Motivation Made Easy: Body Respect, True Health

Episode 151: Why Creativity Isn't Optional Anymore for Therapists and Helpers (Season 5 Finale) What if your burnout is actually a signal that it's time to shift?What if the path back to fulfillment isn't more certifications or better time management—but more creativity, play, and aligned living? If you're a therapist, helping professional, or creative entrepreneur feeling burned out, stuck, or unsure how to keep showing up in this field you used to love… this episode is for you. In this solo season finale of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, I share what I've learned in Season 5—and in my own life—about why creativity isn't optional anymore. Not just as a bonus. But as a necessary part of sustainable, meaningful work. A Season of Alignment, Creativity, and Courage This season has been the most “me” the podcast has ever felt. We talked about creative living, storytelling, nervous system regulation, entrepreneurship, embodiment, and how to do more of the work that lights us up. And behind the scenes? I turned 40.I danced in a contemporary show.I choreographed a duet with my friend Allie about perfectionism and authenticity.I celebrated, rested, cried, and reimagined what I want to build. And most importantly—I listened.To my body. To my joy. And to the parts of me that still get scared when I try something new. If You're Asking “What Else Can I Do With My Therapy Skills?”… You're Not Alone. Many of us became therapists or helpers because we're deeply empathetic and want to create change. But somewhere along the way, you might find yourself asking: How do I keep going when I'm burned out? What other career paths exist for therapists like me? How can I use my gifts without sacrificing my well-being? Is it okay to want something different—even if I've invested so much into this path? I hear these questions all the time from folks in my community. And I've asked them myself. Which is why this episode is about offering both reflection and direction. Because creativity, when we make space for it, helps us unlock new answers to these questions. Why Creativity Matters—Especially Now Here's what I believe:Creativity and joy aren't frivolous. They're essential. They help us connect with our own aliveness. They open up possibilities. They offer healing not only for ourselves, but for our clients and communities. And they are especially important for therapists and helping professionals navigating: Burnout and compassion fatigue A changing mental health landscape Systems that reward overworking and self-sacrifice The desire for more flexibility, freedom, and fulfillment In short? Creativity is your asset.Not a distraction. Not a hobby. But a path to deeper alignment and more sustainable impact. Tools + Resources for Burned Out Therapists & Creative Helpers If you're feeling stuck, uninspired, or unsure how to move forward, here are two simple ways to begin reconnecting with your Zone of Genius:

Episode 150: Finding Community, Healing Together, and Living in Alignment with Randi Rubenstein What does it mean to find real community in a world that often feels disconnected? In this episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, I sat down with Randi Rubenstein for the final conversation in our three-part series on Creativity, Entrepreneurship, and Living an Aligned Life. This time, we explored the transformative role of community in healing, leadership, and building a more connected and joyful life. From the mastermind group Randi accidentally created years ago to the healing communities I've found through dance, parenting circles, and entrepreneur spaces, we both reflect on the power of being seen, held, and co-creating with others. But we also don't shy away from the complexity—how community can also bring up fear, past wounding, and the need for strong Pack Leadership (Randi's term for grounded, non-reactive leadership rooted in care). Here's what we explore in this deep and energizing conversation: ✨ What makes a community feel safe, healing, and energizing (vs. performative or depleting)✨ How strong Pack Leadership creates safety and builds trust✨ Why we often carry wounds from early communities and how to find spaces that help us heal✨ The connection between novelty, leadership style, and nervous system regulation✨ Why co-creating (vs. top-down leading) is the secret to sustainable group work✨ How our own zones of genius show up in leadership roles✨ Navigating sensitivity and overwhelm when leading or participating in group spaces The Truth About Healing in Community One of the biggest takeaways? While we are wounded in community, we are also healed in community. The difference lies in the presence of safe, emotionally regulated leadership. Randi shares how the community she built within Mastermind Parenting grew out of a simple parenting course—and how the women in that group didn't want to leave because they finally felt held. That accidental community is now a co-created space that has helped women start businesses, change their lives, and feel a sense of deep belonging. Pack Leadership and Co-Creation: The Container Matters We unpack how Pack Leadership (a grounded, non-reactive presence that models calm confidence and sets clear boundaries) is essential for a safe group space. But not the "dominate or control" kind of leadership—this is about responding from our Self energy and encouraging everyone to bring their voice and genius to the table. Co-creation is the heart of it all. Whether it's a mastermind group, a dance retreat, or a kitchen-table podcast, there is power in shared ownership. That's what turns a program or group into a community. Feeling Too Much? You're Not Alone. As two sensitive leaders, Randi and I also talk about how it can be hard to feel the pain of others so deeply—and how to stay grounded and effective as a community builder. Whether you're leading a large group or building small, intentional spaces, trusting your energy, pace, and personal capacity is vital. Aligned Leadership Means Trusting Yourself We also explore how our nervous systems guide us toward the right communities. Randi shares her "straightjacket or skinny dipping" metaphor for gauging how a space feels in your body. Does it feel constrictive or expansive? Energizing or draining? That intuitive guidance is part of aligned leadership. Where Community Shows Up From mastermind groups to dance studios, local creative meetups, and therapist circles, we reflect on where we've found aligned, life-giving community. It takes courage to find your people—and to walk away from spaces that don't feel right. But it's worth it. Loved this Convo? Don't Miss the Other 3 Convos with Randi This Season: Pack Leadership: The Most Life Changing Concept I've Learned Since Intuitive Eating Creativity, Play, and Getting More of What You Want Want to Keep the Conversation Going?

Episode 150: Writing, Play, and the Power of Creative Connection with Michelle Ringle & Alyssa Jewell Have you ever felt the quiet nudge to write something down, even if just for yourself? In this heartwarming and deeply thoughtful episode, I sit down with two gifted educators and writers, Michelle Ringle and Alyssa Jewell, to explore the transformative power of creative writing. This conversation was one I truly looked forward to—and it didn't disappoint. Michelle and Alyssa bring so much depth, honesty, and encouragement to the question so many of us carry: What might open up if we let ourselves write? We cover so much ground: how writing can be a form of self-connection and healing, how creative practice doesn't have to look like rigid daily routines, and how society's productivity obsession often blocks our creative energy before we even begin. Whether you've been writing for years or feel creatively stuck, this one's for you. In this episode, we explore: ✨ Why writing is for everyone—not just “writers”✨ How creative writing can help us heal grief, rage, and burnout✨ What happens when we write with no agenda (and why that's powerful)✨ Why play is essential for adult women—and how Michelle created a whole Secret Society around it✨ Bridging the gap between language learning and creative expression✨ The real reasons many of us feel creatively blocked—and how to unblock✨ The power of story to reconnect us with ourselves and others Meet the Guests: Writers, Educators, & Creative Facilitators Michelle Ringle is a mother, educator, adventure facilitator, and poet currently pursuing her MFA in Poetry at Western Michigan University. With over two decades of teaching experience, Michelle brings her trauma-informed, feminist lens to creative and educational spaces. She's also the founder of the Secret Society of Ladies Uniquely Trying Stuff—a playful initiative encouraging women, especially mothers, to re-engage with physical play and joy. Alyssa Jewell holds a Ph.D. in Creative Writing and Poetry, and her work explores the connection between creative writing and English as a Second Language (ESL) education. She teaches college-level ESL, English composition, and creative writing in Grand Rapids, MI. Alyssa's poetry has appeared in Cherry Tree, Poetry Daily, Virginia Quarterly Review, and more, and she's passionate about using writing to heal and connect across differences. Writing as a Life-Giving Practice For both Michelle and Alyssa, writing is less about producing something for others—and more about tuning into their own inner worlds. Michelle shares how morning pages and nature walks help her process emotions and stay grounded, while Alyssa opens up about writing her grandfather's eulogy and the healing power of naming truth through story. Writing doesn't need to look like publishing a novel. It can be 10 minutes in the morning. It can be one sentence you write down while walking in the woods. It can be a eulogy, a journal entry, or a line of poetry that cracks you open. “Our bodies often know before we do,” Michelle reflects. “Writing gives those feelings space to live.” From Burnout to Creativity: Permission to Choose What's Life-Giving Michelle shared how pursuing an MFA while raising three children was a radical act of reclaiming joy. After years of teaching others how to write, she realized she wasn't making space for her own creative voice—and that needed to change. Alyssa describes the journey of bridging her two worlds—ESL education and poetry—and why giving ESL students space to tell their stories is not just powerful, but essential. “I think we're meant to create,” Alyssa says. “We heal through it. We grow through it. And sometimes, we even find our people through it.” A favorite quote from this episode: “We are in a culture that values logic—and I believe that's a patriarchal ideal. Emotional knowing is just as important, but it takes practice.

Episode 148: Recipes That Heal—Creativity, Courage, & Community Care with Elisa Pérez-Arellano, LMSW What does it take to turn pain into purpose—and how can creativity, food, and cultural traditions transform how we approach mental health? In this episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Elisa Pérez-Arellano, LMSW—founder of Inclusive Empowerment Services and the visionary behind Recetas que Sanan (Recipes That Heal), a wellness initiative that reduces stigma and improves access to healing resources. Elisa's story is one of incredible resilience, innovation, and heart. From her lived experiences as an immigrant and survivor of teen dating violence to creating a therapeutic cooking show with her husband, she's inspiring new ways to connect, heal, and build community through authenticity and cultural wisdom. Here's what we cover in this deep, powerful, and inspiring conversation: ✨ Elisa's journey immigrating from Mexico to the U.S. at age 16✨ The trauma and resilience that shaped her as a therapist✨ Why she left traditional systems to build her own bilingual practice✨ The creation of Recetas que Sanan—a cooking show that opens mental health conversations through food✨ How creative expression, storytelling, and joy support healing✨ Why therapists need their own therapy (and how healing enables deeper impact)✨ The importance of speaking out about collective pain and the current political climate A Therapist, Creator, & Courageous Leader After years of working in traditional clinical settings and feeling deeply unfulfilled, Elisa decided to start her own private practice in 2020—right as the pandemic hit. With clarity about her gifts and a drive to create meaningful, culturally responsive care, she launched Inclusive Empowerment Services, LLC. But Elisa's work goes far beyond therapy sessions. As a bilingual public speaker, trainer, and educator, she's passionate about bringing stories, lived experience, and emotional wisdom into schools, businesses, and community organizations. “I knew I had gifts I wasn't using—and I had to do something about it.” Recetas Que Sanan: Recipes That Heal What happens when you combine traditional cooking, storytelling, and emotional education? You get something completely magical—and that's exactly what Elisa created with Recetas que Sanan. This bilingual wellness initiative uses food as a gateway into deeper conversations about mental health and emotional well-being—particularly in Latinx and Spanish-speaking communities where stigma remains high. Cooking intuitively and sharing her personal stories while preparing traditional meals, Elisa helps viewers feel seen, nourished, and safe to explore emotions in a way that feels natural and culturally resonant. “Cooking is my magic. It's where my feelings live—and where connection begins.” From Surviving to Leading with Love Elisa generously shares about her early years in the U.S.—navigating family reunification, language barriers, and role reversal as a teen helping her parents navigate systems. She also opens up about surviving teen dating violence, and how that lived experience fuels her trainings and outreach today. Her commitment to authenticity is woven throughout her work. Whether she's leading a community workshop or filming an episode of Recetas que Sanan, she brings her full, human self—breaking the mold of what a therapist “should” be. “I'm cool. I'm human. I show up as myself—and I want others to feel safe doing the same.” Want to Sponsor Recetas que Sanan? Elisa is currently seeking sponsors to grow her bilingual show and expand access to culturally-grounded mental health conversations. Your support helps cover kitchen rental, ingredients, and tech equipment.

Episode 147: Redefining Success, Healing Through Business, and Sustainable Online Growth with Melvin Varghese, PhD What if your business could be a source of healing—not just hustle? In this episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, I had the joy of talking with Dr. Melvin Varghese—licensed psychologist, host of the Selling the Couch podcast, and founder of one of the most thoughtful, heart-centered online business communities for therapists. Melvin is someone I deeply admire—not only because he's built a wildly successful podcast and sustainable business—but because he's done it with integrity, intention, and a whole lot of wisdom. We went deep in this honest, funny, and eye-opening conversation about what it really takes to build a business that supports your life (and doesn't deplete it). We talked about so much, including: Melvin's journey from group practice to online entrepreneur The 4:30 AM recordings that started his podcasting journey Burnout, hair loss (!), and what it taught him about sustainability The internal work required to charge what you're worth How podcasting helped him reconnect with younger parts of himself How he built a business that fits around family, health, and deep work AI, creativity, and the future of online business for therapists The courage it takes to slow down and trust your own pace From Private Practice to Podcasting Pioneer Melvin didn't jump into online business overnight. After years of juggling group practice, community mental health, and part-time clinical work, a snowstorm in Philly changed everything—he lost 21 client hours in one week and began wondering: Is there another way? Inspired by mentors like Pat Flynn and driven by a desire for more time freedom, Melvin launched Selling the Couch in 2015 - using an ironing board in his home for some of the early interview episodes. His early episodes were recorded before sunrise and edited by hand between client sessions. Slowly and strategically, he built a podcast that now reaches listeners in over 120 countries and has surpassed 1.8 million downloads. “I wanted to design a career around my family and health instead of fitting my family and health around a career.” What Made His Business Work Unlike many therapists who try to leap into online business and end up burned out (

Episode 146: From Actor to Therapist—Reclaiming Identity & Embracing Self-Energy with Adeshola Nnamdi, LMFT What does it look like to live with deep intention—and how can our past lives, creativity, and cultural roots shape the therapists we become? In this episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Adeshola Nnamdi, MA, LMFT—an actor who made a pivot into clinical psychology and psychotherapy, is IFS-trained, and deeply passionate about storytelling, healing, and identity. Shola is the first male guest on the podcast—and the first to serenade us too! We covered so much in this heartfelt, funny, and powerful conversation: Shola's journey from acting to therapy Why he changed his name to honor his Nigerian roots What creativity and presence really look like in therapy His experience with Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) How therapists can reclaim joy, connection, and authenticity in their work From the Stage to the Therapy Room Before becoming a therapist, Shola had a rich acting career—appearing in many films and on television, including on a hit NBC sitcom called The Single Guy that aired between Seinfeld and Friends, working with Spike Lee (check out the video just below this paragraph!), and even hanging out at Saturday Night Live. But despite his outward success, he found himself burnt out, disconnected, and chasing applause rather than purpose. Eventually, through sobriety and soul-searching, he found a new path: one rooted in service, meaning, and connection. “What would my life look like if I stopped seeking validation and just trusted?” Therapy as Art: The Performance of Presence Shola's artistic background deeply informs his work as a therapist. He describes therapy as a kind of performance art—not because we're faking it, but because we're bringing our full selves into the room and responding in real time. “Bad acting is pushing… having an agenda. That can happen in therapy too.” IFS, in particular, allowed him to slow down, be present, and trust in both his clients and himself. Instead of working from parts that strive or fix, he now leans into the power of Self-energy—and it's transformed his clinical work. Why He Changed His Name—and What It Means Shola also shares the powerful story of changing his name from Shawn Michael Howard to Adeshola Nnamdi, a decision rooted in personal healing and cultural reclamation. After George Floyd's murder and years of reflection, he realized he no longer wanted to carry a name passed down from a history of enslavement. “I didn't want to die with a slaveholder's name on my tombstone.” The name Adeshola means “he brings prosperity” and Nnamdi means “my father lives.” It's a name he carries with honor, intention, and power. Creativity, Joy, & the Therapist's Zone of Genius We also explored how creativity plays a crucial role in the therapist's life—not just through hobbies, but through presence, flexibility, and flow. “We're creating in there. It's art.” Shola's Zone of Genius is connection. Whether on stage or in the therapy room, he brings joy, attunement, and aliveness to the people around him. He's passionate about helping others do the same—both professionally and personally. Want to Feel More Alive in Your Work? If you've ever questioned your career path, felt boxed in by your therapist role, or longed to bring more you into your work—this episode is for you. Looking for a Therapist in California or Arizona? Shola offers individual, couples, and group therapy and brings warmth, wisdom, and a strong grounding in both EFT and IFS.

