Connected Hearts Podcast

In today’s episode we share with you the results of us taking the Five Love Languages quiz. We talk about what we learned about ourselves in retaking the quiz, how we’re applying it already in our relationships and friendships, and why we think knowing our love languages is important. Want to take the quiz and discover your love language? It's free! https://www.5lovelanguages.com/

For the second part of this conversation on change, Ashlyn, Christen and Ellen further unpack change's relationship with grief. They also discuss how they process change and all three of us discover that they withdraw from others to various extents. There's also a lot of laughter, unexpected high fives, and a rather creepy ending. Do listen to part one of Unpacking Change first though; this episode will definitely make more sense if you do! Whether the change in your life currently is positive or challenging, we hope this two-part series makes you feel accompanied, validated, and encouraged!

Ashlyn, Christen and Ellen gather around a table to have the first of two parts of a conversation about change. It's a topic that has been top of mind for all of us lately as we transition fully into fall. We go deeper, however, and together discover the relationship change has with grief, how we experience both in similar ways, and the need for trust as it relates to change. Whether the change in your life currently is positive or challenging, we hope this two-part series makes you feel accompanied, validated, and encouraged!

In this episode, Ashlyn, Christen and Ellen have a really open, honest, vulnerable conversation about forgiveness and how it has manifested in our lives. I share my experience of forgiving the person who abused me as a child. Ashlyn shares about her sister’s overdose a year ago and learning to forgive the person who sold her the drugs. And Ellen reminds us that forgiveness is ultimately a gift for ourselves—the greatest gift. There’s also conversation about pea milk and farting because that’s how we roll.

We have a really special announcement to make but you'll have to listen to the episode to hear what it is! With today’s special guest, Ashlyn Hartnett, we also discuss the importance of finding the good in all situations. Because it is in finding the good and in expressing gratitude for it that we amplify it in our lives and in the lives of others. All three of us single out the good we’ve found for ourselves during this period of quarantine and we encourage you to do the same. Subscribe to our additional content and join our virtual community at patreon.com/connectedheartspod.

We all have those friends who always feel like "home" no matter how long it's been since we've seen them. We also have had those moments when we connect instantly with a new friend. Francis is an old friend of Ellen's from when she lived in Kenya. And now he is a new friend of Christen's! In this conversation, they talk about everything from what the Covid experience has been like in Kenya versus the United States, the importance of taste for memory, why Francis loves Burger King, and what he wants to do in his home country before he moves to the U.S. in a year. You will smile, you may even pause to think, but you will most certainly find a friend in Francis, too!

Kay Sidahmed is a meditation teacher, yoga instructor, and singer. In this podcast episode, we talk with her about her personal journey through anxiety and depression and the free support group she leads once a month. We discuss the importance of having a variety of tools for healing at your disposal, why Kay loves chanting, and how we can see our struggles as opportunities and gifts, not dead ends! Other ways to connect with us: Sign up for Ellen's in-person yoga classes and workshops as well as Kay's support group: https://www.easeyogacafe.com/ Join Ellen for a daily hatha yoga class, virtual or in-person: www.facebook.com/connectedheartspod/ Sign up for Christen's emails that include updates on workshops, classes, free gatherings, and her most recent reflections in writing: www.christenkinard.com And finally, subscribe to our Patreon content for regular meditations and lots of inspiration! www.patreon.com/connectedheartspod

Our favorite author Beth Kempton joins us once again on the pod to talk about her new digital book, "We Are In This Together: Finding hope and opportunity in the depths of adversity." ⁠⠀ She wrote this book during and about the pandemic. It is a practical and inspiring compass for navigating these turbulent times, helping you to stay calm, figure out what matters most, and lay the groundwork for renewal so you can re-imagine life beyond this.⁠⠀ ⁠⠀ First, listen to our conversation. Then, score the digital version of her book for just $2.99 or download the audiobook and listen to Beth's words in her own soothing voice!⁠⠀ Other ways to connect with us: Join Ellen for a daily hatha yoga class, virtual or in-person: https://www.facebook.com/connectedheartspod/ Join us both for book club this Friday night, July 10 at 7 EST to talk about Joe Dispenza's "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself." https://www.facebook.com/events/760171198055804/ Participate in Christen's 6-week virtual workshop: "Stress Reduction: The Spiritual Path." https://www.christenkinard.com/online-workshops And finally, subscribe to our Patreon content for regular meditations and lots of inspiration! https://www.patreon.com/connectedheartspod

Meet Colleen Sproull—comedian, actor, singer-songwriter and much more! Ellen and Christen chat with Colleen about what it's like to live in New York City as an artist during (and not during) quarantine, what it takes to make it as an actor, why she loves the comedy community, her first foray into songwriting, and everything in between. You will lose count of the number of times Colleen makes you smile in this fun and warm-hearted conversation. Find Colleen at: instagram.com/leenimartini colleensproull.com instagram.com/virginiabrides facebook.com/thepitnyc

In this episode, Ellen and Christen discuss the importance of making (and how to make) your home a haven, especially since we're all spending so much time there! Based on her training, Ellen shares feng shui tips and strategies that are easy to implement based on what you feel you need more of in your life. Christen shares the two things that have helped her bring more healing to her home as well. And they wrap up the episode with an #actsofkindness challenge!

