this conversation, Sarah sits down with Kathi Burns, a best-selling author, board certified professional organizer, personal stylist & nationally recognized for her simple organizing & style solutions. She has also been featured on Good Morning America as a successful woman owned business. Sarah and Kathi explore how our relationship with our built and digital environments impacts our well-being, productivity, and connections with others. Kathi Burns is .Kathi shares her mission of helping people embrace change with less fear, whether through decluttering a kitchen counter, streamlining business systems, or reframing how we approach “piles” in our lives. Together, they discuss how organization reduces overwhelm, strengthens relationships, and creates space for joy, creativity, and resilience. This episode offers practical wisdom and inspiring insights for anyone seeking more ease in their life and relationships.
​
Available September 5, 2025: 
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​iHeartRadio


“When we clear away the clutter, whether it’s on our counters, in our calendars, or in our minds, we create space for joy, connection, and what truly matters.”

-Kathi Burns
​

Show Notes

Intimacy Though Community: Rethinking Connection Beyond the Nuclear Family with Beverly Joy Ehrlich

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation, RLT-certified coach Beverly Joy Ehrlich sits down with Sarah Melissa Oswald, Director of Relational Life Foundation, to explore what it means to foster intimacy through community. Their conversation illuminates the limitations of the nuclear family model and invites us to reimagine relationships as living systems—ever-evolving, interdependent, and rich with possibility. From Sarah’s personal journey of cultivating multifaceted relationships to practical insights on building meaningful connections, this episode is a powerful reminder that intimacy doesn’t begin and end with our romantic partners.
​
Discover how community, diversity, and inclusive connection can create a more sustainable foundation for belonging and relational resilience—especially in a time of increasing speed, loneliness, and disconnection.

Available August 19, 2025: 
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Amazon Music 
Apple Music 
Youtube
Substack
​iHeartRadio


"It’s not a sign of weakness that we depend on our communities. It’s actually a sign of strength."

-Beverly Joy Ehrlich

Show Notes

Sarah Melissa Oswald’s private practice, Lead Your Love Life
Beverly Joy Ehrlich’ private practice
Carol Giligan 
Thomas Hübl
Priya Parker
MatrixWorks: Living Systems in Groups
Jessica Fern – Polysecure: Attachment, Trauma and Consensual Nonmonogamy

Navigating Neurodiverse Relationships ​with Caron Starobin, LCSW-C

In this rich conversation, therapist, educator, and RLT mentor Caron Starobin, LCSW-C, joins us to explore the unique complexities—and deep potential—of neurodiverse relationships. Drawing on decades of experience, Caron shares how Relational Life Therapy (RLT) offers an empowering framework for supporting couples where one or both partners are neurodivergent. We discuss the intersections of trauma and neurodivergence, how ableism can show up in relationships, and the importance of breaking down communication to build true connection.
​
Caron opens up about her path into this work, shaped by her own family history and a deep passion for helping people feel seen, heard, and less alone. Whether you're a practitioner, a partner in a neurodiverse relationship, or simply curious about how different brains relate in love, this episode offers insight, compassion, and real-world tools to bring more empathy and satisfaction into your relationships.

To dive deeper into Caron’s work or to explore her upcoming Relationship Bootcamp, visit www.starobincounseling.com.

Available August 8, 2025: 
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Amazon Music 
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Youtube
Substack
​iHeartRadio


"Relationships are complex. And when neurodivergence is part of the equation, we have to bring even more curiosity, compassion, and understanding."