Episode 145: The Science of Creativity: Why Creative Hobbies Fuel Innovation and Healing Have you ever felt stuck in your work, unsure how to break through to the next level of impact and fulfillment? You're not alone. Many therapists, psychologists, and helping professionals find themselves yearning to create something bigger than traditional one-on-one sessions—a book, a podcast, a new therapy approach, a retreat, or an online course. Yet, they feel paralyzed, unsure how to make space for creativity in their already full lives. But what if creativity wasn't a luxury? What if engaging in artistic hobbies wasn't just a way to ‘relax,' but a scientifically-backed method to enhance your innovation, impact, and overall effectiveness? The Nobel Prize Study: Why the Most Brilliant Minds Engage in the Arts A groundbreaking study highlighted in Originals by Adam Grant analyzed Nobel Prize-winning scientists between 1901 and 2005, comparing them to their equally skilled but less accomplished peers. Both groups had deep expertise in their respective fields, yet the Nobel laureates were dramatically more likely to engage in creative pursuits outside of their scientific work (Root-Bernstein, & Root-Bernstein, 2019). Here's what the research found: Artistic HobbyIncreased Likelihood for Nobel Prize WinnersPlaying music (instrument, composing, conducting)2x more likelyVisual arts (drawing, painting, sculpting)7x more likelyCrafts (woodworking, mechanics, electronics, glassblowing)7.5x more likelyWriting (poetry, plays, novels, essays)12x more likelyPerforming arts (acting, dance, magic)22x more likely The pattern doesn't just apply to scientists. A large-scale study of entrepreneurs and inventors found that those who started businesses and contributed to patent applications were also more likely to engage in arts-related hobbies, such as painting, literature, and sculpture (Woronkowicz & Noonan, 2019). What This Means for Therapists, Healers, and Innovators If you're a therapist, psychologist, or wellness professional dreaming of making a greater impact but feeling creatively blocked, this study offers a profound insight: the key to unlocking your next big idea may not be more certifications or academic research, but rather, more time spent in creative play. Creativity Fuels Problem-Solving Engaging in the arts rewires the brain to make novel connections. Just as Nobel laureates use creativity to approach scientific problems in unique ways, therapists and wellness professionals can use it to craft new healing modalities, write transformative books, or design workshops that truly shift paradigms. Creative Hobbies Make You More Resilient Many of us hold deep grief, shame, or burnout from years of emotional labor. Creativity offers a powerful means of processing emotions. Studies in neuroscience show that engaging in artistic pursuits activates the default mode network (DMN), the part of the brain responsible for self-reflection, insight, and emotional integration. This is why many people report breakthroughs in therapy or deep personal healing when they take up dance, writing, or painting. For me, dance has become an essential part of my healing journey. After not dancing for 18 years, I found myself drawn back in through a simple six-week beginner tap class. That one small decision unlocked a deeper connection to my body, my emotions, and my creativity. I've since added contemporary dance back into my life and even choreographed a duet with a fellow therapist. Interestingly, the study shows that performing arts (acting, dance, and magic) had the strongest correlation with innovation, making practitioners 22 times more likely to win a Nobel Prize. That alone is enough for me to believe in the transformative power of creative movement. Creativity is a Form of Rebellion Against Perfectionism Many in our field hesitate to embrace creativity because of what their academic peers might think.

Episode 144: Finding Your Zone of Genius Through Culturally Immersive Travel with Kelsey Wilson & Amanda Cisneros Have you ever dreamed of experiencing travel in a way that fully immerses you in another culture—where you're not just a visitor, but an active participant in the local community? That's exactly what Kelsey Wilson and Amanda Cisneros have built with Travec Travel, a company specializing in culturally immersive travel for families and individuals. But beyond that, their journey is an inspiring look at how leaning into your Zone of Genius can create a career and life that feel deeply fulfilling. In this episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, we explore how Kelsey and Amanda discovered their unique strengths and built a business that aligns with their passions. We'll also discuss how immersive travel experiences can be life-changing—not just for their clients, but for them as entrepreneurs. How Travec Travel Began: A Business Built on Zone of Genius Kelsey and Amanda's partnership was almost serendipitous—what they call an “arranged marriage” of entrepreneurship. Though they didn't know each other long before starting the company, their shared passion for travel, language, and culture quickly solidified their vision. Amanda, a seasoned Spanish teacher, had extensive experience leading student trips abroad, but she always dreamed of expanding that model to families. Her Zone of Genius is in crafting detailed itineraries, logistics, and building deep connections between travelers and local cultures. Meanwhile, Kelsey had worked in global travel sales and had the entrepreneurial spirit to bring that vision to life. Her Zone of Genius lies in helping potential clients find the right travel experience for them, empowering them to believe in themselves and take the leap. Together, they launched Travec Travel just two and a half years ago, and since then, they've built a company that fosters meaningful, intentional travel experiences. What Makes Travec Travel Unique? Unlike traditional travel companies that often cater to tourists without deep cultural immersion, Travec Travel offers: Culturally immersive experiences where travelers live like locals, stay in apartments rather than hotels, and engage in daily life activities like grocery shopping and cooking. City Friends & Hosts, ensuring travelers are connected with local families who introduce them to the authentic culture. Opportunities for language immersion, including Spanish classes and homestays where kids and adults alike can practice their skills in real-world settings. Family-friendly itineraries, designed for parents traveling with children, making cultural immersion accessible without the stress of planning every detail. The Evolution of Their Business Travec Travel has evolved significantly since its launch. Initially, the founders thought they would primarily work with families looking to live abroad long-term. However, they found that their real niche was in planning short-term, intentional family travel. Through collaboration with schools, Travec Travel now organizes capstone trips for students in Spanish immersion programs, as well as customized experiences for individuals and families looking for meaningful, connected travel. Their signature destinations include: Merida, Mexico Quepos, Costa Rica Trujillo, Peru Medellin, Colombia Madrid, Spain San Juan, Puerto Rico And they're in the process of expanding to Puerto Rico and Chile! Travel as a Creative and Transformational Experience One of the themes we explored in this episode is how travel—and learning a new language—can be a deeply creative process. It activates different parts of the brain, challenges perfectionism, and pushes us out of our comfort zones in the best possible way. For Amanda, the creativity comes in designing seamless, enriching itineraries that allow travelers to fully experience a new culture.

Episode 143: Embodiment, Healing, and Community with Jen Bullen IntroductionWelcome back to The Innovative Therapist Podcast! In this episode, I'm thrilled to welcome Jen Bullen, an embodiment and somatic healing coach, body image whisperer, and diet culture rebel. Jen and I met in a truly serendipitous way—at my first retreat in October, when I needed a last-minute yoga instructor. The class she led was one of the most moving experiences of my life, and I knew then that I had to have her on the podcast to share her wisdom. Jen's journey into this work is deeply personal and filled with moments of transformation. From her background in healthcare to her pivot into embodiment coaching, she brings a unique perspective on healing, presence, and the importance of community support. In our conversation, we explore her path, the role of creativity in healing, and the profound impact of nurturing relationships. From Healthcare to Embodiment Coaching Like many healers, Jen's journey into her current work wasn't linear. She spent 18 years in healthcare as a first responder and nurse before realizing the toll it was taking on her mental and emotional well-being. Seeking relief, she turned to yoga—not initially as a formal practice, but simply as a space where she could breathe and exist. Over time, yoga became a bridge to deeper embodiment and self-understanding. Jen shares how she first approached yoga as something to “do” rather than to be with, but as she continued her practice, she began to understand its power. Her curiosity led her to study trauma, movement, and somatic healing, eventually integrating these into her work. Embodying Presence: The Path to Authentic Connection One of the most striking things about Jen is the grounded presence she brings into a room. But as she shares, this wasn't always the case. Ten years ago, her energy was scattered, pulled in different directions. Through deep self-work, understanding her own nervous system, and aligning her life with natural cycles, she found her way to greater embodiment. Jen talks about the Ayurvedic principles that guide her work and how she helps clients reconnect with their bodies in personalized ways—whether through movement, breathwork, creative practices, or even gardening. The key, she emphasizes, is allowing space for clients to step into what feels right for them, rather than prescribing a rigid method. Creativity as a Gateway to Healing In our conversation, we explore the idea that creativity is an essential part of healing. Jen reflects on how creativity shows up in her life—not just in art or movement, but in the way she holds space for people. She also shares an insight from a friend who is a professional artist—how scheduling dedicated creative time was a game-changer for her. Instead of waiting for inspiration to strike, she made space for it. Jen applies this concept to her own life, recognizing that creativity isn't a luxury; it's a necessity for staying connected to herself and her work. Reclaiming Community: A New Approach to Motherhood Support One of the most powerful stories Jen shares is about how she and her extended family came together to support her stepson's wife after childbirth. In a culture that often leaves new mothers isolated, they created a circle of care—cooking, holding the baby, and offering emotional support. Jen describes the moment when her husband's ex-wife handed him their grandchild—a silent, yet deeply healing exchange that spoke to the power of community and shared history. This experience reinforced for me something that my parent coach has often said - that the nuclear family is a failed experiment; we are meant to raise children and support each other in community. The Importance of Small Acts of Care As therapists and healers, we often think big—how can we change the world? But Jen reminds us that sometimes, the most powerful work happens in the smallest,

Episode 142. Empowering Your Financial Future: A Conversation with Laura Corbiani Welcome back to The Innovative Therapist Podcast! Today, we're diving into part two of my conversation with financial expert Laura Corbiani. If you missed part one, be sure to check it out, as we covered essential topics like money, power, and common mindset blocks around finances. This episode is all about tangible actions to become more financially empowered—because who doesn't need that? We'll discuss key topics like: Why and when you might want to hire a financial advisor Financial wellness basics How to build an emergency fund How to optimize your money to create more financial freedom Let's dive in! Overcoming Financial Anxiety Talking about money can be overwhelming. Many people feel like they need to know everything before they even start, leading to avoidance and anxiety. If you've ever felt this way, you're not alone. Financial concerns can exist even when someone is in a good financial position. The key is shifting from judgment to curiosity about your financial health. The Importance of an Emergency Fund One of the most crucial building blocks of financial wellness is an emergency fund. This is a cash cushion set aside in a savings account, separate from investments, to cover unexpected expenses. Here's a general guideline: Single-income households: Aim for six months of living expenses. Dual-income households: Aim for three months of living expenses. Keeping this money in a separate savings account (instead of a checking account) can help prevent accidental spending. Automating a small amount to transfer weekly or monthly can make building this fund easier. Maximizing Employer Benefits If you have access to employer benefits, it's important to take full advantage of them. Some key areas to explore include: Retirement Plans: Many employers offer 401(k) matching—be sure to contribute enough to get the full match! Disability and Life Insurance: These benefits are often overlooked but can provide essential financial security. Health Savings Accounts (HSA): If you're on a high-deductible health plan, contributing to an HSA is a great way to save for medical expenses tax-free. Unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), HSAs don't have a “use it or lose it” policy, allowing you to save for future healthcare costs—even in retirement. The Power of Investing Investing can feel intimidating, but it doesn't have to be complicated. Target-date funds are a great place to start—they adjust risk levels based on your projected retirement year. Investing consistently, even in small amounts, can lead to long-term financial security. The Gender Pay Gap & Negotiation One of the biggest financial challenges women face is negotiating for higher pay. Research shows that women tend to apply for jobs only when they meet 100% of the qualifications, whereas men apply when they meet about 60%. Additionally, women negotiate their salaries less frequently, which can lead to earning significantly less over their careers. A few key takeaways: Ask for what you're worth: Negotiating your salary can add up to over $1 million in additional lifetime earnings. Be creative: If salary negotiations are limited, consider negotiating for more time off, professional development funding, or other benefits. When to Hire a Financial Advisor Not everyone needs a financial advisor, but here are some situations where hiring one might be beneficial: You're juggling multiple income sources or investments. You're going through a major life transition (inheritance, job change, starting a business, etc.). You want expert guidance on optimizing your financial strategy. When choosing an advisor, ask if they are a fiduciary, meaning they are legally required to act in your best interest. You can also ask, “How do you get paid?” to understand whether they work on commission, a flat fee,

Episode 141: Money, Power & The Stories We Tell Ourselves with Laura Corbiani Money. Power. Self-worth. For so many of us—especially women—these words feel loaded. We've absorbed messages about money from a young age, often without realizing it. Some of us were taught that talking about money is rude or greedy. Others internalized the belief that wanting more meant taking from someone else. But what if talking about money openly could actually be empowering? In this week's episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, I sat down with Certified Financial Planner Laura Corbiani to dive deep into the mindset blocks, money scripts, and hidden narratives that keep so many of us stuck. Money, Power, and the Stories We Carry Laura and I have been talking for a while about having this conversation because, let's be real—money stress feels higher than ever. This episode is the first in a two-part series where we focus on:

