In my first-ever podcast episode, I speak to Linden Griffith, a life coach who helps girls and women tame anxiety and find their best selves. In so doing, she presents a viable alternative to psychological or psychiatric care, one that is centered on our strengths, not our flaws.

Linden knows a thing or two about bouncing back from life’s obstacles. That’s because in addition to being a recovering alcoholic, she was diagnosed with a stage 3 brain tumor a few years ago. You’d never guess that, though, judging by the pure optimism and joy that emanates from her.

Here, we talk about her childhood, overcoming addiction, receiving her life-changing diagnosis, and why her approach is so different from traditional psychology. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed speaking with her.

Note: we encountered some technical hiccups that necessitated recording our interview in two sessions. As a result, you may notice a subtle change in the podcast shortly before the half hour point.