The Mental Health Gym

Home
United States
Philadelphia, PA
The Mental Health Gym

Ronald S. Kaiser, Ph.D., is a Positive Health Psychologist in Philadelphia. At The Mental Health Gym WE EMBRACE THAT PROCESS.

The Mental Health Gym is based on the concept that mental health, like physical health, can be improved through attitude and skill development. Coming to our website is the equivalent of going to the gym—but without leaving your computer. Here you will find guidance, exercises, products—both free and inexpensive, and interactive blogs. Our goal is to teach, encourage, and interact with you so that

we can all become emotionally healthier. Our guiding principle is that mental health is not a spectator sport; it is a process that is hard, easy, fun, challenging, frustrating, elusive, and rewarding. This is a website for people who seek to develop and improve upon their mental health. Just as a physical gym caters to all shapes, sizes, ages, and levels of physical health—united by the desire to get and stay healthier, The Mental Health Gym is designed for people who are committed to improving and maintaining a level of emotional functioning that permits personal growth, achievement, happiness, and the effective management of stress and challenges. Drawing upon the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Positive Psychology, The Mental Health Gym provides practice and guidance for healthy living as articulated in the e-book, WHAT CAN GO RIGHT? The Thinking Person's Guide to Making Good Things Happen, by Dr. Ron Kaiser. This is the place to come for education, inspiration, and interaction with a range of people who are interested in improving and maintaining emotional health and helping others to do so. Gym membership is open to mental health professionals, individuals who wish to supplement therapy that they are pursuing or have had in the past, and individuals who are undertaking their personal journey toward improved mental health on a Do It Yourself basis. In addition to our general mental health program and blog, we have special programs and blogs devoted to active senior citizens who want to mine the emotional gold available to them in their golden years. Please jog around our website and sign up for a free membership in The Mental Health Gym. Try out some of our free stuff designed to actively build mental health. Among the Members Only benefits are special podcasts and the opportunity to help others by responding to our blogs. When you are ready to become part of our community, click on the special button that will put you on or mailing list for new ideas and products and get you started receiving any or all of our blogs. The mental health gym is an educational website based upon the concepts of positive psychology and cognitive-behavioral therapy. It is not a substitute for psychotherapy.

05/07/2025

In this enlightening episode of REJUVENAGING with Dr. Ron Kaiser, Dr. Ron welcomes Justin Evans, a 20-year veteran of the data and technology industry, to break down the often intimidating world of data and artificial intelligence. Justin, author of The Little Book of Data, shares his unique journey from being an English major to becoming a leading expert in data innovation, generating hundreds of millions in revenue for major companies. Through engaging storytelling, he illustrates how data is not just numbers, but observations of reality transformed into actionable insights, emphasizing that anyone—regardless of their technical background—can learn to harness its power.

Throughout the conversation, Justin explains key concepts like the origins of data, the role of big data, and how artificial intelligence works through image recognition and large language models like ChatGPT. He makes these complex ideas accessible by connecting them to everyday experiences, from photo organization on smartphones to the life-saving work of tracking disease outbreaks. Dr. Ron and Justin discuss how data impacts every aspect of modern life, from healthcare to business decision-making, and why developing data literacy is essential for staying relevant in today’s world—whether you're a professional, a retiree, or simply curious about technology’s role in shaping our lives.

Justin also offers a preview of his forthcoming book, aimed at business leaders and everyday readers alike who want to better understand and apply data without needing a background in statistics or computer science. His approach empowers listeners to stop fearing data and AI, and instead see them as tools for improving personal and professional outcomes. This inspiring episode encourages all of us to embrace lifelong learning, demystify technological advances, and continue growing as more informed, enthusiastic versions of ourselves.

Listen here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rejuvenaging-with-dr-ron-kaiser/id1474985390?i=1000706557699

04/30/2025

In this lively episode of REJUVENAGING with Dr. Ron Kaiser, filmmaker Tom Carroll joins the show to discuss his new comedy feature, The Stress is Killing Me. Tom shares how his background in advertising and corporate film production evolved into a passion for creating full-length movies. His film follows eight college friends at their 20th reunion who, facing midlife dissatisfaction, decide to change careers to chase their dream jobs—only to find that reality isn't as glamorous as their fantasies. Tom reflects on the real-world inspiration behind the movie and highlights the universal message: satisfaction often comes not from drastic change but from rediscovering value in the lives and careers we already have.

