James Miller of LIFEOLOGY Radio: Change What You Focus On

James Miller is a licensed psychotherapist, host, and executive producer of the national broadcast and syndicated LIFEOLOGY Radio program. James has been a practicing clinician in the mental health field for over 25 years.

A Chat with James Miller of LIFEOLOGY Radio

Can you tell us more about your career and the publications you contribute to?

I had the good fortune of interviewing you on my radio show, so the tables have now turned. I’ve worked in nearly every mental health setting imaginable, which allows me to speak confidently to most areas within psychology. I’m a member of the Forbes Health Advisory Board, where I review articles for accuracy and relevancy. As such, my insights have been featured in publications like Newsweek, The New York Times, USA Today, Architectural Digest, Good Housekeeping, and many others. My book, Life Lessons: You Are the Expert of Your Life, is available on Amazon and wherever books are sold.

Can you tell us about your journey from rural Canada to national success in psychology?

While I’m American, I lived concurrently in Canada until I went to university. Our home in Canada was so remote we had a generator for electricity. With little outside stimulation, I spent evenings reading encyclopedias and dictionaries for fun. My early exposure to media came through my musical talents, which led to radio and TV appearances. That blend of entertainment experience, clinical training, and — so I’ve been told — my unique way of simplifying why we behave the way we do, helped shape my path. I offer quick mental hacks that focus on what truly matters, which has led to the success I enjoy today.

What do you enjoy about living in Palm Beach?

For starters, fewer than 1% of South Floridians experience Seasonal Affective Disorder. I originally visited Palm Beach because many of my D.C. friends wintered here and I immediately fell in love with it. It has the charm of a small town but the energy of a cosmopolitan city. Tourism is key here, but Palm Beach attracts a mindful, respectful crowd, which often means peaceful beaches and vibrant connections. They say the beach is where the four elements and the self align and I’ve felt that here. Being surrounded by driven, successful people has inspired me; we become the average of those we spend time with.

Psychology is clearly a passion for you. Where does that come from?

I’ve always been intensely curious. I had my first existential crisis at five years old on a playground, staring at my shadow and questioning if I was actually the shadow. My classmates laughed and went back to eating glue, but I never forgot that moment. I became fascinated by the idea that a single thought can spiral into a best-selling book, a career, or a new self-concept. Understanding that cause doesn’t have to equal a predetermined effect blew my mind. “Trouble is inevitable, but misery is optional.” That insight was a game-changer. It taught me that personal responsibility leads to authenticity and a life lived on one’s own terms.

You’re also a musician and composer. How do you integrate psychology and music?

As I’ve grown older, I’ve become better at integrating all aspects of who I am. With my background in music theory and psychology, I realized they share a common language. Psychology defines who we are; music expresses who we are. Both have rhythm, stress, frequency, and resolution. When I compose, I’m acutely aware of how tempo can sync with the heartbeat, how harmonic dissonance can influence brainwaves, and how key signatures affect mood. All of that gets woven into my work. My albums Consolation and Restoration are streaming now under the name James S. Miller. My third album launches this summer. Fun fact: the Restoration cover photo was taken on Worth Avenue.

 Tell us about your nationally syndicated radio show LIFEOLOGY.

LIFEOLOGY Radio began as a small podcast and blossomed into a national platform with an audience size that still humbles me. I interview people from all walks of life who share their experiences — their victories and missteps — so listeners can glean life lessons they might apply in their own journey. We cut through the “worldly white noise” to offer practical, actionable insights. LIFEOLOGY now broadcasts in 17 major cities and is available on all podcast platforms. You can also listen at jamesmillerlifeology.com.

What’s the most common mental health issue people face today?

Loneliness. It’s one of the major contributors to early death. As society becomes more polarized, people grow increasingly isolated. That disconnection fosters self-doubt. When our thoughts go unchallenged, they can become our identity. If your inner dialogue keeps pulling you down, a licensed therapist can help offer new perspectives, and sometimes, that’s all it takes to start changing your life.

Can you speak to issues relevant to the LGBTQIA+ community today?

Individuality is vital. We all come from unique circumstances. But we must also remember how emotionally alike we are. Whether it’s grief, love, joy, or rejection, we all know what those feel like. That emotional common ground is what connects the LGBTQIA+ community not only within itself but with the world at large. Connection starts with empathy, and empathy begins with recognizing shared emotions.

In closing, who is James Miller?

Who I was: a precocious child who asked five questions about everything. Who I am: an entrepreneur who loves sharing knowledge to help others feel understood. Who I want to be: someone who expands LIFEOLOGY into a household name through books, music, and multimedia.

And finally, how should people approach life for better mental well-being?

Everything begins with thought. Thoughts create emotions. Emotions drive action. Change what you focus on, and you change your life. A minor adjustment can lead to a major improvement.

JamesMillerLifeology.com

Instagram: @jamesmillerlifeology

LinkedIn: James-miller-lifeology

Frank D’Agostino is a playwright, composer, executive producer, figure skater and active member in the Southern Florida community.