Why Should I?

Joining the conversation is Tess Wicks, finance expert and creator of Wander Wealthy.  In this episode, Tess addresses the global pandemic and financial crisis, as well as how we can protect ourselves financially in the current climate. Tess Wicks is a business coach and creator of Wander Wealthy, a website and podcast that guides online money coaches to build their booked-out coaching businesses.  Tess spent four years creating content and coaching individuals and entrepreneurs around their personal finances. She believes the world needs more money coaches and is now on a mission to bring more of them into the world.  You can find Tess at wanderwealthy.com and on Instagram @tess_wicks. Be sure to check out our two other conversations with Tess on the podcast!   Episode 24: “Why Should I Invest?” Episode 39: “Why Should I Control Mindless Spending?” For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“Even before all of this, our world was kind of going through this compassion epidemic.  And if we’re going to be able to be in this together, we have to have compassion for ourselves and each other.  None of us have the answers and a lot of us are going to get the majority of things wrong right now, and that’s okay.” Joining the conversation is Whitney Russell, founder of Brave Haven Counseling and Co-Host of Real Messy Real Happy Podcast.  In this episode, Whitney addresses mental health during a pandemic.  She discusses the importance of compassion, grieving our old normal as we continue to adjust to our new normal, feelings of guilt, pandemic diet culture, parenting, and so much more. Whitney Russell is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist-Supervisor, and the founder of Brave Haven Counseling.  She has a Bachelors in Psychology from Austin College in Sherman, Texas and a Masters in Counseling Psychology from the University of North Texas.  She and Casey Bonano co-host Real Messy Real Happy Podcast.  You can find her at bravehavencounseling.com and on Instagram @whitneylpc. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“Minimal-ish living is intentional living and taking steps toward the life that you want to be living by cutting out the excess.” Joining the conversation is Desirae Endres, creator and host of the hit podcast Minimal-ish.  In this episode, Desirae explains her personal experience with minimalism, how to incorporate a minimalist lifestyle that is approachable, the benefits of clearing out the clutter, and why waking up earlier leads to more opportunities for gratitude. Desirae Endres is the podcast host of Minimal-ish, where she speaks with guests about topics such as minimalism, motherhood, and intentional living.  You can find her at desiraeendres.com and on Instagram @desirae.endres. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“I always think of negative experiences as a situation...if you look at it as a situation, there is always a way out.  It’s a matter of whether or not you let your emotions dictate your response to it.” Joining the conversation is Olea and Fig Co-Founder Annie Chang.  Having studied chemical engineering and business, she began her career in Silicon Valley in marketing and business development in tech.  After experiencing burnout, moments of injustice, and facing some pretty big “shoulds”, she realized she needed to make a serious pivot and build a career and life that allowed for more creativity and fulfillment.  Annie discusses some of the negative experiences she holds onto and why, the difference between holding onto negative experiences and negative emotions, and how we can turn negative experiences into power. Annie Chang and her sister Terrie Chang are the co-founders of Olea and Fig, where they help driven women entrepreneurs build their brand, business strategy, and marketing plan.  You can find them at oleaandfig.com and on Instagram @oleaandfig. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“You are peeing your pants when you laugh--that’s embarrassing!  It’s innately something you try to hide until you finally reach the stage in your life when your friends are also mothers and then you just kind of laugh about it.  It’s such a huge misconception that because something is common it’s normal--it’s not normal.” Joining the conversation is Pelvic Floor Specialist and Founder of New Mom Guru, Dr. Ashley Plowman.  After the birth of her two daughters and realizing how few resources exist for new moms and postpartum care, she created New Mom Guru to provide busy moms with the care they need virtually, including physical therapy, counseling, dietary services, and so much more.  In this episode, Ashley explains the purpose of pelvic floor physical therapy, the importance of postpartum health care, and provides information women need to become their own health advocate. Dr. Ashley Plowman is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Founder and CEO of New Mom Guru.  In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, she is now also virtually treating most general physical therapy needs.  You can find her at newmomguru.com and on Instagram @newmomguru. Be sure to check out the newest programs offered on New Mom Guru: SMART and PREP.  Use code “WHYSHOULDI” for 10% off services and offerings on newmomguru.com. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