-Caron Starobin

Show Notes

Connect with Caron Starobin
No Ordinary Love Community Conversation 
RLT Feedback Wheel
Save Your Seat in Caron’s Relationship Bootcamp (October 10-11, Ashton Maryland)
RLT Certification
​
Research that indicates Hans Asperger colluded with the Nazi’s:
Article from Tidsskriftet 
Article from The Guardian

Building Stronger Families Through Connection ​with Susan Caso, author of The Teen-Parent Connection

In this heartfelt episode of Facets of Connection, we sit down with therapist, author, and mother, Susan Caso, MA, LPC, to explore how respectful, connected relationships between parents and teens can help shift the trajectory of our current youth mental health crisis. Drawing from over two decades of experience and her book The Parent-Teen Connection, Susan offers actionable tools for building emotional closeness, fostering trust, and transforming conflict into meaningful repair.
​
Susan and Sarah dive into key concepts like belonging at home, the difference between the “parent role” and the “mom/dad role,” how to model emotional regulation, and why perfection isn’t the goal—connection is. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone raising, working with, or simply caring about the next generation. 
​
Whether you're parenting a toddler or a teen, this episode offers rich insight and thoughtful guidance for navigating the relational work of raising whole humans.

Available July 25, 2025: 
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Amazon Music 
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​iHeartRadio


 "Connection and learning how to be in a relationship starts at home."​

-Susan Caso, MA, LPC
​


Show Notes

Susan Caso’s book: The Parent Teen Connection
Ed Tronick: Rupture and Repair
Janet Lansbury: Respectful Parenting 
Infinite Campus
Gestalt Therapy
SusanCaso.com

From Stigma to Safety: Access, Equity and Representation in BIPOC Communities with Stacee & Ya'Ron Brown of Relational Growth & Wellness Foundation

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Stacee and Ya’Ron Brown, licensed professional counselors, married couple, and co-founders of the Relational Growth and Wellness Foundation. They share their mission to bring healing, transformation, and liberation to BIPOC and Pan-African communities through accessible mental health care, relational education, and cultural representation. Drawing from their lived experience and 17 years of marriage, Stacee and Ya’Ron speak candidly about using Relational Life Therapy (RLT) to break cycles of generational trauma and support thriving relationships in their community.

We explore their nonprofit’s work to train future leaders, expand access to therapy, and their exciting partnership with Relational Life Foundation to bring these vital tools to underserved communities—at home and abroad. This is a conversation about radical love, representation, and generational healing—one relationship at a time.

Available July 11, 2025: 
Spotify
Amazon Music
Apple Music
Youtube
​iHeartRadio


 "We are not here to treat people's symptoms. We are here to transform the legacies of our culture."​

- Stacee Brown
​


Show Notes

​RGWF Foundation
​RLF Newsletter Signup

Mini Matters of the Heart: From Dehumanization to Aliveness ​with our host, Sarah Melissa Oswald of Lead Your Love Life

Join our host, Sarah Melissa Oswald, as she takes us inside Colorado prisons, where she witnessed the transformative power of the Realness Project. Through heartfelt conversations with incarcerated men, she explores what it means to connect, to lead, and to heal—even in the most dehumanizing environments. This episode is a moving reflection on resilience, relational leadership, and the belief that all humans are good at their core. It’s a powerful reminder that once you’ve heard someone’s full story, love becomes inevitable.

Available June 27, 2025: 
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Amazon Music 
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Youtube
Substack
​iHeartRadio


“ All humans are good at their core. Everyone has the potential for growth and transformation, if given the opportunity.” ​
​
- Sarah Melissa Oswald

Show Notes

Episode 04: Breaking Generational Cycles of Incarceration with Laurie Lazar
Realness Project

Connection Compass: The Center of Health ​with Cathy Hill, PhD, emeritus Director of Training at Relational Life Institute

In this short podcast segment, we explore the evolution of RLT’s Relationship Grid. You'll learn how healthy self-esteem balances equally warm regard for self and others, and how having both protective and containing boundaries is essential for respectful relational dynamics. We also unpack the pitfalls of externally driven self-esteem, and the power of practicing relational health every day. Whether you're a therapist or simply curious about improving your relationships, this conversation offers deep insight and practical wisdom.​​
Learn more about Cathy at www.cathyhill.ca

Available Now:
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​iHeartRadio

"Healthy self-esteem is the belief that you have inherent worth just because you're a human being—and so does everybody else."
​- Cathy Hill, PhD, teaching Terry Real's RLT