Meet Ariel, also known as AIVA Redflower—vocalist, actor, reiki practitioner, meditation teacher, and life coach. In this episode, Ariel joins us for a conversation on who she is, what she does, and why—plus we all dig into the need for creativity in our lives and how we engage with creativity. Note from Christen: We are still learning the parameters of recording from a social distance. Unfortunately, I used my airpods when recording this episode and the sound quality is not as good as I would like it to be. Please don't let that dissuade you, however, from listening to Ariel's wisdom. She has so much to share and offer each one of us, especially now! To learn more about AIVA Redflower: https://www.instagram.com/aivaredflower/ http://www.aivaafter.com/

This special meditation was recorded for you to listen to on April 4, 2020 at 4pm if possible. The number 444 is an "angel number" and April 4 as a result is a powerful day. This meditation is great for beginners and seasoned meditators alike, encouraging us to set intentions for the inevitable changes that are happening and to harness the energy of the Universe so we can fall into its flow. Want more content like this? Subscribe to our Patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/connectedheartspod!

Ellen and Christen catch up from their respective homes. They chat about the things that have changed, the fears they share, how they're coping—both spiritually and practically, and announce that they will be recording weekly episodes as long as they are both home. Listen into their intimate conversation and know that you are not alone in this!

Ellen and Christen join friend, aromatherapist, makeup artist, clean living expert and founder of ModernGreenGoddess.com Ky Washington for an honest conversation about self-love, how we go about it, how we fail at it, and why it's so important. We discuss the difference between self-love and self-worth, and the importance of telling our stories with honesty and courage. Join us in this raw, open, courageous conversation that will leave you inspired. Connect with Ky: instagram.com/kydoesmakeup facebook.com/kydoesmakeup/ moderngreengoddess.com

Ellen and Christen join friend, aromatherapist, makeup artist, clean living expert and founder of ModernGreenGoddess.com Ky Washington for an honest conversation about self-love, how we go about it, how we fail at it, and why it's so important. We discuss the difference between self-love and self-worth, and the importance of telling our stories with honesty and courage. Join us in this raw, open, courageous conversation that will leave you inspired. Connect with Ky: instagram.com/kydoesmakeup facebook.com/kydoesmakeup/ moderngreengoddess.com

In this very special five-minute meditation, Ellen teams up with hand pan player Eric of Good Vibe Feelings Music. Listen as Ellen guides us to check in with our hearts and reminds us that life is simple. We are the ones who make it complicated. Then rest in the healing sound and international language of the hand pan and let Eric's music bring you peace. We love you and hope you enjoy his talent as much as we do! Follow Eric at https://www.instagram.com/gvf_music_

Following our podcast on grief, Ellen and Christen chat about joy, how the two coexist more often than not, and how we must (yes, must) be open to both. A good bottle of wine, a funny laugh-out-loud memory, and a decision to lean more into joy this year—this will leave you thinking about your own relationship with joy.

As you sit down to a meal, listen to this brief 3.5-minute meditation as a reminder to be mindful while eating and grateful for the food in front of you. Over time, transform your relationship with food as you focus on the how and why of eating and gain a deeper appreciation for the ways you nourish your body.

A topic Ellen and Christen had hoped to address around the holidays proves to be even more relevant in the new year. The two friends talk not just about death but about grief and loss of all kinds. And Ellen reminds us all that any pain, even pain as burdensome as grief, is a beautiful reminder of our humanity.

Ellen and Christen "meet" Beth Kempton, author, speaker, and entrepreneur. The three talk about the Connected Hearts Podcast's book club picks "Wabi Sabi" and "Calm Christmas," Beth's most recent book release. Beth is generous with her words and her wisdom, and joined us in conversation on everything from her top criteria when buying a home (it's not what you think!) to the disaster that was the first time she hosted her family on Christmas Day! Tune in to get to know Beth, remember what this festive season means to you, and hear Beth read a holiday poem of her own.

Ellen gifts this 20-minute mindful eating meditation to us all just before the holidays. In it, she encourages us to become very clear on what our body wants and needs and then to bring a new degree of gratitude for what it took to bring you the nourishment of that food or beverage. She reminds us to remain aware when we eat so we know when we are done and what is best for us in that moment. Use this as a guide throughout the holidays, before any meal or emotional moment or event, or as part of your regular meditation practice!

Ellen and Christen discuss their relationship with food, how it has evolved, the fad diets they've tried, and the reasons neither one eats meat. Listen all the way to the end to hear Christen tell the story of her most embarrassing moment along with a nod to Thanksgiving when both women tell each other what they're most grateful for this year!

