Wholey Schmidt

Follow Wholey Schmidt
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

Welcome to Wholey Schmidt! A new kind of podcast where we use storytelling as a vehicle for self-actualization and reflection. This season, our host, Sarah Schmidt– walks us through the lessons and resilience found during her first 52 years on this planet. We cover some of the most difficult and complex parts of the human experience… dealing with a diagnosis, marrying a woman, adopting children, navigating divorce, co-parenting, marrying a man, having a biological child later in life, grieving a parent... Moments that will stop and make you say, Wholey Schmidt.

Sarah Schmidt


    • May 21, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 48m AVG DURATION
    • 38 EPISODES


    Search for episodes from Wholey Schmidt with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Wholey Schmidt

    Ep. 33: Meeting the Real You: Embracing Your Truth & Taking Up Space – Season 2 Finale

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2025 59:17


    In this heartfelt season finale of Wholey Schmidt, Jessica and Grace take a moment to reflect on the deep transformation they've experienced since Season 1. What began as a journey into embodiment has evolved into something even more powerful: a true connection with their most authentic selves.In this episode, we explore:

    Ep. 32: How Community Impacts Stress, Happiness, and Health

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 60:41


    In the final installment of our Stress Kit series, we dive into perhaps the most vital and often overlooked pillar of well-being: community. Join Grace, Jess, and Sarah as they unpack the deep impact our relationships and social circles have on our happiness, resilience, and overall mental health.Together, they explore:The reality of loneliness in a hyperconnected worldWhat it means to truly belong — and how to find aligned, nourishing friendshipsLetting go of relationships that no longer serve usHow our connections evolve and deepen with ageWhether solitude is a state of being or just a state of mindThe double-edged sword of technology and social media in building communityWe also reflect on our tribal roots and how, even in today's remote-working, digitally-driven culture, we are still wired to thrive in connection with others.This heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation might just inspire you to text a friend, schedule a coffee date, or take a long walk with someone you love. We're on TikTok!Got questions about wellness, relationships, or parenting—or just need real, honest advice? Meet Sarah: a mom, psychologist, and certified health coach who's been through it all and gets it. Follow for guidance from someone who truly gets life. Follow along: @asksarahschmidt 

    p. 31: How Are You Building Your Legacy? Featuring Deval Patrick

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 54:15


    Have you ever thought about your personal legacy—your unique contribution to the world—and how it might inspire connection and community? In this powerful episode of Wholey Schmidt, we're joined by my dear friend, Deval Patrick. I first met Deval back in 2008 during his run for governor of Massachusetts, and since then, he's continued to dedicate his life to justice, equity, and the power of community.We explore what truly unites us as humans and why embracing contrast and complexity is essential for individual and collective growth. Deval offers wisdom on moving beyond binary thinking and honoring the unique mosaic of our lived experiences.Key Topics:Why your personal legacy matters—and how it can foster communityDeval's lifelong work in justice, equity, and public serviceThe importance of embracing contrast and complexity in a divided worldBreaking out of binary systems of belief and identityReconciling love for country with a truthful understanding of its history “One of the false choices that we are offered is that we need to hide from our history to love our country.” – Deval Patrick Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that invites you to step into your full self, embrace your contradictions, and help shape a more honest, inclusive future for all. Follow Deval: Instagram: @devalpatrick 

    Ep. 30: How Exercise Relieves Stress: The Power of Movement for Mental Health

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2025 69:21


    In this energizing episode of Wholey Schmidt, Sarah is joined by her powerhouse teammates Grace and Jessica for a candid, heartfelt conversation on movement, self-confidence, and how they each navigate their unique wellness journeys.Whether you're lifting weights, doing Pilates, or dancing in your living room, this episode is a reminder that there's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to feeling good in your body.In this episode, you'll hear about:Sarah's approach to strength training in her 50s and how it's helped her feel strong and empoweredGrace's love for Pilates, shaped by her experience in teacher trainingJessica's playful and curious approach to home workouts and movement that feels joyfulHow each of them uses movement to manage stress and reconnect with their bodiesHonest reflections on body image and the importance of cultivating self-confidenceWhat happens when routines get too rigid—and how to bring flexibility and self-compassion back inSimple ways to build sustainable, healthy habits—starting one day at a timeWhether you're just starting your fitness journey or looking to refresh your routine, this conversation offers inspiration to move in ways that honor your body, your life, and your joy.We're on TikTok!Got questions about wellness, relationships, or parenting—or just need real, honest advice? Meet Sarah: a mom, psychologist, and certified health coach who's been through it all and gets it. Follow for guidance from someone who truly gets life. Follow along: @asksarahschmidt