Show Notes

Connection Compass Course

RLT Relationship Grid

Use code Facets for 10% off the full "Connection Compass" recording

Beyond the Bottom Line: The Business of Being Human ​with Matt McCall of Forge Capital

In this episode of Facets of Connection, we explore the intersection of purpose, relationships, and entrepreneurship with venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and philosophy enthusiast Matt McCall. We dive into the power of storytelling, the challenges of balancing personal and professional relationships, and how entrepreneurship serves as a microcosm for self-growth. Matt also reflects on life’s transitions, human-centric leadership, and the impact of anxiety and depression on young adults today. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply seeking a more meaningful life, this conversation offers insights and practical takeaways for navigating relationships, purpose, and resilience. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on integrating personal values with professional success.
​
Learn more about Matt at https://polsky.uchicago.edu/people/matthew-mccall/ / https://somethingventured.com/

Available Now:
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​iHeartRadio

"The most important relationship you can have is your relationship to yourself."
​- Matt McCall

Show Notes

​Something Ventured
Anaïs Nin - book Risk
Abraham Maslow - book Motivation and Personality (1954 )
The Hedonic Treadmill
Andrew Huberman 
Jonah Hill documentary 
TV Show- Shrinking 
Phil Stutz
Dr. John Gottman 
Matt McCall “S Curve” blog reference
Joseph Campbell
Rhythmia Costa Rica Retreat
"Zone of Genius" is a concept from Gay Hendricks’ book The Big Leap
Victim triangle /Creator triangle
 Michael Lewis of Moneyball fame 
Daniel Pink Drive Innovation
VIA strength test

Your Voice Matters: Turning Passion into Purpose Through Story​ with Tracy McCartney of Red Canary Magazine

In this powerful episode of Facets of Connection, Sarah sits down with Tracy McCartney— mother, writer, connector, and founder/publisher of Red Canary Magazine — for a heart-opening conversation about how storytelling fuels social and environmental justice. From typewriting poems as a toddler to creating an award-winning magazine amplifying marginalized voices, Tracy shares her inspiring journey of transforming grief, rage, and love for the Earth into real-world action. They dive deep into how independent journalism can heal communities, why true connection is at the heart of activism, and why caring for the planet and caring for each other are inseparable. 


If you've ever wondered how your unique gifts can ripple out to make real change (even when the world feels overwhelming), this conversation is a must-listen.

Connect with Red Canary on:
Instagram
Facebook
LinkedIn
YouTube
Vimeo 

Available May 16, 2025: 
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​iHeartRadio

“It's the relationship between individuals, and the collective, that's
​really going to make a difference”
​- Tracy McCartney

Show Notes

Sustainable Hope ​with Toufic Hakim, Executive Director of the Foundation for Self Leadership

In this heartfelt episode, Sarah is joined by Toufic Hakim—scientist by training, spiritualist by choice, and Executive Director of the Foundation for Self Leadership. Together, they explore what it means to cultivate sustainable hope in uncertain times by tending to our inner worlds, our relationships, and our communities. 

Toufic offers wisdom on how self-awareness, compassion, and connection can help us meet the world with clarity and heart. This conversation is a balm for the nervous system—and a deep invitation into presence, purpose, and possibility. The Foundation for Self Leadership is dedicated to fostering emotional, relational and societal healing and wellbeing. Its advocacy and research programs revolve around the IFS paradigm as a leading model among others.

Learn more about The Foundation for Self Leadership 
Find Foundation IFS on Facebook & Youtube 
Read their magazine Parts and Self


Available May 2, 2025: 
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​iHeartRadio

“We are never truly alone—even in solitude, we are in relationship with our stories, our sensations, and the communities that shaped us.”
​- Toufic Hakim

Show Notes

Relational Reckoning: Should I Stay or Should I Go?​ with Terry Real, founder of RLT

In this episode, new board president and founder of Relational Life Therapy (RLT), Terry Real, joins senior RLT practitioner and faculty member Anna Sterk, LMFT for a powerful conversation about one of the toughest relationship questions: Should I stay or should I go?

