Becoming Aligned

Sometimes you have to say No to something in order to say Yes to something else. At least that's the approach I've taken in my life these past few years. And it's helped me to keep my sanity:-) In this week's solo episode, I share why I'm taking a break from podcasting for a few months. **Hint** It's so I can take some time to work on a project that has been on my heart and mind for years.  I want to create an online sanctuary space that will help to empower nurturing people to make the care of their body, mind and heart a priority.  I hope to facilitate this through Restorative Care. I’ve talked a bit about Restorative Care in a few of my solo podcast episodes. But if this is a new term for you, it’s my twist on self-care.  The root of Restorative Care is Self-Compassion.  Restorative care helps us reconnect to ourselves. It helps us to return home and allows us to feel grounded and connected to our truth.  It’s offers a holistic approach to our overall well-being that involves Movement, Play + Creativity, Rest + Recovery, Gratitude and Connection. . My intention is to create a community that will allow us to practice Restorative Care together. I’m choosing to take a break from the newsletter and the podcast so that I can have time to bring this to life. But I also want to invite you to share your story with me…. I’d love to hear from you so that I can take your needs into consideration as I begin to put this together. I made this form to make it as easy as possible to share your story.   If you would prefer to just chat with me over the phone, please reach out to me at maureen@maureenryan.co. I’ll schedule a time that works for both of us. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Subscribe to the Becoming Aligned Newsletter Learn more about the Becoming Aligned Online Course Find out if the Becoming Aligned Program is the right fit for you

In this episode I talk to Nitika Chopra. She is the founder of Chronicon which is dedicated to elevating the lives of those living with a chronic illness.  In this conversation, we talk about Nitika’s own personal journey and how that helped to shape Chronicon and allowed it to be a space that is real, loving and just incredibly supportive for people who may feel very alone because they may not know other people who are experiencing chronic illness. You can feel Nitika’s heart in everything she does. And the community members are so supportive and amazing in their own right. If you know someone or you are someone who has a chronic illness... Or if you’re someone like me who wants to be an ally and support those in her life and her work who have a chronic illness, I would love to encourage you to check out Chronicon. Nitika offers new members a free week so that you can dip your toe in and see what it’s all about.  To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Subscribe to the Becoming Aligned Newsletter Learn more about the Becoming Aligned Online Course Find out if the Becoming Aligned Program is the right fit for you

In my solo podcast episode this week, I talk about how important it is to cultivate a relationship with your feelings. So that you can begin to identify and name your feelings.  This simple step can provide you with so much information that can help you make choices and move forward in a way that addresses your needs and aligns with your values. This sounds simple…. But it’s not.  We’ve been conditioned to not feel our feelings.  And because of that...cultivating a relationship with our feelings is a process and a journey for many of us. Especially for those of us who worry that we’re not "good enough" and wear the armor of people-pleasing and perfectionism to protect ourselves. When you’re wearing armor that’s designed to hide your insecurities. You not only protect yourself from the judgement of others.  You also “protect” yourself from FEELING your true feelings. And that’s where the real danger lies. When the “should’s” and “expectations” hijack your feelings and keep you caught in your thoughts. You can become disconnected from your feelings and from your sense of self.   In this week’s solo podcast episode, I talk about the ways I use Restorative Care to cultivate a relationship with my feelings and why I think this is so important in today's world. We’ve been conditioned to believe our feelings are a sign of weakness. Why is that?  Who wrote that narrative? And what purpose does it serve? I’d love to invite you to explore those questions with me in this week's episode. To be totally honest, I had another episode planned but switched gears after I allowed myself time to write as I processed the news of the past few weeks. In doing so, I discovered what was really on my mind and in my heart. I hope that you'll allow yourself some time to cultivate and create a safe space for your feelings. If you do, please let me know. I would love to see what you create or allow to come forth. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Subscribe to the Becoming Aligned Newsletter Learn more about the Becoming Aligned Online Course Find out if the Becoming Aligned Program is the right fit for you