Throughout the conversation, Tom and Dr. Ron explore the common midlife questions that so many successful individuals experience. They emphasize how frustration with a career doesn't always mean abandoning it; sometimes it means tweaking roles or rediscovering the deeper meaning behind your work. Tom explains how The Stress is Killing Me captures this idea with humor and heart, showing characters who attempt new careers, face hilarious challenges, and ultimately gain a renewed appreciation for their original paths. Their discussion resonates with audiences of all ages—especially those reflecting on decades of work and seeking new energy for the future.

Listen Here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rejuvenaging-with-dr-ron-kaiser/id1474985390?i=1000705486076

04/23/2025

In this inspiring episode of REJUVENAGING with Dr. Ron Kaiser, world-renowned clarinetist David Singer shares the extraordinary highs and humble beginnings of his life and career. From overcoming an abusive childhood and working odd jobs—including driving a cab in New York City—to performing for President Jimmy Carter at the White House and earning a Grammy with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, David’s story is a powerful testament to perseverance, passion, and purpose.

David reflects on pivotal moments in his life—from his childhood crush that introduced him to the clarinet, to his magical year studying in Vienna, and the struggles of trying to make it in the competitive world of classical music without compromising his individuality. Despite setbacks, he chose an unconventional route, building a celebrated career through unique collaborations and by impacting others through music education.

Listeners will walk away with timeless life lessons: follow your passion, take small daily steps toward your goals, and never give up. David’s book From Cab Driver to Carnegie Hall captures this journey in rich detail, offering humor, history, and hope. This conversation is not just for music lovers, but for anyone striving to live with enthusiasm and make a meaningful impact.

Listen here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rejuvenaging-with-dr-ron-kaiser/id1474985390?i=1000704522949

04/16/2025

In this episode of REJUVENAGING with Dr. Ron Kaiser, Dr. Ron sits down with orthopedic surgeon and author Dr. Jack Rocco, whose compelling journey spans decades of medical service and a deep personal exploration into his own adoption story. Dr. jack, adopted at birth, opens up about discovering his mixed-race heritage and how writing his memoir, Recycled: A Reluctant Search for True Self Through Nurture, Nature, and Free Will, gave him clarity on identity, family secrets, and self-acceptance. His story reveals the emotional complexities of closed adoptions and the personal transformations that come from uncovering long-held truths.

Beyond his medical career, Dr. Jack discusses how these life revelations inspired him to shift focus and recently open The Ultimate Men’s Clinic in Massachusetts. Through this new venture, he aims to address the often-overlooked health needs of men—offering holistic services that span orthopedics, metabolic health, and mental wellness in an environment where men can feel comfortable discussing their vulnerabilities.

Together, Dr. Ron and Dr. Jack explore themes of identity, free will, and aging with purpose. They reflect on how midlife challenges, personal crises, and even a pandemic can become catalysts for reinvention. This powerful and thought-provoking conversation offers a fresh perspective on living authentically, embracing change, and supporting others through life’s transitions.

Listen here;

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rejuvenaging-with-dr-ron-kaiser/id1474985390?i=1000703668016

04/03/2025

In this extraordinary episode of REJUVENAGING with Dr. Ron Kaiser, Dr. Ron welcomes a truly inspiring guest—Elaine LaLanne, fitness icon and wife of the legendary Jack LaLanne—just days before her 99th birthday. Elaine shares her remarkable journey from Minneapolis to becoming a health and wellness trailblazer alongside Jack, offering personal insights on how she transformed her life through fitness, healthy eating, and positive thinking. Her philosophy mirrors Dr. Ron’s own belief in the mind-body connection and the importance of enthusiasm for aging well.

Elaine recounts her early days in TV and radio, meeting Jack LaLanne, and how his passion for health changed her life forever. She talks about Jack’s revolutionary role in popularizing fitness, developing exercise equipment, and creating nutrition products long before they became mainstream. Together, they not only built a movement but a lifelong partnership grounded in discipline, positivity, and vision. Elaine also shares wisdom from her recent book Pride & Discipline, and discusses her upcoming projects including a documentary and film about Jack’s life produced by Mark Wahlberg.

Listeners will be captivated by Elaine’s energy, wit, and timeless advice. She introduces her "ARCH" philosophy—Attitude, Resistance, Consistency, and Harmony—as a framework for living a vibrant life at any age. With humor, grace, and clarity, Elaine LaLanne proves that it’s never too late to embrace wellness and purpose. This is a can’t-miss episode that celebrates resilience, aging with joy, and the enduring legacy of two fitness pioneers.

