Mama Says Namaste Podcast

Our lives have seasons, and it's time for a hiatus from the podcast and a focus on family as we welcome many new shifts this summer.  Join us for our last podcast for a while where we leave you with some questions to ponder and to determine what season you are in, and what might be time to pull back from as you give more elsewhere. 

Are you seeking a plan to create a life you truly love and don't want to escape from? Do you want to dive deep into the essence of what you provide for your family and develop the tools to cultivate a flourishing life? Join us in this episode where we discuss group coaching and the 7-week Flourishing Life Blueprint I'm launching in June. We'll cover self-discovery, creating a family vision, discovering your personal vision statement, and aligning with the DISCovering You course. We'll explore awareness, integrating work and life, developing an entrepreneurial spirit, and servant leadership. Let's support one another in designing the lives we love. I'd love for you to join me! https://www.48dayseagles.com/flourish

Love without ownership - can you love someone and let go of the outcome?  In this episode, we discuss the concept of love without ownership and recognizing the impact of our actions on others. When it comes to navigating relationships with people or animals, we talk about the importance of the abundance mentality and letting go. What, truly, is compassionate love, and how can it impact our lives and relationships? From saying "yes" or "no" to our children to recognizing the influence of others on our loved ones, we explore the beauty of letting go and allowing love to simply be. Join us on this journey from chaos to clarity, and discover how love without ownership can transform your family dynamic.

I get asked this question a lot as a relationships coach who specializes in helping people understand their personality styles. And the answer isn't a simple yes or no.  It's a lesson in self-awareness and evolution, and this week Nathan and I dig into my mentor's blog post on the "The Lifecycles of Strength" and the many stages we go through as we grow and develop - not only into who we are, but who we want to become.  Listen in, and share with a friend! (Get the full blog post that goes along with it here): https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/does-your-personality-change-over-time-episode-341/

In this episode, Nathan and I dive deep into exploring the balance between knowing what you like and being open to what's working for you. We share our perspectives on the delicate dance of embracing our likes while also being open to new opportunities for growth and connection. What happens when we get stuck in our ways, and how can we navigate this in our relationships? We discuss how rigid thinking can limit us and how embracing flexibility can open up new doors in our lives and relationships. We talk about Joshua Becker's blog post on Becoming Minimalist. We challenge you to shift your conversations and ask yourself and those around you, "What's working for you?" This simple question can lead to powerful insights and tools for personal and relational growth. Join us as we explore the beauty of openness and the ways it can strengthen and deepen our connections. Tune in to discover how this shift in perspective can lead to grace, growth, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and those we love. https://www.MamaSaysNamaste.com/what-i-like-is-first-step-thinking-episode-340  

I was 34 years old and at my wit's end with a 3, 6, and 9-year-old, trying to navigate juggling work and motherhood at the same time. I wrote a blog post then, and, looking back at it now, my heart goes out to that mama I was 8 years ago!  So I updated the blog post and asked Nathan to come on and do an episode now, in hindsight, about working from home and how to navigate it.  So is it overrated and you shouldn't do it? Or...can you find your flow? Get the full blog post that goes along with it here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/working-from-home-is-so-overrated/ *Bonus - transcript added!

Back in 2018, I wrote a blog post about my perspective on learning together as a family that transcends all educational models and is simply a lifestyle approach. Today, we reflect back on how much this model of "Functional Education" has served us well over the years, and break down the acronym of "FUNCTION" to dig into what it really looks like. Read the corresponding blog post here: Why I Believe In Functional Education...And What That Really Is

If you haven't ever discussed what "home" looks and feels like to you, how will you know when you're there?  We spend a lot of time in business looking at things like a vision statement, team meetings, and showing up in our best light. Yet how often do we give this same intention at home?  We dive into our foundational post on "family vision" that we did eight years ago, reminiscing on the steps we took with young children as well as looking back now at other approaches that would work.  Not everyone is going to get excited about a family vision any more than going to yet another office meeting. Yet each shift toward intention makes an easier flow for everyone to thrive in their own way.  So check out these tips on creating a family vision and why it's important - and let us know what you come up with! 