In this episode I talk to Cazzie Pantoja. She is a Truth Teller. And someone who is deeply rooted in her values.  I so appreciate her sharing some of her experience growing up in NYC, navigating academia, dealing with grief and raising her 4 boys to know they had the roots and wings to flourish in their own unique ways.  She has so many nuggets of wisdom to share and I’m so grateful that she took the time to share some of her story with us. I hope you enjoy our conversation. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Subscribe to the Becoming Aligned Newsletter Learn more about the Becoming Aligned Online Course Find out if the Becoming Aligned Program is the right fit for you

I’m popping in for another solo episode. And I have a question for you. Do you ever feel like you’re failing at self-care? I’m curious... because I feel like so many of us struggle to integrate self-care into our lives.  And then we feel guilty or bad about ourselves because it becomes another item on the  todo list that we didn’t get to… Today, I want to explore why so many of us feel that way.  And also offer some ideas on ways that we can begin to shift our perspective and relationship with care. To begin to reimagine, recalibrate and renew our relationship with care.  So that we can feel empowered to make our care a priority.   In today’s episode I share: My twist and reframe on self-care as restorative care which includes a healthy dose of self-compassion. The history of self-care so that we can compare it to our current understanding and relationship with care.  Why I don’t believe you are failing as an individual at self-care. Some ideas on ways we can begin to reimagine, recalibrate and renew our relationship with our care. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Subscribe to the Becoming Aligned Newsletter Learn more about the Becoming Aligned Online Course Find out if the Becoming Aligned Program is the right fit for you

In this episode I talk to Bianca Bloomfield. She is someone who is creating and allowing space for people to be with and to move through their big feelings in a loving way. She does this work in a variety of ways.  Primarily, by just BEING WHO SHE IS AND ALLOWING HER TRUE SELF TO SHINE THROUGH. Which is so often a journey in and of itself. And something we explore through this episode. She also facilitates Breathwork healing, works as a yoga instructor for kids and is a beautiful writer.   One of the goals of this podcast is to share interviews with regular people who are becoming aligned to their values and to also share tools that can help us be lovingly present and care for our needs and our emotions. There is no one way that works for everyone. And I'm a big believer in building a toolbox of skills and strategies to help facilitate our own personal and collective wellbeing. Which is why I’m so happy to share this conversation which explores Bianca’s personal journey and how she discovered tools that help her to facilitate healing in her own life... Tools that she now shares with others.  I hope you enjoy our conversation! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Subscribe to the Becoming Aligned Newsletter Learn more about the Becoming Aligned Online Course Find out if the Becoming Aligned Program is the right fit for you

Has the pandemic helped you become more clear on what you really value and  what you feel is essential? I know so many people are feeling overwhelmed and exhausted right now. The idea of doing one more thing seems impossible. Which is why I’m channeling Maxine Waters and encouraging you to reclaim your time.  But let’s be realistic...this is easier said than done for so many of us.  In this week’s episode, I share how time for rest, play and following your curiosity are some wonderful ways to become reconnected with your priorities and yourself.   To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Subscribe to the Becoming Aligned Newsletter Learn more about the Becoming Aligned Online Course Find out if the Becoming Aligned Program is the right fit for you

In this episode I talk to Sara Shah. She is the founder of Mother Yin which is a holistic platform designed to help women find balance in their bodies, minds and lives. This is a passion for Sara that becomes even more evident as we learn about her own personal journey. It was so interesting to discover how her different areas of expertise come together and allow her to find balance in her own life. I also really appreciated our conversation about the work she is doing with Mother Yin and how that work can help open up the conversation about the menstrual cycle and women’s health in general. I think it’s so important that we are able to have conversations and share our experiences in order to care for ourselves and each other. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Subscribe to the Becoming Aligned Newsletter

The Becoming Aligned Podcast is back after an extended break. I jump back into podcasting with a longer solo episode where I share how I’ve been processing some of my feelings from the first few weeks of 2021.   It’s been a lot...I thought it would be helpful to talk about because I really want to encourage and invite you to create space for your own feelings and your own reflections to come to the surface. I believe that learning to foster a relationship with our feelings is essential for healing…  And yes... I dive into the topic of healing in this episode as well... Healing is a loaded word at the moment. It’s necessary but it’s HARD WORK that requires time, patience and consistent effort. Are we ready for it? Along with doing our own individual work and individual healing, I believe it’s imperative to create environments that promote healing. Environments where people feel safe, seen and heard. I would love to hear what you’re doing to create environments for healing in your life.  I share a few things that I’m up to in this week’s podcast episode.  To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Subscribe to the Becoming Aligned Newsletter