​Together, they unpack the concept of relational reckoning—weighing whether what we’re getting is enough to make grieving what we’re not getting worth it. They challenge the myth of unconditional adult love and explore the fine line between acceptance and self-abandonment. From resentment to “normal marital hatred,” this episode is full of clarity, compassion, and truth-telling. Whether you’re questioning a relationship or seeking deeper connection, this conversation offers a path forward.

Learn more about Terry Real
Learn more about Anna Sterk

April 18, 2025: 
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Apple Music 
Youtube
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​iHeartRadio

"There's something sacred about doing the work to become your best self, regardless of whether the relationship survives. That work is never wasted."

- Terry Real

Breaking Generational Cycles of Incarceration​ with Laurie Lazar of Realness Project

In this episode, host Sarah Melissa Oswald speaks with Laurie Lazar, founder and CEO of Realness Project, about her work in prisons, where she brings authentic relating practices to incarcerated individuals. Through deeply moving stories, they discuss the generational impact of incarceration, the resilience of the human spirit, and how connection can be a catalyst for change. Join us for a conversation that challenges assumptions and highlights the profound importance of empathy, healing, and community.​
​
Learn more about Laurie at 
​https://www.realnessproject.org/ / @realnessprojectnonprofit

Available April 4, 2025: 
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Amazon Music 
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Youtube
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​iHeartRadio

"Human beings are good. It gets beaten out of us, but at our core, we are good—and we can find our way back to that goodness through connection."
​- Laurie Lazar


Show Notes

Realness Project 
Dr.  Stephen Porges
Colorado State Penitentiary 
Caring for Denver
Dignity Humility Diagram 
RLT Relationship Grid

Donate Here

Natural Intelligence: Lessons From Wild Horses with Neda DeMayo of Return to Freedom

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Neda DeMayo, president founder of Return to Freedom, on the powerful lessons horses teach us about relationships, community, and ourselves. Explore how the secret language of horses mirrors human communication, inspires healthier communities, and offers profound healing for trauma survivors. Learn how wild horse behavior influences leadership, land management, and our connection to nature. Whether you're a horse lover or simply curious about deepening your relationships, this episode offers fresh perspectives and actionable wisdom. Tune in and let the horses guide you toward a more balanced, connected life.

Learn more about Neda at https://returntofreedom.org / @returntofreedom

Available March 21, 2025: 
Spotify
Amazon Music
Apple Music 
Youtube
Substack
​iHeartRadio

"I feel like I'm a better human being when I'm with the horses  and I'm learning how to be a better human being in relationships."
​- Neda DeMayo

Motherhood: An Evolutionary Gateway with Kendra Williams of Free the Mother


Motherhood:
​An Evolutionary Gateway

​This episode explores the profound transformations within parenthood, particularly motherhood, and the challenges our culture places on mothers. We’ll hear from motherhood coach Kendra Williams and discuss strategies for breaking free from perfectionism, processing identity shifts, and building confidence in parenting. Whether you’re a mother or simply curious about these concepts, this conversation will offer meaningful insights and support.

​Learn more about Kendra at 
​www.kendra-williams.com / @its.kendrawilliams

Available March 7, 2025: 
Spotify
Amazon Music
Apple Music 
Youtube
Substack
​iHeartRadio

"Motherhood isn't about perfection, it's about strength." 
​- Kendra Williams

Show Notes

Sarah's Introduction Slidedeck

Gestalt Therapy (training center in Colorado)
Matricentric Feminism, by Andrea O’Reilly (book)
​Free the Mother (Kendra’s brand)
Meme with Drew Barrymore (Kendra’s IG post)
The Conscious Parent, by Dr. Shafali (book)
The Awakened Family, by Dr. Shafali (book)
Mama Rising, by Amy Taylor Kabbaz (book)
Matrescence, by Lucy Jones (book) + book review
Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)
https://www.motheruntitled.com/

Resources