#14

Becoming the Man You Were Meant to Be with Heather Lary

5/19/2026

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ABOUT THE EPISODE

In episode 14 of the 365 Proof Podcast by Defining Wellness, Daniel Phyfer and Courtney Milan sit down with Heather Lary, Director of Referral Relations and Marketing at The Carpenter’s Shed in Monroe, Louisiana.

Heather shares her journey from special education and pharmaceutical sales into the mental health and recovery field, where she now helps young men ages 16 to 20 find structure, purpose, accountability, and direction.

This conversation dives into the struggles facing young men today, including THC use, online gambling, lack of life skills, family system challenges, school issues, and the need for real mentorship. Heather explains why labels are not always helpful, why young men need more than just clinical treatment, and how coaching, community, fitness, education, spirituality, and accountability can help them rebuild their lives.

This episode is a powerful reminder that young men are not broken, they are still becoming. With the right support, structure, and love, change is possible.

Produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

Meet The Hosts

Daniel Phyfer

Director of Business Development

LinkedIn | Email

Daniel Phyfer is the Director of Business Development for Defining Wellness Centers, where he oversees all business development and marketing functions — from outreach and strategic partnerships to brand growth and community engagement. He blends his personal recovery journey with professional expertise to support people searching for a new way of life — whether they’re just beginning or rebuilding along the way. Daniel’s work is rooted in connection, authenticity, and a genuine belief that recovery is possible for anyone willing to reach for it.

Courtney Milan

Alumni Director

Courtney Milan has spent 29 years working in the mental health field and has a true heart for supporting people on their wellness journey. As the Alumni Coordinator, she focuses on building a community, creating meaningful ways for alumni to stay connected and making sure everyone feels supported after treatment. At home, Courtney is married to Stuart and have two daughters and a new edition, Hazel, the Doberman puppy.

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Bet on Yourself with Dr. Avni Patel

06/16/26

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1:08:57

In this episode of 365 Proof by Defining Wellness, Daniel Pfeiffer and Courtney Milan sit down with Dr. Avni Patel, board-certified psychiatrist and founder of Mississippi Psychiatry and Wellness.

Dr. Patel shares her journey from growing up in Columbia, Mississippi, to choosing psychiatry after nearly pursuing anesthesiology, and why staying in Mississippi to serve her community became part of her purpose. The conversation explores mental health stigma, lifestyle psychiatry, trauma, addiction recovery, social media, grief, high achievers, sports psychiatry, and the power of truly listening to patients.

At the heart of this episode is one simple but powerful message: healing starts when you are willing to bet on yourself.

Produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

More About This Episode

Episode #: The Next Right Step: Faith, Recovery, Leadership & Finishing Well with Robert Green

6/2/2026

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1:31:15

In this powerful conversation, Daniel Phyfer and Courtney Milan sit down with Robert Green, founding pastor of Fondren Church, husband, father, leader, and one of Mississippi’s most respected voices on faith and community.

Robert shares his journey from Starkville to college ministry, meeting his wife Susan, and ultimately taking the leap of faith to plant Fondren Church. Together, they explore what it means to trust God when the path ahead is uncertain, the risks involved in building something meaningful, and the challenges of leading with humility and integrity.

The conversation dives into the intersection of faith and recovery, including:

Why surrender is often the hardest step in recovery and life
The relationship between spirituality and the 12 Steps
Mental health, addiction, and how the church’s response has evolved
Leadership, pressure, and learning to finish well
Pain, betrayal, forgiveness, and resilience
Raising children, taking risks, and trusting God’s plan
The difference between groaning to God and grumbling about God
Why community and connection are essential for healing

Throughout the episode, Robert shares practical wisdom, personal stories, and timeless truths that resonate whether you’re in recovery, leading a team, raising a family, or simply navigating life’s challenges.

This episode is a reminder that none of us have all the answers. We’re all just fellow travelers learning to trust, grow, and take the next right step.

Produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

More About This Episode