Learn From People Who Lived it
Navigating painful life circumstances would be easier if they came with a how-to guide. This podcast writes the book! Our show is all about transformation. Mathew Blades, a seasoned radio and television personality, uses his exceptional interview skills to guide individuals in sharing their challenging stories. With the support of our in-house psychologist and psychiatrist, we explore the patterns and strategies that enabled these individuals to transform their lives from a difficult phase to a thriving one.
Episodes

4 days ago
4 days ago
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If you could only listen to five minutes of my podcast? What would I want you to know? That is why we're here today. I will be dropping more of these short versions in the spirit of those two questions. Last week, we welcomed Dr. Friedemann Schaub, author of "The Fear and Anxiety Solution" and "The Empowerment Solution."
Dr. Schaub shares his journey of growing up with anxious parents who survived World War II, revealing how their fears shaped his own anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Dr. Schaub offers strategies for working with the subconscious, and in today's clip, he offers the strategy that changed his life.
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Monday Jun 23, 2025
Monday Jun 23, 2025
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Navigating Anxiety: Insights and Strategies with Dr. Friedemann Schaub
In this episode, you'll hear:
- Personal stories of growing up with anxious parents
- The impact of anxiety on self-esteem and self-worth
- How the subconscious mind influences anxiety
- Practical strategies for managing anxiety effectively
Join hosts Mathew Blades and Dr. David Leicken as they engage with Dr. Friedemann Schaub, author of "The Fear and Anxiety Solution" and "The Empowerment Solution." Dr. Schaub shares his journey of growing up with anxious parents who survived World War II, revealing how their fears shaped his own anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. He discusses the conditional self-esteem tied to accomplishments and the constant need for external validation.
The conversation delves into the subconscious mind's role in anxiety, using the iceberg analogy to illustrate how much of our mental processes occur below conscious awareness. Mathew Blades shares his experience with Transcendental Meditation, highlighting its benefits in slowing down racing thoughts and creating space for self-reflection.
Notable quotes:
- "I'm only conditionally loved. Only if I have good grades, I can have acceptance. If not, I'm doomed." - Dr. Friedemann Schaub
- "There's nothing that couldn't be fixed by going and sitting down in another room for a couple of hours, you know, and just getting quiet and figuring that piece out." - Mathew Blades
- "It's not about making big changes necessarily. It's about little things done consistently over a long period of time." - Dr. David Leicken
Explore the power of meditation, self-reflection, and the importance of small, consistent changes in overcoming anxiety. Discover how to harness the potential of the subconscious mind and develop self-respect and acceptance independent of achievements.
Visit us online, www.LearnFromPeopleWhoLivedIt.com
Follow the podcast:
Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)
Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)
Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)
Connect with Mathew Blades:
Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades
Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/
Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/
Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/
Additional Credits:
LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC
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Monday Jun 16, 2025
Reclaiming Your Life After Addiction with Lindsay Proulx
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Monday Jun 16, 2025
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From Rock Bottom to Redemption: Lindsay Proulx's Journey Through Addiction and Recovery
In this powerful episode of "Learn from People who Lived It," host Mathew Blades and co-host Dr. Dave sit down with Lindsay Proulx, a former addict who's now seven years sober and working at New Freedom Project. Lindsay's story is a raw and honest account of her descent into addiction, her experiences with incarceration, and her inspiring path to recovery.
You'll hear:
• How childhood trauma and family dynamics can contribute to addiction
• The harsh realities of jail and prison for those battling substance abuse
• The pivotal role of faith and support systems in the recovery process
• Practical strategies for forgiveness and healing from past traumas
Lindsay shares deeply personal moments, from using drugs with her mother to her first terrifying night in jail. She recounts the turning point in her life when she realized she was "created for greatness" and how this shift in perspective changed everything.
Dr. Dave offers expert insights throughout, explaining the psychological aspects of addiction, recovery, and forgiveness. He emphasizes the importance of daily decisions that reflect self-value, providing listeners with actionable advice for their own journeys.
This episode doesn't shy away from the dark realities of addiction but ultimately delivers a message of hope and transformation. Lindsay's story proves that no matter how far you've fallen, redemption is possible.
"Forgiveness first. For forgiveness, I had to forgive myself before I could forgive anybody else." - Lindsay Proulx
Whether you're struggling with addiction, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking inspiration, this conversation offers valuable insights into the human capacity for change and the power of second chances.

Monday Jun 16, 2025
Becoming a Transitional Character with Cordero Holmes
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Monday Jun 16, 2025
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Breaking the Cycle: From Incarceration to Inspiration with Cordero Holmes, recorded live from the New Freedom Project, learn more about them here.
In this powerful episode, Mathew Blades and Dr. Dave sit down with Cordero Holmes, who transformed his life from behind bars to become a beacon of hope and change. Cordero's journey from incarceration to earning multiple degrees is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the power of education. He is the transitional character we talk about all the time.
You'll hear:
• How Cordero became a "transitional character," breaking cycles of dysfunction
• The unexpected gifts of solitary confinement and deep self-reflection
• Strategies for making amends and rebuilding relationships after incarceration
• The crucial role of community service in personal growth and healing
Cordero Holmes, now an advocate and educator, shares raw and honest insights about his past, his transformation, and his mission to create a better future for his children and community. His story challenges us to reconsider our preconceptions about those who've been incarcerated and inspires hope for second chances.
"No history, no self. Know history, know self." - Cordero Holmes
From the depths of isolation to the heights of academic achievement, Cordero's journey reminds us that it's never too late to change your life's trajectory. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration, understanding the power of education, or looking to make a positive change in their life or community.
Find Cordero here.