Groove with Portia

Welcome back! I'm glad to see my voice didn't scare you off for good!On this episode of Groove with Portia, I touch on the invasion of Rump Roast (my inner critic) and how I managed to step out of my comfort zone by saying yes. You will also hear how I believed my story of going through a series of trials (my mental health earthquake, my dream career and loss) lacked any meaning until today.What's the name of your inner critic? Let me know!

Why, hello there! For those who forgot about me, I'm Portia, your Host and Founder of Groove with Portia.Believe it or not, my last episode escaped the womb in 2023 (yes, the shop has been closed).On today's episode, I bring you with me to the lobby as I go for testing. How many of you see the check engine light on your body yet continue to push through another day? You will also learn the depth of my gratitude practice and the way it came in handy when I needed support. Spoiler Alert: You may change your perspective on lemons, cereal and mustard after hearing this episode! 

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Money and Debt Coach Larissa Steffen. Larissa sheds light on the contradiction that exists between financial advisors and financial coaches. Larissa holds a background in psychology and this helped her work with her clients to understand the behavioral science around money. Our money and debt coach shares how addressing her mental health was the key to the ignition of going from worried to wealthy. Larissa challenges us to think about how our parents interacted with money along with reconnecting with our inner child and building our self-awareness muscle in order to combat overspending. She emphasizes learning the difference between a necessity and a want along with taking time to make purchases. Connect with Larissahttps://www.instagram.com/worriedtowealthy/worriedtowealthy.com

In this inspiring episode of "Groove with Portia," I'm joined by Alexis Albro, a Certified Trauma-Informed Coach and the Founder of Survivor Rising. Alexis begins by celebrating a deeply personal milestone - her father's one-year milestone of being cancer-free. Her journey from leaving her corporate job to embracing her authentic self opens a door to profound insights.Our Trauma-Informed Coach shares invaluable wisdom on how to cultivate self-love amidst traumatic experiences. Instead of playing the blame game, she encourages us to embrace every version of ourselves, especially from those challenging times. Alexis reveals the power of education and the healing strength of sitting with our emotions during seasons of grief.Alexis leaves us with a heartfelt reminder to stay present in every moment, understanding that healing is a continuous journey, not a final destination. She emphasizes the importance of finding safety as the key to rising above the odds.Connect with Alexishttps://www.instagram.com/survivorising/https://www.alexisalbro.com/

In this episode of Groove with Portia, I'm thrilled to be in conversation with Katie Rossler, a seasoned therapist and a guiding light through transformative grief. Katie dives deep into the delicate art of integrating grief into our daily lives without it becoming an overwhelming burden.Katie sheds light on how neglecting self-care can amplify the weight of grief, emphasizing the vital role of self-nurturing during challenging times. Drawing from her extensive experience in couples therapy, she explores the intriguing influence of fictional characters, especially those from Disney movies, on our perception of life's "should-be" scenarios and how these perceptions can impact our grieving process.Katie's wisdom extends an invitation to our listeners, encouraging them to find a balanced equilibrium within their grief journey and to acknowledge the unique grief that arises from our preconceived notions of how life should unfold. She advocates for a shift in focus, steering away from the uncontrollable aspects of life and redirecting attention towards what can be harnessed and reshaped. Bonus: Katie and I share how our loved ones who have transitioned have connected with us on this physical plain. Connect with Katie https://www.instagram.com/katie.rossler/https://katierossler.com/

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Zoe and Iris, the Co-founders of Island Beats, and Kiara Smith from the American Lung Association Cleveland Chapter. A central theme of Groove with Portia is discovering the hidden gift in grief. Kiara shares finding strength through her grief journey. Iris opens up about how faith and belief in a higher power came to her through grief. Zoe shares a touching story of discovering purpose through Zumba which was sparked from the transition of her father in 2019 from lung cancer. Grief needs an outlet, and Zoe found hers through Zumba, leading her to partner with Iris in creating Island Beats. In support of lung health awareness, the American Lung Association is hosting a walk on October 1st, 2023, at the Cleveland Zoo. Zoe and Iris have a team for the walk and will also be hosting a Zumba Pop-up on September 24th, with proceeds benefiting the American Lung Association.Connect with Iris and Zoehttps://www.instagram.com/island.beats.cle/https://www.facebook.com/islandbeats.cle/ Connect with Kiara and learn about Lung Force Walk 2023 https://www.instagram.com/americanlungcleveland/lungforce.org/cleveland