Episode 140: Leadership, Self Energy, & the Internal Family Systems Model with Rachel Bentley As therapists, business owners, and leaders, we often feel pressure to have all the answers. But what if the most impactful leadership doesn't come from perfection—but from embracing our humanity and ongoing growth? That's exactly what I explored in my conversation with Rachel Bentley on The Innovative Therapist Podcast (Episode 140). Rachel is an Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 2 trained therapist, group practice owner, and business consultant. She leads a 40-clinician practice with locations in Michigan and helps therapists navigate leadership, self-energy, and sustainable business growth. In this episode, we dive into: How Internal Family Systems (IFS) can transform therapist leadership The role of self-energy in decision-making and leadership Overcoming imposter syndrome & self-doubt Why creativity and the Zone of Genius matter for therapists How to build a leadership team without burning out The Power of IFS in Therapist Leadership Rachel shared how IFS has revolutionized her leadership as a group practice owner. Instead of leading from a place of control or fear, she now understands how her internal parts—the ones managing decision-making, leadership stress, and self-doubt—can work together. Why Self-Energy is the Key to Effective Leadership IFS isn't just a clinical tool—it's a leadership framework. Rachel discussed how recognizing and working with her own parts has helped her: ✅ Lead with more confidence and clarity ✅ Trust her intuition in making business decisions ✅ Navigate the challenges of growing a large team ✅ Avoid burnout by recognizing protective parts before they take over Many therapists struggle with imposter syndrome, especially when running a business. Rachel's insights show that leading with self-energy—rather than fear-based parts—creates a more sustainable and authentic business. Creativity & the Zone of Genius for Therapists One of the most exciting parts of our conversation was Rachel's journey with creativity. Like many therapists, she didn't initially consider herself creative. However, she's discovered that creativity isn't just about art or music—it's about problem-solving, visioning, and innovation. What is the Zone of Genius? The Zone of Genius is the space where your natural talents and passions intersect. It's where work feels energizing instead of draining. Rachel and I explored how therapists can identify their Zone of Genius and lean into work that truly excites them. Ask Yourself: What part of your work lights you up the most? Where do you feel the most “flow” and self-energy? Creating Spaces Where We Don't Have to Prove Ourselves Therapists often feel pressure to appear “perfect”—as if we should always have it all together. But true leadership comes from embracing vulnerability and authenticity. Rachel and I discussed the importance of creating spaces where therapists can show up without unrealistic expectations. Whether it's within group practices, consulting, or therapist communities, we need places where: ✔️ We can ask questions without judgment ✔️ We don't have to prove our worth ✔️ We can be real about struggles and challenges Thinking About Starting a Group Practice? Read This First. A key topic we covered was how therapists can decide whether group practice ownership is right for them. Rachel often works with therapists navigating the solo-to-group transition, helping them consider: ❓ What is your why for starting a group practice? (Curiosity vs. Judgmental Why) ❓ Are you comfortable with leadership & delegation? ❓ Do you understand the realities of scaling a business? ❓ Are you willing to work through your own parts and fears? Join the Conversation & Build a Meaningful Practice This episode is packed with insights for therapists looking to lead with self-energy,

Episode 139: Creativity, Play, and Getting More of What You Want In this episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, Randi Rubenstein returns to dive deeper into the concept of Pack Leadership while exploring how creativity and play can transform our lives. We discuss the importance of leaning into your Zone of Genius, fostering meaningful connections through creativity, and how play has reshaped my approach to parenting and work. We'll cover how humans are naturally wired to be generous, curious, and connected, and how we can cultivate environments that bring out these qualities in ourselves and those around us. Whether you're a therapist, parent, or simply someone striving to align more deeply with your purpose, this episode offers practical strategies to help you thrive. Why Creativity and Play Matter For a long time, I struggled with bringing play into my parenting in a way that felt meaningful and connecting—not boring or forced. Then, I stumbled across a podcast episode that gave me hope I could shift this narrative. (Here's the podcast episode that inspired me.) I realized that play isn't about perfection; it's about showing up with curiosity and an open heart. Creativity and play have also deeply impacted my work. Leaning into my Zone of Genius has allowed me to focus on what I'm best at while creating space for joy and innovation. For more about the Zone of Genius concept, check out my earlier episode: Episode 129: Embracing Your Zone of Genius. What You'll Learn in This Episode Stories of Transformation: Hear how embracing creativity and play has changed my approach to parenting, making it more enjoyable and meaningful for both me and my kids. Practical Strategies: We'll discuss actionable tips for incorporating creativity and play into your daily life, whether at home or work. The Counter-Cultural Nature of Zone of Genius: Learn why focusing on what lights you up is not only generous to others but also incredibly challenging in a culture that often rewards overworking and self-sacrifice. Highlights from the Episode Pack Leadership and Creativity: Building on Episode 138, we explore how Pack Leadership intersects with creativity and play to foster environments of trust and connection. Playful Parenting: Inspired by recent research and podcasts like 10% Happier and How I Built This, I've learned how to make play enjoyable and connecting—not a chore. These insights have transformed my relationship with my kids and made parenting feel more aligned. Intrinsic Motivation and Generosity: Humans love to learn and give back. We discuss how to create family and work environments that naturally bring out these qualities. Creativity at Work: Discover how focusing on your Zone of Genius can make your work feel more vibrant and aligned, leading to deeper connections and greater impact. Episode 138: Pack Leadership Recap If you missed our last episode, Randi Rubenstein introduced the life-changing concept of Pack Leadership. This approach prioritizes calm, confident leadership while rejecting shame and perfectionism. For a deeper dive, listen to Episode 138: Pack Leadership: The Most Life-Changing Concept I've Learned Since Intuitive Eating. Practical Strategies to Embrace Creativity and Play Start Small: Begin with a short, playful activity you genuinely enjoy. It could be a game, drawing, or storytelling. Prioritize Joy: Make space for activities that bring you and your family joy. It's not about quantity but quality. Align with Your Zone of Genius: Reflect on what you're naturally good at and passionate about, then find ways to incorporate it into your parenting, work, and daily life. Create Supportive Environments: Foster spaces where curiosity and generosity can thrive. This might mean setting boundaries, asking for help, or simply modeling playful behavior. Want More? If you're inspired by this episode and want to dive deepe...

Episode 138: Pack Leadership: The Most Life-Changing Concept I've Learned Since Intuitive Eating As women, as leaders, as humans striving for connection and authenticity, we often find ourselves navigating the delicate balance of strength and vulnerability. Our energy is fierce yet compassionate, loving yet boundaried. We do things differently, and our leadership should reflect that. This concept of Pack Leadership, which I explored in my conversation with Randi Rubenstein on The Innovative Therapist Podcast (Episode 138: Pack Leadership: The Most Life-Changing Concept I've Learned Since Intuitive Eating), has completely transformed how I approach not just parenting, but every aspect of my life. If you're familiar with intuitive eating and its empowering framework for building trust with your body, think of Pack Leadership as its counterpart in relationships. It's about cultivating connection, safety, and a deep sense of belonging in your “pack”—be it your family, your team, or your community. Let's dive into why this concept is so powerful, how it connects to the bigger picture of empowerment, and why I'm so passionate about sharing it with you. What Is Pack Leadership? At its core, Pack Leadership is about creating an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and like they belong. It rejects shame, blame, and perfectionism, replacing them with love, understanding, and calm, confident leadership. Here's how Randi Rubenstein beautifully breaks down the key elements: Calm, Confident Leadership The leader sets the tone for the group. Think of a steady pilot during turbulence or a coach who believes in the team no matter the odds. This grounded energy instills safety and trust, helping the group face challenges together. Self-ish Leadership In a world that glorifies selflessness, Pack Leadership asks us to prioritize our own needs and well-being. True leadership comes from a place of fullness, where we can give generously because we're not running on empty. It's about rejecting the idea that martyrdom equals strength and instead embracing the idea that we lead best when we're well-rested, supported, and nourished. Receiving Support Gone is the lone wolf mentality. Instead, Pack Leadership encourages us to embrace help, evolving family and group dynamics to better suit everyone's needs. It's about letting go of the societal expectations that demand constant self-sufficiency and perfection. Messy Humaning Leadership isn't about being perfect. It's about showing up authentically, owning mistakes, and laughing along the way. This “messy humaning” fosters connection and growth, creating a safe space for everyone to be imperfectly human. Why Pack Leadership Matters Addressing Loneliness and Unworthiness We live in an era where many people feel disconnected, lonely, and unworthy. Pack Leadership shifts this narrative by fostering a sense of belonging, giving each member of the pack a secure base from which they can grow, explore, and thrive. Parallel Lessons with Intuitive Eating Just as intuitive eating helps us navigate extremes—like rigid diet culture and chaotic eating—Pack Leadership helps us find balance between authoritarian and overly permissive approaches in parenting and leadership. Both frameworks center trust: trusting yourself, trusting your group, and cultivating mutual respect. Empowerment Across All Areas Pack Leadership isn't just about parenting. It's about showing up in all areas of life—business, relationships, and self-care—in a way that's rooted in self-trust, love, and empowerment. When you lead your pack with calm confidence, you create a ripple effect that touches everything you do. What You'll Hear in Episode 138 In my conversation with Randi, we explore: • How to get what you truly want: deeply connected relationships with your kids and the other humans you care about most.

Episode 137: Creativity, Entrepreneurship, & Living an Aligned Life (Season 5) Welcome to Season 5! I'm so excited to kick off this season of The Innovative Therapist Podcast with a fresh approach: a seasonal model. In Episode 137, I share why I made this shift and how this season's theme, Creativity, Entrepreneurship, & Living an Aligned Life, will guide us through meaningful and inspiring conversations. Taking extended breaks between seasons has been an intentional choice to allow time for rest, creativity, and alignment with what feels most life-giving—and I'm thrilled to bring this energy into Season 5. To start off this episode and season, I'll share about a song I've been obsessed with every since I heard it. Actually, a YouTube video. I've probably listened and/or watched this video 200x, maybe more. I just watched it before I recorded this episode. I didn't really know why I liked it, but over time I think I'm understanding. I'll share this story as an example of how we can get curious about why we love what we love, even if on the surface it doesn't "make sense" right away... What to Expect This Season This season, we'll dive deep into the stories of therapists and professionals who have carved out lives and careers they truly love. Through honest conversations, we'll explore the messy, beautiful process of paving a path that aligns with our values, embracing creativity and play along the way. My hope is that these stories inspire you to reflect on your own path and find ways to live more fully in alignment. You're also going to see my true Zone of Genius in action, which is essentially, having deep honest talks with super cool people. We'll explore questions like: How do we bring more creativity and play into our work and personal lives? What does it really mean to live in alignment with our values and strengths? How can we reimagine traditional models of therapy and leadership? Each episode is designed to highlight different facets of creativity, play, and alignment through storytelling and practical strategies. Episodes 138 & 139: The Foundation for This Season Episode 138: Pack Leadership: The Most Life-Changing Concept I've Learned Since Intuitive EatingIn this conversation with Randi Rubenstein, we explore the transformative concept of Pack Leadership and its parallels to intuitive eating. It's all about creating safety, connection, and belonging within our “pack,” whether that's our family, team, or community. Randi shares practical strategies to embody calm, confident leadership in all areas of life. Episode 139: Creativity, Play, and Getting More of What You WantRandi returns to talk about how creativity and play have transformed both my parenting and professional life. We discuss how working in your Zone of Genius is not only fulfilling but also deeply generous to those around you—even though it's a countercultural idea. We also explore practical strategies for fostering creativity and play with our kids, at work, and in our daily lives. Additional Guest Lineup for This Season I'm beyond excited to share the lineup of incredible guests joining us this season. Each brings a unique perspective on creativity, play, and living an aligned life: Melvin Varghese, PhD — Creator of Selling the Couch podcast with 1.8+ million downloads, Melvin has so much insight into doing work as a therapist beyond 1 on 1 work. We'll discuss the pros and cons of doing work outside of one-on-one therapy and what it means to follow your creative instincts in new directions. Elisa Pérez-Arellano, LMSW — Elisa shares her journey of blending creativity and connection into her work and how it's shaped her aligned life. Adeshola Nnamdi, LMFT — Adeshola explores the intersection of cultural identity, creativity, and mental health, offering insights on how to honor your roots while forging your unique path. Rachel Bentley,

Episode 137: Joy, Rest, and Showing Up in Your Zone of Genius Welcome back to The Innovative Therapist Podcast! This episode marks a small milestone for the show—I've officially upgraded my mic setup! After 137 episodes of recording with a free noise-canceling headset (and occasionally in my car on my phone), I finally invested in a proper mic and pop filter. Let's just say my tech journey involved a bit of user error, but here we are, and I hope the sound quality is noticeably better for you! But that's not the heart of today's episode. Instead, we're diving into a topic that's been front and center in my mind lately: the delicate balance between joy, rest, and purpose in the work we do as therapists and healers. What You'll Hear in This Episode: A Business and Life Update: I'll share a transparent look at where I am professionally and personally as 2024 comes to a close. Reflecting on the past year helps me process lessons learned and set intentions for the future. The Challenge of Balancing Rest and Passion: When you truly love your work, carving out time for rest can feel tricky (or even counterintuitive). I'll talk about my ongoing journey with this balance and what's worked (and hasn't). The Zone of Genius Concept in Action: I'll discuss how I'm applying the idea of working in your Zone of Genius—not just professionally, but in everyday life—and what it's teaching me about alignment and joy. Money and Meaningful Work: Money is a theme that keeps popping up in my reflections and conversations. While I'm not diving deeply into it in this episode, I'm previewing plans for upcoming episodes in 2025 that will explore the relationship between money, worth, and sustainable joy in our work. A Look Ahead: I'll share my plans for taking a rest period as we pause the podcast over the holidays, what rest looks like for me right now, and some ideas for upcoming episodes when we return. Living a Big Life: You'll hear a bit about this Marvelous Mrs. Maisel clip and what I love so much about it. And what a big life looks like to me. Why This Episode Matters This episode is a chance for us to take a pause together, reflect on the intersection of healing work, creativity, and rest, and celebrate the progress we've made. If you've ever felt torn between your love for your work and your need for downtime—or wondered how to tap more deeply into your gifts—this one's for you. Resources Mentioned: Free PDF with ideas for Creative Ways to Make Money as a Therapist Tune In Grab a cup of coffee (or your beverage of choice) and join me for this honest, reflective, and slightly vulnerable episode. Let's explore how we can continue to show up in the work we were called to do—joyfully, meaningfully, and with plenty of room for rest. Listen to the episode now, and let me know your thoughts! What does rest look like for you at this stage in your journey? How are you leaning into your Zone of Genius? Drop me a message or share your reflections—I'd love to hear from you. Here's to a restorative end to 2024 and an inspired start to 2025! Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I help therapists, helpers, and other humans navigate the nuance and develop deep trust with their bodies, so they can go live the life of their dreams. I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 42 states in the US My rate for an intake session is $220 and for a 45 minute follow up is $195 If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and explore creative methods for healing, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.

Episode 136. I'm feeling more called to share things about the food relationship again lately, which has been kind of fun. I talk about this stuff all day every day with many of my 1 on 1 clients, and sometimes I forget that it isn't second nature to people, since I've spent many a year focusing on improving my relationship to food and body for myself. Today's episode walks you through what I did with my Halloween candy recently and why. It was also an opportunity to reflect on my business and the Body Respect Program I ran a few years ago. What to Expect in this Episode I cover the following: Why I felt compelled to share this episode today What I did with my Halloween candy this year and why My FB live about this same topic November 2020! It's cringey! I was super nervous Reflecting on the Body Respect Program and my thoughts about updating it with IFS Some of the small ways my opinions have changed about food addiction and how I might tweak my prior statement from my FB live, "food addiction is a real thing" The extreme polarization on food addiction What I think is behind my desire for food (Check out the "I want a big life" clip here) How to navigate the nuance with eating decisions and be honest with yourself And more! Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I help therapists, helpers, and other humans navigate the nuance and develop deep trust with their bodies, so they can go live the life of their dreams. I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 42 states in the US My rate for an intake session is $220 and for a 45 minute follow up is $195 If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and explore creative methods for healing, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Disclosure: Using the Bookshop.org links in this post means that I would get an affiliate fee if you purchase from the online bookshop (this supports my business, and local bookstores too!).