    Ep. 29: How a Morning Walk Might Change your Life with Libby Delana

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 57:32


    In this soul-stirring episode of Wholey Schmidt, we're joined by Libby Delana—author, creative force, and co-host of This Morning Walk. Libby has taken a walk every single day for the past 13 years, and her simple yet profound practice is a reminder of the quiet power of reconnecting with nature, self, and the present moment.We talk about the magic of walking, the transformational effects of consistency, and the surprising beauty of discomfort—yes, including cold plunges! Together, we explore how getting comfortable with the uncomfortable can unlock deeper authenticity, resilience, and joy.From self-care to aging with grace, from grounding routines to finding your truest self—this episode is a gentle but powerful invitation to slow down, pay attention, and walk your way back home. Topics We Cover:The life-changing power of a daily walkCold plunging and leaning into discomfortAuthenticity and the art of showing up as you areSelf-care as a practice, not a luxuryThe beauty of aging and deepening into selfWhy consistency is more sacred than perfection Follow LibbyFollow Libby on Instagram: @parkhereCheck out This Morning Walk PodcastPre-order Libby's Book: Cold Joy - Launching Oct 2025Learn more: thismorningwalk.com ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 28: How the Way You Eat Impacts Your Stress: Building a Better Stress Kit w/ Katie McManigal

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2025 62:22


    In this powerful episode, Sarah sits down with her own personal health practitioner, Katie McManigal – a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in functional and regenerative medicine. Katie shares her deeply personal story of battling unexplained health symptoms and how it led her to discover the healing power of functional medicine.Together, Sarah and Katie dive into Sarah's own transformation journey – from chronic symptoms to thriving health – and discuss how she maintains her wellness today through nutrition, lifestyle, and personalized care.Katie's unique approach blends science, intuition, and experience, crafting tailored health plans that empower individuals to reclaim their energy, balance, and vitality. Whether you're dealing with chronic illness or simply seeking to optimize your well-being, this episode is full of insight, inspiration, and practical tools for taking charge of your health.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Katie's personal health journey and how it shaped her approach to medicineThe principles of functional and regenerative medicineHow personalized care plans can address root causes of illnessSarah's health transformation story and what she does to stay wellTips for maintaining long-term health and vitality Follow Katie:Follow on InstagramExplore her website ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 27: Turning Life's Struggles into Strength with Emily Hayden

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 54:02


    Today, we chat with Emily Hayden, who reminds us that our dream life lies on the other side of our fear. She emphasizes that we are the only ones who can decide to take a stand for what we want and shift from a victim mindset to an empowered one. Emily is an IFBB Pro, global speaker, coach, and founder of the Evolve with Emily podcast.We discuss mindset, overcoming painful situations, moving into joy, our workout routines, self-discipline, self-care, and much more.About Emily“I've been to and through the lowest of lows. The ones you don't think you'll make it out of. I understand pain & suffering, and here's what I can share about that… When it feels endless, I'm here to tell you that the message you're getting doesn't mean to literally end your life. You're interpreting it wrong. It means everything about your life must change. And it has to change now. Take the suffering you feel and channel it into a ferocious energy to create drastic change. Take all of the energy you've been giving to everything & everyone else and pour 100% of it into yourself and watch your world change into one you actually want to be in. Your pain is an opportunity for healing, learning, & evolving. Don't quit before you discover the life you actually came here to live.”– Emily Hayden Follow EmilyFollow on InstagramExplore her offerings ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 26 - How to Find Your Voice & Financial Freedom After Divorce with Amber Shaw

