Welcome to rise and thrive

In this first episode, we delve into the power of music therapy and how it can be a transformative tool for healing and self-expression. In this episode, we feature: Dave Tabone – Founder of the Tabone Academy of Music, who uses music to help individuals find their voice and regain confidence. Mason Parenti – A young artist who overcame an eating disorder through the power of music, now writing songs to share her journey with others. Brenda Hoffert, Manager of Lighthouse – Discussing the impact of the legendary band on mental health and its enduring legacy. Paul Hoffert, Founding Member of Lighthouse – Sharing his experiences of how the band’s music has contributed to their own mental wellness. Dan Clancy, Lead Vocalist of Lighthouse – Reflecting on the emotional connections formed through their music and the power of performance. Dr. Meiko Schneider, MD, PhD – Assistant Professor at McMaster University and Psychiatrist at the Mood Disorders Program, Youth Wellness Centre at St. Joseph Healthcare Hamilton. Dr. Schneider shares insights into how music therapy is integrated into mental health treatment. Join us on this powerful journey as we explore how music therapy helps individuals heal, find hope, and express their emotions in ways that words alone cannot. Special thanks to our sponsors who help make this series possible. Don't forget to subscribe to our channel for more episodes, and visit RiseandThrivePodcast.ca to stay updated on upcoming releases. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals being interviewed and do not necessarily reflect the views of Rise and Thrive or its sponsors.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Rise and Thrive, we break the silence around men’s mental health — exploring the inner battles too many men face alone, and the strength it takes to speak up.

Join co-hosts Michael Paletta and Ted Michaels as they sit down with:

Derek Baranowski – Captain at the Burlington Fire Department and Trainer/Facilitator with the Mental Health Commission of Canada, who shares his mission to break stigma and build peer support.

Nelson P. Borges, Founder & CEO of Capillary Wave Community, whose story of resilience and advocacy is reshaping how we think about mental wellness and leadership.

Marybeth Pakulat-Bilger, who speaks courageously about losing her husband, Tom Pakulat, to suicide — and how she transformed her grief into purpose by founding the Tee Off for Mental Health golf tournament.

Plus, hear from several Burlington firefighters who open up about their experiences navigating stress, trauma, and the support systems that helped them carry on.

This episode is a testament to courage, vulnerability, and the power of honest conversation.

In this powerful and emotionally charged episode, Rise and Thrive confronts the difficult topic of suicide and suicidal ideation through a compassionate and unflinching panel discussion.

Co-hosts Ted Michaels and Michael Paletta guide a meaningful conversation with three courageous individuals—Lisa Hartt, Liz Galvin, and Natalie Pierre—who each share their deeply personal journeys of grief, advocacy, and healing after losing loved ones to suicide.

We are also joined by Rashaad Vahed, CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association – Halton Region, who offers expert insights into mental health support systems, prevention strategies, and the newly launched national 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline.

This episode explores the stigma surrounding suicide, the warning signs we must learn to recognize, and the urgent need for education, conversation, and community support. It concludes with heartfelt messages of hope and healing from each guest.

⚠️ Content Advisory:
The opening scene and subject matter may be distressing to some viewers.
Viewer discretion is advised.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please call the Suicide Crisis Helpline: 988.