Episode 135. Today's episode is Part 2 of 2 of my conversation with Becca Gibson. Please make sure to go back and listen to Part 1 first. In this part of the conversation we dive into the good stuff. The ways that therapists and other helpers accidentally cause harm, how to avoid this, and some of the things Becca really wishes people knew about people who have diagnoses of ADHD and Autism. Becca is a therapist who works primarily with high masking, late identified and late diagnosed autistic and ADHD people. Let's dive in! What to Expect in This Episode We cover the following: Some of the many ways that therapists and others can cause harm for people with ADHD and Autism Becca's thoughts on the requirement of a formal diagnosis to confirm ADHD or Autism What therapists can to do avoid this harm What psychodrama is and how it can be therapeutic, particularly for experiences with trauma (including how it brings a somatic component that can be unique compared to other somatic therapies) What psychodrama can look like and how it can be used in individual and group settings Becca's insights into community building, group work and how it can do things that individual work simply cannot Becca's process with openly sharing her ADHD and Autism diagnoses and what went into that decision And so much more! Who is Becca Gibson Becca Gibson, LCSW-C, LICSW, is an Autistic and ADHD independent clinical social worker, as well as the founder and owner of Wired Differently Therapy, a private practice serving clients in the states of Maryland and Massachusetts. After spending years supporting disabled students in public school classrooms, Becca began a career in social work with a specialization helping neurodiverse couples, families, and neurodivergent individuals through a neurodiversity affirming lens. Becca's clinical work focuses on Autistics and ADHDers – especially those who are considered “gifted”, or “twice-exceptional” –  and the intersection of LGBTQIA+ identities and neurodivergence. In addition to their work as a therapist, Becca provides professional development training, clinical consultation, and clinical supervision. Definition of Neurodivergent Neurodivergent is an umbrella term. According to Nick Walker, neurodivergent refers to “having a mind that functions in ways which diverge significantly from the dominant societal standards of ‘normal.'”  Resources Mentioned YouTube ADHD training delivered by Becca Gibson: https://youtu.be/IcWMwK1aSvg?si=kaRlsD1Ysp8mAXnQ Matt Lowry's information about how he has reframed the DSM diagnostic criteria for autism to be more strengths-based Information on Autistic-Centered Therapy from KindTherapyandWellness.com Autistics are more likely to experience complex trauma, and to identify as alexithymic. Alexithymia doesn't mean you don't feel things, it just means you have trouble identifying how to label these feelings AASPIRE - https://autismandhealth.org/ Information about Psychodrama The Obsessive Joy of Autism book Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 40 states in the US If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and learn more about or experience the IFS model, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Disclosure: Using the Bookshop.org links in this post means that I would get an affiliate fee if you purchase from the on...

Episode 134. I am so incredibly grateful for this conversation. I'm especially grateful for Becca's knowledge and openness about their personal and professional experiences in this realm. I'm also so glad I live in a time when therapists can come on a podcast and be open about their personal experiences. What a freaking gift. Becca is a therapist who works primarily with high masking, late identified and late diagnosed autistic and ADHD people. This conversation is a 2-parter, filled with information, resources and interwoven with Becca's story of becoming a therapist and late diagnosis of ADHD and autism. You're going to love it. What to Expect in this Episode We cover the following: The work Becca does with clients, professional trainings and continuing education and how their non-linear path here The ways autism and ADHD are understood now, and how Becca has seen these understanding shift over the past few decades The true definition of neurodivergence What it means that autism is a dynamic disability Why we don't use the term Asperger's syndrome anymore And so much more! (Be sure to tune in next week for Part 2 where we dive into the harm that can be caused by therapists and others to those with Autism and ADHD, and how to avoid this, psychodrama, Becca's other creative joys, and so much more) Who is Becca Gibson Becca Gibson, LCSW-C, LICSW, is an Autistic and ADHD independent clinical social worker, as well as the founder and owner of Wired Differently Therapy, a private practice serving clients in the states of Maryland and Massachusetts. After spending years supporting disabled students in public school classrooms, Becca began a career in social work with a specialization helping neurodiverse couples, families, and neurodivergent individuals through a neurodiversity affirming lens. Becca's clinical work focuses on Autistics and ADHDers – especially those who are considered “gifted”, or “twice-exceptional” –  and the intersection of LGBTQIA+ identities and neurodivergence. In addition to their work as a therapist, Becca provides professional development training, clinical consultation, and clinical supervision. Definition of Neurodivergent Neurodivergent is an umbrella term. According to Nick Walker, neurodivergent refers to “having a mind that functions in ways which diverge significantly from the dominant societal standards of ‘normal.'”  Resources Mentioned YouTube ADHD training delivered by Becca Gibson: https://youtu.be/IcWMwK1aSvg?si=kaRlsD1Ysp8mAXnQ Matt Lowry's information about how he has reframed the DSM diagnostic criteria for autism to be more strengths-based Information on Autistic-Centered Therapy from KindTherapyandWellness.com Autistics are more likely to experience complex trauma, and to identify as alexithymic. Alexithymia doesn't mean you don't feel things, it just means you have trouble identifying how to label these feelings AASPIRE - https://autismandhealth.org/ Information about Psychodrama The Obsessive Joy of Autism book Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 40 states in the US If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and learn more about or experience the IFS model, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Disclosure: Using the Bookshop.org links in this post means that I would get an affiliate fee if you purchase from the online...

Episode 132. Well this conversation has been a long time coming and it was sooo worth the wait. Elise Kutt is so creative, so authentic, and such an innovative trailblazer when it comes to photography as healing, building businesses that truly help people, and building diverse and supportive communities. Elise shares so much knowledge as she shares her story with pursuing her creative passions, how she learned and continues to learn to listen to her body, and what has guided her along this journey. She's built a business and a life that involves traveling the world with her closest friends and doing what she loves, so that alone makes her someone I really want to listen and learn from. I loved her quote about an early failure and what she learned after finding photography: "I knew I wanted to do something creative every day for the rest of my life." - Elise Kutt If this isn't a story about the power of creativity... I don't know what would be. Enjoy this incredible conversation with Elise Kutt of ModBettie! What to Expect in this Episode We cover the following: Her experience building some incredibly innovative businesses and helping so many heal in a variety of ways and see themselves and their bodies differently How listening to her desires and responding to community needs has built such a large empire How self portraits helped her fall in love with herself for the first time What the journey of self love really looks like and how a self portrait practice can help you along yours What led to Elise's major aha moment (Hint: it involved listening to her body and making a very large and brave decision with her business) Her in the moment creative idea with how you can harness the power of listening to your body exactly as she did Where can boudoir sessions or photography be harmful? What you should be aware of How Elise built a very intentionally inclusive community (this answer really stuck with me) The way Elise got into co-hosting retreats and how Human Design has supported her in growing the business in the way that's right for her How Elise is going to spend her sabbatical year and what she means when she says personal projects Her description of creative flow state and what it does for our brains And so much more! Who is Elise Kutt? Multi-passionate entrepreneur, speaker, educator, photographer, boutique owner With over 15 years experience behind the camera, Elise Kutt has established herself as a trailblazer of the industry, opening her portrait studio, Mod Bettie in 2014 followed by her lingerie boutique, Naughty Bettie in 2018. She's co-hosted over 20 retreats around the world with entrepreneur bestie Wandering Roots, was named west Michigan's Remarkable Woman of the Year in 2023, and continues to build community around her alternative wellness lifestyle brand.

Episode 133. The 1st Annual Innovative Therapist Retreat is in the books! It's been almost 3 weeks, and it's time to share how it went. This episode is more about my experience hosting and some early reflections. More later on the healing power of community, and other's experiences. If you are thinking of creating something innovative, this episode is for you! What to Expect in this Episode I cover: The report on the Inaugural Innovative Therapist Retreat! (please listen to this previous episode about Creating Something Useful for the full retreat creation backstory) My intention with this event and what it involved What I witnessed in the participants Guidance on how to decide what to create outside of the 1 on 1 model of therapy practice (including how Human Design can inform how each of us may be different in this) Why I think I got super sick after the retreat What I've learned about myself in the 3 weeks since it's been done The pros and cons of hosting a retreat from a business perspective (and the answer to the question, "Did it feel like a paid vacation for me?") And so much more! Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 40 states in the US My rate for an intake session is $220 and for a 45 minute follow up is $195 If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and learn more about or experience the IFS model, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Disclosure: Using the Bookshop.org links in this post means that I would get an affiliate fee if you purchase from the online bookshop (this supports my business, and local bookstores too!).

Episode 130. This episode is the first I've talked about my relationship to food in a while, but I woke up feeling compelled to share on this topic, so I went with it. I cover how our relationship with food can have parallels to our relationship to money and how all of this can impact our ability to trust ourselves and pursue work that feels aligned and good to us. I hope you find it helpful! Without further ado, let's dive in! What to Expect in this Episode I cover: What I had for breakfast that morning (and why) - I promise there's a point to this share How my mindset has shifted around food (in the past, and how this continues to impact me now) Parallels between our relationship to food and our relationship with money How the definition of autonomous motivation applies to food, money, and other things and how pursuing "freedom of choice, without excessive pressure" can impact us positively when it comes to lasting motivation The impact of focusing on calories in versus out How working on gut health can help with symptoms like headaches, skin health, etc. in surprising ways And other musings! Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 40 states in the US My rate for an intake session is $220 and for a 45 minute follow up is $195 If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and learn more about or experience the IFS model, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Disclosure: Using the Bookshop.org links in this post means that I would get an affiliate fee if you purchase from the online bookshop (this supports my business, and local bookstores too!).

Episode 129. I have loved this quote from Howard Thurman for years: "Don't ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive." The concept of Zone of Genius was introduced to me 2 years ago and I find it so incredibly helpful. So today, I'll be sharing it with you. Without further ado, let's dive in! What to Expect in this Episode I cover: What is Zone of Genius and why should you care about it? Where I initially learned about it What are the 4 Zones to understand, and what does it mean if you are stuck in your Zone of Competence or Excellence What are some questions to ask yourself to help figure out your Zone of Genius How can you move towards working more in your Zone of Genius? Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 40 states in the US My rate for an intake session is $220 and for a 45 minute follow up is $195 If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and learn more about or experience the IFS model, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Disclosure: Using the Bookshop.org links in this post means that I would get an affiliate fee if you purchase from the online bookshop (this supports my business, and local bookstores too!).

Episode 128. I've never been more convinced of the power of creativity in creating amazing things in the world, in our bodies, and in our businesses. Today's episode is a solo episode where I dive into my thoughts on this based on my conversation last episode with Marlys Woods, LMFT. Check out that conversation here. Without further ado, let's dive in! What to Expect in this Episode I cover the following: How we, and I, have de-valued music and the arts as a form of healing in the past Why I think it's essential now more than ever that we re-connect with it as we explore innovative approaches to the many problems of the world Collective healing with music and missed opportunities with a life devoid of arts and music How connecting with creativity through music and dance has been incredibly healing to me in a very short time My reflections on the healing that occurred in simply discussing my emotional experience with a song with Marlys (Including discussion about the song I talked to Marlys about which can be found here) (includes an example of a protector part of me, and an exiled one who has held a burden) Using music and dance and other creative expression to connect with pre-verbal parts The importance of getting the emotion out of you, versus isolating in it The impact of creativity in creating sustainable businesses that work around your life (with Marlys Woods and Megan Gunnell as really fascinating examples of this) How you can be sure to hear if Marlys and I do a collaborative experiential event for therapists to experience the healing power of music (we are already brainstorming on this) And so much more! Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 40 states in the US My rate for an intake session is $220 and for a 45 minute follow up is $195 If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and learn more about or experience the IFS model, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Disclosure: Using the Bookshop.org links in this post means that I would get an affiliate fee if you purchase from the online bookshop (this supports my business, and local bookstores too!).

Episode 127. Saddle up and get ready listeners! We are talking about music and healing today. Yes! I hope you are as excited as I am. I've been searching for the perfect guest to come on and talk about this, and let me tell you, I found her. How Music Can Heal Us (But Also Can Cause Harm) Marlys Woods of Get In Tune Music Therapy is a board certified music therapist and also a licensed marriage and family therapist. Without further ado, let's dive in! What to Expect in this Episode We cover the following: How Marlys came to doing this work and the role music and singing have played in her life How this specific way of using music in the mental health world is actually a very small movement, and what that's been like for Marlys (and the opportunity it could provide for those who are interested) How Marlys has to be innovative with her work and business (and how she didn't actually want to do this at first) What a music therapy session might look like, including a specific song from my life (can be found here if you want to listen to it and follow along!) - this was a huge aha for me and opened up a new level of healing that I will share about in this episode and the one that follows How music can be harmful How to use it in a helpful way Common fears for therapists and clients about connecting with creativity Should therapists dabble with using music in sessions without training in music therapy How you can be sure to hear if Marlys and I do a collaborative experiential event for therapists and helpers to experience the healing power of music (we are already brainstorming on this) And so much more! Who is Marlys Woods Board-Certified Music Therapist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Provides a specialized approach to using music in mental health recovery settings including addiction, eating disorder, anxiety and depression Passionate about using her knowledge of relationships, people, and music to help those struggling with mental health Believes music therapy is an integral part of mental health recovery Services include therapist and facility trainings, direct therapy services, and self-study programs Serves treatment sites in Southern California and the Greater Denver Area, and offers virtual services worldwide Watch Marlys's video about how music can harm here. Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 40 states in the US My rate for an intake session is $220 and for a 45 minute follow up is $195 If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and learn more about or experience the IFS model, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Disclosure: Using the Bookshop.org links in this post means that I would get an affiliate fee if you purchase from the online bookshop (this supports my business, and local bookstores too!).

Episode 126. Welcome to the first solo episode of an experiment I'm really excited about! I've done around 60 podcast interviews now (!!) and I LOVE it. So freaking much. I want them to last forever and I have so much to say, but also I learn so much during and after the interviews. So my new experiment, starting now is I will do a solo episode where I dive in to the topics that arose for me during the previous interview episode, where I can reflect on it, what I learned, and share more of my experiences related to the topic in a way that we didn't have time for (without a 2 hour episode)!. For today's episode, I expand on my talk with Megan Gunnell. To here the initial interview, go here. I am setting these episodes up so that you don't have to listen to the interview episode first, but you may want to go back to it after you listen to this episode. What to Expect In This Episode Topics and questions covered: Does psychotherapy training strip us our our creativity and self trust? Should we as therapists pursue other ways of making money outside of 1 on 1 therapy? How did I end up deciding to create a retreat for therapists? How am I feeling about it? My journey and process with creating a retreat for the fall of October 2024 What did I/we learn from talking to Megan Gunnell about her process with creating so many amazing offerings outside of traditional 1 to 1 therapy How has human design impacted me over the past few months? What is a Zone of Genius and how can it help us work smarter, not harder? And much more... To listen to my interview with Megan Gunnell, go here. To get on the waitlist for the next retreat, sign up here! Are you a therapist or helping looking to get connected with The Innovative Therapist Community? To sign up for online events for therapists, go here to sign up for our next virtual event. Even if you can't make the date, you will be the first to know about future free or paid community virtual events. If you are local to Michigan sign up here for details about local events! Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 40 states in the US My rate for an intake session is $220 and for a 45 minute follow up is $195 If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and learn more about or experience the IFS model, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Disclosure: Using the Bookshop.org links in this post means that I would get an affiliate fee if you purchase from the online bookshop (this supports my business, and local bookstores too!).

Episode 125. This week's podcast episode was so good. I had been following ​Megan Gunnell's​ work for a while. And then unexpectedly, she reached out to me. (!!) This sort of feels like what it might feel like for a celeb to reach out and ask to hang out. She asked if I might want to meet up and talk about the potential for collaboration. Umm... yes please! We talked about potential for collaboration sometime next year (yay), but first, we decided to record this podcast. A wealth of experience with THRIVING Megan really is a representation of how I want to feel about my business and frankly, she's doing a lot of things that look amazing, like hosting retreats in Costa Rica and Italy. She's such a model of what creative thinking can do for you, and how it can help you develop more healing modalities as a therapist in and out of the therapy room. I think this is a model any human can follow. And we cover the simple, but not easy steps to tapping into her intuition and having the courage to follow her path. Without further ado, let's dive in! What to Expect in this Episode We cover the following: How Megan came to doing the amazing work she does today, including a story about the time she hosted something that totally flopped The role creativity has played in her career journey, the times she was disconnected from creativity and how this impacted her How she incorporated playing the harp into her 1 on 1 therapy sessions and the impact it had for her clients Guidance for how to determine what work "sets your soul on fire" and the difference between fear because you aren't ready, and fear because you really are Her journey with 25 years of hosting retreats and some of the many lessons she's learned The book that lead her to realize that holding a retreat is a calling for her How to determine if holding retreats is right for you and how to explore this question in a low risk way (including several great questions to reflect on for yourself) Her specific process the month before holding a large retreat or event Upcoming offerings including her Costa Rica Summit and a Retreat Intensive Program, see her many offerings for therapists here And so much more! Who is Megan Gunnell? Megan Gunnell, LMSW is Founder & Director of the Thriving Well Institute, psychotherapist, group practice owner, speaker, #1 bestselling author of “Thriving as a Therapist” and international retreat leader with over 25 years experience. She provides coaching, online courses, retreats and summits to therapists who want to learn how to build and scale their business. She's the admin of the Thriving Therapists® FB group with over 20,000 members. Megan received the Meta Community Accelerator Award for 2022-2023 for having one of the highest engaged facebook communities in all of North America. She has presented and facilitated workshops and retreats globally and nationwide. A recovering perfectionist and recklessly brave, she's not afraid of most challenges. You can find out more at: www.thrivingwellinstitute.com Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 40 states in the US My rate for an intake session is $220 and for a 45 minute follow up is $195 If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and learn more about or experience the IFS model, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship.

Episode 124. I get a lot of podcast pitches. Many of them, it's clear they've never listened to my podcast and have zero idea about my audience. Others are pitching people that have truly nothing to do with what a do (men's hair removal expert, anyone? Just why?). Someone reached out to me to introduce Ann though and I was intrigued (I mean, read the bullets below, wouldn't you be?). I did my due diligence and listened to another podcast interview she did. And I immediately knew I had to have her on. Her willingness to be open about her unique experiences growing up with her dad, his partner, and her mom all the in same house in the 80s is really fascinating. And her compassionate take on the evangelical conservative Christian approach to LGBTQ+ is really quite inspiring. Without further ado, let's dive in! What to Expect in this Episode We cover the following: How Ann came to doing the work she does today What she learned from growing up in a queer household in the 80s What she learned from attending a religious conversion conference as a queer female How she is able to cultivate so much compassion for others who believe anything outside of heterosexuality is a sin The most common issues LGBTQ+ members face and where she sees therapists miss the mark and cause harm Ways she's engaged in healing that is outside of traditional talk therapy (I loved her answer on this!) Her main takeaway she wants people to know when it comes to LGBTQ+ emotional well-being and mental health And so much more! Who is Ann Russo? Ann Russo, is a business founder, psychotherapist, author, and mental health advocate with an MA in Theology from Loyola Marymount and an MSW from Long Beach State. In 2018, she founded AMR Therapy to provide culturally sensitive mental health services to queer communities and other underserved populations. Under her leadership, AMR Therapy has served over 1500 clients with a dedicated team of just 15 therapists and administrators. Ann is a trained domestic violence and sexual assault advocate, specializing in trauma-informed care and first responder crisis management. She is currently developing specialized Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for therapists, focusing on critical topics such as ethical non-monogamy, sexual empowerment, religious trauma, and queerness. These CEUs are essential for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and better serve diverse populations. Ann also offers consulting services to mental health providers on these topics. Her upcoming book, "Her Own Terms," delves into modern female sexuality using cognitive behavioral therapy, sex-positive perspectives, and psychodynamic insights. Raised in a queer, non-monogamous household, Ann's personal and professional experiences enrich her approach, making her a relatable and insightful figure in the mental health field. Ann is a prominent advocate for mental health and sexual positivity, frequently featured in articles, podcasts, and interviews. You can work with a therapist at AMR Therapy or connect with Ann directly by visiting the websites below. You can connect with Ann by joining her email list here. Website for Ann's group practice is: https://www.amrtherapy.com/ Ann's website: https://www.annrusso.org To work with Ann or a member of her team, email her at ann@amrtherapy.com and mention "Body" in the email to let her know how you heard about her work. For 20% off CEU coursework, sign up here. Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 40 states in the US My rate for an intake session is $220 and for a 45 minute follow up is $195 If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and learn more about or e...

Episode 123. Today's solo episode is all about my thoughts about Creativity. I've been thinking about this topic a LOT lately. And it's been incredibly fun. I read this book recently and already am re-listening to it. It's Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert and I've found it really inspiring. I have really been slowing down to think about how I can add creativity into my personal and professional life and how others can do the same. So this podcast episode is all about my thoughts on creativity, including how I've evolved to use creativity as a psychologist and also in my personal life. I can't wait to share it with you! Words of Wisdom Quote from Elizabeth Gilbert: "You're not required to save the world with your creativity. Your art not only doesn't have to be original, in other words, it also doesn't have to be important. For example, whenever anyone tells me that they want to write a book in order to help other people I always think 'Oh, please don't." Do it for Yourself? That quote actually really makes me laugh out loud. So much of what I've learned in the online marketing world is about knowing your audience and speaking to their pain points. In my training as a psychologist, I was taught to always focus on the other person and their needs, helping them to conceptualize their struggles, and from there, give suggestions to help. None of these suggestions are bad, and yet, none of them teach us how to listen to our own bodies as we are marketing or delivering therapy. And the more I do both of those things, the more I think that's actually the most essential skill to learn... "I'm not a creative person." I've said this so many times. I still sometimes say it. But now at least I'm catching myself. We all have creativity in us. It maybe got shoved down, but it's there. And re-engaging with it can be deeply healing. In IFS it is said that when we can notice and get space and separation from our Parts, the 8 C qualities of self emerge: Creativity, Curiosity, Connection, Courage, Calm, Clarity, Compassion, and Confidence. There are also 5 P words that can emerge, including, Presence, Persistence, Perspective, Playfulness, Patience. Play and creativity are essential for how kids learn and I for one am excited to continue to rediscover this as an adult. Why We Should Care About Creativity “A creative life is an amplified life. It's a bigger life, a happier life, an expanded life, and a hell of a lot more interesting life. Living in this manner – continually and stubbornly bringing forth the jewels that are hidden within you – is a fine art, in and of itself.” -Elizabeth Gilbert I'll be perfectly honest, I want to convince you that creativity is important. I went online and started searching in Google Scholar. There are definitely some articles to support this. Liz Gilbert's book has more ideas on this. I come from a heavily science and math focused background. My dad was an engineer, and my mom taught math, and later computers, and then taught technology to other teachers. I can't say that I grew up truly understanding the immense value of creative works. When I did art at school, perfectionism was majorly on the scene. If it wasn't perfect, I'd freak out (internally or externally, depending on my age). Dancing as Creativity My main exposure to the arts and creative expression was the fact that I danced from age 8 to 18, and the again for a few years in college on a college Pompon team. I witnessed creativity, but I never felt creative. I struggled with choreography. I would just put together tricks I already knew, do a double turn into an axel jump, then jump forward and do a kick and a leap. Ways I Engage in Creativity Today Podcasting Blogging Thinking of new ways to engage clients and therapists in innovative ways to heal themselves (while, creatively, healing myself too - see what I did there?

Episode 122. In deciding which episodes were worth replaying for you this summer, this one immediately came to mind for a few reasons. First of all, I've referenced this conversation many times since I had it in July 2021 (3 years ago!!). I've talked about it on the podcast, and I've referenced it in my head. To share how it's impacted me, we have to review one of my favorite Maya Angelou quotes: “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Dr. Maya Angelou I'll be honest, it's been 3 years and my memory is not great. So I don't remember exactly all the things Adia and I talked about (although I reviewed some of the topics in the lists below). But I remember exactly how I felt when she was modeling how you might talk to yourself when you were feeling shame. It felt like a gut punch. A big puzzle piece clue. Saying, "Hey Shawn, if you were wondering where else you need to look to take your next step in healing, it's here!" Overall message: "You still have some shame to unpack and work out!" What To Expect in This Interview: Dr. Gooden opens up about how struggles with self-worth manifested in her life growing up.  How she learned the hard way that external validation of worth – be it a doctoral degree or losing 50 lbs – are common motivators, but don't work long-term. Her thoughts on the field of psychology and our training to not self-disclose, and how she's shifted this and why Common barriers to unconditional self-worth Incredibly valuable language for shifting towards true self-compassion And so much more! Top Things to Remember While Cultivating Unconditional Self-Worth You are under-utilizing the skill of self-compassion. I can almost 100% guarantee it. Instead of beating yourself up, or just taking a practical approach (“you messed up, don't dwell on it, move on.”) you can name and make space for your pain, while still holding yourself accountable. You can talk to yourself as you would a small child who is in pain. “I see you, you're okay. I got you.” This shift alone, when mastered, can change everything. Many of the ways we think about mental and emotional well-being are incredibly outdated. And often harmful when they further stigmatize struggle and have groups of us pretending that we don't struggle, while our clients do. In the field of psychology, the precedent is not to share, to be a blank slate, to be objective and a suggestion or advice dispensary. And yet, when we question that, not only can we help people more effectively, we as professionals can also be more free to bring our full selves to work. This relates to our discussion in Episode 27 about 4 Reasons you should share your story (and why I shared mine). The reality is, we aren't going to fall into categories or checkboxes. This person has depression and self-worth issues, this one does not. This one has developed self-compassion, this one hasn't. It's a journey that we are all on and we ALL have shame and self-doubt. We can all work on and benefit from the skills mentioned here. The more you work on your relationship with yourself, the more you will be able to do vulnerable things, and pick yourself up when you inevitably fall. It does not need to be, “develop self-worth first, then do uncomfortable things,” OR “fake it until you make it, just do the hard thing no matter how you feel.” Your life is yours and yours alone. Don't avoid things you value or get stuck in perfectionism, but don't feel like you HAVE TO do something just because someone says so. You get to choose. External boundaries can help behaviors with delayed gratification to become more intrinsically motivating, under the right conditions. Dr. Gooden talks about her initial resistance to meditation, and how being forced to teach it and practice it allowed her to gradually see the benefits.

Episode 121. One of the questions I get most often from people when they learn that I'm aligned with the Health at Every Size® movement is some version of this: "But I've worked for many years in XX setting and I've seen how people suffer when they have excess weight on their bodies. How can we really say that people can be healthy at every size?" Today's encore episode is a replay of my conversation with Dr. Jillian Murphy that answers this question incredibly well. I can't wait to share it with you! What To Expect in This Interview: We cover the following topics: Why Health at Every Size® is not just a social movement, but an evidence-based movement rooted heavily in science. She breaks this down in a way that I truly haven't heard before, so make sure you stay tuned to really understand why and how this isn't just a “don't judge people for their body size” movement (though that's of course very important, too!) We talk about her training as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine and where her focus is, as well as the ways that her training, just like pretty much all standard training programs, were steeped in diet culture beliefs. Her experience with orthorexia and how she finally fully cut the diet culture cord. We talk about her work learning about competent eating through the Ellyn Satter Institute and the power of this approach for kids and adults. I'm SO excited for this part of this conversation, because we talk about a nuanced approach to moving towards a flexible, healthy, sustainable relationship with food called Competent Eating that can be really helpful for people who want more structure than Intuitive Eating provides. Super cool. What You Need to Know About Weight Inclusivity, Health at Every Size®, and How You can Immediately Start Improving Your Health The weight-inclusive Health at Every Size® movement is social. All bodies deserve dignity and respect and we don't current provide that. This is well documented and incredibly harmful. The weight-inclusive Health at Every Size® movement is scientific. Not that social and science are separate per se, but there is immense amounts of evidence that the link between weight and health cannot be fully causal, for many of the reasons that Dr. Murphy outlines so well. She talks about the fact that thinner people have all the conditions we blame on weight (heart disease, diabetes, cancer, PCOS) so for that reason alone we know it can't only be weight that is the problem. We cannot establish a causal relationship with weight causing the health problems it's blamed on (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, PCOS, cancer, etc). This doesn't mean there aren't co-relations, but we know it isn't as simple as “fat causes X” as so often is the assumption. There could also be underlying genetic causal relationships that are causing the weight gain and the disease process. We don't currently have consistently effective ways to lose weight long-term without sacrificing well-being. We don't cover bariatric surgery at all in this interview, although frankly I'd love to hear Dr. Murphy's thoughts on that, but when talking about long-term significant weight loss (more than just a handful of pounds, although this depends on current body size), without surgery or medications, the odds of that happens without collateral damage is quite low. So, even if we could establish a causal relationship (e.g., excess weight causes disease), we don't currently have effective ways to help people lose weight and keep it off, without a sacrifice to well-being, physically and emotionally. There is a much wider arrange of body diversity than the medical community currently allows for. Body diversity is a fact. This results in significant problems including lower quality of care, weight stigma, bad advice, and leaves most people increasingly losing faith in themselves, versus recognizing that the system fails to improve health in the vast majority of folks with these strugg...