In this solo episode, Holly draws from a decade of experience in education to provide advice on how to engage children in learning at home and additional educational resources.  She also highlights her favorite sources for at-home fitness, date night, and family activities and gives an update on future plans for the podcast.   For show notes and links to all sources referenced, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“You are more than just your body.” Joining the conversation is Tonya Beauchaine and Tracy Vazquez, co-hosts of the podcast We’re Not Weighting.  After struggling for years with body image and dieting, they decided to take control of their lives and strive for authentic health rather than an unobtainable number on the scale.  In this episode, Tonya and Tracy discuss body image and how we can rewrite the story we tell ourselves about our body, the benefits of intuitive eating, and ways to model a healthy food mindset for children.   Tonya Beauchaine and Tracy Vazquez are co-hosts of We’re Not Weighting, where they teach women how to stop waiting to reach a certain size or weight to start living.  Tonya Beauchaine is a Certified Intuitive Eating Coach and Nutrition Counselor, and Tracy Vazquez is a Body Image Coach.  You can find them at werenotweighting.com and on Instagram @werenotweighting.  For show notes and additional information on our guests, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“Grief shifts and changes and takes different space as it matures, as you live more life, and as you have more losses.” Joining the conversation is Certified Grief Recovery Specialist Shelby Forsythia.  After experiencing the loss of her mother to cancer, Shelby transformed her grief into her mission, and she helps others who are grieving find direction and get support in the aftermath of death, divorce, and diagnosis.  In this episode, Shelby addresses societal perceptions of grief, the common barriers that prevent us from allowing ourselves to fully grieve, and why we should give ourselves and others permission to grieve.   Shelby Forsythia is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, author of Permission to Grieve, and podcast host of Coming Back: Conversations on Life After Loss.  You can find her at shelbyforsythia.com and on Instagram @shelbyforsythia. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“I realized that because I was physically fit, I was emotionally and mentally unwell.” Joining the conversation is Sophie Gray, founder of the guided journaling app DiveThru and podcast host of Sophie Thinks Thoughts.  In this spotlight episode, Sophie discusses the various “shoulds” she faced when she realized that for her personal well-being she needed to pivot away from her previous fitness and nutrition online platform, Way of Gray.  Sophie explains why meeting society’s physical standards does not lead to happiness, emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and relationships, and gives advice on how to navigate and take ownership of social media. Sophie Gray has been named Greatist’s 100 Most Influential People in Health and Wellness three years in a row.  Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, People, Women’s Health, Marie Claire, and many more. You can find her at sophiethinksthoughts.com, on Instagram @sophiegray, and her journaling app DiveThru in the Apple App Store and Google Play.  Use code “whyshouldi15” for free access to the app’s full features.      For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“An educated society is a strong society and a successful society.” Rejoining the conversation is Dr. Alison Jackson-Wood to discuss the societal importance of investing in public education.  Alison describes the history of public education in America, the strengths and pitfalls of public education, the attack on public education in today’s political climate, and why we should all care about the strength of public education in our nation.   Dr. Alison Jackson-Wood holds bachelor's and master's degrees in Early Childhood Education, two seminary degrees, including a post-graduate credential in Cross Cultural Studies, and a Ph.D. in Policy Studies in Higher Education, with a focus on Internationalization. She began her professional life as an educator, later transitioning to vocational ministry and eventually to higher education, where she taught education majors for 15 years.  She is now the Executive Director of Bethesda House, a shelter and home in South Alabama for women and children who are escaping domestic violence.  For our discussion on domestic violence, be sure to check out Episode 54: “Why Should I Leave a Toxic Relationship?”   For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“Give yourself some grace.  You can’t do all the things all the time.” Joining the conversation is Autumn McKay, former early education teacher and creator of Best Mom Ideas.  In this episode, Autumn addresses the importance of engaging your child in simple learning activities at home to foster a love for learning, as well as provides advice for how to manage these activities as a busy mom. She also addresses the pressures of motherhood and ways to prevent (and even heal) burnout.  Autumn McKay is a mother, wife, former early education teacher and creator of Best Mom Ideas, an online destination for parents to discover engaging activities for their young children and foster a love for learning at home.  She has also written multiple educational activity guides and prep books for young children, as well as a guided gratitude journal for mothers. You can find her at bestmomideas.com and on Instagram @bestmomideas. Check out Autumn’s Free Mom Saver Bundle for WSI? listeners here. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“What is the story I’m telling myself?” Joining the conversation is Laura Gmeinder, expert in business strategy and leadership development.  In this episode, Laura addresses what could be the root of work insecurity, how to foster confidence at work, and why striving for excellence is more beneficial than striving for perfection. Laura Gmeinder is the founder of Laura Gmeinder Coaching & Consulting, providing services that are an intersection of business strategy and leadership development to emerging leaders, entrepreneurs, and their teams.  You can find her at lauragmeinder.com and on Instagram @laura_gmeinder. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“There is so much beauty and so much joy within the journey...it is hard and it is trying, but it’s also really quite amazing the lessons that you learn and the experiences that you have with your loved one.” Joining the conversation is Courtney, the lifestyle blogger behind A Thoughtful Place.  In recent years, Courtney opened up to her audience about her mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s Disease, sharing her journey as @love_and_openarms on Instagram.  In this episode, Courtney shares her mother’s story, gives advice for the initial steps after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, discusses the importance of seeking community and support through the journey, and emphasizes why a life with Alzheimer’s can still be joyful and beautiful. Courtney is the blogger behind A Thoughtful Place, an online destination for those seeking home decor, fashion, entertaining, and life advice.  She created @love_and_openarms to share her mother’s journey with Alzheimer’s, raise awareness, and provide hope.  Love and Open Arms will offer its first in-person meeting in Southern California on February 21st.  For more information and to register, please visit athoughtfulplaceblog.com. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“Meditation is making a conscious decision to slow down.” Joining the conversation is mindfulness expert and educator, Marykay Howard.  Marykay teaches a course called “Controlling Stress” to high schoolers, which is a curriculum she created to help teenagers to manage and transform stress.  In this episode, Marykay explains the value of meditation to our mental and physical health, how we can incorporate it in our busy lives (shockingly, we only need three minutes), and why meditation should be part of our children’s curriculum.  Beginning at 24:09, Marykay also leads us through a 5-minute guided meditation.   Marykay Howard’s curriculum and resources can be found at harmonyinschools.com. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“If we got through it, we must have eaten something.” Joining the conversation is author of Extra Helping, Janet Elsbach.  In her book, Janet explores how we can show up for others during times of change, stress, or bereavement, and she offers a simple solution: food.  In this episode, Janet discusses why food is the most helpful way to show up for someone in need, offers advice for how we can approach specific life stages or circumstances with love, and reminds that the most meaningful gestures are often the most simple.  Janet Elsbach is a teacher and author of Extra Helping, which is a collection of recipes, stories, and advice for how to show up for others through food in various life stages and circumstances.  You can find her at araisinandaporpoise.com and on Instagram @raisinporpoise. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“The Enneagram hands you a roadmap to what drives you and how that impacts your life.” Joining the conversation is Sarajane Case, Enneagram expert and creator of the hit podcast and Instagram, Enneagram & Coffee.  In this episode, Sarajane explains what the Enneagram is and its various personality types, speaks to the validity and reliability of the Enneagram, and breaks down how we can utilize our Enneagram result for personal growth and improved relationships. Sarajane Case is an Enneagram expert, writer, speaker and podcaster based in Asheville, NC. She works with the Enneagram to help people heal their relationships and improve their personal growth.  You can find her podcast at Enneagram & Coffee, her Instagram @enneagramandcoffee, and her Enneagram program offerings at clubenneagram.com. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

The future doesn’t exist. This isn’t your typical new year goal setting episode.  Holly opens up 2020 solo to discuss how both her podcast goals and personal goals have evolved since January 2019, and why she’s choosing to not make the kinds of resolutions that one would commonly expect.   For show notes, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

In this solo and final episode of 2019, Holly reflects on lessons learned and favorite moments.  She highlights some of the most impactful conversations from the year and how the podcast has evolved and grown in 2019. Why Should I? will be back with a new episode January 6, 2020! For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com.

“Our brain is designed to connect with other females.  When we live a life that celebrates that connection, we live longer, healthier, and happier.” Joining the conversation is licensed psychotherapist and author of The Healing Power of Girlfriends, Deborah Olson.  Deborah discusses why we need female friendships, ways to make and maintain friendships in our adulthood, how to set healthy boundaries in a friendship, and why friendship is a key component to living a healthy life. Deborah Olson is a licensed psychotherapist, women’s emotional health specialist, and author of The Healing Power of Girlfriends.  You can find her at galleriacounseling.com, on Twitter @deboraholsonma, Facebook, and Instagram @authordeboraholson. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com. A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

Being a supportive friend means showing up and rallying around her whenever she needs you. Joining the conversation is one of Holly’s closest and most supportive friends, Courtney.  Holly and Courtney discuss what it means to be a supportive friend, how to be supportive in various stages of a friend’s life, why it’s important to not forget to support the supportive friend, and how friendship has enriched their lives. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

“We need to learn how to build each other up to build a culture of confidence." Joining the conversation is writer Heather Bien.  Heather discusses the ways Imposter Syndrome has become a kind of status symbol, why commonly using the term is ultimately harmful for women, and how we can become more confident in communicating our success.   Heather Bien is a content creator, copywriter, and blogger from Washington, D.C., and she is a regular contributor to publications like The Everygirl and Advice From a 30 Something. You can find her at heatherbien.com and on Instagram @hmbien. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

“Continue to date your spouse and make time for each other.” Joining the conversation is licensed marriage and family therapist, Chrissy Powers.  Chrissy discusses the various stages of a long term committed relationship, how to best support and evolve with one another in each stage, and why sticking together is totally worth it. Chrissy is a licensed marriage and family therapist, creative career coach, and host of Sure, Babe Podcast, where she covers topics such as relationships, motherhood, and health.  You can find her at chrissypowers.com and on Instagram @chrissyjpowers. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

“There is a difference between health and weight loss.” Joining the conversation is Casey Bonano, registered and licensed dietician with an expertise in intuitive eating.  Casey breaks down why diets are making us so unhealthy, how weight loss and health are not the same thing, what it means to eat intuitively, and how to make that mindshift and lifestyle change. Casey Bonano is a Dallas-based registered and licensed dietician. She specializes in eating disorders, non-diet approach, health at every size, and intuitive eating.  She also wrote the e-book The Food Freedom Guide.  You can find her at dallasnutritionalcounseling.com and on Instagram @dallasnutritionalcounseling. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

Why should I wear pants instead of leggings to work?  Why should I have a strong handshake? Why should I support a cause?  Why should I smile for you? Joining the conversation is longtime friend, Dash Tabor.  We address these shoulds and many more in this mixed bag episode of Why Should I?   For show notes and more information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com. A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

“Is this normal?” When every minute 20 people experience domestic violence with an intimate partner in the United States (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence), it’s time to stop veiling the conversation with a hush and bring it to the forefront of community concern. Joining the conversation is Dr. Alison Jackson-Wood, Executive Director of Bethesda House which is a shelter and home in South Alabama for women and children who have been victims of domestic violence.  Alison explains the difference between a toxic and an abusive relationship, how we can identify abuse within a relationship, where we can seek help and provide support, and why, as a community, we should be concerned with domestic violence even if it doesn’t affect us personally.  If you are a victim of domestic violence or know someone who is a victim of domestic violence, there are resources and people who can help: National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1−800−799−7233 and https://www.thehotline.org For show notes, additional resources, and more information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

“If you can’t stop thinking about it, then you need to do it.” Joining the conversation is designer, retailer, coffee shop owner, and lifestyle blogger, Emily Riddle.  Emily got her start with the vintage shop and blog, Miss Molly Vintage, and her business has since evolved to a retail and coffee shop: Gathered Mercantile and the Amsden Coffee Club.  Emily discusses what it’s like running a business with her husband along with juggling being a mom, how her business has evolved and the exciting future plans she has for her business, and offers advice for both aspiring and seasoned female entrepreneurs. Emily Riddle is a designer, business owner, and blogger from Versailles, Kentucky.  Her work can be found at gatheredky.com and you can also follow her on Instagram @gatheredliving. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

“It’s okay to be seen.” Feeling alone and isolated is more common than is discussed in our society.  Whether it be from societal pressure, family, or from within, a lot of people feel this to some extent in their lifetime. Joining the conversation is Sheng Vue, talented artist and creator of the movement Thriving on Love.  Sheng’s movement is represented by drawings that focus on the female form, depicting a woman’s strength, truth, and freedom.  The larger message of Thriving on Love is the existence of hope even in the depths of our darkest days, and healing begins when we decide to choose love.  Sheng spent years battling depression and overwhelm that comes from a success obsessed society, and today she describes her journey, her message, and how a person can find hope and healing. If you are struggling or know someone who is struggling, please know that you are not alone.  There are resources and people who can help: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-8255 and visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/  National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI): Visit https://www.nami.org/find-your-local-nami For show notes and more information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

Money has been identified as one of the topics couples argue over the most, but what if the argument isn’t really about the money itself?  What if these arguments are motivated by past experiences and deeper insecurities that we aren’t aware of? In this episode, financial therapist Lindsay Bryan-Podvin digs into all of this and gives suggestions for how we can have healthier conversations about money so we can have healthier relationships. Lindsay Bryan-Podvin is a Michigan-based financial therapist who is passionate about helping women and couples feel at peace with their money, utilizing therapy as a way to address psychological stressors that aren't typically talked about. Her mission is to open up a dialogue with to talk about their money beyond the dollars and cents, helping clients feel good about how their money is working for them. For show notes and more information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

“The only way to see what society is holding you back from is to stop holding yourself back.” Joining the conversation is the very talented writer and poet, Kate Baer.  Kate’s poetry has taken the internet by storm, having been featured in Huffington Post and A Cup of Jo.  Her debut book of poetry, What Kind Of Woman, is set for release Fall 2020.  Her work approaches themes of womanhood, motherhood, and marriage in a way that is simultaneously fresh and vulnerable, articulating a depth of emotion that is difficult for many to communicate. In this episode Kate shares and discusses three of her poems: “Deleted Sentences”, “Body Back”, and “Nothing Tastes As Good As Skinny Feels”.     For show notes and more information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

"You create your future from your future." Joining the conversation is Natalie Bacon, Certified Life Coach and host of Design Your Dream Life Podcast.  After realizing that a successful career as a corporate lawyer was preventing her from leading a fulfilled life, Natalie decided to change the trajectory of her life and has since experienced a level of happiness and fulfillment that exceeded her expectations.  In this episode, Natalie addresses the biology behind happiness, distinguishes the difference between happiness and fulfillment, and describes how to live a happier and more fulfilled life. Natalie Bacon is a Certified Life Coach for high achieving women and host of the Design Your Dream Life Podcast.  You can find Natalie at nataliebacon.com and on Instagram @natalierbacon. For show notes and more information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

This episode kicks off our new “Spotlight Series”, featuring inspiring women and their impressive accomplishments.  Our first “Spotlight” is Sarah Caton of Space, Place & Southern Grace.  At the age of 25, Sarah has written two books, is a photographer and brand strategist, and has established an impressive social media presence.  In this conversation we discuss our responsibility globally and online, how women can support women, and what it means to be a feminist.  Sarah Caton is an author, blogger, photographer, and brand strategist from Lexington, Kentucky.  She is a feminist, highly active in her community, and has supported the development of many in their creative and entrepreneurial pursuits.  You can find many of her accomplishments at spaceplaceandsoutherngrace.com and on Instagram @spaceplaceandgrace. For show notes and more information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com A special thank you to our sponsors:  BarkBox (Code: getbarkbox.com/whyshouldi to receive an extra month of BarkBox for free with a 6 or 12 month subscription) Grasshopper (Code: trygrasshopper.com/whyshouldi to save $50 on your order) Warby Parker (Code: warbyparkertrial.com/whyshouldi for a free 5-Day Home Try-On)

The practice of mindfulness is a popular concept, but what does it mean to be mindful? Does it mean I have to meditate? What if I’m too busy to practice mindfulness? Today’s conversation is with psychotherapist and mindfulness expert, Rebecca Marcus. Rebecca breaks down the true meaning of mindfulness, why mindfulness can help us work through the hard times, and how mindfulness can be implemented into even the busiest of schedules. Rebecca Marcus is a licensed psychotherapist based in New York. She helps individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma so they can then have improved quality of life, career, and relationships. For show notes and information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com

Holly comes to you in a solo episode to continue the conversation from last week’s episode on success. Holly discusses the highs and lows of navigating the podcasting and social media world, and what she has learned about remaining focused on core values and setting boundaries. For show notes, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com

When we picture success it tends to be these huge, monumental moments, but what about the moments in between? What about the daily grind that has to occur to bring these goals to fruition? Why doesn’t that feel like success? And what about the days after we achieve a goal? Where do we go from there? Joining the conversation is writer and published author, Megan Whitmer. After experiencing her fair share of self-doubt before and after publishing her novel, she has implemented a daily practice that helps her maintain a healthy perspective of what success truly looks like and how we can feel satisfied in the moments between. Megan Whitmer is a writer from Lexington, Kentucky and author of the young adult fantasy novel Between.When she’s not writing, Megan spends her time drinking absurd amounts of coffee and dancing her kitchen. Between is her debut novel.  For show notes and additional information on our guest, visit whyshouldipodcast.com Be sure to follow us on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast

If travel is something you desire but seem to keep putting on the back burner, then this episode is for you. Rejoining the conversation is Dash Tabor, dear friend and expat who has lived in London for the past decade and traveled to over 50 countries. Dash and Holly recount some of their favorite travel stories together, discuss the importance of travel, and give advice on how to travel on a budget. And make sure you check out our last conversation with Dash if you missed it—Episode 37: “Why Should I Enjoy Single Life?” For show notes and additional information on our guest, visit whyshouldipodcast.com Be sure to follow us on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast

How come we can post about an engagement and get hundreds of likes and comments, yet when we post about a career accomplishment we hear crickets? In this episode we open the discussion of marriage and joining the conversation is Lindsay Latimer, creator of the blog Bourbon and Lipstick and co-host of Influenced: The Podcast. Lindsay has been committed to her partner for nearly 12 years and has faced her fair share of pressure to marry. We discuss the pressure women face to meet a certain timeline, wedding culture, and what commitment truly means. For show notes and additional information on our guest, visit whyshouldipodcast.com Be sure to follow us on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast

When it comes to seeking advice, only your peers can share your perspective. Those are the conversations when we feel most understood and less alone. This episode features founder of Advice from a 20 Something and Advice from a 30 Something, Amanda Holstein. Amanda was inspired to create these sister websites when she noticed there weren’t many online resources for women seeking advice on deeper lifestyle topics. In this conversation, we discuss the value of seeking advice from your peers, how women can support women, and other important topics like relationships, confidence, and mental health. Amanda Holstein is a writer, stylist, interior designer, and creator of lifestyle websites Advice from a 20 Something and Advice from a 30 Something, an online destination that makes no assumptions about timelines and helps women stop with the comparison game. For show notes and additional information on our guest, visit whyshouldipodcast.com Be sure to follow us on Instagram at @whyshouldipodcast

What if we could become a model for the kind of love we desire and deserve? Self-love has become synonymous with positive body image, but it’s so much more than the physical—it’s also respecting your ideas, boundaries, and authenticity. Joining the conversation is therapist and self-love expert, Sheina Schochet. Sheina addresses why the common “shoulds” millennial women face inhibit self-love, the ways self-love penetrates every aspect of our lives, and how we can begin practicing self-love today. Sheina Schochet, LMHC is a therapist (licensed in NY & FL), relationship coach, and professor living in NYC. Sheina works with women struggling with relationships, body image, and/or life transitions, teaching them to work on solutions and challenge the thoughts and behaviors that keep them stuck. For show notes and additional information on our guest, visit whyshouldipodcast.com Be sure to follow us on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast

Americans are more stressed than ever, leading to unhealthy eating habits and many other health issues. But what if we could adjust our diet and daily breathing practice to help manage and reduce stress? Joining the conversation is Dr. Mariza Snyder: best-selling author, wellness advocate, and podcast host. Dr. Mariza explains what happens to our bodies when we are experiencing stress, why we crave certain foods when we are stressed, and how we can use food and essential oils with steadied breathing practice to manage stress. Dr. Mariza Snyder is the host of the podcast Essentially You with Dr. Mariza and the best-selling author of multiple wellness books, including The Essential Oils Hormone Solution. Her passion is empowering women with simple, healthy habits so they can feel their best. For show notes and additional information on our guest, visit whyshouldipodcast.com Be sure to follow along on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast

When it comes to money management, the struggle is real for many millennials. We have student loan debt, credit card debt, and we live paycheck to paycheck. Yet, we still want to be able to have coffee dates and go out with our friends. So what gives? Joining the conversation is financial coach Tess Wicks of Wander Wealthy. Tess gives advice on how to be smarter with money on a day-to-day basis, how to control mindless spending, and a plan for how to save without giving up what we enjoy most in life. Make sure you check out our last episode with Tess Wicks on longterm investing. Episode 24: “Why Should I Invest? with Tess Wicks”. Tess Wicks is a financial coach and creator of Wander Wealthy, a website and podcast that educates career women on how to gain control of their personal finances.  Her background includes experience in actuarial science, finance, and insurance, and she is certified to teach financial literacy. Please visit whyshouldipodcast.com for show notes and additional information on our guest. Be sure to follow @whyshouldipodcast on Instagram!

"When people give you advice on having children, smile at their good intentions and then forget everything they say." Part four of the "Why Should I Have Children?" series, today's conversation is with Seattle graphic designer and mother, Terri McAllister.  Terri and her husband wanted deeply to have a child, and after a decade of struggling with fertility, they finally had their son.  Terri describes her journey in having her son, how parenthood continually surprises her, and gives advice for women who may also be facing issues with fertility.    Please visit whyshouldipodcast.com for show notes and additional information on our guest. Be sure to follow @whyshouldipodcast on Instagram!

Although American women are choosing to remain single longer, there is still a negative stigma around a woman being single in her 30’s. It’s time to evolve the conversation. Joining us today is Dash Tabor, a strong, independent woman who has lived the last decade in London, traveled to 54 countries and is enjoying this time in her life being single. She shares her experience, perspective, and advice. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com Follow along on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast

Today we are talking about anxiety, which is something 19% of America’s adult population suffers from. Joining the conversation is Eileen Cotter Wright, travel writer and the creator of two successful travel blogs: Crooked Flight and Pure Wander.  After spending years traveling for her career, she suddenly developed travel anxiety, leaving her to wonder at one point if she would ever travel again.  Courageously, Eileen decided to face her anxiety, and she explains what that process was like, how she continues to face and manage her anxiety today, and why it’s so important for everyone to be talking about mental health. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshoudlipodcast.com Don't forget to follow along on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast

For American women, getting caught in the vicious pattern of obsessive, unbalanced diet and exercise is all too real. If we personally haven’t experienced an unhealthy relationship with our food, then we probably know someone who has. Today’s conversation is with Katie Vail, a West Point graduate, Army Captain, blogger, and mom. For over a decade Katie struggled with dieting and binge eating, but after experiencing tragic loss, she discovered how to be healthy and love again. She shares her incredible story and how she maintains a healthy lifestyle. Katie Vail is the creator of the lifestyle blog Stripes and Whimsy, a place where she shares a little bit of everything: personal and interior style, motherhood, and health and fitness.  Before her blog, she served as an Active Duty Army Captain at the Pentagon and in Afghanistan.  She now lives in Hawaii with her husband and two children. For show notes and more information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com Don't forget to follow along on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast

“Motherhood is beautiful and it’s a wonderful journey, but it does interrupt your life. I think that women are wise to really give a lot of thought to if this is in line with where they want to be and where they want to go.” Part three of the “Why Should I Have Children?” series, today’s conversation is with high school English teacher, mother of two boys, and dear friend Amanda Wright. From a young age, it was clear to Amanda that motherhood is a role she's always wanted. In this candid conversation, she discusses what she loves most about motherhood while also addressing the challenges motherhood presents and why it’s important for women to evaluate their reasons for becoming a mother. Please visit whyshouldipodcast.com for show notes and additional information on our guest. Be sure to follow @whyshouldipodcast on Instagram!

In part two of our three-part series, “Why Should I Have Children?”, we speak with author, blogger, and podcaster Amelia Morris. Mother to two young boys, Amelia reflects on her decision to have children and how society might have played a role. She offers sincere, honest advice to women who are considering motherhood, which begins with space to understand yourself. Amelia Morris is the author of the award-winning food blog Bon Appetempt, as well as the book by the same name, Bon Apptemept: A Coming-Of-Age Story With Recipes! Her work has been featured in the Los Angeles Times, McSweeney’s, The Millions, and USA Today, and she is currently working on her novel. She co-hosts the podcast Mom Rage with novelist Edan Lepucki. For show notes and more information about our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com Be sure to follow on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast

Why should I have children? One of the greatest shoulds a woman will ever face. The first of a three-part series on the topic, Holly flies solo in this episode, exploring the various sides of why a woman might choose to not have a child. This is just the beginning of the conversation, so stay tuned. For show notes and links to articles for additional reading on the topic, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com Also be sure to follow the podcast on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast

Today’s conversation is with someone who literally wrote the book on leadership: Hilary Grosskopf. Hilary outlines the qualities an effective leader must possess, provides strategies on how to develop leadership skills, and identifies how progress can be made to close the gender gap in leadership roles. Hilary is a leadership strategist, writer, and creator of Awake Leadership Solutions. Her books  and workshops educate and inspire leaders and aspiring leaders to seek ethical, mindful, and creative leadership practices. She has worked for corporations such as Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, and Restoration Hardware, and she has published two interactive guidebooks on developing leadership skills: Awake Leadership and Awake Ethics. For show notes, sources, and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com, and be sure to follow us on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast.

After working 16 years in a successful corporate career, Carmen Ohling came to the terrifying realization that wasn’t the path she wanted to remain on for the rest of her life. Rather than allow the obligatory “shoulds” trap her in a world that did not connect with her true self, she decided to get uncomfortable and make a change. In today’s episode, Carmen describes this life-altering transformation, why she continues to pursue the uncomfortable, and how that practice has allowed her to live the life she’s always wanted. Carmen Ohling is a certified holistic nutritionist, empowerment coach, transformational speaker, and fitness model based in Colorado Springs. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com and be sure to follow along on Instagram @whyshouldipodcast

Did you know that scientific research has shown that music helps fight depression, lower blood pressure, and reduce pain? In this episode Kelsey Minarik, pianist and Baldwin-Wallace Conservatory of Music Magna cum Laude graduate, describes how both listening to and playing music can improve and sustain mental health. For show notes and information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com

In this conversation, life coach Rennee Shaw addresses the tendency we have to spread ourselves a little too thin, putting the needs of our loved ones before our own. Rennee outlines why this can have a serious negative impact over time and how we can begin make ourselves a priority again. For show notes and additional information on our guest, please visit whyshouldipodcast.com