“What They Missed, J. Flowers Found” is a deeply personal and powerful story of misdiagnosis, resilience, and healing. In this podcast, you’ll hear our own CEO Claudia Schwarz’s honest journey of life changing diagnoses, medical confusion, and the emotional toll of being told “have this surgery or you will die.” Initially diagnosed with a serious heart condition, she lived in fear—until J. Flowers Health Institute took a closer look and uncovered the real issue behind the symptoms. This is more than a medical mystery—it’s a story about being seen, being heard, and finding the right care at the right time. It’s about what happens when healthcare becomes human again. If you’ve ever felt dismissed, unheard, or lost in the system, this podcast is for you.

How would you define wellness?

MY ANSWER:

Wellness is more than a physical condition, and so much more than just the absence of illness or disease.

WELLNESS IS A STATE OF BEING.

I think about it as the body-mind (because body and mind are reciprocally linked) being in alignment with your behavior and habits.

And if you are truly committed to that state of being, then you will establish a daily, weekly, or monthly practice of those behaviors.

And, if you strive to be disciplined and consistent with that practice, it can contribute to your quality of life. It can help sustain mental health and physical vitality and ultimately, I believe that this mental and physical practice will promote longevity.

Culture plays a significant role in shaping our identities and experiences. In this episode, Dr. James Flowers sits down with Dr. Selina Hernandez, a licensed professional counselor supervisor and registered play therapist, to delve into the profound influence of culture on the human condition. Dr. Selina shares how her experiences with cultural identity and resilience have shaped her counseling approach. They discuss the importance of cultural strategies in therapy, personal responsibility, and the transformative power of sand tray therapy. Dr. Selina also explores the challenges faced by women and men, the importance of a counselor's orientation, and the role of understanding one's roots in building resilience.