In this week’s podcast episode I share why I’m choosing to honor my needs and carve out time for rest and recovery. I touch on why it can be so challenging for so many of us to set boundaries. I’ll share my twist on boundary setting and share why I think this is especially important for those of us who can slip into perfectionist and people-pleasing tendencies. I leave you with some guided reflection questions to help you set your vision for 2021. I share a few in this episode, but you see the rest by subscribing to my weekly newsletter. I hope you find some time to pause and take some time for yourself these next few weeks! Wishing you a safe, happy, healthy and restorative holiday season! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Subscribe to the Becoming Aligned Newsletter

In this episode I talk to Vincent Toro. He’s a Poet, Playwright and Theater Performer and Director. He’s a community builder who describes himself as a devout Educator, which I think is really beautiful.  I found myself using the word beautiful repeatedly during our conversion. I find that artists have an ability to “see” things in this world and express “truths” in such a way that it offers the rest of us a new perspective and allows us to think differently and more deeply about the world around us. Vincent and his work is an example of this. He has so many nuggets of wisdom to offer through his story and his journey.  We talk about a number of things, including: The power of naming. The impact of mentors The role of an artist Toxic Masculinity The power of play How he views his role as an Educator And how he made a change and learned to move towards fear rather than retreat. Vincent has so many beautiful nuggets of wisdom to offer as he shares his story. I so enjoyed our conversation and hope you do as well! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Subscribe to the Becoming Aligned Newsletter

In this episode I talk to Chelsea from the Wildflower Kitchen. She is on a mission to help the nurturers of the world learn to prioritize their own nourishment. We chat about how she cultivated her relationship with food and nourishment and how this informs the work she does with her clients.  She tells us about her business, the Wildflower Kitchen and all of the wonderful ways she helps support her community which has expanded to include an online option. And she shares some of her meal planning tips, which I found so helpful! I hope you enjoy our conversation. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co

This week, I'm trying something new. I’m stepping away from the regularly scheduled program to share a short solo episode that I’m calling, A Love Note to You. I want to help you return home to yourself when things become challenging. I hope this is something that you can return to again and again. And that these words provide you with some comfort. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co

In this solo episode, I share the ways in which I have been intentionally trying to cultivate joy and allow time for celebration in my life and in my business. This has been a practice that has been really helpful…but it’s one that does not come naturally. I find that when I stretch myself or put myself out there in new ways, old limiting beliefs and feelings can bubble to the surface. Which is something that I experienced as I prepared to share the Becoming Aligned Online Course. But fortunately, my Inner Cheerleader and my Hype Squad were there to cheer me on and keep me focused on what was really important to me. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co

In this episode I chat with Attorney turned Entrepreneur, Sam Vander Wielen. She helps online coaches and service providers legally protect and grow their own businesses.  We cover a WIDE range of topics and chat about changing careers, starting your own business, navigating health issues and dealing with grief.  I really appreciated her perspective and her insights. Especially when it came to examples on how she tries to lead with curiosity. Sam is so down to earth, honest and open about her experiences and what she’s learned along the way. I’d love to invite you to listen. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did:-) To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co

This is a short solo episode that shares the intention behind the Becoming Aligned Online Course and the ways I hope it can truly create deep, meaningful shifts. The Becoming Aligned Online Course is a Guided Self-Discovery Experience to help you release an All-or-Nothing Mindset. Learn to BEFRIEND your feelings and HONOR your needs as you create a life that Aligns with your Values. I’m so excited to share this Course and to have the opportunity to help facilitate self-discovery for as many driven, nurturing, heart centered women as possible. Because I believe the world needs us to stop living by the “shoulds” and to have the courage to show up and live according to our values.  You can check out the curriculum and hear what others are saying about their experience in the course at my website, maureenryan.co. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co