In today's episode, we're diving into the three steps of "showing up" in your relationships - whether it's with your partner, your kids, your family, or your friends. Are you willing to embrace who you are right now, to own your past, and realize it doesn't have to dictate your future? We explore the first step - "looking inward" - and discuss the importance of giving yourself love, accepting responsibility for your actions, and aligning them with your intentions for how you want to show up in this world. Then, we uncover the significance of "looking forward" and why it's essential to start acting in the direction of your desires, even if you're not yet fully there. Finally, we tackle "looking together" - where we communicate, share our intentions, and operate as a team in our relationships. We emphasize the profound vulnerability and the crucial role of communication in truly understanding and supporting each other. We also shed light on the delicate balance of grace and gratitude in navigating life's messiness and cultivating growth together. So, are you ready to step into who you want to be and show up in your relationships fully? Tune in to uncover practical insights and strategies for thriving together, embracing growth, and fostering deep connection.

Join us in Episode 335 as Nathan and I delve into the power of setting intentions and our word of the year for 2024. We explore the shift from traditional goal setting to focusing on the feelings we want to achieve and the people we want to become. We go over our words and intentions from the past decade with true examples of how it's impacted our growth, and dig into the deeper meaning and desires around a goal when life is always handing us curveballs.   

This week we dig into a listener question - how do you navigate judging others - especially when you see poor parenting decisions being made that affect the kids? We hit on 3 tools to help you navigate judgment and shift the focus to the ripple effect of your impact as we share about the lasting legacy inspired by my father's and my favorite quote. 

In our latest episode of Mama Says Namaste, my husband Nathan and I open up about navigating life's unexpected seasons as a family, and the impact of a recent family diagnosis. We share how we find strength and solace during difficult times, along with the importance of family connections in facing challenges head-on. Here are a few teasers about what we cover: 1. How our family is navigating through these unexpected and challenging times. 2. The profound impact of Dan Miller's legacy and how it's shaping our outlook on life and relationships. 3. Tips on creating a life you don't want to escape from and fostering unique family dynamics. We'd love for you to tune in and join us for this candid conversation about family, legacy, and navigating life with intention and awareness. It's a raw and heartfelt episode that we hope will resonate with you. You can read the post and see Dad's tribute page here. https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/my-fathers-legacy-navigating-grief-and-walking-him-home-episode-333/ 

If the holiday season feels like overwhelm, stress and obligation, this is the episode for you. Yes, so often you can do so much more when you simplify and focus on what your true desires are for this season. We share some tips on how to get the most out of the holidays while recognizing this time is just an amplification of the crazy that can hit us any time of year.  Yes, what we do in December definitely rolls over into the new year - and it can be about so much more than just trying to catch up from the stress of the season. 

In this episode of Mama Says Namaste, Nathan and I dive deep into understanding personality styles and the perfect gifts for each one. Do you struggle with striking the right chord with your gift-giving?  We lay out gifts for every personality style, and some creative and out-of-the-box ideas. Plus, we keep in mind the impact - on the people AND the environment. If you're looking for a gift with meaning, with a story, and/or with a nod to sustainability, listen in for ideas.  And be sure to check out the blog post that goes along with it! MamaSaysNamaste.com/eco-friendly-gifting-match-sustainable-gifts-with-disc-personality-styles-episode-331

Nathan and I dive deep into the power of emotional currency beyond financial wealth. We discuss our experiences with finding purpose and worth outside of traditional roles, the challenges of being a stay-at-home parent, and the importance of perspective shifts in overcoming feeling stuck. We answer listener questions about being a stay-at-home parent and feeling the need to bring in income...and similar desires even as an empty-nester. Join us as we explore the true richness that comes from the non-monetary legacies we leave behind, and be sure to check out the blog to dig deeper and to ask YOUR question for us to answer on the podcast!

This is the first of a new series I'd love to get rolling, called "Two Questions (2Q): You Ask, We Answer". I kicked this off with a little help from AI, and we addressed two questions on the podcast this week: How can we create a structured and supportive learning environment for our children outside of traditional schooling?   What strategies can we implement to involve our children in our entrepreneurial ventures and cultivate their entrepreneurial spirit? The focus is on the kids this week, yet, as always, it goes back to you, mamas and papas, to create the environment and be the example you desire for them.  Check out our answers on the podcast (and the blog that goes along with it), and let us know what YOU want to hear us answer next!