Listen here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rejuvenaging-with-dr-ron-kaiser/id1474985390?i=1000701951531

03/26/2025

In this enlightening episode of REJUVENAGING with Dr. Ron Kaiser, registered dietitian Kelly Springer shares her inspiring journey into the field of nutrition, sparked by watching her aunt balance family life with a dynamic career in dietetics. Kelly walks us through her early exposure to the profession and her academic path, including degrees in nutrition and health education. She explains differences between a registered dietitian and a nutritionist, emphasizing the depth of training and evidence-based approach that registered dietitians provide.

Kelly and Dr. Ron delve into the importance of early nutrition education and the concerning trend of it being removed from school curriculums. They explore Kelly's efforts to address this issue through her new nonprofit, Nutrition Education for All, and her nationally recognized company, Kelly’s Choice. She emphasizes the power of real, minimally processed foods, the importance of balanced meals using the “Power of Five” food groups, and the benefits of the Mediterranean diet. Kelly also discusses how fiber supports gut health, immunity, and weight management, providing a compelling case for whole food eating at every age.

Her conversation with Dr. Ron, Kelly shares how her team of dietitians helps individuals, families, and companies nationwide make sustainable changes through personalized, evidence-based guidance. Kelly's mission is clear: empower everyone—from children to seniors—to take control of their health through smart, informed eating.

Listen here

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rejuvenaging-with-dr-ron-kaiser/id1474985390?i=1000700835977

03/12/2025

In this episode of REJUVENAGING with Dr. Ron Kaiser, Dr. Ron welcomes Dr. Ferdinando (Fred) Mirarchi, an emergency medicine physician and CEO of MIDEO, to discuss the critical yet often misunderstood topic of advanced care planning. Dr. Fred shares his personal experiences from the ER, highlighting how misinterpretations of advance directives can lead to life-altering mistakes. He emphasizes that these decisions aren’t just about death but are crucial for ensuring patients receive the right care in life-threatening situations. His innovative approach, MIDEO, uses video technology to capture patients’ healthcare wishes, reducing uncertainty for medical teams and ensuring patient autonomy.

Throughout the conversation with Dr Ron, Dr. Fred explains the difference between living wills and advance directives, shedding light on the flaws of traditional paper-based documents. He underscores the need for a patient-centered approach that integrates technology to eliminate guesswork in emergency situations. With real-life examples, Dr. Fred demonstrates how outdated or misunderstood documents can either prevent life-saving care or prolong suffering unnecessarily.

Dr. Ron and Dr. Fred conclude by discussing the accessibility of MIDEO and its role in improving patient safety and family decision-making. They emphasize the importance of having these conversations early, making informed choices, and utilizing modern solutions to ensure that healthcare decisions align with personal values. Listeners are encouraged to visit MIDEOHealth.com to learn more about how video-based advance directives can transform medical decision-making and enhance peace of mind for patients and their families.

Listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rejuvenaging-with-dr-ron-kaiser/id1474985390?i=1000698822225

03/05/2025

n this episode of REJUVENAGING with Dr. Ron Kaiser, Dr. Ron welcomes Dr. Terry Zachary, a former professional golfer, chiropractor, and the founder of doczac™ Enterprises Inc. Dr. Terry shares his journey from sports to healthcare innovation, discussing his groundbreaking product, Handmaster Plus, designed to improve grip strength, prevent repetitive strain injuries, and enhance overall hand mobility. He explains how improper grip training leads to muscle imbalances and long-term issues, particularly as people age, and offers simple, effective solutions to counteract these challenges.

Dr. Terry also introduces his Three-Minute Stretch program, an accessible, full-body stretching routine designed to maintain balance, flexibility, and optimal posture. He emphasizes the importance of daily movement and the role of hand exercises in improving blood flow, preventing stiffness, and enhancing performance in both athletic and everyday activities. Dr. Ron shares his own experiences with grip strength loss and how small, consistent efforts can help maintain mobility and independence.

The conversation between Dr. Ron and Dr. Terry gives listeners valuable insights into practical ways to prevent and correct hand and posture issues, whether they’re athletes, professionals, musicians, or simply looking to maintain wellness as they age. Dr. Terry’s approach prioritizes efficiency, ensuring that even the busiest individuals can incorporate hand and full-body stretching into their daily routine. Tune in to learn how just a few minutes a day can make a lasting impact on strength, mobility, and overall health.

Listen here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rejuvenaging-with-dr-ron-kaiser/id1474985390?i=1000697732574

02/25/2025

In this episode of REJUVENAGING with Dr. Ron Kaiser, Dr. Ron welcomes personal development coach and author Nick Brancato to discuss the power of aligned priorities in relationships. Nick shares his journey from being an educator and poker coach to developing Prioritize Us, a framework that helps couples and individuals identify and align their life priorities to foster better communication and deeper connections. Drawing from personal experiences, including supporting his wife through a mental health crisis, Nick explains how misaligned priorities often cause conflicts in relationships and how his Total Difference Score (TDS) can help measure and address these discrepancies.

Nick outlines the ten core life priorities—such as career, health, relationships, and spirituality—and explains how understanding and discussing these differences can strengthen relationships rather than create conflict. He emphasizes that misalignment is not necessarily a problem but rather an opportunity for growth and connection when addressed with open communication. Listeners will gain insights into practical strategies for improving relationships by regularly checking in with their partners, aligning values with actions, and using data-driven tools to foster lasting love and connection.

The conversation between Dr. Ron and Nick also highlights how the Prioritize Us framework applies beyond romantic relationships, including friendships and professional partnerships. Nick shares details about his book, coaching services, and how listeners can implement these strategies in their own lives. Tune in for a fascinating discussion that could transform the way you approach relationships, communication, and personal growth.

Listen here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rejuvenaging-with-dr-ron-kaiser/id1474985390?i=1000695924853

02/18/2025

In this episode of REJUVENAGING with Dr. Ron Kaiser, Dr. Ron welcomes functional nutritionist and chronic illness coach Danielle Pashko . Danielle shares her powerful journey through personal health challenges, including thyroid cancer, chronic Lyme disease, and long COVID. Despite her extensive background in nutrition and wellness, it was the ancient practices of Tai Chi, Qigong, and internal martial arts that ultimately restored her strength and vitality. She recounts how these practices helped her rebuild her energy, reduce neurological symptoms, and cultivate resilience—profoundly shifting her approach to healing and personal wellness.

Danielle offers listeners an insightful explanation of Tai Chi and Qigong, describing how these internal martial arts stimulate the body's organs, balance emotions, and restore the nervous system from chronic stress responses. She highlights how movements, such as slow punches and body tapping, activate the body's natural healing mechanisms and promote longevity by strengthening the legs and improving circulation. She emphasizes that these practices are accessible to individuals of all ages and physical conditions, encouraging those suffering from chronic illness to start gently and build their way to better health.

Additionally, the conversation between Dr. Ron and Danielle introduces her platform, Soul Hacker, which offers affordable daily practice videos that guide users through simple exercises to boost their energy, reduce stress, and promote healing. She underscores the importance of movement for physical and emotional well-being and urges listeners to explore alternative methods when conventional therapies fall short. This inspiring episode reminds us of the power of mindset, movement, and holistic practices in overcoming adversity and thriving through life’s challenges.

Listen here:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rejuvenaging-with-dr-ron-kaiser/id1474985390?i=1000693639008

02/18/2025

🥋 Healing Through Martial Arts & Visualization 💪

In my latest interview, we explored how martial arts became a powerful tool for healing:
✅ Inspired by childhood memories of watching Kung Fu movies 🎥
✅ Battled long COVID and neurological symptoms with daily visualization 🧘‍♂️
✅ Imagined mastering martial arts—not to fight, but to fight for health 💪

This journey began in the mind—with visualizations of strength, skill, and wellness. Over time, it became a path to recovery and empowerment.

💡 The lesson: Healing often starts within.

💬 Have you ever used visualization or movement for healing? Share your experience below! 👇

02/14/2025

🚶‍♂️💡 Success isn’t about running marathons or climbing mountains—it’s about taking the first step.

In this clip, we’re reminded that anyone can take action—it’s what separates those who dream from those who achieve.

It doesn’t have to be perfect:
✔️ A step forward.
✔️ A step backward.
✔️ Even a step sideways.

The point is to MOVE. Because you never know where one step can lead you.

💬 Have you ever taken a small step that led to a big change? Share your story with us! 👇

Address

Philadelphia, PA

Telephone

(215) 704-0983

Website

http://www.thementalhealthgym.com/, https://www.youtube.com/@growingolderwithenthusiasm6621

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when The Mental Health Gym posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to The Mental Health Gym:

The Mental Health Gym

05/07/2025

04/30/2025

04/23/2025

04/16/2025

04/03/2025

03/26/2025

03/12/2025

03/05/2025

02/25/2025

02/18/2025

02/18/2025

02/14/2025

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Practice

Shortcuts

Share

Category