In this episode I talk to Taylor Morrison. She’s the founder of a self-care company called Inner Workout which exists to help people build the skill of self-care. I love how she defines self-care. I think it’s a really beautiful way to approach the practice of self-care in our lives.  During the course of our conversation, she shares her journey to creating her business. We get to see how her sense of curiosity and integrity really shaped her journey. And how it continues to do so. I really enjoyed learning more about Taylor and Inner Workout’s approach to self care and I think that it’s something that can be very helpful to people, so I’m excited to share this episode. I hope you enjoy our conversation. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co

The Becoming Aligned Podcast is BACK!  It's been a while. For anyone keeping track, it's been about 9 months. PHEW! Back in November of 2019, I shared that I was taking a break from podcasting to create an online course that had been in my heart and on my mind for many years. I thought I would be back in March 2020...but as you can see that didn't go quite as planned. That's ok. I know I'm not alone in that! In this episode, I share a little peak behind the scenes and tell you more about what to expect moving forward with the Becoming Aligned podcast. I'm really excited about what's in store:-) To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co

In the last few episodes, I’ve shared what I had learned from all of the inner, reflective work I had been doing.  Now it was time to put this new sense of knowing into practice.   It was time to focus on Becoming Aligned.  I began to shift my mindset in regards to how I managed my time, energy and resources. To allow space for my personal growth.  And create a life that aligned with my values. I began to practice setting healthy boundaries. So uncomfortable at first...But so necessary.  In this episode, I share the small, consistent steps I took over a period of time to create change in my life. I talk about the importance of healthy boundaries and how we can teach people how to treat us. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I share how I began to connect to my feelings and use the feedback and information my feelings provided as a guide to help me make decisions.   I always thought of my feelings as a sign of weakness.  Raise your hand if you’ve been told you’re too sensitive.   Over time I began to bottle up my feelings and do my best to ignore them.  They just seemed to get in the way. I thought that was the best way to keep on moving forward... But I found the opposite to be true.  When I dismiss or ignore my feelings, they stick around and linger.  And have a way of seeping out when I’m least expecting it. When I acknowledge how I’m feeling and show myself some self-compassion, I’m able to move forward. It doesn’t stop me from taking action.  It just allows me to be better tuned into my needs and wants. I share how connecting to my feelings was an important step to discovering what I wanted.   What do you want?  If that question makes you a bit nervous to even think about, check out this episode where I’ll share some strategies that helped me create some clarity for myself. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I explore how I began to cultivate and develop a growth mindset in certain areas of my life.  Through therapy I began to discover and become aware of some of my limiting beliefs and the behaviors that reinforced those beliefs. I would never have described myself as a perfectionist because I was sooooo far from being perfect, But the truth is, a fear of rejection and disapproval was driving my choices and impacting how I was showing up in the world. In this episode, I dive into perfectionism and explore why it can be so harmful even though it seems that many of us wear it as a badge of honor. Then I talk about how we can begin to shift our mindset. And truly create change in our lives. It’s so valuable to know that all have the power to develop a growth mindset! And to know that we can all evolve and grow if we want to! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

This is the second solo episode of a series in which I’m sharing a bit more about my story and my journey to Becoming Aligned. If you missed the last episode, please check it out before listening to this one. It will help things make more sense:-) In this episode, I begin to share some of the inner work that I did to help me create some positive shifts in my life. I was at a point in my life where I was putting more weight on the external expectations, the “shoulds” in my life and neglecting and dismissing my internal needs and desires.   I talk you through how I began to become aware of the “SHOULDS”.  And outline a few that are in my copy of the Good Girl Handbook. I also talk about Self-Compassion.  And describe how it’s like Wonder Woman’s Golden Lasso of Truth in my life.  Ok...I was stretching it with my metaphors, but I hope the examples I share help you think about self-compassion in a new way. It’s such an important piece of the puzzle for anyone who is looking to create positive change in their life.  I hope you’ll give this episode a listen. And if resonates with you, I would so appreciate it if you share with friends:-) To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

