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Walking Tall Movement

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How the Movement Began!

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Watch or Listen to our Podcast

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New Episode Every Wednesday

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The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering with their mental health until they can Walk Tall on their own.The Walking Tall Movement is guided by strength, compassion and love.

Meet the Founders

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Chris Maliszewski

Survivor of the Highland Park, IL mass shooting on July 4, 2022. Former College Baseball Player and Assistant Coach. Former Director of Recreation for the Park District of Highland Park.

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Dr. Vanetta LaRosa

Founder and current Executive Clinical Director/Ph.D., BCBA-D, at Helping Hands Licensed Behavior Analyst services and Adjunct Associate professor at LIU and Daemen College.

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Todd Blyleven

Survivor of the Las Vegas, NV mass shooting on October 1, 2017. Former Professional Baseball Player, Coach and MLB Scout. Corporate Sports Industry Expert. Current owner of The Scout Hub.

Survivor Todd Blyleven's Las Vegas Mass Shooting Story of Courage and Love - E1 Walking Tall Podcast
01:22:36

Survivor Todd Blyleven's Las Vegas Mass Shooting Story of Courage and Love - E1 Walking Tall Podcast

*Warning: This video and audio may have triggers for all those that have been either in a mass shooting, first responders, extreme traumatic event, or have military combat experience. There is NO audio/sound of gunfire or any other noise other than the hosts verbally telling their story. Please listen with caution. Todd Blyleven shares his journey of heroism, sadness, adversity, and perseverance through the worst mass shooting in modern history in Las Vegas, NV on October 1, 2017. His story is told to educate all those dealing with adversity in their lives to know you are not alone, and the Walking Tall Movement is here to help you stand back up and Walk Tall again in your life through our stories of challenge, fight, love, and community. The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering with their mental health until they can Walk Tall on their own. The hosts themselves along with weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain, and their journey through self, group, or individual therapy and healing to learn to how Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion, and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement See disclaimer and other privacy info here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/disclaimer If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
Survivor, Chris Maliszewski's Highland Park Shooting Story - E2 Walking Tall Podcast
01:25:57

Survivor, Chris Maliszewski's Highland Park Shooting Story - E2 Walking Tall Podcast

*Warning: This video and audio may have triggers for all those that have been either in a mass shooting, first responders, extreme traumatic event, or have military combat experience. There is NO audio/sound of gunfire or any other noise other than the hosts verbally telling their story. Please listen with caution. Chris Maliszewski shares his journey of heroism, sadness, adversity, and perseverance through the terrible mass shooting in Highland Park, IL on July 4, 2022. His story is told to educate all those dealing with adversity in their lives to know you are not alone, and the Walking Tall Movement is here to help you stand back up and Walk Tall again in your life through our stories of challenge, fight, love, and community. The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering with their mental health until they can Walk Tall on their own. The hosts themselves along with weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain, and their journey through self, group, or individual therapy and healing to learn to how Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion, and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement See disclaimer and other privacy info here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/disclaimer If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
Retired Police Officer Bryan Wood shares his story of Walking Tall - Walking Tall Podcast E4
01:04:08

Retired Police Officer Bryan Wood shares his story of Walking Tall - Walking Tall Podcast E4

Guest Spotlight: Bryan “Woody” Wood is a retired police detective who served nearly 29 years with a southern California law enforcement agency. Bryan held numerous assignments during his tenure. His last duty assignment was conducting international counterterrorism investigations for the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. He was also one of the longest-tenured volunteers of his department’s Peer Support Team. Bryan has been recognized for exemplary service through numerous commendations and awards. Nowadays, you will find Bryan enjoying time with his family, volunteering in his community, and perfecting his BBQ skills. The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering with their mental health until they can Walk Tall on their own. The hosts themselves along with weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain and their journey through self, group or individual therapy and healing to learn to how Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven. Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement See disclaimer and other privacy info here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/disclaimer If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
Walking Tall Podcast- E6- Combat wounded USMC Veteran, Christopher Brown shares his story
01:09:06

Walking Tall Podcast- E6- Combat wounded USMC Veteran, Christopher Brown shares his story

