Today's guest is Dr. Mark A. Hicks. Mark is an author, ghostwriter, and speaker with expertise in mental health and family dynamics. Holding a Doctor of Ministry Degree, a Masters in Mental Health Counseling, a Masters of Divinity, and a Bachelors in Psychology, his educational background reflects his unwavering commitment to understanding the human psyche and guiding individuals toward healthy relationships and meaningful lives. Mark and I share our similar backgrounds growing up in East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. We had a very insightful discussion about his background in mental health counseling and how now as a ghost writer he can offer a unique perspective in writing books for the author with their voice and their feelings. During our exchange Mark shares a unique story of a book he wrote for someone and because he took the time to draw out the feelings and emotions of the true author a friend of that person after reading the book said, "This sounds so much like you." You'll learn during the episode how Mark does this with such passion and sincerity. There were multiple nuggets about life, relationships and love that this is sure to be one of our most popular episodes. Listen but more importantly share with you friends and colleagues as they are sure to glean some valuable tips and insights into those grand things we call life, love and relationships. As a professional counselor, Dr. Hicks has provided guidance and support to individuals grappling with diverse challenges, including addiction, divorce recovery, emotional struggles, and dysfunctional family dynamics. Beyond his counseling work, Dr. Hicks has ventured into various spheres, serving as a minister, international missionary, recovery program director, disaster response coordinator, and radio host. His radio broadcast was a self-help themed program that aired nationwide in the Czech Republic. Then there are the tough life lessons he learned in a toxic first marriage and painful divorce. That experience set him on a course devoted to understanding love and relationships and how to have healthy, happy connections. His study of psychology, theology, and his life experience led him to write his first book. "Learning Love: Building a Life That Matters and Healthy Relationships That Last." Outside of his professional pursuits, Dr. Hicks finds joy in exploring new destinations alongside his wife, Heather. With an adventurous spirit, they embark on journeys that expose them to different cultures and landscapes. Despite their adventures, they always enjoy life in their home base of Knoxville, Tennessee, and frequently indulge in visits to the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can reach out to Mark at: markahicks.com or email at [email protected] To reach out to Mike Beverly you can message me at LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikebeverly To download my free guide, Reduce Inflammation Without Medication, 5 Powerful Tools for Achieving the Goal of Living Pain-Free Without Medications. This guide is designed to help you understand and implement natural methods that can significantly reduce inflammation and chronic pain. Click the link to download the guide: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/f30184bd2d20/inflammation⁠ If you have more challenges you want to discuss or address, do not hesitate to reach out to me for a free 15-minute courtesy call at ⁠www.mikebeverly.life⁠. Let’s work together to tailor a pain management plan that fits your needs and lifestyle, helping you to achieve better health without reliance on medications.