I have something different planned for the next 5 episodes.  I’m planning to release a series of short solo episodes where I’ll share more of my story and my journey to becoming aligned.   It’s definitely been a process, but a worthwhile one.  It’s a process I want to share with you in the hopes that it will help you along your journey and also give you a sense of what has informed my perspective and approach. In this episode, I’ll share a little more about my background.  And I’ll tell you about a challenging season in my life. It was a period where I was working so hard to create “change” in my life.  This concept of change was based on what I thought my life should look like in terms of my career, relationships, etc. It was like I was trying to fit a square peg into a space meant for a circle.  Things weren’t clicking. My inner critic was doing a lot of talking and I thought if I only worked harder, I could make it all work out the way I wanted. Has anyone else been there?? You can hear how this season of my life became a blessing in disguise…. Not because I went through a challenging period...BUT because I chose to reach out for support and do some serious inner work.   I would love to share what I’ve learned, so please check out this short episode and subscribe to the podcast so you can hear the rest of the story:-) To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I talk to Máire P. Walsh.  Máire is one of my wonderful cousins. She’s originally from Ireland but has been living and working in San Francisco for over 15 years. She now considers both home. And is fortunate to work in a capacity that allows her to support Irish companies in Travel Technology while being based in SF. Máire was quick to point out that she’s at the beginning of her Becoming Aligned Journey.  I might argue with her a bit... I am family after all;-) Because I can see the process of becoming more aligned in how she approached her move to SF and how she became involved in the community there.  It’s undeniable that she’s currently experiencing a new level of personal growth and of becoming aligned.  Some of this is based on choices she’s been able to make for herself in terms of her career. And some of this is based on situations she has no control over. I really appreciated her sharing about both of those experiences.  She has so many wonderful nuggets of wisdom to offer.   In particular, I appreciate that she was willing to share and be open about her experiences managing grief and her feelings around that.  We talk about how this experience has drastically shifted her perspective and learn how she’s staying focused on what’s truly important and taking care of herself in the process. I’m grateful for this conversation and hope you enjoy it as well! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I talk to Theresa VanderMeer.  She is the founder of Work+Shelter. An ethical factory in India that employs women in need.  While this is now her full-time job, she started Work+Shelter as her passion project / side hustle 7 ½ years ago.  They now employ almost 40 women!   I was so impressed with Theresa for her vision and persistence.  She believes business can be a vehicle for good and is actively working to make that true within her company.  She is truly an Activist Entrepreneur.   But as you can imagine, she has faced challenges along the way. It was so interesting to hear her journey and how she handled the ups and downs.  She shares some helpful thoughts on how to be a conscious consumer, which I found really useful. And we talk about how she takes care of herself in order to prevent burnout and the pull to be a work-a-holic. She has some great resources to share!   To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I talk to Amelia Hruby.  She is a writer, podcaster and a PhD candidate in Philosophy with an emphasis in Art and Feminist Theory.   I just loved this conversation and wanted to soak in as much of Amelia’s knowledge as possible.  She’s an academic who has this beautiful way of using language to distill and explain topics that can be so challenging for many of us to discuss. We talk about the value or really the necessity of getting comfortable with being uncomfortable for those of us with white privilege.  And she shares how she views her role in this process in terms of the work she does. We also discuss her process of becoming aligned as a journey of unlearning, learning, integrating with self care and taking action. So many thoughtful, insightful moments in this episode! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I talk to Rebecca Hamilton.  She is a mom who homeschooled her child. A successful Real Estate Agent in FL and an Entrepreneur who is making a positive difference in the lives of her clients.   But she has also experienced her share of life’s challenges.   She grew up with a painful rash that covered her body from head to toe until high school.  She was surrounded by drama and dropped out of High School. And her husband was sent to jail when her son was only 1 for a crime they say he did not commit and now can provide evidence to prove that to be true. We chat about the story of her personal growth and how the Law of Attraction played into that.  She also helps to demystify the Law of Attraction and some of the myths that prevent people from accessing the full benefits.  I hope you enjoy my episode with Rebecca Hamilton! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community  