This week on Mama Says Namaste, we're diving deep into the seemingly invisible load of managing a home. I was inspired by another Instagram post on the topic of chores and children. Based on Sam Kelly World's post, we discuss the concept of "notice and do," where we're empowering our children to take ownership of their responsibilities without resorting to the traditional chore list. We discuss tips and techniques for setting our kids up for success, breaking down tasks into achievable steps, and fostering a family environment where everyone notices what needs to be done and takes initiative. It's all about empowering our children (and partners), building family unity, and nurturing responsible, proactive adults for the future.  Pay attention this week on what all you "notice and do" at home, and how equipped your family is with the awareness to even know how to help. 

In a world filled with constant busyness and overwhelm, it can be easy to overlook the importance of rest and relaxation. However, here's the thing - rest is not just about taking a vacation or sitting on the couch all day. It's about intentional and purposeful self-care in all areas of our lives. From my inspiration by an Instagram post, we dig deep into the many facets of "rest" - from emotional and sensory to spiritual and ecological. Get ready to discover practical tips and real-life experiences that will inspire you to create more restful moments in your day-to-day life. So grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and get ready to embrace the beauty of rest on this episode of Mama Says Namaste. Let's dive in!

Hello, and welcome to Mama Says Namaste! I'm Ashley Logsdon, your co-host and the founder of this podcast. Today, Nathan and I are diving deep into the topic of gender roles and relationships at home. In this episode, we open up about our own experiences and how our roles within our relationship have evolved over time. We share our initial expectations of traditional roles, how they shifted, and the valuable lessons we've learned along the way. We also discuss the importance of trust, having fierce conversations, and setting a clear family vision. Here's the twist - our roles and dynamics may not be what you would expect! We'll reveal how our family went through a major transformation and how it changed everything, from who became the primary breadwinner to who took on household responsibilities. Through all of this, we've come to understand that relationships are not about rigid roles, but rather about finding ways to blend our strengths and passions to create a balanced and happy home. If you're curious to learn more about shifting gender roles and how they can positively impact your relationships, then this episode is for you. So join us as we navigate the sometimes unpredictable journey of family dynamics and find clarity amidst the chaos. Mama says namaste!

Join us on today's episode of Mama Says Namaste as I, Ashley, dive deep into the powerful concept of fierce conversations. Inspired by Susan Scott's thought-provoking book, Fierce Conversations, Nathan and I discuss how these principles can revolutionize our relationships at home. We break down the importance of honest and clear communication, both in the workplace and with our loved ones. We explore why the "compliment sandwich" approach may not be as effective as we think and how addressing concerns head-on can lead to growth and understanding. We take it a step further and apply these principles within our own homes. Nathan and I share personal stories of navigating tough conversations with our children and each other. We discuss the compromises necessary to cultivate a peaceful and supportive environment for everyone involved. Through Susan Scott's "Mineral Rights" approach, we learn the four essential steps in having a fierce conversation. We delve into the power of feeling heard and the importance of creating understanding and harmony in our relationships every day. We don't shy away from the tough topics - we address the emotional burden children can carry in a tense household and the impact it has on their well-being. We challenge the notion of staying in an unhappy relationship for the sake of the kids, emphasizing the significance of commitment and showing up authentically every day. So, grab your earbuds, lean in, and prepare to ignite change in your relationships. Join us on Mama Says Namaste as we explore the transformative nature of fierce conversations and how they can guide us toward intention, growth, and connection in our homes and beyond.