Guest Spotlight: United States Marine Veteran, Christopher Brown shares his gripping story of battle during three tours overseas, his physical recovery, and the reason why he chose to become a certified EMDR therapist helping his fellow brothers and sisters in arms transition from military life to civilian life. Chris Brown is a wounded Marine combat veteran. 10 years ago he founded the nonprofit Growing Veterans to combine peer support with community agriculture. Upon receiving his masters degree he became a PTSD therapist helping veterans overcome trauma, which he’s done for 7 years. Chris is now starting a private practice where he plans to continue helping folks overcome trauma as a Certified EMDR Therapist. The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering with their mental health until they can Walk Tall on their own. The hosts themselves along with weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain, and their journey through self, group, or individual therapy and healing to learn to how Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion, and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven. Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement See disclaimer and other privacy info here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/disclaimer If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
Walking Tall Podcast- E9- Kyle Thousand, Sports and Entertainment Agent shares his story
01:00:53

Walking Tall Podcast- E9- Kyle Thousand, Sports and Entertainment Agent shares his story

Guest Spotlight: Kyle Thousand played baseball at the University of Iowa and, was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2003. Kyle’s early focus on his education throughout life paid off as he went on to graduate in 2007 from law school at Creighton University. In 2011, Kyle was hired by Excel Sports Management and Casey Close as their first hire. Excel Sports Management and Casey Close are Derek Jeter’s agent. To the surprise of nobody Kyle excelled at Excel and then was hired by Jay-Z and Roc Nation becoming the agency’s first Managing Director of Baseball, representing the likes of C.C. Sabathia and Robinson Cano. After 7 years with Roc Nation Kyle left the agency and is now the Director of Baseball Operations at Milk and Honey based out of Nashville, TN. Milk and Honey is an entertainment and sports agency having some of the top talents in both industries. The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering from mental health until they can walk it on their own. The hosts and weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain, and their journey through self, group, or individual therapy and healing to learn how to Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion, and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven. Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement See disclaimer and other privacy info here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/disclaimer If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
Walking Tall Podcast- E12- Amir Fakhari, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) survivor shares story
54:47

Walking Tall Podcast- E12- Amir Fakhari, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) survivor shares story

Amir Fakhari suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury while playing high school football. After many surgeries, going through a coma, and his own personal strength he was able to get up and learn to walk, talk, eat, and live again. The depression of how he viewed his life after that tragic injury that followed was so great he attempted suicide multiple times before resetting his life, learning how to use the injury that happened and his strength to survive, and his love to help others to get back up once again and Walk Tall for himself and others. Watch and listen to this amazing story of perseverance, strength, and love. The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering from mental health until they can walk it on their own. The hosts and weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain, and their journey through self, group, or individual therapy and healing to learn how to Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion, and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven. Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement See disclaimer and other privacy info here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/disclaimer If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
Walking Tall Podcast- E13- Agi Semrad, owner of The Balance Project shares her story of Walking Tall
01:09:03
Walking Tall Podcast- E14- Natalie Douglas, battling cancer, being a mother, wife & Walking Tall
01:14:16

Walking Tall Podcast- E14- Natalie Douglas, battling cancer, being a mother, wife & Walking Tall

In 2017 Natalie was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and due to the disease was forced to have a hysterectomy, not allowing her to bear children. During the surgery, Natalie flatlined on the operating table requiring resuscitation. An extremely traumatic experience. In 2023 Natalie and her husband adopted a beautiful baby boy, named Ellis who has special needs. Professionally, Natalie is a licensed therapist working with children like Ellis and will soon become a BCBA. Sadly, a few weeks ago Natalie was re-diagnosed with cancer and is at the onset of chemotherapy. But like she always has done - Natalie will persevere and beat cancer once again. As she has always Walked Tall for others in her life, it’s time for Natalie to Walk Tall for herself and for the Walking Tall Movement to Walk Tall with her as she fights to rid cancer once again from her amazing soul. We are so honored to have Natalie a part of The Walking Tall Movement! The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering from mental health until they can walk it on their own. The hosts and weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain, and their journey through self, group, or individual therapy and healing to learn how to Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion, and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven. Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement See disclaimer and other privacy info here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/disclaimer If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
Walking Tall Podcast- E15- Laurie Zappulla, Spinal Cord Injury, Author, Tedx Talk & Walking Tall
01:01:49

Walking Tall Podcast- E15- Laurie Zappulla, Spinal Cord Injury, Author, Tedx Talk & Walking Tall

In 1979, Laurie Zappulla, 18 years old and getting ready to attend college, dove into a swimming pool, hit her head, and suffered a spinal cord injury becoming quadriplegic. After being told she would never walk again Laurie persevered through many mental health struggles while fighting physically each step of the way. Today, Laurie is an inspiration to all now being able to walk again while also serving as an advocate for all people with mental health or physical struggles. She recently has done a Tedx Talk asking others not to DIS her but to see her ABILITY, Author of “You’re Going to Walk” which can be found globally, and a keynote speaker spreading the message that “diversity without disability is not diverse enough.” We are so fortunate to have Laurie Zappulla as a part of the Walking Tall Movement. The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering from mental health until they can walk it on their own. The hosts and weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain, and their journey through self, group, or individual therapy and healing to learn how to Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion, and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven. Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement See disclaimer and other privacy info here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/disclaimer If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
Walking Tall Podcast- E16- Jill Winter describes being empathetic during a challenging pregnancy
01:05:58

Walking Tall Podcast- E16- Jill Winter describes being empathetic during a challenging pregnancy

Jill Winter has worked exclusively throughout her career in the hospital and healthcare industry. She has earned a Master of Healthcare Administration (M.H.A.) and a Master of Arts (M.A.) focused on Human Resources Management and Services/ Organizational Behavior from Washington University in St. Louis and currently serves as the Chief Development Officer with RenViva where she focuses on work with nephrologists (kidney doctors.) It was during her time serving as the Chief Development Officer at Helping Hands Family where she and Dr. LaRosa became close through their work to help those with autism. We are so honored to have her as a part of the Walking Tall Movement. The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering from mental health until they can walk it on their own. The hosts and weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain, and their journey through self, group, or individual therapy and healing to learn how to Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion, and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven. Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
Walking Tall Podcast- E17- Brandon Cotie describes losing his brother at 16 and his remembrance
01:07:17

Walking Tall Podcast- E17- Brandon Cotie describes losing his brother at 16 and his remembrance

Brandon Cotie and Chris Maliszewski first met in 8th grade when they were on the same travel baseball team. (Another friendship bonded by a baseball!) Sadly, on July 2 Brandon’s brother Devon was killed in a truck accident while working. 2023 marks the 25th Anniversary of Devon’s passing, and we are honored to have Brandon as a part of our movement as an Ambassador and as our guest to not only tell his story but to celebrate Devon’s life. Brandon talks about losing a sibling, the effect not had and still has on him and his family, and how he tries to honor his brother’s love every day of his life. The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering from mental health until they can walk it on their own. The hosts and weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain, and their journey through self, group, or individual therapy and healing to learn how to Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion, and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven. Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
Walking Tall Podcast- E18- Discussing Panic Attacks, why they happen & how to minimize the effect
01:01:35

Walking Tall Podcast- E18- Discussing Panic Attacks, why they happen & how to minimize the effect

The three hosts discuss panic attacks, and their effects on us, emotionally and mentally. Why do they occur? We talk about how you can learn how to get ahead of a panic attack to minimize the effect that it has on your body and mind. Dr. LaRosa has some invaluable tips to help someone that has experienced a trauma in their life prepare for an upcoming anniversary or event, knowing that that event will bring on anxiety and how to prepare yourself for that so you can walk tall for yourself. The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering from mental health until they can walk it on their own. The hosts and weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain, and their journey through self, group, or individual therapy and healing to learn how to Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion, and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven. Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement See disclaimer and other privacy info here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/disclaimer If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
Walking Tall Podcast- E19- TJ Beaudette- Ret. US Marine, Presence Coach, Inspiring Walking Tall!
01:01:25

Walking Tall Podcast- E19- TJ Beaudette- Ret. US Marine, Presence Coach, Inspiring Walking Tall!

TJ Beaudette is a true patriot. TJ served heroically in the USMC and after his combat military experience was complete, he entered the corporate world. Today as a presence coach, TJ works to better the lives of many through a deeper understanding of their true selves while coaching to celebrate the present gift of life. TJ is an absolute inspiration to many and we are honored he is a part of The Walking Tall Movement. The Walking Tall Movement was created by two survivors of two separate mass shootings and a renowned Doctor of Psychology whose mission is to inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering from mental health until they can walk it on their own. The hosts and weekly guests will share their stories of adversity, their pain, and their journey through self, group, or individual therapy and healing to learn how to Walk Tall again. The movement is driven by strength, compassion, and love. Hosts: Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Chris Maliszewski and Todd Blyleven. Learn more about the Walking Tall Movement at www.walkingtallmovement.com Facebook: @walkingtallmovement Instagram: @walkingtallmovement Twitter: @walkingtallmvmt TikTok: @walkingtallmovement See disclaimer and other privacy info here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/disclaimer If you need help, see our huge directories of mental health resources and agencies here: https://www.walkingtallmovement.com/resources Walk Tall!
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