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I sit down with Judy Ben-Asher, an amazing individual who graced Oprah's stage and is the visionary behind Truthseeker Wellness. Judy's journey unveils the profound grief she endured upon discovering, through a DNA test, that her biological father differed from the man she believed to be her dad. Adding a layer of complexity, Judy's mother had already passed away, leaving her with questions that could never be answered. We dive into the deep trauma that this revelation brought to her identity and how she eventually found herself sharing her story on Oprah's platform, focusing on the powerful theme of forgiveness.Judy's wisdom shines through as she dismantles the societal belief that grieving equates to being a person in pain. She emphasizes the importance of accountability, the strength found in community, and the invaluable support we can give and receive from one another. Connect with Judyhttps://www.instagram.com/judybenasher/https://truthseekerwellness.com/

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Larry Penton Sr (LP), Founder of Penton Pending Consulting Solutions LLC. Larry opens up about the challenges of dealing with grief from the standpoint of being a first responder. Being a man, yet alone a man of color, a heavy stigma is placed around grief and mental wellness. Larry shares how men can learn to embrace vulnerability along with the role toxic masculinity plays in addressing grief. He offers men a blueprint to navigate complex emotions through professional help or another form of holistic wellness such as meditation to dismantle the stigma on mental health and grief. Connect with LPwww.pentonpending.comhttps://www.instagram.com/lpfiremedic/https://www.instagram.com/penton_pending_cs/

In this episode of Groove with Portia, I had the opportunity to sit down with Crystal Crawford, an exceptional Legal Nurse Consultant, as she shared her transformative journey. Crystal's path is a testament to the incredible power of embracing change. She eloquently describes how she gracefully moved beyond a specific phase in her nursing career, embarking on a journey of exploration and self-discovery. Crystal unveiled the depth of emotions that come with transitions within familiar work environments. Her authenticity serves as a reminder that transformation comes hand-in-hand with a range of unique feelings and challenges. Crystal's insights encourage listeners to welcome discomfort as a catalyst for growth along with leaning into one's own faith during seasons of grief.https://www.crawfordlegalnurseconsulting.com

In this episode of Groove with Portia, I'm honored to welcome Career Reinvention Coach, Annette Garsteck. Annette dives into how she is navigating the grief that accompanies the entrepreneurial journey. Our Career Reinvention Pioneer shares how the limiting belief of doubt played a pivotal role in her transition from the corporate world to the path of entrepreneurship. Annette offers listeners permission to discuss career endeavors with others instead of keeping them a secret. Our Career Coach stressed the importance of support and finding or creating a network with nurturing at the forefront. Annette imparts the value of saying “yes” to a meeting with a potential employer as the door of possibilities opens from a single step. annettegarsteck.com

On this episode of Groove with Portia, you are joined by none other than me, myself, and I. I'm excited to share a profound experience I had during my time in Canada that revolves around a powerful message of letting go.In a truly vulnerable moment, I dive into the complex emotions of resentment and grief that have held me prisoner. My time in Canada acted as a catalyst for a transformative shift in my perspective on grief.Through my personal lens, I hope to resonate with others who might be navigating similar emotions and offer them a glimmer of inspiration and healing.