Christen and Ellen take a deep dive into their book club's newest pick, "How to Stay Human in a Fucked Up World" by Tim Desmond. They talk about what they learned, how it helped them, and where they still have areas of growth! Join them both in Arlington on Friday, October 11 at 7PM for the book club gathering. You don't have to have read the book to attend! More details: https://www.facebook.com/events/2388789061442113/

As the temperatures drop and the days shorten, Ellen and Christen discuss what they are leaving behind and what they are taking with them into fall. They talk about the challenges they faced this past summer, and the strategies they employ to actually enjoy the colder, darker months. Also, they mention the book club gathering in October and they got the date wrong! The date for the next book club gathering is Friday, October 11 at 7 pm and the group will discuss "How to Stay Human in a Fucked Up World" by Tim Desmond. For book club details: https://www.facebook.com/events/2388789061442113/

Energy guide and massage therapist Ashlyn Hartnett joins Ellen and Christen for a vulnerable conversation on their own body image journey, how the body and mind work together, and the ways they fight against societal pressures and physical stereotypes.

Ellen, Christen and special guest Angela Barbieri Usas discuss what it means to be a mother, what it means to be a woman, how the two intersect, and the magic and challenges that come with it all. Angela, the founder of the soon-to-be-launched Radiant Heart Center VA, is a self-described heart guide, whose mission is to walk with women before, during, and after the birth of a child. She believes in wisdom over information, and encourages the women she works with to trust in themselves.

Hi, friends. Christen, here. I wanted to give you a taste of what we offer our Patreon supporters by sharing one of Ellen's most recent meditations. Following the release of our podcast on childhood, Ellen put together a 12-minute meditation to help you connect with and heal your inner child. It is a powerful meditation that will release emotional blockages and pain. Afterward you will feel uplifted, more equanimous, and better able to manage your emotional responses. I don't recommend listening to this while you're driving, instead find a quiet moment tonight or tomorrow morning to sit in silence as Ellen guides you through it. and if you're interested in more content like this, take a look at our patreon page at patreon.com/connectedheartspod.

FINALLY, we found the time to edit and publish our podcast episode on childhood. Make plans to listen to it tomorrow—we talk about the good and the bad. We discuss magical vacations around the world, what it was like to live in Eastern Germany before the collapse of the wall, the ramifications of abuse and so much more.

In this fifth episode of the Connected Hearts podcast, Ellen interviews Christen about her judgment detox workshop, and how she came to a place of forgiving others and herself. Learn practical tools and gain a better understanding of why and how we judge, and how to overcome judgment.

Ellen and Christen discuss their relationship with money, the greatest misunderstanding of manifestation, the mistakes they've made in the past, and their dreams for the future. It's a raw conversation that will leave you feeling less alone and inspired to live your best life! Oh yeah, and they announce the winners of the "Love You Hard" book giveaway!

This podcast is not what we had planned it to be. We had planned on digging into this month's topic of money and toward the end we would have author and friend Abby Maslin on for a few questions. Well, life got in the way, and Abby couldn't make it for a podcast interview. She did, however, make it to last week's book club and with her approval we recorded her many words of wisdom. So many words of wisdom in fact that we decided to dedicate this entire episode to what she shared with us. Whether you've read her book "Love You Hard" or not, Abby will leave you feeling inspired and eager to do the hard and good work on yourself and in the world. Here's Abby on everything from what it's like to publish a book to why it's selfish to avoid others' suffering. Listen all the way to the end for details on how you could win one of two signed copies of her book!

This podcast episode provides a taste of the additional podcasts Christen produces for the Connected Hearts Podcast Patreon supporters. She weaves together stories from her life, spiritual writings and images from many faiths and traditions, as well as popular psychology to encourage her listeners to see themselves in a new light.

Ellen and Christen talk through the intricacies and difficulties of friendship. Should it be easy? And what does the way we approach friendship say about us? Also, the podcast hosts discuss Ellen's recent trip to Africa, whether or not they believe in (a) God, the miracle that is #petnat and their upcoming podcast guest, author Abby Maslin!

In this podcast episode, you'll get to hear the outtakes and hilarious moments that occurred during our initial recording attempts. We also wanted to let you know that we've posted the first guided meditation to our Patreon page. If you're not familiar with Patreon, it's a website that enables content creators like us to support their projects without feeling pressured to resort to sponsorships. We will release up to four meditations per month for our Patreon patrons along with another special podcast episode from me. You can download it all and listen to it whenever you want or need to. If you'd like to support Ellen and me and the Connected Hearts podcast, visit patreon.com/connectedheartspod. We love you guys. Thank you for everything, and enjoy the episode!

In the spring of 2019, Christen and her friend Ellen Helbig Kangas of Connected Hearts Yoga launched the Connected Hearts Podcast. The genesis of the podcast is their shared difficulty in connecting with others upon moving to the Washington, D.C. area. It made sense to them that if they struggled to find community others might feel the same way. Through this podcast, Ellen and Christen want to be your community! Ellen and Christen will catch up twice a month, share their relationship and friendship ups and downs, the lessons they're learning and wisdom they've gained. They will interview special guests, and will cover monthly topics ranging from connection to money!