Episode 120. I've said it before and I will say it again, I am often profoundly changed by the impact of the conversations I have on this podcast. I still remember quotes and concepts from people I interviewed a year ago, and I still sometimes re-listen to the conversations to remind myself of the lessons I learned from them. This conversation with Dalia Kinsey, RD, LD, from May 2022 was extra special though. And I'm actually having a hard time putting into words why exactly that is. I think part of it is Dalia's presence, and the generosity and vulnerability that is shared, including the process from behind the scenes of this week's. Beyond that, however, Dalia's compassion for others, myself included, who have very much missed the mark with wellness, health, and lack of diversity in related fields, made this conversation all the more meaningful. Inviting Dalia on the podcast was important to me because I truly believe that moving towards true wellness and health means we must un-learn a lot of what we have been taught. Not only about what is healthy from a weight-centric model, but so much of what we have been taught about race, sexuality, and generally how so many of our systems, educational models, and structures are set up to serve white people, not persons of marginalized backgrounds. I'll admit: I have total imposter syndrome when I talk about or write about topics related to diversity. I'm afraid I'll mess things up, like say the wrong things or offending someone (my deepest fear). But I know deep down it's a privilege to be able to choose to learn about and talk about these topics or not, and I am working on continuing to choose the (typically mild) discomfort, so I can continue to learn and grow. I hope you will listen in on this conversation and hear the incredible gift that Dalia has given to the world by sharing this book with the world. I truly believe what I said, that I think this book truly benefits anyone who wants to learn about wellness and inclusion as an individual or as a healthcare provider. I hope wherever you are in your journey of learning about diversity and where we in the US and other countries have greatly missed the mark, that you will remain open, curious, and humble and continue to be open to learning more. And remember that (as I often have to remind myself) you don't need to know it all, you just need to ask question and listen. There's so much value to be gained from learning about the amazingly diverse experiences of humans and I'm incredibly grateful that Dalia shared with us via Decolonizing Wellness, but also that I was able to have this incredible conversation as well. What To Expect in This Interview: We cover the following topics: How Dalia came to doing this work, and the courage it took for Dalia to write Decolonizing Wellness, and the incredibly vulnerable process of doing so Some examples of the many ways that health and wellness spaces miss the mark when it comes to persons of diverse and/or marginalized identities What Dalia means by “When you queer anything it becomes more inclusive” (and why I've never been more convinced of this after talking to Dalia and reading Decolonizing Wellness) What Dalia wishes more people understood about these topics And much more! Who is Dalia Kinsey, RD, LD? Dalia Kinsey is a queer Black Registered Dietitian, keynote speaker, the creator of the Body Liberation for All podcast, and author of Decolonizing Wellness: A QTBIPOC-Centered Guide to Escape the Diet Trap, Heal Your Self-Image, and Achieve Body Liberation. On a mission to spread joy, reduce suffering, and eliminate health disparities in the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC community, Dalia rejects diet culture and teaches people to use nutrition as a self-care and personal empowerment tool to counter the damage of systemic oppression. Dalia works at the intersection of holistic wellness and social justice, continually creating wellness tools and resources t...

Episode 119. In today's solo episode, I'm going to share some of what I've learned about IFS and how it works based on both my personal and professional experiences thus far. I'm also going to talk about learning to slow down, how it's a journey I'm still on, and how IFS helps me actually do it, specifically focusing on my example of my Overworking Part, which I learned as I talked through this episode is very linked with my "Optimizing my Experience" Part (also described in my episode with Randi Rubenstein). In this episode I share my process of recognizing my Overworking/Optimizing Parts, appreciating them, and helping to do things (like record this episode for you!) from a more embodied and grounded place. In the middle of the episode, I lead you through an IFS based meditation to get to know a Protector Part of yours, Overworking Part or otherwise. Then I cover 3 of the main lessons I've learned from experiencing IFS. Without further ado, let's dive in! But First, Words of Wisdom “Compassion as a spontaneous aspect of Self blew my mind, because I'd always assumed and learned that compassion was something you had to develop. There's this idea—especially in some spiritual circles—that you have to build up the muscle of compassion over time, because it's not inherent. Again, that's the negative view on human nature at play. To be clear, what I mean by compassion is the ability to be in Self with somebody when they're really hurting and feel for them, but not be overwhelmed by their pain. You can only do that if you've done it within yourself. That is, if you can be with your own exiles without blending and being overwhelmed by them and instead show them compassion and help them, then you can do the same for someone in pain who's sitting across from you.”― Richard C. Schwartz, No Bad Parts: Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with the Internal Family Systems Model The Top 3 Lessons I Have Learned Through Experiencing IFS Cognitive Self-Compassion is Very Different Than Heart Self Compassion. It's totally different. And I was definitely always practicing the cognitive type. This really came to light for me when I talked with Dr. Allyn Richards in episode 108 (you can listen here). We both experienced compassion for ourselves by practicing IFS in a way that was totally different than anything we've tried to do in the past. You Have to Life it to Give It. Hearing this always felt annoying to me. But also so true. I always heard that you shouldn't teach meditation if you don't have a meditation practice. Well, I occasionally taught it, but I definitely didn't have a practice. Talking About Parts is Very Different than Talking to and Building a Relationship with Parts. One of my trainers in my Level 1 mentioned that she often sees therapists saying they are doing IFS, when really they are talking about parts with clients, which can be helpful. Many of us, therapists especially, have developing amazing conceptualization and analyzing parts that helped us a TON. And also, they are still parts. When you truly build a relationship with and honor these parts, new levels of healing and embodiment open up, likely that you didn't believe were truly possible. Wanting more support beyond these podcasts? I am currently accepting new therapy clients if you live in one of these 40 states in the US My rate for an intake session is $220 and for a 45 minute follow up is $195 If interested in learning more, including my availability and details about my practice, email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com or call 616-227-0001 Or if you are a therapist of helping professional looking to connect in community and learn more about or experience the IFS model, get on my email list here and/or email me at info@drshawnhondorp.com to introduce yourself! We may be starting another IFS based community group soon. “I know I shouldn't focus on weight loss, but…” (Polarized Parts Alert!)

Episode 118. Today's episode is a special conversation with Dr. Amy Neeren who has shown amazing resilience in terms of finding a career in psychology that felt right for her, and a big piece of that has been pursuing a career outside of her full-time work as a psychologist in writing fiction. She has published two children's books in the traditional publishing world (NO SMALL FEAT, as we learn in this conversation) and is working on a novel now. All of these writings have a tie to mental health, and to her story to some degree. We talk about how writing can be so healing, and so hard, why she does it, why she chose traditional publishing route, and what keeps her going. I really enjoyed this conversation and I'm sure you will too. What to Expect in this Episode We cover the following: Amy's journey to getting a PhD in Clinical Psychology and how stuck she felt after getting her degree and not finding private practice to be right for her How Amy got into writing (including whether she always wanted to be a writer or not) Why she chose traditional publishing over self-publishing How long it took Amy to publish her first and second books (these answers shocked me) The new project she's working on now How she feels about and deals with rejection (and how often she gets to practice this!) A discussion on how to incorporate creativity in our lives as therapists Why she wrote her children's book series Nellie in Knots (Book 1 in the series here, Book 2 here) (and how much my daughter and I LOVE this series!) What the two types of writers are (Plotters and Pantsers) and which one Amy is And so much more! Join the Innovative Therapist Book Club Today! Want to learn about the Top 4 books I wish I had read many years ago that have shifted my view of healing and human relationships? Download the free guide today to find out – I bet some of them will surprise you! You can grab it at DrHondorp.com/Books Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship.

Episode 117. In today's solo episode, I'm going to share some of my healing journey and a bit of an update about where I'm a today. This will include reflecting back on what really helped me heal from binge eating disorder and the chronic dieting cycle, as well as what continues to help me build trust with myself today as I work to build a life that's aligned, joyful, and helps me avoid feelings of regret (as much as possible, since regret is a valuable teacher!). I'll cover how Internal Family Systems has factored into this for me over the past 2 years, and how this model really helps me understand healing on a whole other level, even before I learned it. I've gotten a few questions lately basically asking me, "Given our culture, what's truly possible when it comes to trusting myself with eating decisions?" I also have been reflecting on how overall I feel more self trust than I ever have in various decisions, so I'd like to walk through some of the steps that helped me get there, with examples of how I shifted my relationship to food in the past and how I'm now learning to apply it to my podcast and other aspects of my business. Without further ado, let's dive in! But First, Words of Wisdom “I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.” - Maya Angelou 3 Truths That Shifted Everything When It Comes to Binge Eating & Self Trust Truly Understanding What Restriction is and How to Stop It. I've been reflecting lately on what helped me heal from binge eating disorder. For the part of me that restricted (and for those who don't know my story it wasn't extreme restriction in any way, basically I was just following advice I'd get from plans like WW), it really took around 13 years of trying before that part finally realized it's well-intentioned efforts were not working at all. Things to note: I had a lot of factors that made this healing journey easier for me, and still do to this day, most notably size privilege among many others. Continuing Until You Get to the Root Cause. I actually didn't really do this, well not until many years later when becoming a mom pushed me to do more healing. It's so common to exchange one protective part for another. No longer restricting or binge eating, but maybe occasionally using food to cope (without guilt, but still avoiding the underlying feeling), or overworking, or finding ways to avoid triggers (e.g., sometimes people will develop parts of them that really just compartmentalize, and bring all of their emotions and shame to therapy, which is great, but they are still disconnecting from the pain outside of the one hour a week which doesn't feel great to them). Knowing that Deeper Healing and Releasing Beliefs is Actually Possible (Even Though the World Ain't Changing Anytime Soon). This is the part that IFS really helped with for me. I think for so many of us, we just deeply believe that we will always have parts of us that hold shame and beliefs like "I'm not enough" that get triggered by various things, anything from glancing in a mirror to making a mistake in a meeting. It's important to note here, that there are many different ways to heal parts of ourselves outside of therapy too. Sometimes being in certain social groups, participating in certain group or solo activities, or other environments can heal parts of us in ways we don't even know we needed or maybe even understand at the time. For example, maybe finding a great therapist is your next step in pursing healing, but maybe it's finding an amazing local community of artists and taking up painting, or maybe finding a group that likes bird watching, or maybe it's taking an online class about writing a fiction book. I have no idea what it is, but there are many paths to healing. Listen to yourself about what you truly yearn for, and see if you can trust yourself to make the investment in yourself that feels right for you.

Episode 116. Today's episode was a super interesting conversation with Sharon Depcinski, LMSW. Sharon is a Certified Sex Therapist and wonderful human being (that I actually got to meet in person a few hours after our conversation at a local therapist meetup!). Sharon reached out to me to share a newer therapy modality she was learning called TRIP, Trauma Regulation and Integration Processing which is a modality developed by Monique Hoving-Smeets. From there, we chatted about the fact that she's a certified sex therapist and the important of this topic (which we have never discussed on the podcast yet!), and her personal and professional interest in exploring neurodivergence and how crucial this can be for people to experience true healing. To be honest, I'm still processing all the information in this conversation and I believe it's incredibly important in many, many ways. What to Expect in this Episode Sharon shares her journey to doing the work she does today, which includes taking a human sexuality class at Central Michigan University but soon realizing that West Michigan wasn't quite ready for her to do sex therapy in those early years... What is sex therapy? Why should we care about it? (and everyone should!) What is desire differential in couples and is it normal? Her winding path as an LMSW for 25 years, and how only in recent 1-2 years has she discovered that both she and her partner are neurodivergent Sharon's diagnosis with ADHD at age 49 and how that's impacted her as a therapist and otherwise Sharon's partner's diagnosis of autism, and how she felt shame that she "should have known" and why she chooses to share their story The role of neurodivergence and Sharon's hunch about how common it is The role of understanding perimenopause and menopause in understanding our physical and psychological symptoms Why swearing makes Sharon a better therapist and the sign she has about swearing in her office (that I totally want now!) Why Sharon pursued Trauma Regulation and Integration Process (TRIP) training and her experience with beginning to learn this modality And so much more! Seriously, y'all. If this conversation doesn't get you thinking differently about a few things, I don't know what will. Can't wait for you to check it out! Resources Mentioned Trauma Regulation and Integration Process (TRIP) training: https://relationshipworx.newzenler.com/professional-home Neurodivergent Conversations podcast: https://www.divergentpod.com/ Emily Nagoski's website Join the Innovative Therapist Book Club Today! Want to learn about the Top 4 books I wish I had read many years ago that have shifted my view of healing and human relationships? Download the free guide today to find out – I bet some of them will surprise you! You can grab it at DrHondorp.com/Books Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship.

Episode 115. Today's episode was another "this sounds like a fun idea" that quickly came to fruition. I logged into the YouTube TV app on my phone and saw that the Oprah Special on the weight loss GLP-1 meds was being recorded. The show was titled: An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution I watched a little bit of it, but then decided to come back and watch the recording the next day. I quickly sent a Voxer text to Dr. Kim Daniels to ask if she was watching and if so, if she wanted to record a podcast episode about it. Mainly, I noticed quickly in the part that I watched that very little focus was put on the potential root causes of the food noise. I thought, "this would be fun to review with Kim" and so here we are. What to Expect in this Episode Kim and I have a conversation about our general impressions of the TV special including some of the many things we believe they failed to address In the episode we try to be as un-biased as possible, but we recognize we have major biases and a lot of privilege that impacts how we approach this situation We talk about some of the aspects we wish were discussed and how we had hoped for a more balanced conversation We talk about the concept of obesity as a disease and also the statements like "release the shame" and our thoughts on these nuanced topics We also talk about how Internal Family Systems theory can help us understand the many strong opinions as it relates to these topics, and how an IFS approach could really be useful as we are trying to truly examine root causes We talk a bit about the concept of food noise and early relationships with food and how they might contribute to symptoms as an adult My hope and belief is that this conversation is not pro or anti medication, but simply an expansion on the aspects of weight loss and these controversial medications coming from two psychologists Join the Innovative Therapist Book Club Today! Want to learn about the Top 4 books I wish I had read many years ago that have shifted my view of healing and human relationships? Download the free guide today to find out - I bet some of them will surprise you! You can grab it at DrHondorp.com/Books Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship.

Episode 114. This week's episode is special. I was on the Mastermind Parenting podcast with Randi Rubenstein, my beloved parent coach recently. And the convo was so good, that we are replaying it here. So if you want to learn a little more about my story and how I got here, and hear me chat about it with one of the people who have been most influential in getting me here, this episode is for you! What to Expect in this Episode What to Expect in this episode: Some of my training and background and what I thought I was going to do for a career When I learned about IFS and what continues to keep me aligned and pursuing training in it How Randi has used it and is still using it, and a discussion about our understanding of it How our relationship is very "power with" dynamic and how parenting, and therapy can often be a "power over" model and how that can be less helpful and even harmful at times How watching Randi coach has shifted my view of how healing happens and my role as a therapist A story about shifting my relationship with one of my protector parts recently (I got teary sharing this one!) And more! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship.