In this episode I talk to Sue DeSanto.  She's a therapist and a relationship coach based in Chicago...AT LEAST FOR A FEW MORE WEEKS. She is preparing for a big move, a big change in her life. And we talk about what that looks like for her.  And how she’s taking care of herself in the process. I know change is something we can all relate to, so it was fun to dive into this with her and learn more about what’s she’s discovering through this process.   Something else we can all relate to is relationships.   I talk to Sue about what drew her to start Relationship Coaching for Singles.  While she works with couples in her private therapy practice, She focuses on working with Singles in the coaching aspect of her business. She helps Singles work through their blocks and build their foundation to being a happy single.  You can learn more at her website which I link to below. She shares what she sees people struggling with and provides some insight that I think we can all benefit from. There’s so much goodness in this episode!  I hope you enjoy it! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I talk to  Jason Brammer. Jason is a visual artist, painter and muralist based in Chicago.  For those of you in Chicago you have probably seen his work! He has many street murals throughout the city and installations inside businesses like Dark Matter Coffee Shop.  His art work has a way of drawing you in...And to me it feels like he has a true sense of who he is as an artist.  So it was so interesting to learn more about his personal journey and get a better sense of what shapes him and inspires him as an artist and as a person. It was fun to learn that he is also a musician. We talk about his time playing bass and touring with the band, Old Pike.   And he shares how meditation and yoga helped create a new sense of awareness in his life and learn how that impacts his life and his art.   I really appreciate Jason’s honesty.  And I loved hearing him talk about doing the work of an artist. And what that’s actually like.  For anyone feeling “stuck” or dealing with resistance, I think you’ll appreciate this episode. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I talk to Cliff Lyles. He is such an example of what you can accomplish when you accept that failure is a part of life, learning and ultimately growth.  He is someone who has built his sense of resilience because he’s not afraid to put himself out there and try new things. In this episode he shares more about his personal story, his experience as a chef and about an amazing adventure he’s preparing for that will take place in September.  It’s something called the Eco-Challenge. The event is making a comeback this year and so is Cliff! And this time around, he’s organized the first African-American Team to take part in this event.  He tells us more about his motivation for doing so. He has so many insights to share. It’s really inspiring to hear him talk about his mindset, self talk and how he’s dealt with failure in his life. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Clifton Lyles. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode, I talk to my mom, Ann Ryan. She’s a very modest, hard-working, giving person who doesn’t talk much about herself.   I was excited for the opportunity to learn more about her experience growing up in a small village in County Mayo, Ireland.  And I wanted to get to know more about what life was like for her when she moved to Chicago. It was fun to step back in time with her and get a better sense of what life was like!  I have so much admiration for people who are willing to take risks and step out of their comfort zones.  I’m always inspired by their stories. While she paints a picture of what life was like for her growing up in Ireland… I’ll also share some pics of the things she talked about on the podcast page for my website, maureenryan.co.   To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I talk to Ruth-Anne Renaud.  I just loved our conversation. She is such a thoughtful, nurturing and wise person.   She is someone I really admire because she lives her life with such PURPOSE.  You don’t have to know her very long to begin to understand what she values. Because she really LIVES her values through her work and personal life.   Some of those values include, empowering women, friends and family, access to education, cycling, personal growth, empathy and connection. You just see those values and more shine through. We talk about what shaped her outlook on life and how she switched gears and made a career pivot so that she could apply her skills and knowledge to the non-profit sector And we talk about what helped her tune in to her personal truth so that she was able to take action and work towards the causes she believes in. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I talk to Kate Strozak.  She is a multi-faceted, multi-passionate individual who has cultivated a strong sense of intuition and trust within herself.  This has allowed her to discover that this way of being might be different from others, but that it offers many positives and unique perspectives..   She’s a pilates instructor and someone who teaches others to become instructors through Polestar Pilates.  She’s working towards her Masters in Applied Neuroscience. And she is someone “dabbles’ in a number of things that fill her up.     We talk about how she takes care of herself to avoid burnout, which she has experienced in the past and is something that I think many of us can relate to.  We discuss the influence of nature and how that’s impacted her understanding of movement and also motivated her to explore the study of neuroscience. And we talk about grief and what she has learned from her experience with grief in her own life.   I really enjoyed my conversation and came away with so much inspiration.  I hope you do as well!   To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes.   Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I talk to Stephanie Williams.  She is the mom of 5 with her own children’s clothing line, called Roxie Rose.  She also owns The Lemon Seed Boutique, a women’s boutique clothing store in Bedford, IN. Both are absolutely adorable and truly represent Stephanie’s style. Stephanie’s style and sense of self and purpose is evident in all areas of her life.  Which is what I find so interesting and amazing about her. And what I wanted to learn more about.   She has so much insight to share about business, motherhood and having a sense of purpose. I hope you enjoy our conversation! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

In this episode I talked to Sapna Dalal, also known as the Veg Tourist. While working full time, She’s created an amazing blog called the Vegetarian Tourist where she shares her passion for delicious vegetarian food and international travel. It was so fun to talk to her and hear how she grew her audience from her friends and family to at the moment 15.6k Instagram followers. We also talk about how she built the courage to put herself out there and the opportunities that came because she chose to do so.  Plus, she shares some of her favorite veggie friendly restaurants and travel experiences.  I hope you enjoy our conversation! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram MaureenRyan.co Becoming Aligned FB Community

How do you create space for authentic relationships in your life?  How do you manage your time in order to nurture your mind, body and soul?   In this episode of Becoming Aligned we dive into these topics with my guest Erin Alexander.  Erin is a psychologist, an athlete, a devoted family member, friend and partner. And she is someone who is actively working towards creating positive change and opportunity for others.   She has so many wonderful insights. I’m really excited to share our conversation and to introduce you to Erin Alexander. I hope you enjoy our conversation! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode I talk to Matt Hunsucker.  He’s a Physical Education Teacher, Athlete, Volunteer and just an all-around good person.  He is someone that I find inspiring because he’s so grounded yet he’s always challenging himself to grow in different ways.  And he does so in such a well-rounded, fun, positive way. But like all of us, he’s faced his own personal challenges.  During the course of our conversation, he opens up and we talk about what helped him get through one of the lowest emotional periods in his life. He shares some amazing programs and resources that I’ll also share in the show notes.  If you don’t already know him, I’m happy to introduce you to Matt Hunsucker. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode, I interview my friend and former teammate, Priscilla Barnes.  She is a recently tenured Professor at Indiana University with her PhD in Public Health.  She is also actively involved in her community as a group fitness instructor at the local YMCA.   I had so much fun chatting with her.  She is this positive, inspiring, multi-dimensional person who I am so grateful to know and I’m excited to share our conversation with everyone.   It really energizes me to know that she out there doing the work she is doing because it centers around creating connections and forming community. We talk about the roots of these values and explore how they shape her life and her passions right now. We also talk about what how she is striving to find balance.  And how a dear friend of hers is helping her to do so. (I love this part!) To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website  

In this episode I interview Denis Buckley.  The lead singer of a Punk Rock band called 88 Fingers Louie and an old grade school classmate and friend of mine. We talk about the roots of his interest in music and how he became the lead singer of a punk rock band even though there were expectations and plans for him to become a fireman. We also talk about how he’s changed and grown over the years.  And what’s allowed him to manage his anger and become a better communicator. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode, I talk to my friend Erica Agran.  The energy and passion she pours into her life, always inspires me. In this episode we talk more about those interests and passions.  We learn more about her running and why it’s such an important part of her life.  We talk about what she’s learned from writing her blog Erica Finds And we talk about how she makes her healthy lifestyle a priority with a busy schedule which includes work travel. She certainly has some wisdom to share! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

This episode of Becoming Aligned will be a bit different.  I’m not going to be interviewing anyone. Instead, I’m going to take some time to share some of my personal thoughts and reflections after completing the first 2 seasons. My plan is to put out a short episode like this after each season where I look at themes that have come up for me after listening to all the episodes.  And also share a bit about myself as I do so. I hope you enjoy this episode. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this short bonus episode, my dad, Jim Ryan will share some of his favorite books and authors. He is someone who always has a stack of books by his side, so it was fun to hear more about the books that have really left a mark.  He also shares a few more thoughts on getting older that we can all practice no matter our age. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode I talk to my dad, Jim Ryan.  This is part 2 our conversation. If you missed part 1, please go back and listen. In part 2 we talk about what it was like to transition from his experience in the army and in Viet Nam to life, school and work in Chicago. He shares some of his favorite stories and moments from his days working as a cameraman at CBS news And we talk about family, fatherhood and what he’s learned as he’s grown older. He also opens up and shares an experience that happened during battle while he was in the army during the Vietnam war. It’s an emotional story that takes place from the 48-50 minutes mark. I wanted to give fair warning in case it may be triggering to anyone listening. I hope you enjoy our conversation! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode, I talk to my dear friend, Steph Cattie.  We were college roommates and teammates back in the early 90’s. Currently she is a mom, a nursing student and a volunteer We talk about her interest in science and a little bit about her former career as a science teacher. She openly shares lessons she learned after she left teaching in order to advocate and take care of the needs of her oldest who has downs syndrome Then we discuss what motivated her to take this next step and study nursing. Steph is one of the most modest people I know, but her story and character truly inspire me.   To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode, I interview Saran Horwell.  We talk about the different roles she has had in her life from, fitness instructor, tv personality, to being a new mom. This woman is a force of nature.  Her positivity and energy is contagious. I loved learning more about her childhood and what shaped her into the person she is today. But like everyone else, she has faced her own personal challenges.  In this episode, Saran opens up and shares a particularly tough experience in life and what helped her move forward. I hope you enjoy this episode! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode, I continue my conversation with Lynn Rogers.  In part 1 we learned more about Lynn as a person. She shared stories that helped to shape her positive mindset and help her discover her “why”. Please go back and listen if you missed it! In part 2 of our interview we’ll learn more about how Lynn went from training and being ready to do an ironman to trying to figure out what was going on with her body.  As she experiences numbness, tingling and pain which quickly progressed. She ends up being hospitalized for 5 1/2 months and is diagnosed with an autoimmune disease called Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS).  The diagnosis is eventually changed to the acute version of GBS, CIDP. She tells us about this experience and how she’s navigating her way through. To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode, I talk to Lynn Rogers.  This woman is driven, talented, funny and has some amazing and inspiring stories to share. She went from someone who was ready to do an Ironman to being temporarily paralyzed from the chest down and discovering the cause was an autoimmune disease called Guillain Barre Syndrome. Her diagnosis was later changed to the chronic version of GBS which is CIDP.  But we’ll learn more about that in part 2 of my interview which will be out next week. In part 1 , we get to know more about who Lynn is as a person.  We get a glimpse into how she developed her positive, growth-oriented mindset.  And we learn the importance and value she places on community and how well that’s served her.  Its pretty incredible! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode, I interview Susan Booton.  She’s a friend and old roommate of mine. She’s someone I’ve had the opportunity to watch become an amazing mom to two young boys with special needs. During this time period, she also became more outspoken for what she believed was right for the needs of young people in her community. We talk about what led her to become more outspoken and to use her voice in a way that really aligned to her values. I really appreciated Susan’s honesty and openness as we talk about what it means to live a life according to her values and the challenges she faces as she works towards becoming more aligned.  And owning it! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode I talk to Rhys MacLean.  A few years ago, Rhys left her job in corporate America, rented out her beautiful condo and said goodbye to her amazing friends/family to take an extended solo trip around the world. She ended up traveling for 27 months! She's back in Chicago now and is already planning her next adventure.  During our conversation, we talk about the small steps she took to make her dreams of travel a reality.  And how she's now working part-time as a travel coach to help others make dreams of travel come true. Please check out her amazing blog called Someday is Now RTW and her beautiful Instagram page at SomedayIsNow_RTW.   To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode, I interview my friend Dafina Dunmore.  She is someone that radiates positive energy and I think you'll feel that coming through in our conversation. She lives her life from a place of authenticity and it shines through in how she chooses to spend her time and how she finds a sense of balance in her life.   We dive into how she began to practice creativity and how she has developed as strong sense of self. I hope you enjoy! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website

In this episode, I talk with my Dad.  You'll get a taste of his personality as you listen to our conversation.   In part one of my interview, we talk about what it was like to grow up in a small town in Central Illinois.  And how his experience in the Army and in Viet Nam shaped him. There’s a part two planned for Season 2! Everyone has a story.  I believe when we take time to truly listen, we begin to discover that were more alike than we are different.  I hope you enjoy! To learn more about this episode and any resources mentioned, please see the show notes. Stay Connected: Instagram Ryan Wellness Website