How trustworthy is your home? Yes, your whole home. Not just the kids...how about you? Are your children guilty until proven innocent? Are you micromanaging or fearful for their safety? Time to tune in.  This week we cover 3 tips for fostering trust with your children, and it's not all on them. Hear some of our personal stories as well as ideas to build more trust in your home in a way that creates a safe environment for everyone, imperfections, mess-ups and all.  And be sure to check out the blog that goes along with this for all we covered on this episode! https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/embracing-openness-fostering-trust-episode-324/ 

Welcome to Mama Says Namaste, the podcast where we dive into the messy realities of family life and explore ways to find clarity and connection amidst the chaos! In today's episode, Nathan and I share a personal story that sparked a powerful realization about embracing our imperfections and moving forward with self-acceptance. Join us as we discuss the topic of warts, both literal and metaphorical, and how they can affect our lives and relationships. We'll explore the struggles we faced as kids with embarrassing warts and the lengths we went to in order to get rid of them. From cutting them out to freezing them off, we've tried it all. But what we discovered is that sometimes, the more we obsess over our flaws, the more they seem to stay with us. Our journey with warts didn't end with our childhood. We'll share how our own children, Ellie, Jules, and Clara, had their own experiences with warts and the valuable lessons we learned from their insights. Ellie's profound realization will make you think differently about how we approach our imperfections and those frustrations that seem to feel like a thorn in our side, or...a wart. And don't worry, we're not advocating for toxic positivity or ignoring the challenges we face. Letting go and toxic positivity can be a big theme, and I challenge both of them in this episode.  We believe in acknowledging our reality and allowing ourselves to feel the emotions that come with it. It's about finding that balance between acceptance and growth. So, if you're ready to dive deep into the topic of warts and discover how shifting your mindset can lead to freedom, growth, and stronger relationships, then tune in to this episode of Mama Says Namaste. It's time to let go of the shame and step into a world where warts and all can be catalysts for personal transformation.  Read the blog that goes with this here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/the-wart-effect-how-shifting-your-mindset-can-help-you-conquer-lifes-obstacles-episode-323/

Nope, we're not talking about being grounded to our rooms as punishment - there is a whole other world of grounding that isn't a punishment at all - it's the most rewarding gift you can give yourself, actually!  This week we're looking at the concept of grounding - and not just grounding physically. We address the mind, body, and soul of grounding, with little tips on how you can be more connected in all of these areas.  Tune in and see how aligned you are. If you're feeling frazzled and like time is flying without your control, try a whole new time warp with grounding and being fully present. While time may still fly, it's a whole other experience, and we talk about it in this episode! 

Welcome back to another episode of Mama Says Namaste! In today's episode, we're diving into four valuable tips that are sure to bring success and joy to your family life. As parents, we often find ourselves focusing solely on the distant horizon of retirement, but what about the here and now? Is it possible to find fulfillment and happiness in the present moment instead of solely relying on future plans? We'll explore the idea that waiting until retirement to relax and enjoy life can leave us feeling lost and uncertain. We want to instill positive habits and cultivate a love for our current lives, even as we look forward to the future. To help us on this journey of family success, we have four powerful questions to ask yourself at the beginning of the day and to reflect on at the end of the day. We also want to teach our children how to give back and be contributing members of our household and society. They're not just future adults; they're roommates in the present. We'll explore ways to encourage their contributions, even if they're still in the early stages of maturity. Trust me, it's never too early to instill a sense of responsibility and respect within our children. Speaking of responsibilities, let's talk about our relationship with money and how it impacts our overall family vision. We'll discuss the importance of open communication and aligning our financial decisions with our values. It's about finding true wealth beyond the dollars and cents. So grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and get ready for some valuable insights and practical tips to create a successful and fulfilling family life. Let's make each day count, right here, right now, on Mama Says Namaste. Let's dive in!

Welcome back to Mama Says Namaste! In today's episode, we're diving into the world of co-parenting. We've received a listener question from Willow about how to feel supported by your partner and co-parent in a way that shows up as a unified front. Last week, we tackled the first part of her question and explored the importance of supporting each other as partners. But now, it's time to take it to the next level and discover the secrets to successful co-parenting. Join hosts Ashley and Nathan Logsdon as they share their own experiences and insights on this topic. They'll guide you on a journey from chaos to clarity and help you bring awareness and intention into your home. Whether you're in an intimate relationship or navigating co-parenting after separation or divorce, these tips are relevant for everyone. Learn how to make decisions together, avoid getting played by your kids, and create a strong, consistent front as parents. Ashley and Nathan will share some practical strategies and personal stories to help you navigate the complexities of co-parenting. So take a deep breath, get ready to strengthen those family connections, and let's dive into this episode of Mama Says Namaste!