Episode 113. This week's episode is all about my first 4 days of my Internal Family Systems Level 1 training! So if you're curious about what this IFS thing is, what the training is like, if it's worth the wait and the money, and what I'm learning, this episode is for you! What to Expect in this episode: My process with finding IFS and the long process of finally getting into a Level 1 training! The roller coaster that took me and on how I felt when I got it, versus how I feel now What the schedule of the training looked like The overall impact for me so far Main takeaways and lessons An example of one of my protector parts and how a 10 minute exercise with a new therapist learning IFS shifted things dramatically for me How you can begin to explore IFS and my recommendations after exploring it for almost 2 years And more! Other Mentors & Resources Mentioned Internal Family Systems (IFS) Institute Online Learning Options My very candid conversation called "What your therapist really thinks..." with Randi Rubenstein on the Mastermind Parenting podcast “I know I shouldn't focus on weight loss, but…” (Polarized Parts Alert!) Are you feeling unsure how to guide a client who wants to improve their relationship with food, but also wants to lose weight? We offer this super cool transformational exercise that can help your clients work to understand their polarized parts, build self-trust and listen to their intuition! This free PDF gives step-by-step instructions for doing one of my all-time favorite exercises (based on Internal Family Systems theory) to explore polarized parts. It will help clients get to know the parts of themselves without judgment, understand their intention, and create empowerment and harmony in their bodies. This is hands-down one of the best ways I've found to help support client autonomy and build self-trust at the same time. I can't wait to share it with you! Sign up today to use this innovative tool! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship.

Episode 112. It's official. It is here. This week's episode is all about the new podcast, The Innovative Therapist Podcast. This name and shifting of the podcast reflects my internal shifts, and who I am becoming and permission for all of us to think more creatively with regards to how we think about healing. In this episode, I will tell you what to expect in the new podcast. What will be different and what will be the same. I will also share how I am different, and some of the experiences and people that led to those shifts. I cannot wait to share it with you! What to Expect in this episode: My reason for changing the name of the podcast to The Innovative Therapist Podcast Who it is geared towards (FYI: it isn't just for therapists, but for anyone interested in thinking deeply and creatively about innovative approaches to healing) Why I am probably not going to be recording in the same space anymore, and why How the shifts you see in this podcast and other aspects of my business reflect internal shifts happening in me, and me learning to listen to and trust my body more and more (aka "walking the walk," if you will) What to expect in the future (e.g., more interviews with therapists who have paved their way and began doing meaningful work outside of the traditional 1 on 1 client work, among other creative guests and solo topics), more interviews with therapists and other professionals willing to challenge the status quo and question our traditional way of doing things (e.g., like my conversation with Dr. Adia Gooden a long time ago where we talked about sharing about ourselves as psychologists and how it's so different than what we learned to do in training) The book I'm reading right now, Decolonizing Therapy by Dr. Jennifer Mullan, and what I'm learning from it so far and how it's helping me think creatively about our role as helping professionals and some of the reasons the traditional therapy model never felt quite right to me (and how this book is adding to the learning I got from reading Decolonizing Wellness by Dalia Kinsey, Check out my conversation with Dalia Kinsey to explore this) How and why I'll be continuing to explore evidence-based approaches as well as other "alternative" healing modalities (with less official research backing, but equally as important explore with an open mind) What I'm thinking in terms of the motivation questions at the end, and the music for the podcast, and how I'm letting a lot of this evolve naturally (and how incredibly different that is from my prior approaches) Things coming up in my world that I'm excited about! The Innovative Therapist Retreat Oct 7-10th in Norton Shores, Michigan, Local Outdoor Therapist Meetups in West Michigan, sign up for updates here! DrHondorp.com/Meetups, and other community building online offerings coming soon! Other Mentors & Resources Mentioned Natalie Miller and The Mind Witchery podcast Randi Rubenstein and Mastermind Parenting What is The Innovative Therapist Podcast All About? The Innovative Therapist podcast is for you if you want honest conversations about what works and what doesn't for learning to trust our bodies and doing deeply healing work (for our clients and ourselves) It's about having honest conversations with therapists and other professionals about their journeys and how they learned to listen to themselves and pursue work that felt deeply meaningful and energizing to them “I know I shouldn't focus on weight loss, but…” (Polarized Parts Alert!) Are you feeling unsure how to guide a client who wants to improve their relationship with food, but also wants to lose weight? We offer this super cool transformational exercise that can help your clients work to understand their polarized parts, build self-trust and listen to their intuition! This free PDF gives step-by-step instructions for doing one of my all-time favorite exercises (based on Internal Family System...

Episode 111. I just loved this conversation with Natalie Deering. Natalie is the host of the podcast That Wellness Podcast which is a podcast she started in February 2023 and she's already had some incredible guests including Dr. Richards Schwartz, Dr. Frank Anderson, and many others. We had a great conversation about many things, but Natalie really does a great job breaking down 3 different ways to connect with Parts of you, and how to do it, with some tangible next steps and resources. I also found it fascinating the ways she's decided what to focus on in her business, so make sure you listen closely to that part. In this episode, we cover: Natalie's journey as a therapist, how she came to IFS, and her process with deciding to start her amazing podcast, That Wellness Podcast where she's invited guests like Dr. Richard Schwartz, Dr. Frank Anderson and many more! What she loves most about her podcast How she decided to have a podcast first, versus focusing on some of the other ideas she had for work outside of 1 to 1 therapy (e.g., retreats, workshops, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy) 3 different ways to connect with Parts with different types of meditation (including Natalie's free walking path meditation linked here) How she helped shift her therapy note writing from a should to a choose to “I know I shouldn't focus on weight loss, but…” (Polarized Parts Alert!) Are you feeling unsure how to guide a client who wants to improve their relationship with food, but also wants to lose weight? We offer this super cool transformational exercise that can help your clients work to understand their polarized parts, build self-trust and listen to their intuition! This free PDF gives step-by-step instructions for doing one of my all-time favorite exercises (based on Internal Family Systems theory) to explore polarized parts. It will help clients get to know the parts of themselves without judgment, understand their intention, and create empowerment and harmony in their bodies. This is hands-down one of the best ways I've found to help support client autonomy and build self-trust at the same time. I can't wait to share it with you! Sign up today to use this innovative tool! Who Is Natalie Deering? Natalie Deering is a licensed mental health provider at her private practice, ND Wellness Psychological Services in Fort Thomas KY. She specializes in working with people who have complex trauma, anxiety, and stress using internal family systems therapy (IFS). Natalie is the host of the IFS informed wellness podcast, That Wellness Podcast with Natalie Deering: Internal Family Systems with a Twist, where she interviews amazing people within the wellness field, IFS, and everything in between. Natalie helps clients build resilience by gaining access to their inner healing potential. She incorporates internal family systems therapy with meditation, skills building, and movement. Natalie also provides wellness workshops for businesses and their employees, guided meditations, and restorative yoga sessions. Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship.

Episode 110. On this week's podcast, we talk to Pooja Arora who you are going to absolutely love. (Peyton, my intern who edits the podcast says it was one of her favorite episodes ever). Even though I feel really excited about this episode, a part of me is definitely anxious. Why? Because on the podcast, we talk about a variety of methods of healing that aren't all unequivocally supported by rigorous scientific research. We talk on the episode about interventions like Emotional Freedom Technique (aka EFT Tapping), Neurolinguistic Programming, among other interventions, including my personal experience with trying some of these methods out. Basically, there is research supporting some of the methods above, but how well it works compared to other methods, and why it works is not totally clear. And the world I come from, the western psychological research world, tends to frown up such things... :) Navigating the nuance And although a part of me is worried about what you will think of me, the truth is I believe we need to have more conversations about methods outside the traditionally accepted, 100% unequivocally supported by randomized controlled trials, track. I love science and research. And, it has major flaws and limitations. The truth is, that traditional methods of healing leave many of us struggling, suffering, and sometimes spending years not getting the healing results we crave. The reality is I've always been open to other methods, even if I have many skeptical parts that come along for the ride. And as Pooja says in today's interview, those skeptical parts are allowed. They can join. And if you could get relief for a physical or emotional symptom that's been plaguing you for years in a few sessions, would your interest be piqued? I know mine was. The Power of Intuition Pooja Arora is someone that I was introduced to through my parent coach Randi Rubenstein. She did some work with some of the other moms in the group, indvidiually and in a group setting and people were getting great results. Some of the results she has gotten for others are outlined in our conversation and some in her bio in this week's ​blog post​. When we connected, she shared that she has dealt with a lot of her own body image concerns, and overcome a lot in that area, despite really persistent shaming and bullying throughout her life. At that point, I knew I had to have her on. She does her own work, has gotten great results for herself and others, and what I'm realizing more and more is that it's much more about the person delivering the healing modality, and your trust and belief in them, than even the method itself. This was truly a great conversation. So without further ado, here's what you can expect in my conversation with Pooja: How Pooja got relief from debilitating stomach pain and infection after trying all the things, in just 2 transformational sessions Her experiences growing up in India and her experiences with persistent bullying about her body and appearance, and the ways she has overcome this Pooja's MANY areas of specialty and 20 different certifications, including but not limited to Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Neurolinguistic Programming, Past Life Regression, Reiki, and many more The techniques that were most helpful to her in healing trauma and body shame What Emotional Freedom Tapping (EFT) was developed for (bringing relief to Vietnam veterans) What an EFT session could look like to help resolve body shame triggers How psychotherapy can be synergistic with EFT The story of how Pooja helped me to release a very difficult experience from when I was a young child, and how several months later my current reaction is very different to the same trigger And much more! “I know I shouldn't focus on weight loss, but…” (Polarized Parts Alert!) Are you feeling unsure how to guide a client who wants to improve their relati...

Episode 109. Kate block is a gem. She's a therapeutic bodyworker, yoga teacher, and fellow science lover. She's also someone who walks the walk, meaning she listens to her body and what doesn't feel right for her, and makes uncomfortable changes when necessary. Today you get to hear her story, and a whole bunch of wisdom, and I am confident you will enjoy it as much as I did. I am realizing more and more that something that really lights me up is finding innovative solutions for healing for both myself and my clients. Kate is a wonderful example of that because she's helped me get better in touch with my body and the lessons I've learned through somatic practices and this conversation apply to both therapists and our clients. Kate is intuitive, and truly has a gift for this work. Oh, and fun fact, without formally learning about Internal Family Systems (IFS) she basically does Parts with with her clients because it just made sense to her. Cool stuff, right? You're going to love this conversation, so let's dive in! We cover: What is bodywork and how does it differ from massage therapy? How Kate combines the wisdom of talk therapy and bodywork to help her clients reach the next level of peace and healing Why she reminds people that "your body is never trying to hurt you" and what she means by that Why the question, "What do you feel in your body?" often feels hard, and how to practice embodiment Kate's approach to meal prep (one of my favorite answers to the integrated motivation question) and how you can use this knowledge to change a "should" to a "choose to" for something you want to do, but don't really enjoy And much more! “I know I shouldn't focus on weight loss, but…” (Polarized Parts Alert!) Are you feeling unsure how to guide a client who wants to improve their relationship with food, but also wants to lose weight? We offer this super cool transformational exercise that can help your clients work to understand their polarized parts, build self-trust and listen to their intuition! This free PDF gives step-by-step instructions for doing one of my all-time favorite exercises (based on Internal Family Systems theory) to explore polarized parts. It will help clients get to know the parts of themselves without judgment, understand their intention, and create empowerment and harmony in their bodies. This is hands-down one of the best ways I've found to help support client autonomy and build self-trust at the same time. I can't wait to share it with you! Sign up today to use this innovative tool! Who is Kate Block? Kate Block is the founder of Little Dipper — a therapeutic bodywork and private yoga practice located in the Forest Hills area of Grand Rapids (thisislittledipper.com). Her work at Little Dipper is grounded in her belief that the most transformative massage therapy, bodywork, and movement isn't about “fixing” anything about you or your body, it's about fostering a deeper connection to your own body and heart. Kate loves helping her clients address physical and emotional issues in a way that focuses on root causes so that they feel and live better.  She is deeply passionate about the human body, health + wellness, and a well-marbled, medium-rare ribeye. Her post-grad biology background informs both her work as a licensed massage therapist and the approach she takes in leading her clients and students in yoga and movement. For Kate, therapeutic bodywork is all about learning how to show up, connect, and move (both literally and metaphorically) from a place of alignment with your deepest, truest self. Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship.

Episode 108. Hi all! This episode was a super fun one for me. Basically, you get to sit down and hear a conversation with my dear friend Dr. Allie Richards. In this conversation, our goal was to have an honest conversation about our career trajectories as psychologists and how we've both strayed fairly far from much of the training we got in how to conduct psychotherapy, and the truth about why. I laughed a lot in this conversation. Allie is incredibly smart, thoughtful, and honest in this conversation and I so appreciate her coming on the podcast and having this conversation with me. If you are a therapist or professional wanting to know more about the behind the scenes thoughts of psychologists or just a human wanting to understand two psychologists who are on the path of un-learning a lot of what we've been taught, then this conversation is for you! What to Expect in this Interview In this episode, we have an honest conversation about: Places we believe psychology training gets it right, and the strengths we got from our psychology, research-focused training Where the field is missing the mark, and how it has impacted us professionally and personally The pros and cons of diagnosis and symptom-focused treatment How and why we both got into Internal Family Systems and more somatic-focused psychotherapy approaches How the line that Allie heard over and over from clients "I intellectually get that I'm not a failure, but I don't feel it" influenced her personally and professionally The ways Internal Family Systems have allowed both Allie and Shawn to truly experience self-compassion for the first time (this point is a big one) How Internal Family Systems helps us shift the paradigm from control to freedom How Allie learned to enjoy cleaning her car, but no longer does so with a toothbrush And much more! “I know I shouldn't focus on weight loss, but…” (Polarized Parts Alert!) Are you feeling unsure how to guide a client who wants to improve their relationship with food, but also wants to lose weight? We offer this super cool transformational exercise that can help your clients work to understand their polarized parts, build self-trust and listen to their intuition! This free PDF gives step-by-step instructions for doing one of my all-time favorite exercises (based on Internal Family Systems theory) to explore polarized parts. It will help clients get to know the parts of themselves without judgment, understand their intention, and create empowerment and harmony in their bodies. This is hands-down one of the best ways I've found to help support client autonomy and build self-trust at the same time. I can't wait to share it with you! Sign up today to use this innovative tool! Disclaimer: This blog and podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual professional advice or treatment, including medical or mental health advice. It does not constitute a provider-patient relationship.