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2025 53:45


    In this episode, we sit down with the incredible Amber Shaw, a powerhouse on a mission to help women create their own financial security and confidence—especially after divorce. Amber's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and taking charge of her future. She shares her journey of starting over at 40, building two six-figure businesses from the ground up, and finding a renewed sense of purpose along the way.Amber opens up about:How starting a business gave her back her confidence, purpose, and power.The challenges and triumphs of rebuilding after divorce.The importance of financial independence for women.Balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood.Why giving others a voice is her greatest fulfillment.Amber's story is raw, inspiring, and packed with wisdom for any woman looking to reclaim her power. Whether you're navigating life post-divorce, thinking about starting a business, or just in need of a confidence boost—this episode is for you.Tune in and get ready to be inspired! Follow AmberFollow on InstagramExplore her website ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 25: How To Have Better Relationships With Remi Stern

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 51:52


    Today, Sarah and Remi dive into conversations about marriage, family, societal norms, and what it means to live life on their own terms. As a new mom, Remi shares how she balances her passions, business, and interests while meeting the needs of her family. We explore all things mindset and personal growth.Remi is the host of the podcast You're Allowed to Hate Your Husband—a show that reminds us we're only human, navigating relationship challenges and growth at every turn. As a life coach, she embraces her own “hero's journey” and empowers others to walk their path with strength.Follow RemiFollow on instagramExplore her website ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 24: How to Breathe with Megan Krouse

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2025 61:10


    How to Breathe for Stress Relief & Inner Peace | Breathwork with Megan Krouse.Today, we're exploring one of the most powerful pillars of the Stress Kit—breathing. Breath is literally life, and learning to harness it can transform our well-being.Our guest is Megan Krouse, a yoga and breathwork instructor, who dives into how breath connects us to self-awareness, presence, and inner peace. When was the last time you took a deep breath and truly anchored into the present? Breath isn't just a relaxing practice—it's essential for regulating our nervous system and managing stress. Megan shares valuable insights and practical tips to help us deepen our relationship with our breath.Follow Megan here and explore her website here. ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 23: How To Have Deep Conversations With Your Parents – Getting Real With Barbara Schmidt

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 49:48


    One of my favorite moments from last season was sharing my mom, Barbara, with our audience. Having the opportunity to engage in real, thoughtful, and meaningful conversations with our parents is one of the most powerful experiences we can have.Today, we talk about our bond, the importance of friendship in our lives, aging, invisibility, spirituality, death – and so much more. What makes my mom truly special is that she's never afraid to address the tough topics. I'm incredibly grateful for the open relationship we have, where we can dive deep into our hearts and minds, together.I encourage everyone listening to speak the hard truths, to share the loving words – while you still can. What do you want to say before it's too late? ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 22: How Spirituality Shapes Us with Jasmine Nnenna

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2025 75:58


    Today, Jasmine Nnenna and I sit down to discuss all things spirituality. We dive into our belief systems, exploring our connection with God and the universe, and how that shapes our relationships with the world and the people around us. We reflect on how these beliefs influence us as parents and partners. We also explore the idea that we are spiritual beings, touching on our religious upbringings and our connection to something greater.@JasmineNenna@Erahsociety ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 21: Why Optimizing Your Sleep Is the Key to Managing Stress – Stress Kit Pillar #2: Sleep

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2025 57:37


    Sarah's Sleep EssentialsAndrew Huberman's episode on SleepConsistent sleep time & circadian rhythm - Diary of a CEO Kristen Holmes ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 20: I Just Got Divorced...Here Are the Top Things I've Learned About Relationships

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2025 57:21


    Relationships are one of the most powerful catalysts for personal growth—sometimes, that means outgrowing what once brought you together. In today's episode, I open up about my second divorce, reframing “failure” as growth and transformation, and trusting that what blesses one blesses all. Today I am joined by Grace Abbott and Jessica Gill, as we break down the meaning behind my divorce on the day it was finalized. I share the lessons I've learned about relationships—both with myself and others—while redefining connection and exploring how romantic relationships shape and shift our paths. As I navigate grief, transition, co-parenting, and transformation, I find myself more present and grounded in each moment. If you or someone you know is going through a divorce, know that you're not alone—I'm walking this journey with you.   ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 19: How to Transform your Health with Dr. Amy Shah, MD