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Kacie Gikonyo, Certified Death Doula and Founder of End of Life Coaching with Kacie. Kacie opens the conversation by breaking down the role of a death doula. Holding over 12 years under her belt as a Registered Nurse in units where individuals were “making their transition”, Kacie found a passion for helping individuals have a beautiful death and wrap up any ounces of guilt or shame. Being in the face of both death and grief, she reveals her strategies for managing compassion fatigue while addressing her own personal sorrows. Our crossroad companion offers listeners answers to the common misconceptions about death, beginning with the definition that death is a labor out of this world. Connect with Kacie: https://www.instagram.com/endoflifewithkacie/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacie-gikonyo-3207b963/https://www.coachingwithkacie.com/

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I have the honor of hosting Valerie Mayen, the Founder of Yellowcake Shop and Project Runway Alumni. Valerie shares her personal grief journey following her television debut on Project Runway. She “sews together” the significance of reminding ourselves why we started in the first place, especially during challenging moments in our careers. As a Project Runway Alum, Valerie offers listeners the chance to cultivate success by implementing powerful habits while also fueling their creativity through play and rest. Connect with Valerie Mayenhttps://www.instagram.com/yellowcakeshop/https://www.facebook.com/yellowcakeshopcle https://www.yellowcakeshop.com/

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I have the pleasure of hosting Shannon Vitale, a Board Certified Holistic Nutrition Coach, and Sandra Wint, a Women's Leadership Expert. Together, we dive into the emotional rollercoaster of "being married" to an identity and the grief that accompanies the divorce. Shannon and Sandra share their personal experiences, shedding light on the loss of community that often accompanies separation. They pull the curtain about their coaching program, centered around creating a supportive community and changing the narrative around body image.Connect with Shannon Vitale:https://www.svitaleholistichealth.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-vitale/ Connect with Sandra Wint:https://www.instagram.com/meherusllc/https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandrabwint/ For information about their coaching program:https://www.me-her-us.com/

In this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined once again by the bomb dot com Missy Baker, Intuitive Personal Stylist and Founder of Soul to Style. Together, we dive into the depths of grief experienced during the various transitions of entrepreneurship. Missy shares her personal journey, emphasizing the profound impact that changes in community or networks can have. She unveils the emotional layers entwined with the act of "letting go" while supporting her clients through transformative closet cleanses. Missy guides us toward intentional decision-making both within and beyond the wardrobe along with the reminder to set a clear vision.Connect with Missy Bakerhttps://www.instagram.com/soul.to.style/https://soul-to-style.com/

Woah! It's been a month since I've connected with you guys! On this episode of Groove with Portia, join me as we dive deep into the transformative power of finding gratitude in moments of overwhelming chaos. In this episode, I share my personal journey of converting my overwhelmed state of mind into a powerful breakthrough moment using four actionable steps. I encourage my audience to shift their mindset from feeling like prisoners of overwhelm to becoming courageous warriors ready to conquer any challenge. Four Action Steps for Overcoming the Feeling of OverwhelmBreatheTake a break or a walkMeditate or sleepUse a different approach

On this heartfelt episode of Groove with Portia, join me as I open up about a significant transition in my life—the passing of my last living parent, my beloved biological father. With vulnerability and honesty, I recount the raw experience of visiting my father in the hospital one last time. As I reflect upon those tender moments, I invite my listeners into the hospital room alongside me to be present in this fragile moment. While processing the grief of my beloved mother passing away nine months ago, I share the strength of speaking at my father's funeral. Throughout this episode, I invite my listeners to join me on my forgiveness journey along with sharing insights into my approach to processing my emotions during this new season of grief.

How does one find gratitude while going through grief? After my mom made her transition, I found an opportunity to let gratitude take center stage. Tune in to learn how my grief journey opened doors for my growth, the importance of choice during times of grief, and remembering that grief is a process and does not have to be permanent.Connect with me:https://www.facebook.com/pbookali/https://www.instagram.com/portiatheproducer/https://www.linkedin.com/in/pabooker/

Thanks for coming back for a second dosage of Groove with Portia! On this episode, I share with my listeners the importance of finding gratitude in the mistakes in our life. You will learn how my limiting belief of not being good enough played a role in this mistake and the action steps I take to address these mindset blocks. Enjoy!

Welcome to Season 2 of Groove with Portia! What have I been up to post the last show that I hosted? On this episode, I will share why I picked March 24th to relaunch the show, the goal for season two along with my normal batch of saracastic storytelling. Enjoy!

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by my soul sister from another mother, Jaime Kravitz, better known as the Energy Producer. Tune into our conversation to learn how Jaime learned to convert the feelings of overwhelm into an opportunity and how she found gratitude while in the state of grief. Jaime also shares her recipe for getting "hyped up" before each event. Connect with Jaime https://campsite.bio/theenergyproducer

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Shari Alyse, America's Joy Magnet. Tune into our conversation to hear Shari tell us about the misconceptions around the true meaning of experiencing joy and the ingredients inside of the “woe is me soup”. Shari and I also exchange a few comedic skits for our next tour! Connect with Shariwww.sharialyse.com

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Missy Baker, personal stylist. Tune into our conversation today to learn how Missy “stitched” a gap in her life to make a transition from being an engineer to personal stylist and how she helps her clients become free from being a prisoner of their wardrobe. Missy shares with us the hardest outfit she parted ways with that many individuals would continue to keep.Connect with Missyhttps://soul-to-style.com/

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Kayla Carreon, Amazon Influencer. Tune into our conversation to learn what limiting belief she overcame to become a full-time entrepreneur and how her children play a pivotal role in her success. Kayla shares four facial care tips anyone can begin today to have vibrant skin during the winter season.Connect with Kaylahttps://www.tiktok.com/@ladywonder.31

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by returning guest Sharifah Hardie. Tune into our conversation to learn about her platform Support My Black Business along with the lessons she learned in 2020 when she ran for Long Beach City Council Candidate that she is taking in 2024 for California State Senate District Primary Elections. She shares tips on how to use being labeled as “the angry black woman” as fuel instead of fire.Connect with Sharifahhttps://www.asksharifah.com/?fbclid=IwAR2wmYrZCCblLG8I62kfMQh7CkyQs9-H2sLJ8RHG7VBpq0db1H2Jf3hvoQ8

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Lisa Dy, the comfort zone coach. Tune into our conversation to learn how Lisa learned to embrace the uncomfortable moments in her life with a comfortable hug and the key question Lisa asks her clients to help them step out of their comfort zone. You will also learn how both of us met over the summer!Connect with Lisahttps://www.boundlesspotentiallife.com/

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Nafsheen Luhar, Transformation Coach, Reiki Healer & Artist. Tune into our conversation to hear Nafsheen share why her second cancer diagnosis was a gift along with how she found grace while acquiring her new identity during the grief process. Nafsheen also discusses her artwork and the hidden message within the colors. Connect with Nafsheen Luharhttps://www.nafsheen.com/

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Nina Purewal, author of Let That Sh*t Go. Tune into our deep conversation on how grief plays a pivotal role in stepping into your true calling along with what it means to honor yourself. Nina shares what it took for her to let go during her grief journey.Connect with Ninahttps://www.pureminds.ca/

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by actress Wendy Conrad. Tune into our conversation to hear Wendy share how she shifted her mindset from victim to victorious over each moment of adversity and the importance of forgiveness when in a season of growth. Connect with Wendyhttps://www.imdb.com/name/nm9904787/

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Habeebah Rasheed Grimes, CEO of PEP. Tune into our discussion to hear how Habeebah remains present during each moment of her day along with the importance of healing our inner child. Habeebah sheds light on how she began her podcast “No Crystal Stair” and what she enjoys the most about motherhood.Connect with Habeebah https://www.habeebahrgrimes.com/

Two years ago, I received the best piece of advice from one of my mentors. In life, you will either win or you will learn. The mindset shifts I've worked on the past couple years has put me in a position where I learn from each encounter in my life.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Lorna Greyling, TV Personality and Author. Tune into our conversation to learn how Lorna found a way to shift her mindset from why does this keep happening to me to what is this trying to teach me and how her book Kidnapped (true story by the way) created an avenue for healing in her life.Connect with Lornahttps://www.lornagreyling.com/

I keep my vision board within my peripheral everyday. I took a moment to look at my board to recognize how many goals I have knocked out this year. If you are having a difficult time sticking to the goals on your vision board, this conversation might be the key to unlock that door called stuck. On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Debbi Sluys. Tune into our discussion to hear Debbi shed light on common misconceptions about utilizing vision boards and how picking a power word adds more fuel towards achieving your goals. Debbi also shares the number of visions boards she has created for this year. Connect with Debbi:https://debbisluys.com/

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Dia Raheem, trainer. Tune into our “weighted” discussion as she lifts the veil of illusion around “erotic fitness” and why many women become uncomfortable when she asks them to do hip raising exercises. Dia shares how women can work through mindset blocks around certain exercises. Connect with DiaIG: https://www.instagram.com/diasfitrebels/

This conversation is number three in the part three series of honoring my beloved mother, Sharonne Lopez, who made her transition from earth on July 7th, 2022.Tune into our heartfelt discussion to learn how Dawn found a way to stay in the space of gratitude while navigating grief in her life along with ways individuals can use the motto “Be The Change” to help during the grief process. Dawn also shares about her upcoming project to inspire others to Believe in miracles within our life.Connect with Dawnhttps://desiretoinspirefoundation.org/

*Disclaimer: This episode may contain dialogue which viewers may find offensive. If you consume the material outlined in this episode, a prior warning has been given.*Have you ever felt betrayed in your life? How did you overcome the trauma from either a signifant other, partner, family memeber or friend?On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by returning guest Joshua Shea, Pornography Addiction Expert and Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach. Tune into our discussion to learn about betrayal trauma and tips for couples on how they can begin to forgive from the painful experience. Bonus: You will learn a hidden fact about me that very few people (my coaches, mentors and close family) do not know about me.Connect with Joshua Sheahttps://paddictrecovery.com/

This conversation is number two of the part three series in honoring my beloved mother, Sharonne Lopez, who made her transition from earth on July 7th, 2022.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by returning guest Natashah Khan. Tune into our conversation to learn about cognitive distortions along with how they show up in our adult life and how cognitive distortions play a role in the ability to process grief in a healthy way. Connect with Natashah Khan: https://collaborativehealingpartners.com/Email: EmpoweredVoices45@gmail.com

How did you respond when a doctor or a coach said "this is your new normal"? I recall a point in my mental health journey where the therapist told me I would be on medication my whole life for bipolar disorder. I am proud to say I've been prescription medication free for the past three years all from the drive in my heart to find an alternative. On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Danielle Matthews. Tune into our conversation to hear what Danielle learned she had control over to heal from a life altering brain injury along with where you can find a copy of her e-book to help those struggling with adversity.For more information on Danielle, visit here: https://brainbodyself.com/

This conversation is episode one in the part three series of honoring my beloved mother, Sharonne Lopez, who made her transition from earth on July 7th, 2022.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by returning guest Kyonna F. Brown, The Forgiveness Expert. Tune into our discussion to learn how grief plays a role in individuals being able to forgive and tips for being open to miracles in your life during transitional seasons.For more information on Kyonna, visit here: https://healwithkyonnafbrown.com/

This is a special episode of Groove with Portia! On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Coach Tyrone Owens and Professor John Kerezy. Tune into our discussion to learn who Jesse Owens' was outside of his Olympic career and how a 90-year-old “landmark” planted by Jesse Owen's himself is being preserved today.For more information visit here: https://www.tri-c.edu/administrative-departments/government-relations/index.html

This conversation is number seven of the part two series of honoring my beloved mother, Sharonne Lopez, who made her transition from earth on July 7th, 2022.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Dr. Sumita (Pronounced SHOE-MEE-TAH) Khatri, Director of the Asthma Center at Cleveland Clinic & National Board Member of the American Lung Association. Tune into our discussion to learn the importance of staying present with each patient in order to build rapport and key questions patients should ask post a diagnosis.

What does it mean to be authentic in a world where this word has become a trend? On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Leilani M. Wells, Visibility Expert & Brand Manager. Tune into our conversation to learn how access played a role in Leilani's journey of being seen and what it takes to find balance between your passion of helping others and your mental well-being. For more information on Leilani, visit here: https://connect.leilaniwells.com/

This conversation is number six in the part two series of honoring my beloved mother, Sharonne Lopez, who made her transition from earth on July 7th, 2022.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Kerry Life Coach. Tune into our discussion on how grief shows up from becoming an empty nester and why pain is not our enemy along with ways to build your awareness muscle by asking a simple question.

This conversation is number five of the part two series of honoring my beloved mother, Sharonne Lopez, who made her transition from earth on July 7th, 2022.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Catherine Widemire from the American Lung Association. Tune into our conversation as we walk down memory lane of my mother's journey to becoming a lung force hero and their upcoming event on October 15th, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio.For more information, visit: www.lungforce.org/cleveland

This conversation is episode four of the part two series of honoring my beloved mother, Sharonne Lopez, who made her transition from earth on July 7th, 2022.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Alta Felix, Intuitive Trauma Coach. Tune into our continued conversation on grief and why we apologize for showing emotion along with ways people can support individuals in their grief journey.

This conversation is a special episode in the part two series of honoring my beloved mother, Sharonne Lopez, who made her transition from earth on July 7th, 2022.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Attorney Kori Whisenant. Tune into our discussion to learn the common misconceptions around estate planning and the difference between the "agent" and "beneficiary" along with the best time to revisit your estate plan.For more information on Kori, visit: https://www.kwhisenantlaw.com/attorney-whisenant

This conversation is episode three in the part two series of honoring my beloved mother, Sharonne Lopez, who made her transition from earth on July 7th, 2022.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by returning guest Larry Penton (LP) Sr, Medic and Founder of Penton Pending Consulting Solutions LLC. Tune into our discussion to learn the difference between DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) and DNI (Do Not Intubate) along with resources for full time caregivers who need a break from their roles.

This conversation is episode 2 of the part 2 series honoring my beloved mother, Sharonne Lopez, who made her transition from earth on July 7th, 2022.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by singer-songwriter, Lisa E. Williams. Tune into our discussion today to learn how the guitar became Lisa's instrument of choice along with a deep dive behind the meaning of her song "Set Me Free". Stay for the whole conversation to hear this heartfelt song and powerful lyrics. For more information on Lisa, visit the link below!https://www.lisaewilliamsmusic.com/bio

This conversation is episode one of the part 2 series of honoring my beloved mother, Sharonne Lopez, who made her transition from earth on July 7th, 2022.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Butta Khan, Owner of Ink Therapy Studios. Tune into our conversation to learn the inspiration behind her becoming a tattoo artist and how energy reading plays a role in turning a dark moment into a light of hope for her clients.

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Jane Ferré, Executive Coach. Tune into our discussion to learn why your personal values play a big role in finding joy in your work and the secret to effective networking that involves a little black book. For more information on Jane, visit here.--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/appSupport this podcast: https://anchor.fm/groovewpb/support

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Aanchal Dhir and Lori Haugland of Career Connect. Tune into our discussion to learn the best ways to build a solid relationship with your coach along with the importance of tracking your achievements to increase your chances of a higher salary. For more information on Aanchal or Lori, visit here.--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/appSupport this podcast: https://anchor.fm/groovewpb/support

On this episode of Groove with Portia, I am joined by Attorney Michael Liner, Founder of Liner Legal. Tune into our discussion to learn the common misconceptions around mental health and social security disability benefits along with ways to handle your claim being denied. For more information on Liner Legal, visit here.--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/appSupport this podcast: https://anchor.fm/groovewpb/support