When it comes to your most intimate relationship, there is more to distinguish it from others than simply in the bedroom. How intentional are you about supporting one another? Have you considered a mind, body, and soul approach?  This week Nathan and I dig into tips for mind, body and soul connections with our partners, along with that as-always reminder: it starts within first.  Here are some tips on intentional connections for a more "functional" model, and how this is one place multitasking can really work to your advantage! 

Yes, in our home, our kids learned very quickly that one of my favorite reminders is, 'Every action has a consequence." And those can be both positive and negative! We can get intentional about reaping what we sow, and it's our charge as parents to help equip our kids with the tools to navigate their own personal responsibility.  Here are six tips for how to have effective consequences that move you and your kids forward vs. repeating cycles of punishment so that you end up bankrupting your kids and losing learning opportunities.  What have been some natural consequences in your home? Get some ideas for creative connections in this episode. 

Yes, it can feel scary when your child is a late reader, or just continues to resist reading when you just know it's such an important part of their learning!  I was an avid bookworm who started reading early and thrived on books, so it was pretty hard for me when all three of my children lacked my same enthusiasm.  My thirteen-year-old daughter, Ellie, suggested we discuss this topic, and she shared her top three tips that shifted her from being a very resistant late reader at ten to now absolutely loving reading.  If you have a late reader or a child who is just resisting books, check this out. What book opened the door to enjoying reading for you? How about your child? 

Have you ever heard of the 54321 exercise to engage the senses? It's a great way to reset and find appreciation even amidst the craziness around us.  We always have control of what we want to focus on - and we've found with more intention so often comes more gratitude.  Join Juliet and me this week as we go through a quick exercise you can do alone and with your family to cultivate gratitude, calm, and awareness this week. 

This week I have financial therapist Celia Roberts Hughes on to share what this even means. I've known Celia since I was 14, and it's been fascinating seeing her uncover this whole new world of financial therapy.  We talk about getting to the root of our relationship with money, what "life math" is, and why we say to NOT think about money first when you're in survival mode.  Check out the blog that goes along with this, and look at what questions she poses. Do you feel like you have achieved good financial health, or is now a time to dig a little deeper?

Is your home loud and chaotic? That's not necessarily a bad thing. There is a time for lots of noise and fun! However, learning how to bring more awareness and quiet in your home can allow for the bandwidth to recharge and recover, truly making your home a sanctuary.  In this episode, we share the lessons learned from our "Quiet Experiment" when our children were 4, 6 & 9, and what guidelines we set for bringing more awareness and peace in our home. 

7,650 days - that's the number of days you have your child before they turn 18 and are considered a legal adult...whether they are ready for it or not. Instead of "flipping the switch" to adulthood, look at it more as the turning of a dial - that will continue to go up a notch with every life lesson and experience we have.  Nathan and I talk about our insights from my interview with Nellie Harden last week, and we share why discipline is important....and most likely not what you're thinking here. You'll have to listen to find out! 

I'm back with a guest, and a lot of talk about those teenage years! Nellie Harden is a wife, mother, family life and leadership writer, author, and speaker who is passionate about helping parents raise the next generation with a strong foundation of worth, esteem, and confidence. Her own journey of lacking these qualities when she left home led her down dark and difficult paths.  Nellie believes that parenting is like being an architect, where the responsibility is to plan, design, and build the beginning of someone else's life. Drawing from her previous experience working with animals and their clear purpose of preparing them for life, Nellie approaches parenting with the intention of raising adults rather than just kids. She is determined to make the highest impact possible in her own daughters' lives by instilling in them a foundation of worth, esteem, and confidence to launch them into the world. Tune in to hear about fostering 3 foundational elements in your children (and yourself), the 5 needs we all have, and some simple steps to repair relationships and foster deeper connections in your home. Full blog digging deeper and video here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/nellie-harden-teens

I'm back with my 10-year-old daughter Juliet to talk about facing fears and taking action. We've both faced our fair share of fears, like debating on scuba diving and auditioning for a performance. But we've also learned a lot about how to overcome our fears. Jules wanted to share her top 5 tips for facing her fears, and I can't wait for you to hear them.  So if you're feeling afraid, don't give up! Take action and face your fears head-on...unless...(you'll have to listen to find out). You'll be surprised at how strong you really are. Thanks for listening, and Juliet and I hope you have a great day!  

Want to hear the 10 steps to awaken your financial genius? Each is a superpower I definitely believe you need to truly be "wealthy". This week on the podcast Nathan and I dig into our review of the book, Rich Dad, Poor Dad, by Robert Kiyosaki, and lay out these 10 steps and how to apply them not only in your business - but your overall family and life, including how to create a legacy of financial literacy in your home.  What is your "why" for being wealthy? (Be sure to hop over to the blog this week as it gives more insights to what we share on the podcast!)

Rules - are they too extreme, or necessary in a home? This week we share an acronym of RULES that addresses the parameters to make a home thrive. We like to call them guardrails - and everyone is a part of making them - not just the parents.  This isn't about authoritarian parenting. How is your whole family accountable to working together so your house is one you find sanctuary in and love to come home to?

Have you considered how you lead in the home? We can be effective parents and raise children to adulthood...yet have you ever thought about consideration as a key component of leadership? We break down five considerations to keep in mind to lead - and parent - in a way that empowers and engages your family. 

The Hero's Journey involves stepping stones that aren't always easy...or even intended. Yet our growth opportunities can take us to another level. This week my guest is 10-year-old Juliet, and she asks some powerful questions on how to move forward and not get stuck in the process. We delve into the concept of finding your ultimate goal or purpose (Z) and using that as motivation to reach shorter-term goals along the way. Embrace struggles and challenges as opportunities for growth, and see what may happen. Tune in to discover insights on building competence and breaking down larger goals into smaller steps to achieve success.

This episode was inspired by a social media thread that was shared titled, "8 Fights Worth Picking With Your Kids". While we aren't quite fans of picking fights with anyone, we agree with the 8 components he shared as a battleground worth standing on.  So here is our take - shifting the fights to nudges, and calling out us as parents to model what we want to see in our kids. From food fights to reading to battling boredom, some things are life skills that aren't simply a kid battle, but a recipe for the batter of life, and the beautiful cake you want to produce.  What are your biggest desires to impart to your children?

I know how hard it can be to balance work and family time. Life gets messy, and we can get overwhelmed quickly.  In this episode we share how we found solutions by prioritizing intentional family time, waking up early, and taking breaks to rejuvenate. We share about "big rocks" and grace for seasons, and ten key tips to make your day as fulfilling as it is eventful. How do you create the days you look forward to instead of simply enduring them? Read the blog that goes along with this here: https://www.mamasaysnamaste.com/podcast-from-mess-to-masterpiece-10-tips-for-a-fulfilling-day-episode-305/

On this episode, we have repeat guests Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo, authors of the book Six Pillars of Intimacy: Conflict Resolution: The Secret to Breaking the Conflict Cycle in Your Marriage. They share insights into navigating conflicts between spouses and breaking negative cycles. We discussed the 5 stages in the conflict cycle, and how, even when you go through them all, it doesn't always mean a healthy resolution.  Understanding conflict resolution frameworks shaped by our family of origin, as well as being intentional in identifying triggers and needs during escalations, can help manage conflicts proactively. And, we talk about intimacy and play (the last two episodes) and how healthy relationships can have a positive ripple effect on all aspects of life.  We all deal with conflict. Do you have the tools for it to not stay in a repeat pattern in your life? At one point, Nathan and I handled many disagreements with "rock, paper, scissors." It lightened the mood and helped us put what we disagreed on in perspective on whether it was worth the relationship. How about you?  

On this episode of Mama Says Namaste, we dive deep into the importance of physical touch in relationships. We know there is scientific evidence supporting the claim that physical connection improves patience and overall connection. We challenge listeners to examine their physical and sexual intimacy with their partner, noting how finding out what kind of touch their partner likes is crucial. We emphasize the importance of carving out intentional time for physical touch and suggest ways to connect physically even during busy seasons of life. We also discuss the significance of sexual intimacy in relationships and offer tips on how to make it a daily habit. Finally, we present several challenges to take action and start today on your most intimate relationship. Join us as we explore how physical touch can enhance emotional and relationship health, leading to a deeper level of vulnerability and connection that can impact all aspects of life. "It's hard to remain emotionally distant when you physically connect on a daily basis."

In this episode of Mama Says Namaste, we delve into the importance of play and fun in relationships. Our habits are formed during dating and can persist throughout our relationships, but it's important to create new ones to connect with each other. Breaking negative cycles and adding fun and discovery to your relationship can positively impact all your relationships. We discuss the role that playfulness and humor play in creating a successful partnership. Join us as we explore the benefits of play and the tools to improve all our relationships, not just our marriage.

In this episode of Mama Says Namaste, the topic is all about relationships and learning how to deconstruct preconceived notions. Nathan and Ashley take us through a variety of examples, including insights from author Merrick Rosenberg on how to treat others in a way that brings out the best in them. Along the way, we see how pride can sometimes be a hindrance to communication and how recognizing and utilizing our unique strengths can help build strong relationships. Ashley shares personal stories, including her experience balancing traditional gender roles and the importance of being vulnerable in admitting one's mistakes. In short, this episode is all about recognizing strengths and weaknesses, and being open to growth and change in order to cultivate healthy and fulfilling relationships beyond an expectation or traditional role. "When you've done something wrong, admit it and be sorry. No one in history has ever choked to death from swallowing his pride."

We've officially launched our 300th podcast episode! We've summarized some of the biggest lessons learned for relationships, and bring you six powerful lessons - for yourself, your most intimate relationship, parenting, and beyond. Be sure to go to MamaSaysNamaste.com/6-lessons-for-every-relationship to dig deeper into this episode and access the audio clip and video I reference.  What lessons have you learned that you'd add? What would you like to hear on the Mama Says Namaste podcast next?

This week I bring back trauma healing practitioner Lenora Edwards, who I've had as a guest before on the podcast talking about speech therapy. We went a bit deeper into the healing she discovered during her "side hustle", and how baking, two root canals, and some YouTube videos sent her down a path of healing that has opened doors for a whole new way she helps others.  Lenora and I discuss trauma, HMR, and pathways to healing that go beyond "self-help" to truly helping yourself. 

We review the book, The Chameleon: Life-Changing Wisdom For Anyone Who Has A Personality Or Knows Someone Who Does by Merrick Rosenberg. We cover 7 essential principles we gleaned from the book. We highly recommend this book, not just for adults, but the whole family - with 22 little bird-focused parables, it's an easy and fun read and really helps you connect the dots on how you can connect with others and speak their language while still being authentic to who you are. 

Ah, the language of empathy - how do you connect with others where you both feel heard and affirmed? How do you get what you want from others while not being forceful or manipulative? It's by meeting them where they are, and, as much as we can, being willing to step into their shoes and see from their perspective. It's learning to speak their language. It doesn't discount your own "native tongue"; it simply equips you with the tools to better communicate.  Dig into some communication tips on how to connect with the language of empathy so you can truly experience how the uniqueness in each of us strengthens all of us. 

I'm back with my daughter Juliet as we share her list of the 4 pros and cons of travel. This was a fun one, as I had her write a list and then us do a podcast with me completely blind to what she wrote.  So these are true pros and cons learned from a ten-year-old who has been traveling the states since she just turned 4.  I love her perspective and how she's not only laid out the ups and downs of travel life, but how we've sought solutions to make things really flow for our family. 

As we dig into the "10 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Hitting the Road", we share how we were able to hit the road full-time in our RV, and, we address how these key questions are important for you to address for ANY new adventure you're about to embark on.  Go through these questions and get clear on what you're ready to put a date on! 

Dreaming of travel, yet aren't sure where to start? Nathan and I share my friend Holly's five questions to ask yourself before any big life decision, and then we share our acronymn for full time RV travel - and how it translates to all kinds of travel. Start with these questions, and break down the details so you're fully ready to enjoy the trip.