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2025 67:24


    Follow Dr. Amy Shah here and explore her website here. ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 18: How Your Mindset Is Impacting Your Stress: Stress Kit Pillar #1 - Think

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2025 58:04


    Links from the EpisodeHuberman Podcast Episode on Hard WorkDr. Gabrielle LyonFour Agreements by Don Miguel RuizThe Untethered Soul by Michael Singer ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 17: The 2025 Astrological Forecast with Asya Rose

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2025 69:01


    Connect with Asya on her Website or Instagram. ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 16: Welcome to Season 2 - Life Just Keeps Getting Better - Solo with Sarah

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 25:00


    I'm so excited to welcome you back for Season 2! A lot has changed since I launched Episode 1 of this podcast early last year – I've transformed into someone I feel really proud of, and at 52, I've never felt better. Last season, I shared some of my Wholey Schmidt moments from the past – and this season, I'm sharing who I am today. I am embracing the magic and expansion that come with getting older. I'm here to prove that life doesn't decline with age – it only gets better. On Wholey Schmidt, we'll dive into my curiosities around wellness and longevity, and I'll share vulnerable, real conversations with people I love and admire. Let's celebrate growth, transformation, and the beauty of this stage of life together.   ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 15: We Launched a Podcast & Everything Changed

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2024 64:26


    We can't believe we're at the close of Season 1! Wholey Schmidt… what an amazing journey it's been – from conception to launch and now here. It's incredible to look back and reflect on what we thought this podcast was and could be, and compare it to the reality of what unfolded and the responses we received. And that's a lesson for all areas of life… have an intention, go for it, but don't be too married to the outcome… we promise something better than you could ever imagine is probably unfolding. Team members Jessica Gill and Grace Abbott join Sarah to reflect on this journey, from the standpoint of creation and marketing to the personal transformation they experienced as well. They talk about what it means to find your voice, your presence, your confidence – and letting go of any limitations that are keeping you from experiencing the fullness of what the universe wants to give you. And don't worry, we'll be back for another season! We are just getting started.  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 14: Rediscovering Purpose After 50

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2024 20:08


    When Sarah first recorded this episode, late last year, she thought she had really found her purpose. But looking back now, she realizes the best is yet to come. Sarah shares how she found her way back to herself—throughout this podcast and through the many changes she's experienced in the last few months. She shares how she's made magic out of the hard moments and encourages you to go inward and see how you can do the same. It's never too late to find your purpose—to find yourself. You can always start anew, no matter what age or life stage you are in. As Season 1 comes to a close, we ask you to reflect on your life—what is asking for your attention, and what is ready for transformation? Sarah is on this journey with you, and together we can find a deeper sense of presence and meaning.  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 13: Life After Death… a Conversation With Sarah & Her Mom, Barbara Schmidt

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2024 53:24


    We're joined again by Sarah's mom, Barbara– and today the two reflect on the passing of Sarah's dad and what it's like to reclaim identity again after losing a loved one. The two discuss how to cope with losing a loved one, and how the relationship with him has continued to bloom, even in his passing. Barbara shares her sense of spirituality and her perspective on death, now that she's in her 80s. We encourage you to connect with your loved ones for a meaningful conversation after listening to this episode. We get so caught up in the achievement of everyday, we forget what pearls of wisdom might be sitting right in front of us – in the hearts of a parent or grandparent.   ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep 12: Grief: When a Loved One Dies

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2024 19:11


    This week, Sarah opens up about her father's life, death, and their evolving relationship since his passing seven years ago. Raised in a small town within a devout Catholic family, her father wrestled with feelings of inadequacy despite outward successes and a wide circle of friends, keeping his deepest emotions hidden. Sarah found a deep connection with him in her 30s through collaborative projects, transitioning their relationship from parent-child to a more equal footing. While she admired his talents, she also witnessed his harsh self-criticism, which was difficult to reconcile with his outward achievements. In the months before his passing, Sarah observed her father weighed down by feelings of shame rooted in his upbringing and environment. This episode of Wholey Schmidt is a poignant exploration of familial bonds, vulnerability, and the healing power of shared experiences, inviting listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the complexities that shape them.  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Fertility and Pregnancy at 44