Episode 107. Hey everyone! I just did something kinda painful. I went back to this very large google document where I've been journaling and documenting my thoughts since I started my business in Jan 2021. In August 2021, my grandpa had just died. I was super lucky to know all 4 of my grandparents for many years, but my grandpa was the last of the 4. I was deep in grief and trying to get my work life under control. (My overworking part was QUITE active during that first year of business). I had written: Remember that you are in this for the long haul. It isn't a race. You MUST prioritize your health, no one else is going to do it for you. You cannot get this time back. I then went on to create a schedule and a plan of when I was "allowed to work." With lots of quite rules and parameters (many of which I didn't stick to). I wish I could go back to myself at that time and teach myself what I know now. What I Understand Now I now understand that parts of me were fighting with each other. There was a part of me that deeply understood I needed to slow down, that I needed to create time and space to grieve and heal from that loss. This part knew I deserved this, and wanted to protect me from burnout, further worsening health concerns, etc. It wanted to be proactive and for me to be well. There was also my "doing" or "overworking" part that has for so many years, coped with pain and fear by focusing on what I can control, by applying myself, creating systems, and working harder. This part is super good at "working hard now, see the gains later" (which is essentially what the online marketing world promises and I hate to admit it but I got majorly sucked in). Similar to the part above, this part is also all about being proactive and helping me "be well" in the future, because I have created a business I love that also offers me time and freedom to be with my family when I want to. The Problem Was... The problem? I didn't see the positive intention behind the 2nd part of me (or how it was getting tricked by master marketers telling me if I "just follow these steps, I will eventually succeed!". I had so much shame about this part of me, and yet, I couldn't stop overworking. It didn't feel safe. So I tried methods to tamp down that part, putting parameters and trying to "control it." Spoiler alert: Control as a strategy rarely works long-term. The reality is, both of these parts of me had great intentions for me, and both were trying to protect me. And what was the "doing" part's most important goal? It was trying to protect me from feelings of worthlessness. Trying to help me "achieve" enough so I would feel worthy of the love of my family. Ironic, right? Because it often takes me away from them, both physically (because I'm off working) and emotionally (because I'm in my head, strategizing my next business move). Where I'm At Now Anyways, all this is to say, life is feeling a whole heckuva lot better lately. Is it perfect? Do these parts of me never get polarized and fight anymore? Nope. Just recently I noticed that similar polarization. But now I have MUCH more compassion for myself, and I navigate through it all with much more ease. And I'm actively working on those parts of me that have felt unworthy (with help), because really, that's where the magic is. :) An honest conversation about ... If you enjoyed this story, you will likely enjoy this week's podcast episode, which is a conversation with my wonderful intern Peyton all about my journey thus far as an entreprenuer. The ups, the downs, and what's been so helpful to me in creating more of a sense of calm and clarity than I've ever felt as I wrap up year 3. We cover a LOT, including: Where I was in year 1 of the business, and where I'm at now Some of the lessons I've learned the hard way, especially about online marketing and online courses (and how this applies to weight loss and die...

Episode 106. Hey everyone! In this interview with Dr. Cortney Warren we cover the gamut of topics. Dr. Warren has an incredible amount of personal and professional wisdom to share with us, and to be honest, I had a hard time containing my excitement and making sure I asked everything I wanted to. She shares such wisdom about various ways our cultural context impacts the lies we tell ourselves, and this is truly at the core of doing the deeper work we typically need to do to live a life that feels fulfilling and right for us. We cover the topic of love addiction, which is relatively new to me and fascinating, both because it can help so many people understand what is a common experience and struggle for many people, and also because it has parallels and implications for the controversial topic of food addiction. She gives tangible advice on how to improve self-esteem, and be onto yourself when you start to lie to yourself. This is a great interview with lots of takeaways, can't wait for you to listen in! Who is Dr. Cortney Warren? Dr. Cortney S. Warren is a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist and Adjunct Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Having won numerous professional awards for her research, Cortney is an expert on addictions, self-deception, romantic relationships, eating pathology, and the practice of psychotherapy from a cross-cultural perspective. Her newest work is a self-help book that explores breakups through an addictive framework called Letting Go of Your Ex: CBT Skills to Heal the Pain of a Breakup and Overcome Love Addiction (2023). What to Expect in this Interview In this captivating conversation, we cover:

Episode 105. Hey there, wonderful listeners! I'm so excited to be back with you today for this great conversation with Dr. Dina Goldstein Silverman. This episode is packed with insights that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to embrace positive shifts in your approach to health. And if you're anything like me, you'll feel optimistic that we are in fact making shifts in how we view bodies and health. Dr. Goldstein Silverman's Journey: A Personal Path to Professional Passion In this illuminating discussion, we uncover Dr. Goldstein Silverman's personal journey with weight and its impact on shaping her professional endeavors. Her unique perspective, informed by personal experience, adds depth and authenticity to her work, making it relatable to many. Health at Every Size: A Paradigm That Resonates Discover how Dr. Goldstein Silverman encountered the Health at Every Size (HAES) movement and the initial impressions it left on her. Her insights shed light on the power of reshaping our perceptions and cultivating a more inclusive and compassionate approach to health. Bridging Health and Empowerment: Merging HAES with Obesity Management Explore the exciting possibilities of merging the Health at Every Size movement with the management of obesity. Dr. Goldstein Silverman provides insights into how these seemingly distinct approaches can coexist harmoniously, fostering empowerment while addressing health concerns. Evolving Perspectives: Shifting the Narrative With her exposure to physicians, Dr. Goldstein Silverman's view on positive shifts in weight and health perceptions becomes especially intriguing. Discover her perspective on whether we are truly making progress in reshaping these narratives, and how this impacts individuals' well-being. Navigating Nuanced Topics: Key Takeaways As we delve into nuanced topics, Dr. Goldstein Silverman offers key takeaways that provide clarity and understanding. Whether you're new to these concepts or seeking to deepen your knowledge, these insights will serve as a guiding light. Medications and Experiences: GLP-1 Agonists Explore Dr. Goldstein Silverman's thoughts on using GLP-1 agonist medications for weight loss and gain insights into what her patients are sharing about their experiences. This open and informative discussion sheds light on a complex area of health management. Embracing Well-Being: Finding Joy in Movement and Care Discover Dr. Goldstein Silverman's personal journey to embracing exercise as "free dopamine" and her strategies for overcoming the challenges of regular doctor's appointments. Her approach to self-care is bound to inspire you to embark on your own journey of wellness. After this invigorating conversation, you'll walk away with newfound insights and a sense of empowerment to make positive shifts in your approach to health and well-being. Dr. Dina Goldstein Silverman's expertise and relatable journey will leave you motivated and ready to take charge of your holistic health. Are you ready to expand your horizons and tap into a wealth of knowledge? Join us in this transformative episode, where we explore the fusion of empowerment and health in a way that resonates with everyone. Stay curious, stay empowered, and let's keep on our path to holistic well-being! With enthusiasm and gratitude, Shawn What to Expect in this Interview In this captivating conversation, we cover:

Episode 104. Embracing The Power of Doing Nothing. Welcome back to the Motivation Made Easy podcast! I'm thrilled to have Taylor joining me once again on today's episode where we take a moment to address the reason behind our podcast's short pause. (See you very soon on November 27th!). This pause feels sort of like the end of a very long "season 2", as we've taken a break last summer in conclusion of "season 1"; however, we will talk about the difference between these two breaks. Also, we'll delve into why breaks are important for wellness, the physical sensations, growing from the downtime, using IFS to tap into exploring our overworking parts, what you as listeners can do in the meantime, and much more! The Importance of Rest for Wellness As professionals, and frankly as humans, play a significant role in influencing and guiding others. The culture of productivity and constant doing can lead us to become caught up in a cycle of continuous work, neglecting our own well-being. This can ultimately compromise our ability to effectively serve and support others. So, by taking breaks and embracing rest, we feel more creative, less "output" focused, and more able to make mindful decisions that lead to sustainable change. "Whispers" of the Body We talk in this episode about the concept of "body whispers," the subtle physical sensations that tell us to what our body wants to do, including rest. These whispers provide insights that often get drowned out by the noise of daily life. I share my personal experience with tuning into these whispers and how it's something I'm continually working on. IFS: Unveiling Overworking Parts We explore the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model as a tool to understand and navigate our overworking parts. IFS can also aid in exploring our own individual limits for dedicating time to work and life. Maximizing the Pause: What Listeners Can Do During this podcast break, we invite our listeners to embark on their own journeys of exploring what rest means for you. Shawn offers actionable steps, from revisiting favorite episodes to finding joy in your individualistic activities. Embrace those activities that spark joy, whether it's engaging in mindful practices or stepping out of your comfort zone. Take a moment to emphasize that doing nothing isn't necessarily passive, we recognize that rest can manifest in diverse forms. What's Next: Behind the Scenes During our pause, we're strategically planning for the future. While we catch up on scheduled episodes, we're working towards an efficient schedule. look out for our upcoming exciting episodes featuring Dr. Dina Goldstein Silverman, Dr. Allyn Richards, Dr. Cortney Warren, and more! Thank you for joining us on this episode and staying with us on their journey. Be sure to subscribe and stay tuned for our return in November! For more updates and resources, visit our website at DrShawnhondorp.com. Your thoughts and questions are always welcome; reach out to us at info@drshawnhondorp.com. Until next time, embrace the power of doing nothing. With warmth and anticipation, Dr. Shawn Hondorp What to Expect in this Episode In this discussion, we cover:

Episode 103. Hey there, wonderful listeners! Dr. Shawn Hondorp here, and today, I am looking forward to sharing an important episode with you. In this episode, we're diving into the essential topics of inclusivity and emotional safety in the wellness space. Inclusivity and Emotional Safety: A Personal Reflection As a cis-gender white woman with various privileges, I come to understand more and more all the time the essential importance of addressing topics related to race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, weight/body size, ability, and more in the wellness space. Staying silent about these matters serves no one, and I believe that sharing my imperfect process can help foster a more inclusive environment. Creating spaces that promote emotional safety and inclusivity is crucial for long-term sustainable change and a sense of belonging. Without these elements, true well-being is very difficult to achieve, if not impossible. Why Inclusivity Matters for Wellness Professionals As wellness professionals, we play a significant role in influencing others, including our clients, communities, and families. By learning about and promoting inclusivity, we can create a more equitable and empathetic world, and by addressing emotional safety, we can ensure that everyone feels welcome and valued in the wellness space. Learning and Growing in Inclusivity In this episode, I aim to share my journey of learning and growing in this area and the steps I take to hold myself accountable. The path to inclusivity is an ongoing process that involves continuous education, self-reflection, and open dialogue. By engaging in these efforts, we can work towards a more inclusive and diverse wellness community. Resources for Further Learning If you're interested in exploring these topics further, here are some resources that have been instrumental in my own journey:

Episode 102. In a world that is gradually becoming more open and accepting, there are still many areas where we have a long way to go when it comes to inclusivity and acceptance. In the world of running, Coach Sammie B stands out as a beacon of hope, focusing on inclusivity and creating safe spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community. Her dedication to spreading awareness about cycle syncing and inclusivity has inspired many to live their truth and embrace their authentic selves. In this episode of the Motivation Made Easy: Body Respect, True Health, podcast, Coach Sammie shares her incredible journey, and I have no doubt it will leave a lasting impact. A Genuine and Inspirational Journey From the moment you meet Coach Sammie, you are immediately drawn to her genuine and inspirational nature. Her warmth is infectious, making it easy to see why she has touched the lives of so many individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community. Sammie's journey in the world of running started like many others – a passion for fitness and health. However, her experiences as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community led her to realize the profound need for inclusivity and safe spaces within the running community to ensure more people could access this resource. Inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ Community In a world where certain spaces can be unwelcoming, Coach Sammie decided to be the change she wanted to see. She embarked on a mission to create an inclusive environment within the running community, specifically speaking to the LGBTQIA+ community and to women. Through her coaching, Sammie has worked to ensure that every individual, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, feels supported and encouraged in their running journey. Cycle Syncing: A Unique Approach One aspect of Coach Sammie's coaching that sets her apart is her emphasis on cycle syncing. Understanding that individuals have different energy levels and moods throughout their menstrual cycles, she tailors training plans to accommodate these natural fluctuations. By acknowledging and working with the body's natural rhythm, Sammie helps her athletes achieve better results while fostering a deeper connection to their bodies and overall well-being. Living Authentically: A Powerful Message As an openly queer coach, Sammie has faced her fair share of challenges. However, instead of hiding her true self, she chose to live authentically and unapologetically. Her openness has become a source of inspiration for those struggling with their own identities. Sammie's courage to embrace her true self resonates deeply with individuals who may be on a similar journey. Her story reminds us all that living authentically is not just liberating, but it also empowers others to do the same. A Message of Healing and Allyship Coach Sammie's passion for inclusivity extends beyond the LGBTQIA+ community. She firmly believes that running and community can provide healing for individuals struggling with their mental health or those who simply seek a sense of belonging. Her compassionate approach to coaching creates an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. For allies, she offers guidance on how they can play an active role in supporting marginalized communities and fostering inclusivity within the running world. In Summary... Coach Sammie's podcast episode is a testament to the power of authenticity, inclusivity, and the impact one person can have on the lives of many. Her commitment to creating a safe and accepting space for the LGBTQIA+ community, embracing cycle syncing, and encouraging others to live their truth is both admirable and inspirational. Whether you're a runner, an ally, or someone struggling to find their authentic self, this episode is a must-listen. Through her story, Coach Sammie reminds us that, together, we can build a more inclusive and compassionate world – one step at a time. What to Expect in this Interview In this interview,

Episode 101. Hey there, wonderful listeners! Dr. Shawn Hondorp here, and today, I am buzzing with excitement to share a truly enlightening episode with you. We're diving into the fascinating world of gut health, a topic that's been making waves lately but can also feel a bit overwhelming. Luckily, I had the pleasure of chatting with the brilliant Dr. Heather Finley, an expert in clinical nutrition with a wealth of experience in healing longstanding gut issues. Trust me when I say, she's the perfect guide to help us navigate through the noise and make sense of it all. Dr. Finley's calm and easy-to-understand approach will leave you feeling confident and empowered – not only for your own gut health but also for supporting your clients on their healing journey. Who is Dr. Heather Finley? Dr. Heather Finley is a registered dietitian who earned her doctorate in clinical nutrition from Maryland University of Integrative Health. Heather struggled with her own digestive issues for nearly 20 years and understands first hand the impact that nutrition, lifestyle, and mindset have on digestive health. Gut health shouldn't be restrictive, stressful, and all-consuming. That's why she developed a simple way for individuals to reduce digestive symptoms and add foods back into their diet. Heather now helps those struggling with bloating, constipation, and IBS find relief from their symptoms and feel excited about food again! Her work has been featured on Good Morning Texas and in Mind Body Green, Yahoo! Life, and Very Well Health. What to Expect in this Interview In this captivating conversation, we uncover some exciting insights: