Podcast
Next Steps Forward with Dr. Chris Meek
Hosted by Dr. Chris Meek · EN
Personal empowerment, commitment to our own well-being and the motivation to achieve more than we ever thought possible are the ingredients of a better life. And, they're all within our reach. Next Steps Forward with Dr. Chris Meek delves into the keys to adding energy, excitement, direction and purpose to everything that we do.
The program hosts mental health advocates and medical experts, frontline voices on human trafficking and social justice issues, familiar faces from the worlds of entertainment and sports, and leading entrepreneurs to engage in thought-provoking discussions that inspire the audience to take their own next steps forward to better themselves and their communities. Next Steps Forward is intended to be a source of empowerment that many around the world are in need of now more than ever.
For guests who join the program, Chris cultivates a space where honest, quality conversations thrive and are not only meant to educate and inform but inspire action, introspection and a deeper understanding of the world around us. Next Steps Forward with Dr. Chris Meek is an informative, uplifting hour every Tuesday at 1 PM Eastern Time/10 AM Pacific Time that's certain to inspire you to take that important next step forward, too.
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Living Beyond Cancer: Suzanne Stone on Hope, Healing, and Survivorship
May 2600:57:29Tap to summarizeIn this inspiring episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Suzanne Stone, President and CEO of the Livestrong Foundation, to discuss the evolving landscape of cancer survivorship, advocacy, and patient-centered care. With a career spanning nonprofit leadership, health advocacy, and community impact, Stone shares how Livestrong continues to redefine what it means not just to survive cancer, but to truly live beyond it. From providing practical resources for patients and caregivers to advancing innovative solutions that address the emotional, physical, and financial realities of cancer, she explains why survivorship must remain at the center of the conversation. Stone also reflects on her leadership journey, the power of empathy in service-driven organizations, and the importance of creating meaningful support systems for families navigating some of life's hardest moments. The conversation explores how organizations like Livestrong are adapting to modern healthcare challenges while continuing to build hope, community, and resilience for millions affected by cancer. About Suzanne Stone: Suzanne Stone is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Livestrong, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the daily lives of cancer survivors. Under her leadership, Livestrong continues to focus on the person, not the patient, with services that support physical activity after treatment, help for those whose treatment affects fertility, and a library of information available for free online. Stone's extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, including her previous roles at CASA, Children's Miracle Network, and Susan G. Komen, positions her strategically to lead Livestrong in fostering innovative solutions that resonate with the needs of cancer survivors. Her commitment to person-centered solutions and comprehensive support for survivors and their families is evident in her role at Livestrong.
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Through the Rubble: The Rescue That Defied Impossible Odds at Ground Zero w/ Scott Strauss
May 1900:54:05Tap to summarizeIn this powerful episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek is joined by retired NYPD Emergency Service Unit officer Scott Strauss, whose harrowing experience at Ground Zero on September 11, 2001, stands as one of the most remarkable rescue efforts of that day. Strauss shares his firsthand account of responding to the collapse of the World Trade Center, where he and his ESU team entered the rubble in search of survivors amid an unfolding catastrophe. Working in extreme heat, darkness, and instability, Strauss became part of a small group of rescuers who achieved one of the only successful extractions from beneath the debris, helping save Port Authority Police Officer Will Jimeno after hours of relentless effort underground. Through vivid detail, Strauss recounts the chaos of that day, the emotional weight of searching for life in a devastated landscape, and the extraordinary teamwork required to reach survivors trapped deep within the wreckage. He also reflects on the psychological toll of the mission, the bonds formed under unimaginable pressure, and the lasting impact of what he witnessed and endured. This conversation is a testament to courage under fire, the resilience of first responders, and the enduring human drive to save lives even in the face of overwhelming tragedy. About Scott Strauss: Scott Strauss is a retired NYPD Detective with the Emergency Service Unit who responded to the World Trade Center attacks on September 11, 2001. In the aftermath of the collapse of the Twin Towers, he and his team took part in rescue operations in the debris field known as "the pile," where they helped locate and free trapped survivors, including Port Authority officers Will Jimeno and John McLoughlin after hours of dangerous recovery work. Strauss has described the experience as deeply meaningful, saying it helped him emotionally process the tragedy through service and saving lives. He retired from the NYPD in 2003 and later went on to serve in local government as Mayor of Mineola, New York. He now shares his story as a 9/11 ambassador to help educate others about the heroism and resilience that emerged from the attacks.
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Asked, Not Tasked: Lt. Gen. Marc Sasseville and The Mission to Defend Washington on 9/11
May 1200:55:20Tap to summarizeIn this powerful episode of Next Steps Forward with Dr. Chris Meek, retired Lieutenant General Marc Sasseville shares a firsthand account of one of the most extraordinary, and least understood, moments of September 11, 2001. Then a fighter pilot with the D.C. Air National Guard, Sasseville was not ordered into action that morning, he was asked. With no formal tasking, no clear rules of engagement, and no weapons onboard his F-16, he made the decision to take off anyway, prepared to do the unthinkable to defend the nation's capital. What followed was not a story of cinematic heroics, but one of calculation, conviction, and responsibility. Sasseville reflects on the split-second decisions he and fellow pilot Heather Penney faced as they considered how to stop a hijacked airliner, knowing it could mean sacrificing their own lives. He offers a candid look at the gaps in America's defense posture that day, the weight of leadership in moments of uncertainty, and the enduring emotional impact of 9/11. From escorting Air Force One back to Washington to grappling with the reality of a system caught unprepared, Sasseville brings clarity to the chaos of that day and honors the courage of the passengers of Flight 93, whom he calls the true heroes. This episode is a profound reflection on duty, agency, and what it means to act when there are no clear orders, only the belief that something must be done. About Lt. Gen. Marc H. Sasseville: Lt. Gen. Marc H. Sasseville was the 12th Vice Chief of the National Guard Bureau, the Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia. The VCNGB is second in charge of the National Guard Bureau which is a joint activity of the Department of Defense. The VCNGB assists the Chief of the National Guard Bureau in performing duties as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and principal advisor to the Secretary of Defense, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Secretary of the Army, and Secretary of the Air Force. He served as a channel of communication to the Department of the Army, Department of the Air Force on matters relating to the National Guard. He oversaw the NGB's participation in the planning, programming, budgeting, and execution process, and the administration of funds appropriated to the NGB. He also oversaw NGB's participation in the Joint Strategic Planning System, Global Force Management, and Force Employment on matters pertaining to homeland defense and defense support of civil authorities. Lt. Gen. Sasseville graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science in International Affairs. Following pilot training, he served in various operational units in United States Air Forces Europe, Tactical Air Command/Air Combat Command, and Pacific Air Forces. After his last active-duty assignment, he joined the District of Columbia Air National Guard. He has held squadron, group, wing and numbered air force command. He also served as the Senior Defense Official and Defense Attaché to Turkey. Prior to assuming his current position, Lt. Gen. Sasseville was the Commander, Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region and First Air Force, Air and Space Forces Northern, headquartered at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida.
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Harnessing Fear: The Science of Trauma and Resilience w/ Dr. Arash Javanbakht
May 500:52:10Tap to summarizeDr. Arash Javanbakht, a leading psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and founding director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC) at Wayne State University School of Medicine, joins Dr. Chris Meek on this installment of Next Steps Forward. A nationally recognized expert in anxiety, trauma, and PTSD, Dr. Javanbakht shares insights from his extensive work treating civilians, refugees, and first responders. The conversation explores the complex science behind fear and resilience, from biological and psychological factors to the role of environment and lived experience in shaping how individuals respond to trauma. Dr. Javanbakht also discusses innovative approaches being used at STARC, including the integration of art, movement, mindfulness, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and telemedicine to support healing and recovery. Drawing from his acclaimed book Afraid: Understanding the Purpose of Fear, and Harnessing the Power of Anxiety, he offers a powerful perspective on how fear can be understood, not just as a challenge, but as a tool for growth. This episode is a compelling look at the future of trauma treatment and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there are pathways to resilience, healing, and forward progress. About Dr. Arash Javanbakht: Arash Javanbakht, M.D., is a psychiatrist and neuroscientist, founding director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC) at Wayne State University School of Medicine. He is nationally known for his clinical and research work on anxiety, trauma, and PTSD. He is heavily involved in treatment of civilians, refugees, and first responders with PTSD. Dr Javanbakht researches the biological, psychological, and factors of risk and resilience among refugee children and adults. This work is funded by an NICHD R01 award and examines epigenetic, autonomic, parenting, and environmental elements of trauma impact. STARC also uses art, dance and movement, and yoga and mindfulness in helping refugee families overcome stress. Dr. Javanbakht's work in treatment and research of trauma among first responders is funded by the State of Michigan. STARC is also a national leader in utilization of patented artificial intelligence and augmented reality and telemedicine technologies for treatment for anxiety disorders and PTSD. This work is funded by the State of Michigan, and the DoD. Dr. Javanbakht is recipient of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America Distinguished Member Award, The Society for Biological Psychiatry Humanitarian Award, and International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies Distinguished Member Award. Dr. Javanbakht's work has been featured on CNN, Aljazeera, NPR, Scientific American, Washington Post, Smithsonian, PBS, Science, Lancet, American Psychiatric Association, Anxiety and Depression Association of America, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Society of Biological Psychiatry, and tens of other media outlets. He is the author of the book "Afraid: Understanding the Purpose of Fear, and Harnessing the Power of Anxiety".
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Next Steps Forward Symposium: America as a Cultural Mosaic
Apr 2800:57:05Tap to summarizeHosted by Dr. Chris Meek, the Next Steps Forward Symposium brings together thought leaders, scholars, and public figures to explore pressing issues shaping our nation and world. In this session, "America as a Cultural Mosaic," the symposium examines how race, religion, heritage, and personal experience influence our shared civic life. Our distinguished panel includes: Dr. Sherry Molock, Professor of Psychological and Brain Sciences at George Washington University, who explores mental health, identity, and resilience within African American communities. Colonel Seung Paik, U.S. military veteran, leadership expert, and author of Leadernomics, sharing insights on service, heritage, and leadership in diverse communities. Dr. Saqib Qureshi, author of Being Muslim Today, providing perspective on faith, identity, and ethical leadership in contemporary America. Adela Cojab Moadeb, legal fellow at the National Jewish Advocacy Center and Syrian-Jewish activist, addressing identity, advocacy, and combating antisemitism. Through conversation and reflection, the panel explores the strengths and challenges of the "cultural mosaic" model, asking: Can a society that celebrates difference foster the same unity as a melting pot? How do our diverse identities enrich civic life, strengthen communities, and shape the next generation's understanding of belonging? The symposium emphasizes dialogue, learning, and shared responsibility, highlighting the ways Americans can honor their differences while advancing unity, resilience, and civic engagement. It's a timely discussion about how our individual and collective identities contribute to the ongoing work of building a stronger, more inclusive nation.
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Next Steps Forward Symposium: Combating Human Trafficking
Apr 2800:53:07Tap to summarizeIn the inaugural Next Steps Forward Symposium: Combating Human Trafficking, Dr. Chris Meek, host of the Next Steps Forward weekly podcast, leads a solution-focused conversation with three distinguished experts: Kristi Wells, founder and CEO of Safe House Project; Dr. Stephany Powell, a human trafficking expert advisor for the National Center on Sexual Exploitation; and Andi Buerger, a survivor and founder of Voices Against Trafficking. This discussion pulls back the curtain on the $160 billion global human trafficking industry, challenging the myth that exploitation only happens in distant places. The panel examines the "hidden" nature of trafficking in local communities , the alarming role of technology and social media in targeting minors, and the urgent need for demand reduction through legislation. Beyond the statistics, the participants emphasize moving from awareness to action, discussing the necessity of survivor-centered restorative care and the profound hope found in the resilience of those who have reclaimed their lives.
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