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2024 29:04


    Sarah has been a mother in so many capacities – but wasn't a biological mom until the age of 44! Living in a culture that puts a timebox on women's fertility window, this is deeply expansive episode shares the story of someone who conceived later in life against the odds. Though Sarah did not expect to bring another child into the world, she shares what it feels like to fall in love and open her heart to expanding her family once again. We cover IVF, fertility treatments, family expansion, partnership, embodiment, and regulating your emotions during your pregnancy journey.  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Wholey Schmidt Moment 2: Transforming Darkness Into Light With Katie Wee

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2024 51:12


    TRIGGER WARNING: A conversation around sexual abuse with a minor is discussed during these time stamps 6:45 - 9:15 and 33:30 - 35:20.  Please feel free to skip if that is too triggering to listen to.  Katie WeeFollow Katie on Instagram here: @itskatieweeWork with Katie and learn more about her offerings here. ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 10: Peter Crone: What Does Freedom Really Mean? A Conversation With the Mind Architect

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2024 62:44


    What does freedom mean? Today we're diving in with renowned coach and thought leader, Peter Crone. Peter specializes in revealing the limiting beliefs and subconscious narratives that dictate and shape behavior, health, relationships, and performance. In true Wholey Schmidt fashion, Peter cracks open a door to his inner world and lets us peek inside. He shares how he found his own path to freedom, and how we might find ours. Are you really controlling? Or do you just lack trust? That is the first thing Peter asked me – and these are the kind of reframes Peter provides to completely unlock the mind. Join his freedom community here: www.petercrone.com  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 10: A Wholey Schmidt Moment: Cheyenne on Learning to Live After Health Complications

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2024 43:29


    How do you reclaim your body, your identity, and your destiny after a major health complication? Today, we are joined by Wholey Schmidt team member, Cheyenne, to share one of her “Wholey Schmidt” moments. Learn how she found resilience in the wake of a major life challenge. Have your own Wholey Schmidt moment you'd like to share? Submit it here for a chance to be featured on the podcast.   ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 9: Body Image – How Do We Learn to Love Ourselves?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2024 39:24


    Body image is a common struggle for most people, especially women. And although it's been a challenging journey for me, I feel like I'm finally starting to love and accept myself. Being a cancer survivor and dealing with such significant physical trauma made it really hard for me to feel safe and comfortable in my own skin. But over the last few years, I've focused on the mind-body connection, and for the first time, I feel truly embodied and present in my life. This has allowed me to start feeling my feelings, show up better for people, and find more joy and pleasure every day. So many of us think that when we finally reach a certain weight or change something about our physical selves, we'll finally be happy, but happiness is an inside job. In today's episode, I share how I've shifted out of self-judgment and into self-love. Taking care of yourself and your health is a privilege, not a punishment. You deserve it because you are worthy of love, not because you need to change. If you or someone you know struggles with body image, please listen to and share today's episode.  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 8: Reflections on Adoption & Creating a Family: A Conversation With Robert & Brian

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2024 59:58


    Adoption is a path that many take to create their family, but where does one begin the process? In this episode, I'm joined by my dear friends Robert and Brian, whom I connected with when I adopted my first child 18 years ago. We bonded over our first adoptions and have supported each other as we navigated the complex landscape of parenting together. We discuss how we decided to adopt, what the process was like, the emotions of meeting our children for the first time, growing as parents, navigating birth-parent dynamics, and much more. If you or someone you know is considering adoption or going through this process, this episode is a must-listen.  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 7: What Is Motherhood? From Legal Guardianship, and Adoption to Natural Birth

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2024 26:28


    In this episode, I delve into the multifaceted journey of motherhood and what it means to me. With five incredible children who have entered my life in unique ways, I've had the privilege of experiencing motherhood from various perspectives. From becoming a legal guardian to navigating the complexities of adoption, to embracing the role of a stepmother, and finally, giving birth to my biological child at 44, each experience has enriched my understanding of what it means to mother and be mothered. Join me as I invite you to reflect on the different mothering roles in your life and the boundless possibilities within the realm of motherhood.  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep 6: Coming Out: Catholic in Wisconsin in 1996 - A Conversation With Sarah & Her Mom, Barbara

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2024 41:47


    I don't like to label myself and wasn't someone who thought much about my sexual orientation– throughout my life, I have just loved who I loved. But when I fell in love with a woman, and it was clear that she was my life partner– I, like all gay people, was faced with the challenge of coming out and sharing that news with my family. To set the stage, it was 1996 in the Midwest, and if you've listened to previous episodes, you know that my mom was a former nun. Gay marriage wasn't legal yet, and to put things into perspective, Ellen hadn't even come out publicly yet! Today I sit down with my mom, Barbara (again! Welcome back, Mom!), and we talk about how she felt when I came out. The way she responded and treated me and my wife was beyond any response I could have imagined. Today we discuss how to embrace and support your loved ones, even if they make different choices than you would. Coming out looks different for everyone. It can be really hard, scary, and confronting for you and the person you're sharing with, but please know that you are not alone. I hope that you feel embraced by me and my mom through this episode. If you or someone you know is in the process of coming out, please share this episode with them. Enjoy!  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 5: Falling In and Out of Love

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2024 45:07


    I didn't expect to fall in love when I did… and my path to getting there was in no way conventional. In this episode, I share the journey of my first marriage– from falling in love with Julie unexpectedly to navigating my new sense of identity… all the way to divorce. I'm not someone who identifies with labels – I've always just loved who I loved and have been fortunate to have the support of my family along the way. I know this isn't the case for everyone… There is no right or wrong way to be in a relationship with someone – and we continue to bust through societal norms about how relationships should work – the traditional path looking like courtship, engagement, marriage, and staying with that one partner until we die. As it turns out, this cookie-cutter view of relationships isn't very realistic for most people, and it certainly wasn't realistic for me. Today we're going to explore the nuance and grey space within relationships, beyond the bounds of tradition. I hope you enjoy this episode!  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 4: Is There a Conversation You're Afraid to Have? Round Table With Grace Abbott & Jessica Gill

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2024 52:26


    The "perfect moment" doesn't exist... stop waiting for it and face your fears. This week, we have a very special round table episode with Sarah and two team members, Jessica Gill & Grace Abbott. They had a front-row seat to recording last week's episode and listened live as Sarah & her mom had a meaningful and vulnerable conversation… If you haven't listened to that one yet, listen first! Jessica and Grace reflect on the recording and share some of their experience of having hard conversations with family members and some insight around how to have healthy communication and getting rid of the notion that there is a “perfect” moment to do anything. Sarah shares how she felt pre/post-recording with her mom, and what it brought up in her – including encouraging a friend to have a bold conversation with her father, which she thought she'd never have! If there is someone you need to have a vulnerable conversation with, we encourage you to drop your projection and assumption of what the outcome will be and boldly go forward to embrace healing. Can't wait to hear what you think of this episode!  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 3: I Finally Had That Hard Conversation With My Mom... And You Get To Listen to It

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2024 71:15


    “Regardless of what comes of this podcast, it will all be worth it just for this episode.” – Sarah We're thrilled to share this week's episode with you. This week, Sarah sits down with her mother, Barbara, to have a transformative and healing conversation about their relationship. Together, the two reflect on previous episodes and chapters of their mother/daughter relationship and achieve real-time resolution around themes from the past. Get a glimpse into the growth and depth of Sarah's relationship with her mother, and how it has evolved over the years. Learn how they've overcome challenges together to forge a stronger relationship today. If there's someone you need to have a difficult or healing conversation with, this episode is for you!  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 2: So Your Parents Were Not Perfect? Finding Empathy, Forgiveness, and Creating New Relationships

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2024 38:27


    Didn't have perfect parents? Join the club. Listen to this week's episode to find more empathy, forgiveness, and love for your parents. Can we give them the benefit of the doubt– maybe they were doing the best they could… Nobody will ever be, or has ever been, a perfect parent. In pursuit of understanding our hurts, traumas, and wounds, we tend to blame our parents without considering why they couldn't show up the way we needed them to. In this episode, you are going to hear a bit about my mom's story and the challenges she faced. Taking care of her many siblings, joining the convent at 14, leaving at 25 and starting her own life for the first time, and processing a miscarriage. As you might recall from the last episode, my mom's inability to support me during my cancer experience was one of the most painful times of my life. Yet, in learning more about her life experience it has allowed me a deeper understanding of why she may have shown up in the way she did. And now years later, I have developed a close, supportive, and beautiful relationship with her -- in fact, she will be on the podcast soon! We're often quick to vilify our parents, especially when reflecting on painful childhood memories that still affect us today. Nonetheless, we must remember that our parents are just humans too, doing the best they could with the tools and self-knowledge they had at the time. Even though it can be challenging to put resentments aside, I can attest from firsthand experience that giving my mom permission to grow and transform, instead of continuing to blame her for her shortcomings, has become one of the greatest gifts to me and my family.  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 1 – Part 2: Why Is It So Hard to Ask For Help? Does It Have to Take a Near-Death Experience…

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2024 43:34


    Do you have the courage, strength, and humility to ask for help when you need it?Throughout this season, we will discuss many challenging topics such as death, divorce, and illness. Reflecting on my own difficult moments, I often felt unable to ask for help when I needed support the most, which left me feeling lonely, isolated, and yearning for understanding and assistance from others.My greatest hope for this podcast, especially this episode, is that you find the courage to ask for help during your hardest times and offer support to those around you who are experiencing their own struggles. Ignoring uncomfortable emotions that call for attention is one of the most unloving things we can do to ourselves. The more we neglect these feelings, the louder their cries for help become. This can manifest as reactivity, depression, resentment, or, in my experience, physical health issues—I faced cancer at just 20 years old.Hear about my cancer experience, and the lessons I gleaned – in today's episodes. If you are someone you know is dealing with illness, this one is a must-listen. ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Ep. 1 – Part 1: Did You Have to Parent Your Parents? Reflections on Early Parentification and Perfectionism

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2024 41:14


    Did you have to parent your parents? When I reflect on my own childhood, perfectionism and early parentification appear to be central themes that have shaped my identity. While these traits have undoubtedly brought about many positive things in my life– and a deep sense of independence… they have also initiated a lifelong sense of pressure, which I'm just starting to soften out of. So, what exactly are perfectionism and parentification? On this week's episode, we dive into these themes along with a piece of my story that illustrates how they played out in my life.   ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Are You Able to Find Resilience in Life's Hardest Moments?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2024 10:59


    When you look back on your life, there are some moments that will make you stop and say… Wholey. Schmidt. Over my half-a-centrury on this planet, I've learned a thing or two about finding the silver lining in some of life's most challenging experiences…and if we can't reflect back and make meaning out of the hard things… what was it all for anyways? As a psychologist– I always learned that telling your own story is a major no-no. But I've found so much healing in my vulnerability, that I hope in sharing my story, you feel less alone in yours. Hi, I'm Sarah Schmidt… and welcome to Wholey Schmidt Podcast. Together we will find resilience in whatever life throws our way.  ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Wholey Schmidt Trailer

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2024 1:02


    Welcome to Wholey Schmidt! A new kind of podcast where we use storytelling as a vehicle for self-actualization and reflection. This season, our host, Sarah Schmidt, walks us through the lessons and resilience found during her first 52 years on this planet. We cover some of the most difficult and complex parts of the human experience… dealing with a diagnosis, marrying a woman, adopting children, navigating divorce, co-parenting, marrying a man, having a biological child later in life, grieving a parent... Moments that will stop and make you say, Wholey Schmidt. ⭐ Follow us on Instagram: @wholeyschmidt

    Claim Wholey Schmidt

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel