Podcasts about exhausted

Send us a textIn this episode, I'm sharing my personal journey through toxic mold exposure and the health challenges that nearly broke me as a mom and business owner. I'm joined by my nutritionist Dariella Gonitzke, who I met at BBD Live when I was at my lowest point. We dive deep into how stress, environmental factors, and hormonal changes can completely derail your health - and what you can actually do about it.In this episode you'll hear:How I went from a healthy mom to barely functioning due to toxic mold exposureWhy traditional medicine often misses the mark with exhausted womenThe connection between stress, mineral depletion, and why you might be craving salt all the timePractical strategies for supporting your body through midlife changesResources mentioned in this episode:Wellness audit - https://saravitanutrition.thrivecart.com/the-midlife-wellness-audit/YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SaravitaNutritionWebsite: https://saravitanutrition.com/Meet DariellaDariella Gonitzke is a registered dietitian and functional medicine practitioner dedicated to helping women overcome persistent health issues—like hormonal imbalances, digestive troubles, and stubborn weight gain—through personalized, holistic care. Drawing on her own healing journey with hormonal imbalances and migraines, she offers science-backed nutrition plans, advanced lab testing, and lifestyle support to uncover the root causes of symptoms and restore vitality. With a compassionate, “test‑not‑guess” approach, Dariella guides clients toward sustainable transformation—so they can feel energized, balanced, and fully themselves againConnect with Dariella

Joining us for this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning is Leslie Forde! ​​Leslie is the CEO and Founder of Mom's Hierarchy of Needs® and soon-to-be published Author of Repair with Self-Care: Your Guide to the Mom's Hierarchy of Needs. Her business provides evidence-based tools to help moms reclaim their time and well-being from the never-done-list while also helping employers retain working parents and caregivers. Since March of 2020, over 3,700 parents have participated in her research study (the longest-running of its kind) on the pandemic's ongoing impact on work, care, and wellness. With more than twenty years in senior leadership and a decade focused on media and technology in childcare, eldercare, mental health, and education, Leslie is a sought-after speaker and consultant. She advises organizations such as HubSpot, Merck, Scholastic, and the Barr Foundation on how to retain and support parents, caregivers, and people of color. Our conversation explores the growing crisis of parental stress and maternal mental health, which has been made so much worse by a perfect storm of factors such as the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, rising costs, shortages in healthcare and childcare resources, and the unique challenges faced by parents of neurodivergent children. Leslie shares some insights from her extensive research on the topic, explaining how parents, especially mothers, are struggling to balance the demands of caregiving, household management, and careers, often at the expense of their own well-being. The guilt, shame, and lack of flexibility in the workplace make it especially difficult for many parents to ask for the support that they desperately need. Leslie highlights the critical importance of parents, especially mothers, prioritizing self-care even in small ways to build resilience and model healthy behaviors for their children. She provides practical tips such as identifying a daily "anchor" activity and being mindful of decision fatigue to help parents carve out time for their own mental, physical, and emotional needs. Our conversation also goes into the direct connection between parents' mental health and their children's wellbeing, and how, by supporting parents, we can have a profound impact on the whole family. This conversation offers a powerful and timely exploration of the parental mental health crisis, with practical insights and solutions that can make a real difference for families! Want a deeper dive into today's topic? Join Karen and Leslie for a ChildNEXUS & Mom's Hierarchy of Needs Joint Discussion; register here! Show Notes: [2:41] - Leslie argues that rising costs, long wait times, and poor support leave families emotionally and financially strained. [4:15] - Leslie points out how coordinating specialists, schools, and daily routines creates an overwhelming, often invisible burden. [6:13] - Mothers face worsening burnout as post-pandemic losses strip away time, resources, and support systems. [9:58] - Social conditioning and low workplace safety pressure women into overcommitment despite exhaustion and caregiving needs. [12:55] - Leslie asserts that many workplaces equate commitment with overwork, leaving parents afraid to ask for flexibility and support. [15:03] - Leslie points out how parents often feel isolated and ashamed when children struggle academically or socially. [17:39] - Many mothers feel trapped without partner support or financial means. [20:51] - Leslie asserts that ignoring self-care leads to burnout that harms health, family, and career stability. [23:46] - Exhausted parents struggle to engage with energetic children, straining relationships and shared activities. [25:47] - Leslie argues that parenting requires constant exhausting micro-adjustments, like juggling trains on endlessly shifting tracks. [28:36] - Dr. Wilson recommends Leslie's book for guidance. [29:11] - Leslie advises parents to establish a daily anchor habit and reduce fatigue around making decisions. [32:57] - Dr. Wilson points out that it's important to support parents of neurodivergent children while also encouraging their own self-care practices. [33:28] - Leslie agrees and reports that post-pandemic self-care has declined as responsibilities have increased and systems have become more strained. [36:48] - Leslie praises Karen's guidance for parents while emphasizing time management and self-care as very important. [38:10] - What is the best way to reach Leslie? Links and Related Resources: Episode 151: Parenting with ADHD: Insights and Inspiration with Holly Blanc Moses Episode 167: From Surviving to Thriving: A Mom's Hierarchy of Needs and Well-Being with Leslie Forde Episode 202: How Low Demand Parenting Can Reduce Stress and Support Neurodivergent Youth with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge Leslie Forde - Repair with Self-Care: Your Guide to the Mom's Hierarchy of Needs®   Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our “When Struggles Overlap” Live Webinar Email Dr. Wilson: drkiwilson@childnexus.com    Connect with Leslie Forde: Email: leslie@momshierarchyofneeds.com  Mom's Hierarchy of Needs® Website Mom's Hierarchy of Needs® on Instagram Mom's Hierarchy of Needs® on Facebook Mom's Hierarchy of Needs® on Twitter Mom's Hierarchy of Needs® on Pinterest Mom's Hierarchy of Needs® on LinkedIn  

If you're exhausted, overwhelmed, and your body feels “off” no matter what you do—this episode will connect the dots.We sat down with Dr. Lahana Vigliano to talk about the real reason so many high-achieving women are running on empty—and it's not just burnout. It's hormones, stress, and gut health… all working against you behind the scenes.********************************DISCLAIMER: This audio and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of our recommended products, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our show and allows us to continue to provide you with valuable content. Thank you for your support!********************************FULL SHOW NOTEShttps://thesmartinfluencer.com/e238-exhausted-and-pushing-through-this-is-the-wake-up-call-you-need/CONNECT WITH  LAHANA VIGLIANO Website Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Linked InCONNECT WITH CORINNE & CHRISTINAGet notified when new episodes drop Check out our YouTube channelJoin the convo on FacebookConnect on InstagramCOMMENTS, QUESTIONS, EPISODE IDEASEmail us at hello@thesmartinfluencer.comSupport the show

The Maintenance Episode: Fear. Control. Identity. Real ResultsDon't you just feel EXHAUSTED with all the diets?chasing fat loss, only to fear every bite, every curve, every scale change? In this episode, Ruby & Tom rip apart everything you've been told about maintaining results—why diet breaks are not failures but essential, how maintenance isn't “putting goals on hold,” and why your fear of gaining weight might be the real thing holding you back.We dive deep into:what maintenance phases actually are (and why 4 weeks is usually not enough)how diet fatigue sabotages progress—women eating “little” yet seeing no change, losing energy, self-belief, faiththe identity trap: when being “lean” becomes your value, your validation, your identity—and how that makes maintenance feel terrifyingtrue metrics that matter: moving from scale + appearance to strength, performance, energy, confidence, moodpractical ways to transition into maintenance without rebound, shame, fear, or extremesFor women navigating nutrition, hormones, mindset, and fat loss—this is your chance to reframe what success looks like. Let's stop glamorizing deficits and start building something sustainable. Let's reclaim food, movement, rest, and freedom.If you've ever asked: “What if I'm always going to be chasing lean?” “Is the fear of gaining weight ever going to go away?” or “How do I rebuild trust with my body post-diet?” … this is for you.What you'll leave with:clarity on why maintenance is life, not a “waiting room”mindset tools to shift from control → pleasure in your food + movementgame-plan steps to ease into maintenance safely and confidentlypractical direction: performance goals, not punishmentsKeywords you'll hear: diet break, fat loss resistance, women's fitness, body image, maintenance phase, control vs freedom, strength training, mindset shift, nutrition for women, long-term results

Last time we spoke about the beginning of the battle of Nanjing. As the relentless tide of war approached Nanjing in December 1937, fear gripped its residents. As atrocities unfolded in the countryside, civilians flocked toward safety zones, desperate for refuge. Under the command of General Tang Shengzhi, the Chinese forces prepared for a fierce defense, determined to hold their ground against the technologically superior invaders. Despite heavy losses and internal strife, hopes flickered among the defenders, fueled by the valor of their troops. Key positions like Old Tiger's Cave became battlegrounds, exemplifying the fierce resistance against the Japanese advance. On December 9, as artillery fire enveloped the city, a battle for the Gate of Enlightenment commenced. Both sides suffered grievously, with the Chinese soldiers fighting to the last, unwilling to yield an inch of their soil. Each assault from Japan met with relentless counterattacks, turning Nanjing into a symbol of perseverance amidst impending doom, as the siege marked a critical chapter in the conflict, foreshadowing the brutal events that would follow.   #167 The Battle of Nanjing Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. By mid-December, the landscape surrounding Nanjing was eerily quiet. The Japanese Army marched through what seemed to be desolate fields and mountains, but they were not truly empty. Civilians were scarce, with most having fled, but a few remained in their homes, hiding in cellars and barns, clinging to the hope that the war would bypass them. Meanwhile, thousands of Chinese soldiers, left behind and unable to keep pace with their units, still posed a significant danger to the Japanese forces. The Japanese Army had not truly conquered the territory east and south of Nanjing; they had merely passed through. Mopping-up operations became a top priority. Soldiers from the 16th Infantry Division, stationed near Purple Mountain, spent early December conducting these missions far from the city's walls. “Chinese stragglers may be hiding in this area, and they must be flushed out. Any small structure of no strategic value to the Japanese Army must be burned!” This command rang out to the division's soldiers as they spread across the countryside around Unicorn Gate. Soon, isolated fires began to illuminate the horizon, one for each home. Soldiers from the 9th Infantry Division, who were not directly engaged in combat south of the Gate of Enlightenment, were also conducting similar mopping-up operations. On December 11 at noon, one squad received orders to investigate a suspicious farm building. Although it had been searched previously, movement inside prompted renewed caution. The Japanese entered carefully, moving from room to room. In the basement, they discovered eight Chinese soldiers who offered no resistance, immediately raising their hands in surrender. Bound together, they were brought outside. Using a few Chinese words supplemented by sign language, the Japanese gathered that the Chinese had been in the vicinity where one of their comrades had been killed days earlier. Unanimously, they decided the prisoners should be executed in front of their comrade's grave. Some of the older soldiers hesitated, reluctant to partake in the killings, leaving it to the younger ones to carry out the order. Soon, eight headless bodies lay sprawled before a solitary Japanese grave.  On the morning of December 11, the first soldiers of the 6th Japanese Infantry Division finally spotted the distant city wall of Nanjing. They had been engaged in fierce combat for nearly two days, attempting to dislodge the tenacious defenders of the Yuhuatai plateau, the elite soldiers of the 88th Division. In a desperate bid to maintain their foothold on Yuhuatai, the 88th Division deployed its reserved 528th Regiment along with a battalion of engineers. Despite their efforts, the regiment's ranks had been depleted, filled with inexperienced recruits, and their leadership nearly obliterated, limiting their effectiveness. Under the relentless assaults from the Japanese forces, their defenses began to falter almost immediately. Faced with the stiff resistance at the Gate of Enlightenment, the Japanese shifted their focus to the Chinese Gate on December 11. Japanese aircraft were summoned for tactical air support, forcing the 88th Division's defenders to retreat behind the wall. This withdrawal occurred swiftly and somewhat chaotically, allowing the Japanese to pursue closely. Before the Chinese could regroup, 300 Japanese soldiers had breached the wall. Only the mobilization of all available forces enabled the Chinese to push the attackers back outside. Meanwhile, the left flank of the 88th Division, stationed east of Chinese Gate, remained outside the wall. Here, they clashed with elements of the 9th Japanese Division but faced intense pressure and were compelled to fall back. By the end of the day, the Chinese division had shortened its defensive line, regrouping in front of the city wall. Plans for a nighttime counterattack were ultimately abandoned, as it became clear that the division's soldiers were too fatigued to mount an effective offensive. Overall, it proved to be a successful day for the Japanese 10th Army. Further south, the Kunisaki Detachment successfully crossed the Yangtze River at Cihu village, beginning their advance toward Pukou. Its special amphibious training made the detachment ideally suited for the operation, but its limited numbers, essentially a reinforced infantry regiment, raised concerns at field headquarters about whether it could accomplish the task alone. Prince Asaka proposed transporting part of the 13th Division across the Yangtze further north to sever the railway connecting Tianjin to Pukou, cutting off a potential retreat route for Chinese forces that had escaped Nanjing.  On December 11, Japanese artillery shells rained down relentlessly, targeting both the interior and exterior of Nanjing's city walls. Administrators of the Safety Zone were alarmed to witness several shells landing perilously close to its southern edge. In a bid to provide some semblance of security, American and foreign flags were raised around the zone's perimeter, though their protective influence against artillery fire from miles away was negligible. The leaders of the Safety Zone faced an unexpected dilemma: how to handle lawbreakers with the city courts now out of operation. That day, they encountered a thief caught in the act. As Rabe noted in his diary “We sentence the thief to death, then pardon him and reduce his punishment to 24 hours in jail, and ultimately, due to the absence of a jail, we simply let him go”. Refugees continued to pour in, with a total of 850 having found shelter at Ginling College. Vautrin and her colleagues began to feel that their initial estimate of 2,700 women and children seeking refuge on the campus was overly optimistic. They were soon proven wrong. On the banks of the Yangtze River, hundreds of injured soldiers and civilians were lining up to be ferried across to Pukou, where trains awaited to transport them further inland and away from danger. Many had been waiting for days without food. While ferries made continuous trips across the river to rescue as many as possible, the process was painfully slow. As of late December 10, approximately 1,500 wounded civilians remained stranded on the south bank of the Yangtze. The Japanese forces were confronted by a fiercely determined enemy composed largely of young soldiers from the Training Division. These soldiers had the advantage of having been stationed near Purple Mountain for several years, making them familiar with the terrain. Additionally, they were part of an elite unit, groomed not just in equipment and training but also instilled with a sense of nationalism rooted in Chiang Kai-shek's ideology. Li Xikai, the commander of the division's 3rd Regiment, had set up his command post directly in the path of the primary Japanese advance, yet his regiment continued to resist. Despite the fierce resistance, the Japanese gradually gained control over the Purple Mountain area. General Nakajima Kesago, commander of the 16th Division, visited an artillery observation post early in the day and was pleased to receive reports that his troops had captured two peaks of Purple Mountain and were poised to take the main peak.  Yet there loomed a problem on Nakajima's right flank. A widening gap was emerging between the 16th Division and the 13th Division, which had advanced along the southern bank of the Yangtze. There was a risk that Chinese forces could escape through this lightly guarded area. The 13th Division was stationed in the strategically important river port city of Zhenjiang, preparing to cross the Yangtze. The Central China Area Army ordered the 13th Division to mobilize three infantry battalions and one artillery battalion. This new formation, known as the Yamada Detachment after its commander, Yamada Senji, was tasked with remaining on the Yangtze's south bank and advancing westward to capture two Chinese fortresses on the river: Mt. Wulong and Mt. Mufu. This redeployment alleviated concerns about the gap, allowing the 16th Division to focus on the city wall. As the sun dipped towards the horizon, one Captain Akao Junzo prepared for what he believed would be his final assault. He had been ordered to seize a hill northeast of Sun Yat-sen Gate that overlooked the city entrance. His commander told him “The attack on Nanjing will likely be the last battle of this war, and I hope your company can be at the front when the enemy's lines are breached”. The hill was fortified with numerous machine gun positions, reinforced with mud, bricks, and tiles, and connected by an intricate network of trenches. Dense rows of barbed wire lay before the positions, designed to halt attackers and expose them to machine-gun fire. Additionally, the area was likely heavily mined, and Chinese soldiers maintained a high level of alertness. Akao knew this all too well; when he crawled forward and slightly lifted his head to survey the landscape, he triggered a hail of bullets, one of which grazed his helmet. Around late afternoon, four mountain guns from the regimental artillery began firing on the Chinese positions, sustaining the bombardment for over an hour. By 5:00 pm, as the winter sky darkened, Akao decided it was time to launch the attack. Expecting close-quarters combat, he instructed his men to carry only their rifles and small entrenchment tools. With the entire company poised to move, he dispatched a small group of soldiers ahead to cut openings in the barbed wire while receiving covering fire from the mountain guns and the rifles and machine guns of their comrades. The remainder of the company advanced with swords raised and bayonets fixed. As they approached within about 700 feet of the enemy positions, the artillery bombardment ceased as planned. The enemy, still reeling from the ferocity of the earlier assault, scrambled in a panic from their trenches, retreating in disarray. Akao and his fellow soldiers pressed forward, cutting down any opposition in their path. Seizing the momentum, Akao charged to occupy the hill that had been his target. He found it deserted upon his arrival and sent a triumphant message back to command, reporting that the objective had been achieved. However, the reply he received left him baffled: he was ordered to withdraw with his company and return to their lines. Apparently, the regimental command deemed the position too precarious. Sensing that a precious advantage was being squandered, Akao disregarded the order. Before his company could establish a defensive position on the hill, the Chinese launched a counterattack. Lying down, the Japanese soldiers returned fire while frantically digging into the earth to fortify their position. Gradually, they began to form a rudimentary perimeter at the summit. The fighting continued into the night. Exhausted from days without sleep, many soldiers rotated between guard duty and rest, dozing off intermittently in their shallow trenches, reassuring one another that everything would be alright before drifting back to sleep. They successfully repelled all attempts by the Chinese to reclaim the hill and were eventually relieved. On December 11, after leaving his capital, Chiang Kai-shek took time to reflect on everything that had happened in his diary. He reassured himself that his nationalist revolution would persist, regardless of whether he held Nanjing, “Temporary defeat can be turned into eventual victory.” Yet he did not fear so much the Japanese invasion itself, but rather how the weakening of his nationalist government might allow the Communists to rise. He wrote about how his nation was on the brink of becoming a second Spain. While foreign invasions were undoubtedly disastrous, they could eventually be overcome, if not immediately, then over years or decades. Sometimes, this could be achieved merely by absorbing the outmatched invader and assimilating them into Chinese society. In contrast, internal unrest posed a far more fundamental threat to the survival of any regime. As we have seen in this series, going back to the mid 19th century, was it the foreign empires of Britain, France and Russia that threatened to destroy the Qing dynasty, or was it the internal civil war brought on by the Taiping? As Chiang famously put it “the Japanese were a treatable disease of the skin. Communism however was a disease of the heart”. Chiang could accept a humiliating but rapid retreat from Nanjing. In his view, it would be far more difficult to recover from a bloody yet futile struggle for the city that might cost him what remained of his best troops. A prolonged defensive battle, he reasoned, would be a tragic waste and could shift the balance of power decisively in favor of the Communists. This new mindset was reflected in a telegram he sent late on December 11 to Tang Shengzhi: “If the situation becomes untenable, it is permissible to find the opportune moment to retreat to regroup in the rear in anticipation of future counterattacks.” On December 12, tankettes cautiously plunged into the Yuhuatai plateau. Unexpectedly the Chinese defenders abandoned their positions and rushed down the hillside toward Nanjing's walls. Upon discovering this, the Japanese tankettes opened fire on the retreating Chinese, cutting swathes through the masses and sending bodies tumbling down the slope. Some Japanese infantry caught up, joining in the slaughter and laughing boisterously as they reveled in the chaos. A tankette column escorted a group of engineers to the Nanjing wall and then drove east along the moat until they reached a large gate, flanked by two smaller openings, all securely shut. A chilling message, painted in blue, adorned the gate's surface. Written in Chinese characters, it conveyed a stark warning: “We Swear Revenge on the Enemy.” The wall itself loomed three stories high, but Japanese artillery was already targeting it, this was known as the Chinese Gate. Now that Yuhuatai was virtually in Japanese hands, capturing the gate had become the primary objective. At this location, the wall stood 70 feet tall, protected by a 100-foot moat to the outside. All bridges spanning the moat had been destroyed. The area around the gate was heavily defended, with approximately one machine gun positioned every 50 yards atop the wall. Inside, the gate was reinforced with a formidable barrier of sandbags. Chinese infantry armed with mortars and small arms could fire down on the Japanese attackers while others had established isolated positions in nearby buildings that had survived the “scorched earth” policy. Taking the gate and the heavily fortified southwestern corner of the wall was the responsibility of the 6th Division. The division was deploying its regiments: the 13th, the 47th, and the 23rd from east to west. The 45th Regiment, the final unit of the division, was tasked with skirting the western side of the wall and advancing northward, aiming for the Yangtze docks at Xiaguan. The soldiers of the division had already formed a rough understanding of the formidable defenses they were facing. During the night between December 11 and 12, they had advanced nearly to the wall, gathering intelligence to prepare for an assault at dawn. As planned, the assault commenced. Field artillery fired round after round at the gate, but the wall sustained minimal damage. A Japanese tank rolled up, firing point-blank at the gate but producing no visible effect. Next, it was the engineers' turn. A “dare-to-die” squad, equipped with long ladders, crept as close to the wall as possible without exposing themselves and then sprinted the final distance. The moment they broke into the open, a Chinese machine gun opened fire, cutting them down to the last man. At noon, three Japanese planes soared overhead, dropping bombs near a Chinese-held building outside the gate. The smoke from the resulting fire briefly obscured the area. Seizing the opportunity presented by the reduced visibility, a large group of Chinese soldiers holed up inside attempted to dash back to the wall. The Japanese spotted their movement instantly, and every soldier in the line opened fire. The fleeing Chinese were mowed down like ripe grass, collapsing in heaps.  Meanwhile the battle for the Gate of Enlightenment was drawing to a close. On the Chinese side of the wall, confusion reigned regarding the overall situation on December 12. Chen Yiding, brigade commander of the 87th Division, had been warned that heads would roll if the Gate of Enlightenment fell to the Japanese. Hearing the sounds of fierce fighting on the edges of Yuhuatai and seeing the smoke rise from numerous fires on Purple Mountain, he was left in the dark about their implications, surrounded by the fog of war. Chen's troops had finally managed to establish a telephone link to the rear, but by mid-afternoon, it was cut off, likely due to a stray artillery shell. After dark, Chen sent an officer to his left flank to make contact with the Chinese forces there. The report that followed was far from reassuring. A unit from Guangdong Province was abandoning its positions and retreating north, attempting to exit the capital through one of the gates in the city wall. The officer had attempted to inquire about their destination, but the retreating soldiers ignored him. With neighboring units evacuating autonomously, a significant gap was opening in the Chinese line atop the wall between the Gate of Enlightenment and Sun Yat-sen Gate. A frightening possibility emerged: the Japanese could walk right in across the undefended southeastern corner of the city wall and surround Chen Yiding's troops before they had a chance to withdraw. The situation was becoming untenable, a fact underscored by the artillery fire raining down on Chen's position. Despite this, retreat was not a simple decision for Chen and the other commanders of the 87th Division. They had been garrisoned in Nanjing before the war, and the city had become home to many of the soldiers. Shortly after midnight, Chen called a meeting with his senior officers. After considerable discussion, they concluded that they had no choice but to withdraw. Nonetheless, Chen insisted that everyone sign a document confirming their support for this decision, recognizing the potential danger of taking such a significant step without consensus. After all, his own life had been threatened if the situation deteriorated further. Soon after, the Chinese began to move out of their positions. The Japanese were initially unaware of the retreat; all they noticed during the night between December 12 and 13 was that the Chinese artillery fire began to grow increasingly distant. By 4:00 am it had stopped completely. The few remaining Chinese were quickly overwhelmed and killed. In the end, the gate, which had cost so many lives during the seemingly endless battle, was taken almost effortlessly by the Japanese. Soldiers of the 9th Division, stationed outside the wall, scrambled up the slope created by the previous days' shelling. Once at the top, they thrust their hands into the air, shouting “Banzai!” so loudly that they believed their families back home in Japan might hear them. Tears streamed down their faces as soldiers embraced and shook hands, reflecting on the friends they had lost throughout the months of fighting, from Shanghai to their current position. They reassured each other that their sacrifices had been worth it for this very moment. On December 12,  the slopes of Purple Mountain  were ablaze. Zhou Zhenqiang, commander of the Training Division's 1st Brigade, led his men in a desperate struggle to maintain control of the mountain's forested peaks. However, they were being overwhelmed by the better-equipped Japanese troops, and Zhou knew it was only a matter of time before he would have to relinquish his position. Zhou found himself unable to obtain any information from his superiors about the overall situation, despite repeated attempts to contact the Training Division's headquarters. He dispatched a runner, who returned a few hours later with disheartening news: the divisional commander had left late in the afternoon. Other reports indicated a general breakdown in command. The elite 88th Division was in disarray, and an entire division of Guangdong troops, that being the same force that had abandoned the wall near the Gate of Enlightenment, had been spotted marching out of the Gate of Great Peace, seemingly intent on returning home. With indications of collapse all around him, Zhou decided to execute an orderly withdrawal from Purple Mountain, leaving a small contingent behind to cover the retreat. His troops entered through the city wall at Sun Yat-sen Gate and marched in disciplined columns through the streets of Nanjing, where signs of imminent anarchy were evident. Chinese soldiers were scattered everywhere, speaking a cacophony of dialects, yet they appeared to lack any coherent command. Tang Shengzhi's grip on the situation was weakening. Meanwhile Japan's 13th Air Group had been busy with the final stages of the battle for Nanjing.  In the morning of December 12, after raiding Chinese positions at Sun Yat-sen Gate, they  received new orders. Intelligence indicated that Chinese ships, laden with troops, were moving up the Yangtze from Nanjing. Japanese infantry on the ground could only watch as this prize slipped through their fingers, and the army requested air support. All available planes at Changzhou, a mix of A4N fighters and Yokosuka B4Y bombers, totaling 24 aircraft, were assembled for the crucial mission. The day was clear, providing excellent visibility as the pilots headed toward the section of the Yangtze where they believed the vessels would be, based on reasonable assumptions about their speed. At 1:30 p.m., 28 nautical miles upriver from Nanjing, the pilots sighted four ships. Trusting their military intelligence, they saw no need for further identification. Initially, the B4Ys bombed the vessels from a considerable height. One bomb struck the lead ship, a military vessel, disabling its forward gun and snapping the foremast. Then, a first wave of six A4Ns dove down over the line of ships, attacking individually. In total, they dropped about 20 bombs. Several exploded close enough to the lead vessel to damage its hull and injure crew members on deck. A 30-caliber machine gun on board was manned, with gunners stripped to the waist firing at the Japanese planes but failing to score a hit. Several of the A4Ns strafed the ship with machine-gun fire. After 20 minutes of sustained bombing and strafing, the result was utter devastation. The lead vessel was stuck in mid-river, riddled with bullets, aflame, and listing to starboard. Two other ships were beached on the right bank, while another sat stranded on the left. Satisfied with their mission, the Japanese aviators broke off and returned to their temporary base. Upon their landing in Changzhou, instead of receiving accolades, the pilots were met with reprimands. Why hadn't they sunk all the vessels? They were ordered to return immediately to finish the job. Though they didn't find the original targets, they stumbled upon four other vessels closer to Nanjing. One aircraft dove toward the ships, releasing a 60-kilogram bomb that struck one vessel. As the pilot pulled up, he caught sight of the Union Jack on the hull and realized his mistake; he had inadvertently targeted neutral ships. The other pilots recognized the significance of the markings as well and withheld their bombs. The vessel was identified as the SS Wantung. Soon after, the Japanese pilots understood that the ships they had attacked earlier upriver from Nanjing were also Western; three of them were Standard Oil tankers. The last vessel, which had sustained the most damage, was the USS Panay, a lightly armed flat-bottomed gunboat,  tasked with protecting American lives and property along China's longest river. The Panay had been instrumental in evacuating American citizens from the war zone in November and December. On the day it was attacked, the Panay was carrying four American embassy personnel and ten American and foreign journalists to safety. The ship's doctor converted the engine room into a makeshift sick bay, treating a steady stream of injured personnel. By the end, he was tending to 45 patients. The soldiers and passengers were evacuated in two small boats to a nearby marshy island covered in reeds, where they hid, fearful of further strafing. From their hiding place, they watched as a Japanese powerboat filled with soldiers approached the Panay. After firing more volleys at the vessel, the soldiers boarded it, remaining for only five minutes before departing. The American flag still flew from the bow at that time. At 3:54 pm, the Panay rolled over to starboard and sank in seven to ten fathoms of water. Cold and frightened, the survivors waded through knee-deep mud to a nearby village, assisting those too severely wounded to walk.  Meanwhile back at Chinese Gate, the mutual slaughter continued into the afternoon of December 12. The Japanese made no significant progress, although their failure was not for lack of trying. The commanders of the 6th Division had strategically placed the boundary between the 13th and 47th Regiments exactly at the gate, encouraging both units to compete to be the first to seize the position. Yet, despite their efforts, it became clear that willpower alone was not enough to breach the Chinese defenses at Chinese Gate. In peacetime, Nanjing's city gates served as entry points into a bustling capital, but in wartime, they transformed into heavily fortified and nearly impregnable strongholds. Any Japanese officer hoping for a swift victory would soon be disappointed; by early afternoon, the situation at the gate had devolved into a stalemate. The section of the wall manned by the 47th Infantry Regiment, located east of the gate, also saw little meaningful movement as the day wore on. Japanese soldiers, pinned down by Chinese fire from atop the wall, could do little more than take pride in a symbolic triumph. A small group of soldiers had managed to reach the wall and place a ladder against it, but it fell nearly ten feet short of the top. One soldier skillfully scaled the last portion, gripping protruding bricks and crevices of the nearly vertical surface. The entire Japanese front watched him with bated breath. He reached the top and unfurled a Japanese flag, but it immediately drew intense Chinese fire, forcing him to duck for cover. Soon, he vanished from sight, raising concerns among his compatriots about his fate. Later, it was revealed that he had taken refuge in a depression in the wall, waiting out the battle. The real breakthrough of the day would occur west of the gate. The 23rd Regiment was deployed there with orders to capture sections of the wall near the southwestern corner. It became evident that the wall could not be scaled without first bringing up artillery to create gaps in its solid masonry. A significant portion of the divisional fire support, 36 small-caliber mountain guns, four 100mm howitzers, and four 150mm howitzers, was assigned to this section. Artillery observers were also sent to the 23rd Regiment's forward command post to coordinate with the infantry and assess the effects of the shelling. By mid-afternoon, the artillery bombardment had created a ravine-like hole in the wall large enough for an assault. The 23rd Regiment positioned its 2nd and 3rd Battalions at the front, with the 1st Battalion held in reserve. First, the engineers undertook the challenging task. As the assault commenced, the rest of the regiment provided covering fire to force the Chinese defenders to seek shelter while the engineers charged into the 70-foot-wide moat. Once a human chain formed, they held up ladders as a makeshift bridge, allowing a company from the 3rd Battalion to rush across and into the gap in the wall. As the batteries switched to close infantry support, they laid down a barrage around the breach to prevent Chinese interference as the attack entered its decisive phase. The Japanese soldiers scrambled up the rubble, created by the artillery fire, which rose several dozen feet high. Shortly before 5:00 p.m., the Japanese seized control of the southwestern segment of the wall. The Chinese launched several counterattacks to reclaim the position, but none were successful. This action ultimately sealed Nanjing's fate; beyond the wall, there was nothing left to save the ancient city and its inhabitants. As defeat appeared imminent, more and more civilians sought safety in foreign-controlled areas, though danger still loomed large. Bits of shrapnel narrowly missed Dr. Robert Wilson while he operated in the Safety Zone. Every square foot of John Rabe's property became filled with families, many camping in the open with their own blankets. Some sought refuge under his large swastika flag, believing that this would make the area especially “bomb-proof” given the growing friendship between Tokyo and Berlin; they assumed Japanese aviators would think twice before targeting a region seemingly under German protection. With just hours left before the Japanese Army was expected to gain control, the residents of Nanjing made their last preparations, prioritizing personal survival. The brutal behavior of Japanese troops in conquered territories fueled intense concern over the possible fate of injured soldiers who might fall into enemy hands. As Nanjing's last hours as a free city unfolded, it became imperative for local hospitals to evacuate as many wounded soldiers as possible across the Yangtze. On December 12, doctors found a motorboat stranded on the riverbank, having apparently broken down. They managed to repair it and ferried several hundred patients to safety throughout the day. Throughout December 12, the citizens of Nanjing were subjected to the unsettling cacophony of heavy shelling, mixed with the roar of bombers overhead. By evening, the entire horizon south of the city glowed with flames. The sound of fighting emanated from all directions, continuing long after sunset. However, in the middle of the night, activity began to wan. Every few minutes, the muffled thuds of shells could still be heard, though their origin was unclear. For the most part, an eerie silence prevailed, as if the city was holding its breath in anticipation of the final onslaught. Chiang Kai-shek had indicated he would understand if Tang chose to abandon the capital. However, on December 12, he reversed his stance, sending a telegram to Tang expressing optimism that the Nanjing garrison could hold out significantly longer. In his words “If you do not shy away from sacrifices, you will be able to hold high the banner of our nation and our army, and this could transform defeat into victory. If you can hold out one more day, you will add to the pride of the Chinese nation. If you can hold out for half a month or more, the domestic and international situation could see a substantial change.” Tang adopted a hardline approach toward any signs of defeatism among his troops. When he learned that General Sun Yuanliang, commander of the formerly elite 88th Division, was leading approximately 2,000 men from the Gate of Enlightenment to the dock area, Tang acted swiftly. He dispatched Song Xilian, the commanding general of the 36th Division, to halt the retreat. When the two units met, a fratricidal clash nearly occurred. Fortunately, the 88th Division agreed to return to the gate and continue fighting. Whatever Tang's plans, they were rendered irrelevant at 3:00 pm,  when he received another telegram from Chiang, this time ordering a full retreat. Rumors that the Chinese Army had started evacuating Nanjing triggerec panic among many units. Thousands abandoned their positions and joined the throngs of soldiers and civilians moving slowly down the city's main avenues. The crowd seemed to have collectively decided that getting a boat out of Nanjing was the best option, and by late afternoon, a solid mass of humanity stretched for miles through the city toward the dock areas at Xiaguan. To reach Xiaguan, everyone had to pass through Yijiang Gate. This relatively modern structure had served as the main entry point for visitors arriving in Nanjing by boat in recent decades and now only half of the main entrance was open. A crowd of that size trying to get through such a narrow bottleneck was a recipe for disaster. Those unfortunate enough to be right at the front felt the crushing pressure of tens of thousands of individuals pushing from behind. In that densely packed throng, stumbling and falling to the ground was akin to a death sentence; anyone who went down was inevitably crushed by the oncoming waves of terrified civilians and soldiers. As chaos erupted, discipline evaporated entirely. Officers lost control over their men, leading to infighting among the soldiers. Pushing and shoving escalated into fistfights, and trucks drove directly into the mass of people to force their way through. Tanks, emitting sounds akin to prehistoric beasts, rolled through the mob, crushing many under their weight. Amid the madness, some soldiers, driven by frustration over the lack of movement, began shooting into the crowd at random. To relieve the pressure at Yijiang Gate, some units were ordered to exit Nanjing via the Gate of Great Peace at the northeastern corner of the city wall. Upon arrival, they found the entrance nearly sealed shut. Thick walls of sandbags had been erected around it, leaving only a narrow opening through which one person could pass at a time. Massive crowds fought among themselves to get through; even under perfect order and discipline, it would have taken the entire night and most of the following day for everyone to pass. In the midst of the frantic chaos, it could take a week or more. During the night of the 12th, a select group of Japanese soldiers, chosen for the offensive, stripped their equipment down to the bare essentials: rifles, bayonets, and helmets. They avoided any gear that could produce a metallic noise, alerting the Chinese defenders to their approach. Stealthily, they moved up to the wall, carrying bamboo ladders tied together in threes for added height. Ascending the rungs, they ensured not to make a sound that could betray their position to an alert Chinese sentry. Everything hinged on remaining undetected; even a couple of hand grenades tossed down the wall could halt the attack in its tracks. Reaching the top without being noticed, the soldiers quickly fanned out. Chinese soldiers stationed on the wall saw the swift dark figures and opened fire, but it was too late to thwart the assault. A brief fight ensued; most Japanese soldiers were too close to use their rifles and immediately resorted to their bayonets. The stunned defenders were pushed back, and the successful assault team established a perimeter, awaiting reinforcements from outside the wall. They didn't have to wait long. A massive assault along the length of the 6th Division's front line commenced at dawn on December 13. Japanese artillery concentrated its fire on a narrow section of the city wall, progressively working its way from the bottom up. Gradually, the shells formed a slope of debris that soldiers could use to scale the wall. A short air raid was executed, and after the planes had weakened the remaining resistance, a group of soldiers rushed up the slope. While their comrades provided covering fire, they climbed the last stretch, rolling down a rope ladder. Within minutes, 40 other Japanese soldiers had joined them. By 10:30 am, the Rising Sun flag was flying over the wall. The Japanese invaders were met with a horrific sight at the top of the wall. Beyond lay the grim aftermath of days of shelling. Some houses were leveled, while others burned. The ground was littered with bodies, some decapitated or disemboweled, and pools of blood surrounded them. As Chiang Kai-shek's order to abandon the city gradually filtered down to the troops manning the wall around Nanjing, things began to move rapidly.  By late morning on December 13, all the major entry points into the city had fallen to the Japanese. These included Chinese Gate in the southwest, the Gate of Enlightenment in the south, and Sun Yat-sen Gate in the east. The first thing that struck the Japanese soldiers upon ascending the wall was how starkly different it was from their expectations. They had anticipated a bustling city teeming with people, but instead, the area adjacent to the wall was characterized by farm plots, resembling countryside more than an urban center. The second notable observation was the complete absence of inhabitants. Cautiously, the Japanese soldiers entered the city they had just conquered, their bayonets fixed and rifles at the ready. Yet, surprisingly, very few shots were fired. After weeks of fearing death and injury, once the immediate danger receded, a certain stupor settled in. For most civilians in Nanjing, their initial encounter with the city's new rulers was uneventful. It took several hours for the Japanese to move from the wall into the urban parts of the capital. It was not until around noon that residents noticed the first groups of Japanese soldiers marching down the streets in clusters of six to twelve men. Initially, many met the conquerors with relief, hoping they would be treated fairly. Their optimism was bolstered by Japanese planes dropping leaflets over the city, reassuring residents of humane treatment. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. On December 9, fierce battles erupted, especially at the Gate of Enlightenment. Despite heavy fighting, the Chinese showed remarkable resilience, turning Nanjing into a symbol of determination. However, the tide shifted as overwhelming Japanese artillery and tactics began to breach defenses. By December 13, as chaos engulfed the city, the invaders claimed victory, but not without significant loss. Civilians, caught amid the destruction, clung to hope amid despair.

It’s true…life can be exhausting. When your problems feel like dead ends, it's tempting to just walk away. But with a new perspective, they can become starting points—to see life, faith, and yourself in a whole new way.

It’s true…life can be exhausting. When your problems feel like dead ends, it's tempting to just walk away. But with a new perspective, they can become starting points—to see life, faith, and yourself in a whole new way.

Welcome to Generation! ⛪︎

This Dhamma talk was offered on September 7, 2025 at Abhayagiri Buddhist Monastery.

Clutter isn't just about messy closets or overstuffed drawers—it impacts our time, energy, emotions, and even our spiritual well-being. In this episode, I'm joined by professional organizer and author Robyn Reynolds, who shares wisdom from her book What Is Your Clutter Costing You? and offers practical strategies for breaking free from the stress clutter creates. We dive into: How clutter fuels a stress cycle that steals our time and focus The connection between physical clutter, mental clutter, and productivity Why clutter leaves us feeling drained—and how to reclaim our energy The concept of “residential productivity” and how mental clutter disrupts home management Practical steps for starting and finishing a decluttering project without overwhelm The metaphysical and spiritual significance of clutter, and how decluttering can become a form of self-care Robyn Reynolds, CPO®, was destined to organize—long before she even knew it could be a career. What began as a passion for tidying up her own spaces "just for fun" eventually evolved into Organize2Harmonize, a thriving professional organizing business . Today, Robyn is a Certified Professional Organizer, published author, and sought-after expert in the organizing world. Whether she's working with celebrities or families, Robyn brings a mix of professionalism, heart, and harmony to every project. Resources Mentioned: Connect with Robyn on her website and Instagram Pre-order her book What is Your Clutter Costing You? here If you want to enjoy the free workbook, e-mail your proof of purchase to the publisher at marketing@mangopublishinggroup.com and they will send it to you!

Meet Christina Boylston—a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner with a Master's in Medical Sciences and over a decade of experience in preventative and regenerative medicine. From battling undiagnosed Hashimoto's and postpartum complications to regaining her energy through functional lab testing, this conversation dives deep into the root causes of exhaustion and burnout for moms.   Want to watch this episode on YouTube? Click here. Subscribe if you'd like to catch all new episodes live and participate with our guests directly.   Want to learn more about becoming an FDN? Go to fdntraining.com/resources to get our best free workshops and mini-courses! Where to find Christina Boylston: Website: layerstowellness.com Instagram: @christina_boylston Facebook: @christina.boylston  

Parenting today feels overwhelming—and it's not your imagination. The latest Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Report reveals shocking truths about kids' mental health and shows us just how deep this childhood chronic disease crisis runs.Our children are carrying the weight of poor diet, chronic stress, environmental exposures, and endless screen time—and it's affecting not just their moods but their overall health. As parents, it's easy to wonder, “Is this just my child?” or “Am I doing something wrong?”Let me reassure you—it's not bad parenting, it's a dysregulated brain. In this episode, I'll walk you through what the report means for American children's health and, most importantly, share practical steps you can take to calm the brain first, build resilience, and protect your child in today's overstimulating world.Why are so many American children struggling with mental health?Parents are searching for answers because the numbers in the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Report are staggering:Teen depression has doubled in recent years.Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for teens, rising 62% since 2007.Loneliness is at epidemic levels—73% of young adults report feeling isolated.Neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD and autism continue to rise at alarming rates.These aren't just statistics from a government assessment. They represent the nation's health and, more importantly, our kids. The MAHA Commission—led by Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.—noted that the potential drivers of this crisis include ultra processed foods, poor physical activity, environmental chemicals, and chronic stress.This isn't just a public health concern—it's a matter of national security when so many American children of the same age are struggling with preventable mental and physical health conditions. The Human Services Department and National Institutes call this the biggest children's health crisis in modern U.S. history.Key Takeaways:It's not bad parenting—it's a dysregulated brain. Behavior is communication, and we need to calm the brain first.Environmental chemicals, ultraprocessed foods, and chronic stress are fueling this crisis in American children's health.Over-reliance on medicine and medication isn't fixing outcomes. The root causes—nutrition, stress, sleep, environmental exposures, and screen time—must be addressed.What hidden drivers of kids' health problems should parents know about?The MAHA Report shines a light on what's fueling the rise in dysregulation, ADHD, anxiety, and depression in kids today:Poor diet: 70% of children's calories now come from ultra-processed foods, leaving their brains starved of the nutrients they need to focus, learn, and regulate emotions.Environmental exposures: Everyday chemicals—like pesticides and microplastics—interfere with hormones and raise risks for autism, ADHD, and other mental health struggles.Chronic stress & sleep loss: Exhausted kids can't bounce back; lack of rest is draining their resilience.Technology overuse: Children average nine hours of non-school screen time daily, and social media alone doubles the risk for anxiety and depression.Over-medicalization: Prescriptions for ADHD, anxiety, and depression keep rising, yet long-term outcomes aren't improving.

BIO:Dr. Upneet (Neety) Chawla, MD, is a double board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Sleep Medicine. She serves as an Assistant Professor at Rush University Medical Center with roles in both the Departments of Internal Medicine and Sleep Medicine. Her efforts are dedicated to merging the fields of sleep health with hospital medicine and extending this knowledge to the public. Dr. Chawla completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center in Ohio and her fellowship in Sleep Medicine at Rush University Medical Center.Beyond her clinical and academic roles, Dr. Chawla aims to simplify the complexities of sleep medicine for the general public. She is an avid advocate for the importance of sleep health, using her expertise to educate and connect with a broader audience. Through her presence on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok (@sleeping.beauty_MD), she provides valuable insights, tips, and a behind-the-scenes look into the life of a sleep medicine expert.Dr. Chawla is committed to ensuring that everyone has access to sleep health information, advocating for its integration into comprehensive medical care and public health awareness.SHOWNOTES:

When you're in crisis, your nervous system isn't neutral—it's running survival programs. Fight, flight, freeze, repeat. And when you tell yourself “not now”, that's not laziness or failure—it's a protective pattern your body believes is keeping you safe.But here's the thing: survival mode isn't meant to be permanent. It quietly drains your energy, feeds old beliefs like “I can't do this,” and keeps you circling the same pain.In this episode of Dear Divorce Diary, we explore:✨ Why the nervous system convinces us to wait until things feel calmer before healing ✨ How beliefs like “not now” or “what if it doesn't work” keep you locked in survival loops ✨ The energetic cost of staying in crisis—and what shifts when you allow safety to be restored ✨ What happens in the very first month of our program that helps women feel grounded, resourced, and ready for lasting changeHealing isn't about pushing harder. It's about creating safety, updating beliefs, and letting your body remember how to release what it's been carrying.

Send us a textHow to fuel your body, honor your cycle, and finally reclaim the energy to go after your big dreams.Ever feel like no matter how much you sleep (or how much coffee you drink), you're still running on empty? In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on why fatigue keeps holding ambitious women back, and what to do about it.I'll share:My own story of being a young entrepreneur who couldn't keep up with everyone elseWhy hustle culture is built on a male blueprint (and what that means for women's energy)The simple nutrition and nervous system strategies that actually work (hint: it's not about more caffeine)How to reframe your cycle as a superpower instead of a setbackWhy your body isn't your enemy. It's your biggest ally in achieving your goalsIf you're tired of being tired, this episode will help you fuel smarter, align more deeply with yourself, and finally step into the energy you need to chase your big, bold dreams.Loved this episode? Share it with a friend who's also chasing big goals but struggling with having enough energy to keep it going. Subscribe to the Aligned to Rise Podcast: Apple | SpotifyConnect w/ Alyssa: Instagram Website Work w/ Alyssa: Free Endo Diet Guide Work with me 1:1 Learn more about AlyssaDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. This may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.

Are you exhausted even after a full night's sleep? You're not alone. In this episode of Midlife Revival, Dr. Taniqua Miller breaks down why so many women in midlife feel drained despite logging eight or nine hours of shut-eye. Spoiler: the missing piece isn't more sleep—it's sensory rest.Drawing from her personal caregiving journey, her medical expertise, and the stories of her patients, Dr. T shares how overstimulation chips away at your nervous system, why perimenopause and menopause magnify the problem, and how creating intentional space for sensory rest can change everything.You'll learn:What sensory rest really means (and how it differs from sleep).Why midlife women—especially caregivers—are more vulnerable to sensory overload.Simple, practical strategies to add sensory rest into your daily life (yes, even if all you have is a closet or your parked car).How Dr. T is building a Serenity Room into her new medical practice, Revival Women's Health, to give patients a sanctuary for true rest.If you've ever found yourself hiding in a dark room, sitting in your car for a few quiet minutes, or snapping at your loved ones because the noise was just too much, this episode will help you reclaim peace and recharge your nervous system.✨ Resources & LinksTake the free Rest Quiz by Dr. Sandra Dalton-Smith → Link HEREJoin the Revival Women's Health Waitlist (Atlanta & Telehealth) → Link HERE

  On this week's episode of The Heart & Hustle Podcast, we sit down with the radiant Tara Sun. Tara is an incredible author, podcaster, wife, and mom of two, whose journey of faith and entrepreneurship is nothing short of inspiring. Tara shares her powerful story of surrender: from being diagnosed with a chronic illness as a teen, to discovering God's unexpected plan for her life, to writing her debut book Surrender Your Story: Ditch the Myth of Control and Discover Freedom in Trusting God. She opens up about the tension we feel between “girl boss” hustle culture and living surrendered to God, reminding us that true freedom is found when we loosen our grip and let Him lead. We also get a sneak peek into her upcoming book Overbooked and Overwhelmed: How to Keep Up with God When You're Just Trying to Keep Up with Life—a timely encouragement for entrepreneurs, moms, and women juggling it all. With practical tips, biblical wisdom, and plenty of laughs along the way, this conversation is both soul-refreshing and deeply relatable. --------------------------------- Productivity Freebie: https://theheartuniversity.com/productivity --------------------------------- Honeybook: share.honeybook.com/heart  In addition to a FREE 7 day trial, get 35% off your first two years of HoneyBook! --------------------------------- Heart Apparel Shop: https://theheartuniversity.com/apparel  --------------------------------- Stay Updated with Tara: - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/misstarasun/ - Her Podcast - https://www.tarasunministries.com/podcast - Website - https://www.tarasunministries.com/ Book Links on Amazon: Surrender Your Story - https://a.co/d/iKgvyti Overbooked and Overwhelmed - https://a.co/d/fDh5qAO --------------------------------- Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theheartuniversitychannel?si=33lzxpBA9UxKlgTE --------------------------------- If you want to connect with us and other listeners in the Heart and Hustle community join our Facebook group here. --------------------------------- “PODCAST10” for 10% off anything from The Shop! www.theheartuniversity.com/shop --------------------------------- Follow along: www.instagram.com/mrslindseyroman www.instagram.com/evierupp www.instagram.com/theheartuniversity  

The Hollow9ine Network returns with a special and experimental new program...For the past two years, Podcaster and Content Creator Dave "The Klone" Maresca has been missing in action - in a deep and complicated recovery from a traumatic life experience......after spending nearly 21 months navigating CPTSD and rebuilding his life in the aftermath of an abusive relationship - one that has left him in social and financial ruin and with a future of uncertainty, marred by constant anxiety and depression, his healing process has led to the creation of this living journal, as a means of chronicling his experiences......this program is created in hopes that the life lessons Dave is discovering can be a beacon to those who find themselves similarly lost at sea, in search of a light in the darkness...in search of the hope he, himself, has been searching for...Warning: This program contains true-life recollections of an actual person, that may involve content that some listeners may find disturbing or triggering. If you or someone you know is in need of professional medical and/or mental health assistance, The Hollow9ine Network implores you to seek out such assistance, and has provided links to resources that may be helpful here:CDC Mental Health Tools and Resources Index: https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/tools-resources/index.htmNational Suicide Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988Disclaimer: Dave "The Klone" Maresca is not a trained medical professional, psychologist, psychiatrist, or a licensed professional trained in providing therapeutic mental health care.  This podcast is an account of his life experiences and meant to be just that.  Any advice or suggestions made in the extemporaneous dialogue of the podcast is not intended to be medical or legal advice.  If such advice is what you are seeking, you are encouraged to seek out the services of a licensed professional.  The Hollow9ine Network and Dave Maresca assume no liability or responsibility for the information provided in these episodes. Support us on RedBubble:https://www.redbubble.com/people/Hollow9ine/shop?asc=u Follow us at... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hollow9ineNetwork/ Twitter: @Hollow9ineCast Instagram: @the_hollow9ine_network YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuwT8IxWRRI9I8hu2difvhg Email: hollow9inepodcast@gmail.comRead Dave's Blog on Medium: https://medium.com/@davetheklone

Welcome back to Frustrated and Exhausted! In this episode, your host dives deep into how to harness the revitalizing “September energy” and steer clear of the all-too-familiar sprint towards end-of-year burnout. Listen in and learn how to set the pace for a sustainable, energized team—without falling into the trap of constant urgency.[00:01:46] Different ways people return from leave and the misleading appearance of “energy” that might actually be urgency.[00:02:29] Signs of urgency in teams—diary bookings, new initiatives, sprint mindset, and the cost of sustained urgency.[00:03:19] Rest as ongoing replenishment—not just a one-time recharge over summer; the dangers of September urgency leading to burnout.[00:03:47] Practical ways to shift from urgency to energy:Prioritization—focus on key things.Modeling pacing as a leader.[00:04:51] Modeling pacing continued—how leadership pace sets the tone for the team and showing steadiness by example.[00:05:48] Building recovery in—encouraging breaks, deep work time blocking, and modeling these behaviors for the team.[00:06:49] Naming the challenge—talking openly about the autumn rush and setting the intention to avoid burnout.[00:07:46] The role of a leader—creating conditions for sustained energy and focus, helping teams resist “just one more thing.”[00:08:31] Holding the line on priorities—supporting teams in managing demands and not equating speed with success.Connect With Us: Have thoughts, stories, or questions? Connect via LinkedIn or visit resonateleadership.co.uk.Share the Love: If you found this episode valuable, share it with your coworkers or team—and help build workplaces where energy lasts longer than urgency.Stay tuned for more honest conversations on women, careers, leadership, and achieving ambition sustainably.Connect with Ruth:Instagram LinkedIn Website

You're in for a very special conversation today. I've got my man Brett Klika back in the IMPACT house. You may remember him from Episode 327 where he shared his raw, heart-wrenching story of love, loss, and life after the sudden passing of his wife, Lisa. That was nearly three years ago. And today, Brett's back—and this time, he's bringing some incredible news, wisdom, and HOPE.  Brett has just released his brand-new book Energy 100, and let me tell you—it is powerful. It's already a bestseller and it's changing lives left and right. This isn't just a book; it's Brett's journey of going from absolute exhaustion and grief to becoming energized, purposeful, and intentional again. And now, he's helping thousands of people do the same. In today's episode, we dive deep into: How Brett went from survival mode (just trying to make it to lunch each day) to thriving with a renewed vision for his future. The 3 Pillars of Energy—Biological Energy, Awareness, and Intention—and how they can radically shift your life. Why chasing “busy” and someone else's version of success is draining your soul (and how to flip the script). What it means to live with purpose when everything you thought was permanent gets ripped away. Practical exercises from Energy 100 that will help you move from burned out to fired up. And yes—we even talk about crazy travel stories, being intentional as a parent, and the powerful lessons Brett has learned from raising his amazing daughter, Maddie. This episode is raw, real, and ridiculously inspiring. If you've ever felt exhausted, lost, or like you've hit zero momentum—this is for YOU. Friends, if today's conversation brought you value, here's what I encourage you to do: Grab Brett's book Energy 100 (and the companion journal) on Amazon today. SHARE this episode on Instagram and tag me @ToddDurkin and Brett (@BKlika) and let us know your biggest takeaway. Please LIKE it, REVIEW it, and SEND it to someone who's ready to step into their greatness. Let's keep inspiring greatness, building purpose, and creating IMPACT together. BOOM!   Become a Certified ‘GET YOUR MIND RIGHT' Mindset Coach THIS MONTH. If you're a coach, parent, or mentor who wants to raise confident, focused, resilient athletes — this is the course you've been waiting for. The “Get Your Mind Right Mindset Coaching Certification” is LIVE and ready for you to dive in. Built by myself and Andrew Simpson — and powered by TeamBuildr — this certification gives you elite tools to coach the mental game like never before. We cover topics such as: Mental toughness & reset frameworks Real scripts & strategies for confidence and composure Visualization, journaling & breathwork systems Tools you can use TODAY — on the field, in the gym, or in life Plus 2 months FREE in our private Mindset Coach Community This is how you build athletes for life. This is how you create lasting impact through sport. Get certified now at: www.gymrcoaching.com   Ready to breathe in some Mountain Fresh Air? Want to go deeper on business, leadership and life and create even more success and significance? Ready to IGNITE your passion, purpose, and IMPACT? If so, then join me for our 2025 Annual Todd Durkin Mountain Retreat in Whitefish, Montana, November 13–16, 2025. This 2.5-day retreat is for ALL purpose-driven leaders, high-performers, fitness enthusiasts/professionals, and visionaries who are ready to dream big, expand their legacy, step into their next chapter with clarity and power…and be ready to be IGNITED with more passion, purpose, and IMPACT!! Save your spot NOW at: www.ToddDurkin.com/mountainretreat2025

Feeling like you're doing it all—succeeding, caring, achieving—but inside you're exhausted, overwhelmed, and wondering, “is this all there is?” In this episode, Dr. Rashmi Schramm—Integrative Physician, Certified Coach, and Meditation Teacher—shares how somatic healing, nervous system regulation, and meditation can help you call your energy back and step into your full power.In this episode, we dive into:• Somatic healing—why our bodies hold the key to deep transformation• Nervous system regulation—critical during midlife transitions• Making meditation & mindfulness practical, evidence-based tools• Calling your energy back to show up with clarity, focus, and presenceIf it feels like you've lost yourself in the busyness of life, this is your invitation back to balance.Connect with Dr. Rashmi Schramm:

“My health was so bad I had to walk away from a seven-figure business that I built up over a number of years just to fight, to survive. And when I came through that period, my shrine has always been the bookshop.” – Elizabeth Gould Today's featured bestselling bookcaster is a glam-mom, wife, global transformation expert, certified master neuroplastician, renowned speaker, corporate advisor, high-performance coach, and the creator of the Success Maximizer Method, Elizabeth Gould. Elizabeth and I had a fun on a bun chat about her book, “Feeling Forwards: How To Become The Person Who Has The Life You Want”, her journey from aspiring murder mystery writer and corporate lawyer to overcoming aggressive breast cancer and becoming a high-performance coach, and more!!!Key Things You'll Learn:How her early writing ambitions unexpectedly paid off after conquering cancerHow she became one of the rare authors to secure a Tony Robbins endorsementThe power of neuroplasticity and the importance of imaginationWhy entrepreneurs must adopt new mindsets to achieve greater successPlans for getting her PhD soonA way to harness your brain's potential for positive changeDr. Elizabeth's Site: https://elizabethgould.com/Dr. Elizabeth's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B074GPVWPL/allbooksElizabeth's Podcast, “Exhausted to Empowered Entrepreneur”: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/exhausted-to-empowered-entrepreneur/id1470547674Free Mini Course - The 3 Manifestation Mistakes Holding You Back From 7-Figure Revenue: https://elliem66.systeme.io/96bafbc2The opening track is titled, “North Wind and the Sun” by Trevin P. To listen to and download the full track, click the following link. https://compilationsforhumanity.bandcamp.com/track/north-wind-and-the-sunPlease support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmonThe Going North Advancement Compass: https://a.co/d/bA9awotYou May Also Like…Ep. 983 – How Neuroscience Can Fuel Your Book & Life Success with Sara Connell (@saracconnell): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/saracconnell/Ep. 960 – The Power of the Actor with Ivana Chubbuck (@ivanachubbuck): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-960-the-power-of-the-actor-with-ivana-chubbuck-ivanachubbuck/Ep. 453 – “The Psychic Yellow Brick Road” with Corbie Mitleid (@CorbieMitleid): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-453-the-psychic-yellow-brick-road-with-corbie-mitleid-corbiemitleid/Ep. 977 – How One Woman's Story Can Help Others Facing Cancer with Erica Neubert Campbell (@EricaNCampbell): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-977-how-one-womans-story-can-help-others-facing-cancer-with-erica-neubert-campbell-ericanca/Ep. 425 – “An Imperfect Pilgrim” with Suzanne Ludlum (@SuzanneLudlum): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-425-an-imperfect-pilgrim-with-suzanne-ludlum-suzanneludlum/275 – “How Thoughts Become Things” with Dr. Marina Bruni (@DrMarinaBruni): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/275-how-thoughts-become-things-with-dr-marina-bruni-drmarinabruni/273 – Rewiring Your Brain For Manifestation Success with Bob Doyle (@bobdoyle): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/273-rewiring-your-brain-for-manifestation-success-with-bob-doyle-bobdoyle/Ep. 691 – How to Spark Your Heart and Ignite Your Life with Hilary DeCesare (@HilaryDeCesare): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-691-how-to-spark-your-heart-and-ignite-your-life-with-hilary-decesare-hilarydecesare/Ep. 984 – Art for Your Sanity with Susan Hensley: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-984-art-for-your-sanity-with-susan-hensley/Ep. 788 – Love with a Twist of Cancer with Jennifer Greenhut (@jennandlarry): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-788-love-with-a-twist-of-cancer-with-jennifer-greenhut-jennandlarry/

Episode Description: You know those days when you wake up tired, and before you know it, you're reaching for coffee, donuts, chips, anything to keep going? You're not imagining it—and you're definitely not lacking willpower. When you're running on empty, there are real changes happening in your body that make cravings stronger and energy harder to manage. In this episode, we'll unpack what's really going on when exhaustion hits, why your body asks for quick fixes, and how to work with those signals instead of feeling like you're fighting against them. I'll share practical ways to balance your energy, support your mood, and make food choices that actually help you feel better—without guilt, shame, or complicated rules. Key Takeaways: Why exhaustion triggers intense cravings  How your hunger and fullness cues change when you're low on sleep Easy ways to stabilize energy without over-restricting or cutting carbs Simple swaps, snack pairings, and hydration hacks that can make a real difference A mindset shift around cravings that takes the pressure off …and more! If you're in one of those seasons where you're just trying to keep up, you don't need another set of rules or someone telling you to “just try harder.” You need compassion. You need space to breathe. And sometimes, it starts with giving your body what it needs without shame. You're doing better than you think. If you like what you hear, leave a 5-star review on apple podcasts  HERE.   Stay connected with me on Instagram @jesscording and over on Substack at jessicacording.substack.com   YouTube link

If you are anything like me....This could be a big time game changer....https://JosephGoddardToTheMax.comBecause when you get - what you get - is 100% set up while you wake up....You'll do what we do - and dance how we dance!

Economist and Wharton Associate Professor Corinne Low shares the shocking data behind women's declining happiness, the “squeeze” of modern life, and the invisible forces shaping our choices around work, marriage, and caregiving. In this episode, we unpack: Why women still do most of the housework—even when they earn more How outdated divorce laws shaped women's career decisions and financial risk The caregiving and career “squeeze” that hits hardest in your 30s How gender roles and attraction patterns keep us stuck in cycles of burnout Practical, data-backed strategies to reclaim your energy, time, and joy ✨ This episode changed how I think about happiness and ambition and I hope it gives you tools to redefine “having it all” on your own terms. ✨ Homework: As soon as you finish listening, block out time for the activity that brings you the most joy (your “utility function”)—and protect it like it's a meeting with your boss. For more from Dr. Corinne Low, find them on Instagram @corinnelowphd or online at https://www.corinnelow.com/  Grab your copy of Having It All here. Ready to uplevel every part of your life? Order Liz's book 100 Ways to Change Your Life: The Science of Leveling Up Health, Happiness, Relationships & Success now!  Connect with Liz on Instagram @lizmoody or online at www.lizmoody.com. Subscribe to the substack by visiting https://lizmoody.substack.com/welcome. Buy our cute sweatshirts, conversation cards, and more at https://shop.lizmoody.com/. Use our discount codes from our  highly vetted and tested brand partners by visiting https://www.lizmoody.com/codes.  To join The Liz Moody Podcast Club Facebook group, go to www.facebook.com/groups/thelizmoodypodcast. This episode is brought to you completely free thanks to the following podcast sponsors: Puori: go to Puori.com/LizMoody and use promo code LIZMOODY for up to 20% sitewide. Seed (DS-01): head to Seed.com/LizMoody and use code LIZMOODY for 25% off your first month.  Pique: check out PiqueLife.com/LizMoody for up to 20% off plus a special gift. Shopify: sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/LizM.  LMNT: go to DrinkLMNT.com/LizMoody to get a free LMNT sample pack with any order. The Liz Moody Podcast cover art by Zack. The Liz Moody Podcast music by Alex Ruimy. Formerly the Healthier Together Podcast.  This podcast and website represents the opinions of Liz Moody and her guests to the show. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for information purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions. The Liz Moody Podcast Episode 361. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I know firsthand how overwhelming postpartum fitness can feel, especially when exhaustion, lack of support, and constant baby demands take over. In this episode, I share my own journey as a mom of two and what it really looks like to rebuild strength, energy, and confidence after birth. You'll hear practical tips for creating realistic routines, finding support, and redefining fitness with compassion. If you're a new or exhausted mom, this conversation will help you start moving forward again.IG: @fit_forhikingFor next level fat loss strategies, hormone/gut health help, serious performance goals and unparalleled support, apply for Mountain Metabolic coaching. Learn more HERE. Make sure to mention this episode for 50% off your first month of coaching!For more free wellness resources, hiking/travel guides, and other blog posts, check out my website HERE. 

September 3, 2025Today's Reading: 1 Kings 19:1-21Daily Lectionary: 1 Kings 19:1-21; 1 Kings 20:1-22:53; Ephesians 3:1-21“And the angel of the Lord came again a second time and touched [Elijah] and said, ‘Arise and eat, for the journey is too great for you.'” (1 Kings 19:7)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.On the run from the enraged Queen Jezebel, Elijah went as far as he could go. But it wasn't far enough. Exhausted in the wilderness, alone and having no food, that was the least of the prophet's problems. For if Queen Jezebel's army caught up to him, Elijah was a dead man. And his own power and strength could not save him.This is your problem, too. In the wilderness of this life, you also cannot go the whole way by your own power and strength. Relying on your own abilities gets you into the middle of a wilderness, exhausted and all alone. Do not think too highly of your strength. See how little ability you have to keep God's Commandments perfectly. To make things worse, the threat of certain death for your sins looms over you as well. You cannot overcome your own mortality. Your own power and strength cannot save you.Elijah was spared when God sent an angelic messenger with a word of grace. That word was, “Arise and eat.” This is truly a word of God's grace, because it promised and gave to Elijah what he had not deserved. This Word brought Elijah a heaven-sent food. It was bread from heaven, a new manna for a new wilderness journey. Elijah ate, not just once but twice. In other words, God gave Elijah this word of grace and this heavenly bread, again and again, because it gave him strength, hope, and life that he did not have.You also are like Elijah. All you can rely on is God's Word of grace in Christ Jesus. His cross has won salvation for all sinners. His empty tomb has defeated your death. Now, His gracious Word carries to you the life and salvation His cross won. Here is life for you! You are not alone anymore, because through faith, God mystically joins you to Him. You no longer have to rely on your own power and strength, for you have God's gracious promise in Jesus. Even better, God's Word of grace directs you to arise and eat a new food from heaven in the Sacrament of the Altar. Arise and eat, again and again. In the Body and Blood of Jesus, there is strength, hope, and life for you. The journey is too great for you, but not if you go by the strength of this new heavenly manna.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.My Lord, You here have led me To this most holy place And with Yourself have fed me The treasures of Your grace; For You have freely given What earth could never buy, The bread of life from heaven That now I shall not die. (LSB 642:2)Rev. Robert Mayes, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and Zion St. John Lutheran Church, Beemer and Wisner, NE.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Study the early Church Fathers, Scripture, and Christian history alongside FLAME's conversational voice to see for yourself why their teachings from Scripture are important to study, and live out, today.

In this episode, you'll discover:• How to spot the signs of high functioning codependency - the difference between healthy helping and compulsive over-functioning• Why your advice-giving might be hurting more than helping - and how to support people without fixing them• Two simple questions to ask before saying yes to anything - so you can stop abandoning yourself in the name of being niceWhat if being the "strong one" is actually making you weaker? What if all that advice-giving, crisis-managing, and problem-solving you do for everyone else is slowly draining the life out of you?You don't think you're codependent. You're not sitting around waiting for some addict to come home. You're not needy or clingy or desperate. Hell, you're the opposite—you're the one everyone depends on. You make the money, handle the crises, give the advice, and keep everyone's world spinning. So when someone mentions codependency, you immediately think, "That's not me. Everyone's dependent on ME."But here's what nobody talks about: there's a brand of codependency that hides behind competence. It looks like strength, sounds like leadership, and feels like love. I spent years thinking my ability to fix everyone's problems was my greatest asset. I was the friend with all the answers, the daughter who managed family drama, the partner who handled everything so smoothly that no one even knew there were problems to handle. From the outside, my life looked like I had it all together. On the inside, I was drowning in everyone else's emotional chaos while completely abandoning my own needs.Today our guest is Terri Cole, a licensed psychotherapist and relationship expert who coined the term "high functioning codependency" after seeing the same patterns show up repeatedly in her practice with successful, accomplished women. She's the author of "Too Much" and has spent decades helping people recognize and break free from these invisible chains.Links from the episode:Show Notes: mindlove.com/417Join the Mind Love CollectiveSign up for The Morning Mind Love for short daily notes to wake up inspiredSupport Mind Love SponsorsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last time we spoke about the battle of Lake Tai. In November 1937, as Japanese forces advanced, Nanjing's fate hung in the balance. Commander Tang Shengzhi led the desperate defense amidst disarray among Chinese generals, many advocating retreat. Despite political strife, civilians rallied, fortifying the city, knowing its fall could destroy Chiang Kai-Shek's government. On November 19, Japanese Commander Yanagawa seized the moment, directing his troops towards Nanjing, igniting panic in Tokyo.  As fierce battles erupted around Lake Tai, the Chinese forces, though outmatched in technology, employed guerilla tactics and stubborn resistance. Chinese artillery delivered devastating blows, and bold counterattacks kept Japanese momentum in check. However, as the month closed, the tide turned, logistical challenges and internal chaos hampered communication. The stage was set for one of the darkest chapters of modern Chinese history, where the battle for Nanjing would symbolize the struggle against oppression.   #165 Nanjing Surrounded Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. On December 1st, Jiangyin fell. That same day Japanese Army General Staff Deputy Chief Tada Hayao arrived to the Shanghai region to conduct an inspection of the front lines and personally deliver Tokyo's orders authorizing an assault upon Nanjing. The directive was exceptionally brief: “The Central China Area Army is to attack Nanjing in coordination with the Navy.”  Later that same day, at 7:00 pm more detailed instructions were issued by the Central China Area Army. The 10th Army was set to begin its decisive assault on Nanjing on December 3, advancing along two primary routes toward the capital. The left flank was to advance through Wuhu, while the right flank would move via the city of Lishui. The Shanghai Expeditionary Force, having endured more strain than the 10th Army due to its longer tenure at the front, was scheduled to launch its attack two days later, concentrating its forces around Danyang and Jurong. On December 2nd, Matsui received a promotion, given overall command of the Central China Area Army. The responsibility for the Shanghai Expeditionary Force was entrusted to a recent appointee in the Shanghai theater, Prince Asaka Yasuhiko, a member of the Imperial family. As Matsui noted in his diary that day "It's a great honor”. He promptly issued orders to ensure the prince's comfort and safety by all available means. At the age of 55, Prince Asaka, Emperor Hirohito's uncle, boasted a successful military background, including a tenure at the Japanese embassy in Paris. However, this experience had left its mark on him in two significant ways: he walked with a limp due to a car accident in France and spoke French fluently. Despite his talents and efforts, he did not earn the highest regard from Hirohito. He had not demonstrated the loyalty expected of him during the February 26th Coup attempt in 1936 and had since been met with a cold shoulder from the emperor Command in China presented a crucial opportunity for him to restore his standing in the eyes of Hirohito. Meanwhile over in the capital a war for air supremacy raged. More and more soviet pilots were arriving alongside their Polikarpov I-16 fighters. Exhausted from the long distance travel to Nanjing, the Soviet pilots were given no respite and tossed into the fray, performing 5 sorties in their first day. The Soviets were kept very busy as the Japanese increasingly unleashed raids against the airfields in the Nanjing region. The raids became so intense, the Chinese had to relocate their aircraft to bases hundreds of miles behind the front. While the Polikarpov I-16's were severely hampering the Japanese, suddenly a new adversary emerged. The Mitsubishi A5M fighter, still a prototype was rushed into service to help escort the bombers. This was the predecessor to the legendary A6M Zero fighter. Like I mentioned previously I wrote the Kings and Generals episode on the A6M Zero Fighter's history and over at my patreon I have a hour long podcast on it. Needless to say the A5M changed everything in the theater, taking away the advantage the Soviet fighters had wielded for a brief window of time.  At 9:00 am on December 2, a small customs cruiser waving a swastika flag docked at the Nanjing waterfront after making an overnight journey down the Yangtze River from Wuhan. German Ambassador Oskar Trautmann quickly disembarked, accompanied by embassy councilor Heinz Lautenschlager and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Xu Mo. Trautmann's mission was so secretive that although he had dined with a secretary from the Italian embassy, an Axis partner just hours before departing from Wuhan, he made no mention of his impending trip.  Despite the secrecy surrounding his visit, news of Trautmann's arrival in Nanjing spread rapidly within the German community. Businessman John Rabe, noted in his diary that day “I assume his return has something to do with Germany's attempt to act as a mediator”. Just before Trautmann's arrival, Chiang Kai-shek had a meeting with his closest advisers, primarily military generals. Vice Foreign Minister Xu briefed those present on the peace conditions proposed by the Japanese nearly a month prior. Many in attendance were hearing these terms for the first time and were startled to discover that Japan did not require reductions in Chinese armaments. Bai Chongxi was the first to speak “If these are the only terms, then why should there be war?” Given that the Japanese proposal seemed to allow for the continuity of the Kuomintang led Chinese nation, the generals present, including Tang Shengzhi, agreed to use it as a basis for negotiations. Later, at 5:00 pm Chiang met with Trautmann. The German diplomat said “I believe it is necessary for China to declare its willingness to discuss the Japanese terms in a conciliatory spirit.” Chiang replied, “I intend to do so, but I also expect the same from Japan.” Chiang then explained that they needed to be addressed for peace talks with Japan to proceed, explicitly stating that he would not accept Japanese control over northern China and that he was unwilling to sacrifice his recent friendship with the Soviet Union to achieve peace with Japan. Having secured Chiang's agreement to initiate talks with Japan, Trautmann promptly returned to the German embassy to report to his superiors in Berlin. He then headed back to the docks, boarding the same vessel that had brought him to Nanjing, traveling back up the dark Yangtze River. One particular concern weighed heavily on Trautmann's mind: a request from Chiang to maintain absolute secrecy regarding the upcoming Sino-Japanese negotiations. Trautmann believed that Germany should support this request. He was convinced that if news leaked about Chiang's willingness to engage with the despised Japanese, it could spell the end of his government in China, allowing the Soviets to take charge. At this time, both the Germans and Japanese feared fragmenting China further. Both wanted the Kuomintang to remain in charge and maintain the status quo as they benefitted from it greatly. Staff officer Kawabe Torashiro after a recent tour of the front lines had this to say, “To dismantle the Chiang regime would leave it in a dire situation, giving it the desperate tenacity of a cornered rat in its struggle against Japan. Whether we destroy it or not, we would ultimately contribute to a fragmented China for many years, one that would be a significant drain on the Empire's resources well into the future.” Meanwhile, the city of Changzhou fell on December 2nd, without any resistance. Private Azuma Shiro landed at Changzhou and was ordered alongside his 20th regiment to prepare an assault upon Danyang,  a walled city located about 25 miles northwest of Changzhou. The road between the two locations was nearly straight, running parallel to the railway connecting Shanghai and Nanjing, allowing the 20th Regiment to make swift progress. Upon arriving at Danyang, Azuma's platoon cautiously approached a bamboo grove concealing a Chinese position. Suddenly, a ZB vz 26 machine gun opened fire. Taking cover, the Japanese soldiers entered a nearby cemetery, where the small grave mounds offered some protection. The platoon's knee mortars responded, firing shells that silenced the machine gun. Seizing the opportunity, they launched their assault, swords raised and bayonets fixed, shouting at the top of their lungs. As they closed the distance to the bamboo grove, the machine gun sliced them down. When they finally reached the trench, they discovered it was already abandoned; the occupants had fled mere moments before. Danyang also fell on December 2, clearing one of the significant obstacles in the 16th Division's path to Jurong. Meanwhile to the south, the 9th Division was advancing from Tianwangsi towards Chunhua village, just miles from the capital, while elements of the 3rd Division were also making significant headway. At the northern end of the front, the Amaya Detachment was approaching the Yangtze port city of Zhenjiang, preparing to cross the river and sweep west along the opposite bank. As Matsui noted in his diary that day “The enemy's entire defensive line has been breached, and their morale has declined sharply. I believe there won't be much fight left in them moving forward”. Although the Shanghai Expeditionary Force had yet to launch its final assault on the capital, the soldiers were managing to advance at an impressive pace. Matsui noted in his diary on December 4th “I plan for an orderly occupation of Nanjing. Before entering the city, we must offer Chiang Kai-shek or the garrison commander the opportunity to surrender. While occupying Nanjing, I hope we can avoid unnecessary damage to the city and harm to the population.” Over in Nanjing, Henri Johan Diederick de Fremery, a Dutch officer serving as an advisor to the Chinese army, had assessed the city's fortifications prior to the war and found them lacking. He noted that coastal batteries had been installed to the north and northeast of the city, including outdated muzzle-loaders. In his report he stated  “They might serve against warship attacks, but who would think of attacking this city with warships?” Although some artillery pieces were positioned along the city wall, they were insufficient in number. Some locations were poorly constructed due to material shortages. For instance, a portion of the wall between Sun Yat-sen Gate and the Gate of Enlightenment had been reinforced with makeshift structures, concrete on the outside and a fragile network of bamboo within. It was a façade that would collapse upon the impact of the first Japanese shell. Natural obstacles like Purple Mountain to the east and the Yuhuatai hills to the south existed, but little was done to incorporate these features into the defensive network. The river, which served as a natural moat, became shallower on the eastern side, allowing for relatively easy crossing. As further noted by de Fremery “Nanking cannot be justifiably termed a heavily defended city”. Meanwhile the Chinese Army was engaged in a frantic effort to prepare for the anticipated Japanese onslaught. Engineers readied to demolish strategic bridges, and in many cases, entire villages were set ablaze, blackening the horizon with thick smoke. Heart-wrenching scenes unfolded as farmers were evicted from homes that had been in their families for generations.  By the end of the first week of winter, distant bombings echoed through the air, with explosions powerful enough to rattle windows within the city. The front lines were alarmingly close, leading to a steady influx of injured Chinese soldiers into Nanjing on foot. A pervasive sense of foreboding enveloped the city. Amidst the gloom, there lingered a belief that despite impending challenges, life would somehow continue. On the morning of December 3, a ship departed from Nanjing, loaded with treasures that represented three millennia of Chinese history. Thousands of crates filled with irreplaceable bronzes, porcelain, paintings, and other art objects were sent upriver. These invaluable items had been moved from Beijing four years earlier and stored in vaults in Nanjing. It was evident that the situation could deteriorate rapidly, leaving little time to respond. On December 5, all US citizens in Nanjing were urged to pack their essential belongings and be prepared to leave the city on short notice. The following day, a final order was issued: all American passport holders were directed to make their way to the Yangtze docks and board a river gunboat awaiting them, the USS Panay. As the Japanese Army advanced westward toward Nanjing, it left behind a horrifying trail of arson, rape, and murder. Helpless civilians who fell into the hands of the victorious soldiers endured brutal treatment that often defied comprehension. Now similar to other episodes I have done on my own channel or Pacific War Week by Week, this is a disclaimer, I am about to talk about some gut wrenching horrifying stuff. We are reaching Nanjing, and yes the infamous massacre is going to be told to the fullest. So warning, its about to get graphic. At the hamlet of Nanqiantou 38 residents were met with atrocities that would become more and more common. The Japanese Army set fire to the twelve homes that comprised the hamlet, forcing the captives to witness the destruction. When some of the residents attempted to escape and salvage their belongings, the soldiers trapped them inside, locking the doors and sealing their fate as the roofs collapsed in flames. Among the victims, two women, one of whom was pregnant, were subjected to repeated rapes. In a particularly gruesome act, the soldiers “cut open the belly of the pregnant woman and gouged out the fetus.” Amid the chaos, a 2 year old boy cried out, and a soldier seized him from his mother's arms, throwing him into the flames. The frantic mother was bayoneted and discarded into a nearby creek. The remaining captives met a similar fate, dragged to the water's edge, stabbed, and pushed into the stream. The 170 miles between Shanghai and Nanjing transformed into a nightmarish wasteland of death and destruction. For miles, the only living beings visible were the deceased. The reputation of the Japanese soldiers preceded them, leading many Chinese civilians to prefer a swift death at their own hands rather than the prospect of a slow demise at the hands of the Japanese. While passing through the town of Pinghu on their way to Nanjing, First Lieutenant Nishizawa Benkichi and his men from the 114th Division spotted two Chinese girls across a river. They appeared to be strolling hand in hand, possibly sisters. As they stepped onto a bridge, the girls began to walk towards the Japanese soldiers but suddenly stopped. Still clasping hands, they jumped into the river, disappearing into the swift current. Military efficiency was accompanied by a staggering brutality, where victories against armed opponents were often followed by the massacre of unarmed women and children. This pattern parallels the incomprehensible behavior of German soldiers on the Eastern Front, though there are significant differences. The Germans viewed themselves as a superior race compared to their Slavic adversaries, labeling them as "untermensch." In contrast, the Japanese could not deny their connections to the Chinese. Japan's historical role as a major influence on Chinese civilization was undeniable, as reflected in aspects as basic as the shared writing system. To many Japanese, their nation's relationship with China resembled that of two brothers, one younger and righteous, the other older and misguided, in need of redemption. Matsui Iwane embodied this perspective. Alongside his military duties, he held a deep interest in fostering cooperation among the peoples of Asia, who he believed remained under the yoke of Western imperialism. Since his youth, Matsui had been captivated by China, and while other ambitious officers sought postings in Western capitals like Paris or London, he applied to serve in China, remaining there for nearly a decade as part of Japan's diplomatic representation. By the 1930s, Matsui's commitment to this pan-Asian vision had gained a political dimension, leading him to become a prominent founder of the Greater Asia Association in 1933. This of course was created mostly through the work of Kanji Ishiwara. What was once a exclusive on my patreon can be found over at Echoes of War or my youtube channel, its a four part series on the life of Ishiwara and it goes into the history of how he tried to forge pan asianism, but ultimately failed against his adversaries like Hideki Tojo. Its fascinating stuff, please if you are interested check it out on youtube and comment where you came from.  This organization, though dominated by Japan, has been described as "probably the single most influential organization propagating Pan-Asianism during the 15 year war. During a visit to China in late 1935, Matsui helped establish the Chinese Greater Asia Association in the northern port city of Tianjin. For individuals like Matsui, Japan's actions on the Asian mainland were akin to liberating its peoples. They viewed the establishment of the Japanese-controlled puppet state, Manchukuo, in northeast China in 1932, as a bold experiment in nation-building, hoping the rest of China would benefit similarly. As Matsui wrote in 1933 “Next, we must also extend to the 400 million people of China the same help and deep sympathy that we provided to Manchuria, relieving them of their miserable condition of political, economic, and intellectual subjugation by various countries of the world.” The violence perpetrated by the Japanese Army stemmed from numerous variables. One was a grotesque belief they were actually liberators to what they deemed, ungrateful Chinese. The Japanese believed their presence in China was partly for the benefit of the Chinese people and felt a messianic obligation to save them. This led to frustration akin to that of a father confronting a disobedient son, compelling them to punish what they perceived as disobedience. While the rank-and-file soldiers might not have reflected deeply on these issues, such philosophies filtered down from their leaders. Of course there is a lot more to it, and sorry again for shamelessly plugging it, but on my patreon I specifically did an episode titled “why the Japanese army was so brutal” where I went through everything involved. It ran from cultural issues, to the brutal system of abuse in the military, to racism, radicalization of male youth in Japan, its a very complicated matter. Because again, most of the atrocities were committed by 20-30 year old grunts who had families back home. This was not like the traditional “I was following orders” type of situation, these were atrocities committed by the lowest ranks upwards.  The safety zone, created by Rabe and a handful of other foreigners, began to take shape in the first week of December. It was officially announced, and four committees were established to manage food, housing, finances, and sanitation. Once the plans for the zone were publicized in local newspapers, scared Chinese civilians flocked to it by the hundreds. From its inception, the zone faced numerous problems. Thousands of bags of rice and flour intended for the future residents of the zone were left unguarded and quickly looted, leading many to assume they had been stolen by military personnel. More troubling were the issues that arose when Chinese military units began digging trenches and setting up field telephones within the safety zone, putting it at heightened risk of a Japanese attack. Chinese officers assured organizers that they would vacate the area, but the delay led to growing frustration among those overseeing the zone. Until all Chinese soldiers withdrew, the organizers could not erect flags to formally designate the area as demilitarized. Although the Japanese refused to officially recognize the safety zone, they pledged to respect it.    Following the outbreak of the battle for Shanghai, the Chinese Red Cross stepped in where military medicine had faltered, establishing first-aid teams and emergency hospitals while ensuring that wounded soldiers were accommodated in existing medical facilities. In October, they opened a 3,000-bed hospital on the campus of the National Central University, staffed by 300 doctors, nurses, and 400 orderlies. By the end of October, the hospital had admitted 1,200 patients and performed over 50 operations daily, primarily amputations. However, as the Japanese forces advanced toward Nanjing, doctors and nurses were evacuated westward along the Yangtze River. The entire Red Cross hospital was dismantled, and at the American Mission Hospital, the staff, which had initially numbered nearly 200 doctors, nurses, and trained personnel, dwindled to just 11 by the onset of winter.  With medical facilities on the brink of collapse, a group of foreigners took the initiative to improve conditions, achieving small victories along the way.  Back at the front, the 10th Army continued their march to Nanjing. On the right flank, the 114th Division had marched through Liyang within hours, covering 40 miles over the next two days to reach Lishui on December 4. Behind them, the 6th Division was still lagging somewhat, struggling to catch up after making a large detour east of Lake Tai. The Kunisaki Detachment was tasked with reaching the Yangtze at Taiping, crossing the river, and heading for Pukou, directly opposite Nanjing, to cut off any retreating Chinese forces. To the left of the 6th and 114th Divisions, the 18th Division received orders on December 2 to march northwest from the Guangde area toward Nanjing. However, when intelligence reports indicated that large numbers of Chinese troops were withdrawing south toward Ningguo, trying to escape encirclement, thus the 18th Division had its mission altered. On December 4, they were instructed to change course and press straight west, aiming to trap as many Chinese soldiers as possible. The residents of Nanjing were jolted awake by the roar of airplanes shortly before 6:00 am on December 7. It was the sound of Chiang Kai-shek and Song Meiling departing the capital. Three days before his departure, Japanese forces had advanced dangerously close, and their shelling had intensified to the point that he was forced to move from his residence on Purple Mountain to a villa belonging to a famous scholar who had since passed away, located within the city walls. While organizing his departure, Chiang kept the morale of the troops and civilians trapped in Nanjing at the forefront of his mind. In his diary, Chiang noted, “Staying in Nanjing until the last moment has not only enabled us to complete military preparations, but it has also boosted the morale of soldiers and civilians alike. The evacuation of necessary material has been carried out without disorder. I cannot imagine what might have happened if I had left ten days earlier.” On one of his last nights in Nanjing, Chiang gathered all officers of major general rank and above at Tang Shengzhi's headquarters in the Railroad Ministry. With the First Lady by his side, he delivered an inspiring pep talk ahead of the impending battle, emphasizing that although the Chinese had faced temporary setbacks, they had managed to strike back at the Japanese forces, thwarting their plans for a swift victory. Additionally, he noted that China had garnered the sympathy and support of the international community. “You're being watched by the entire nation, indeed by the whole world. We cannot abandon Nanjing!” He then formally handed overall responsibility for the defense of the capital to Tang Shengzhi, urging the officers to obey him as they would obey Chiang himself. He insisted that this would not be merely a symbolic fight; a sustained defense of Nanjing could tie down Japanese forces, giving the bulk of the Chinese Army the opportunity to regroup and strengthen. He promised that three divisions, fully equipped and at peak strength, would soon arrive from the southwestern province of Yunnan. He pledged to personally lead them back to Nanjing to break the siege.  Meanwhile on the front of the Shanghai Expeditionary Force, the 16th Division had broken through Chinese lines at the crucial town of Jurong, located 30 miles east of the Nanjing city wall, and was now advancing toward the village of Tangshui. To the south, the 9th Division had reached Chunhua, another strategic town straddling the approaches to the capital. Meanwhile, to the north, soldiers from the 13th Division were crossing the Yangtze River at Zhenjiang to establish a foothold on the other side. Progress was similarly swift in the 10th Army's sector. The 114th Division had advanced all the way to Molingguan, a town less than 20 miles south of Nanjing. The 6th Division, having rushed to the front since the order to capture China's capital had been issued in early December, was expected to arrive later that day. To the south of these two divisions, the 18th Division was set to capture the city of Ningguo while continuing its push toward the Yangtze, effectively completing the encirclement of Nanjing. By December 5th, Matsui and his staff completed its transfer from Shanghai to Suzhou, they issued a general directive for the attack on Nanjing. This order outlined two possible scenarios. In the best-case outcome, the Chinese defenders would surrender and open the city gates. In that event, each Japanese division would send in one battalion to complete the pacification of the city and eliminate any remaining pockets of resistance from soldiers unwilling to capitulate. In the worst-case scenario, if the Chinese commanders disregarded Japanese offers to surrender and prepared for a prolonged defense of their capital, Japan would unleash the full force of its artillery on the city. Each division would then send in one regiment to breach the city gates and engage in a fierce battle, fighting street by street and house by house. It quickly became evident to the Japanese, the Chinese had no intention to simply hand over their capital. New York times correspondent, F Tillman Durdin witnessed action between the recently arrived 154th and 156th divisions from southern China who were quickly encircled atop a cone-shaped peak. “The Japanese set a ring of fire around the peak. The flames, consuming trees and grass, gradually crept closer and closer to the summit, forcing the Chinese upward until, huddled together, they were mercilessly machine-gunned to death.” As the Japanese troops closed in on Nanjing, the level of destruction left in the wake of the Chinese defenders became increasingly apparent. Near the capital, hardly a bridge remained intact as efforts intensified to hinder the invaders. The rush to reach Nanjing heightened rivalries within the Japanese Army. In early December, soldiers from the 16th Infantry Division traversed hilly terrain at what they believed was a vigorous pace. Suddenly, to their left, they spotted a parallel column of Japanese soldiers, quickly identifying them as members of the 9th Infantry Division's 35th Regiment. The company commander shouted “Don't let the 35th beat us to Nanjing! Get moving!”  Cities, towns, villages, and hamlets lay in the path of Japan's multifaceted advance on Nanjing. Some areas fell without much resistance, while others were fiercely defended by Chinese soldiers determined to hold their ground until the end. Chunhua, a town located roughly 15 miles southeast of Nanjing, was among the latter. The town was defended by troops from the Chinese 51st Infantry Division, who had participated in some of the toughest battles around Shanghai during the autumn months. The 51st Division found its withdrawal to Nanjing cut off by fast-moving Japanese columns. Only with the assistance of local civilians were various units able to sneak back to the capital, filtering through enemy lines. Upon arrival, the division's soldiers had hoped for a chance to cross the Yangtze for much-needed rest. Instead, Chiang Kai-shek ordered them to immediately reinforce the defenses at Chunhua. As the troops arrived in Chunhua village in early December, they were dismayed to find the pillboxes in disrepair. Some bunkers had been buried too deep to function effectively as defensive structures, while others had excessively large embrasures that offered little to no protection from enemy fire. Most frustratingly, keys to the bunkers were often missing, making entry problematic. The division worked tirelessly to improve their positions using whatever materials could be requisitioned from the area, but time was too short to bring the defenses up to the standard the commanders desired. Nonetheless, they achieved significant upgrades: three lines of defenses in front of Chunhua, centered around several pillboxes; two rows of barbed wire; and an antitank ditch to complicate any advance. Hidden machine gun nests also provided surprises for the Japanese infantry. On December 4, the Japanese vanguard, a column of about 500 soldiers from the 9th Division, was spotted, and over the next two days, the solitary company at Shuhu endured intense assaults. The Chinese dispatched an armored platoon as temporary reinforcements, marking one of the rare instances when Chinese tanks confronted Japanese infantry directly. The Chinese lost three armored vehicles, while the Japanese reported around 40 casualties among their infantry. By the afternoon of December 6, the surviving Chinese soldiers at Shuhu, numbering fewer than 30, abandoned their positions and fought their way back to Chunhua, leaving their fallen comrades behind. Advancing units of Japan's 9th Division closely followed, initially avoiding contact with the Chinese defenses to conduct reconnaissance. Based on their observations, the Japanese concluded that although the Chinese defenses appeared well-prepared, they were thinly manned. Costly fighting resulted in the Japanese gaining control over only the first of the three Chinese defense lines. Determined to capture the next two lines, they once again depended heavily on their artillery.  In several sectors along the front, soldiers of the 9th Japanese Division found themselves caught in the deadly crossfire of Chinese machine guns, creating a virtual kill zone from which there was no escape. For the Chinese defenders, the conditions were equally horrific. As recalled by the commander of the Chinese 51st division, Wang Yaowu “The shelling was incessant. Body parts were flying through the air. Some men lost legs, others arms. Brains were splattered everywhere”. The division's 301st Regiment, which bore the brunt of the battle, suffered approximately 1,500 casualties among its officers and soldiers. On the second day of the battle for Chunhua, December 7, their left flank made some gains, penetrating the area behind the village. The breakthrough, however, came in the afternoon of December 8 when an entire regiment that had been lagging behind the rest of the 9th Division arrived just in time to join the fight. This bolstered the morale of the Japanese troops and provided momentum to their attack. By the end of that day, Chunhua was firmly under Japanese control. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. As the Japanese forces advanced, Nanjing's fate teetered on the brink. Commander Tang Shengzhi led a beleaguered defense amidst chaos, while civilians fortified the city, aware of its significance. On December 1, General Matsui officially ordered an assault on Nanjing. As Japanese troops closed in, brutality loomed on the horizon, heralding one of China's darkest chapters in its fight against oppression.

Hope Pedraza joins me to talk about the struggles so many of us face—exhaustion, brain fog, and low energy, especially as mothers. Hope is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner, a Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, and the founder of inBalance. She brings incredible expertise to the conversation, sharing how she uses functional labs—like hair tissue mineral analysis, gut tests, and hormone tests—to uncover the root causes of symptoms. What I love about Hope's approach is that she doesn't just focus on the physical side of health. She also emphasizes the importance of the energetic and emotional aspects, helping women truly understand their unique human design. She offers practical ways to start, from simple body check-ins to prioritizing fiber, protein, magnesium, and potassium in our daily nutrition. Hope's perspective is a powerful reminder that healing is possible when we listen to what our bodies are really asking for. Hope has a podcast you may want to check out. More Ways to Connect with Hope: The Facebook PageHer Instagram PageYouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fr. Anthony Amato is the Pastor of St. Peter's Parish in Clifton Springs, New York. He was ordained as a priest in June of 2017 by Bishop Salvatore Matano of the Diocese of Rochester, New York. In Today's Show: Finding holiness and purpose in the daily struggles of homeschooling and motherhood. Returning to the Church after remarriage and understanding the annulment process. The spiritual risks of engaging with paranormal media and how to approach it safely. Why Saturday evening Mass fulfills the Sunday obligation in Catholic teaching. Teaching children the value of work and responsibility in a positive way. Reconciling God's mercy and judgment: forgiveness, contrition, and the Final Judgment. Why Catholics use crucifixes and meditate on Christ's suffering along with His Resurrection. How receiving the Eucharist forgives venial sins and the importance of proper disposition. Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

 Show notes and resources mentioned in the episode: https://lifeunboxed.blog/self-care/Self-care is a word that I love to hate. Mainly because the Instagram version of it is in conflict with reality. Is there a better way to self-care than what we see on Instagram? Self-care is a trendy buzzword now, and I am fully aware that it can seem inaccessible for work from home and homeschool moms. We are always busy. Always exhausted. Running on coffee and the most convenient snack we can pull out of the pantry.  But that's why I like to talk about it. I want to change our social media ideas of self-care and make it very practical for work from home and homeschool moms. Self-care isn't reserved only for those who have time, money, or a nanny. True mom self-care isn't about luxury or escapism (ok maybe this one a little bit), but it is about restoration. Finding your equilibrium in the pockets of your day. Mom, let's uncover the self-care secret so you can thrive. Find your tribe. Join the online community: Rebel Moms Club for Working Homeschool Mom:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/rebelmomsclub Grab your guide today! The Momtrepreneur's Guide to Homeschool Curriculum: https://lifeunboxed.blog/homeschool-curriculum/ Journals and Notebooks for Mom + Homeschool Resources: https://geni.us/Jodiethemom~~~REBEL MOM CHECKLIST: A NO NONSENSE GUIDE TO WORKING FROM HOME AND HOMESCHOOLINGDitch the overwhelm and struggle. It is possible to work from home and homeschool confidently. Get actionable suggestions and practical help. https://lifeunboxed.blog/homeschool-and-work-from-home/CHECK OUT LIFE UNBOXED MERCHANDISE AND GET SOME GREAT MOM BOSS SWAGhttps://teespring.com/stores/life-unboxed-blog MOMS RUN ON COFFEE. BUY JODIE THE MOM ONE.https://ko-fi.com/lifeunboxedblog ABOUT JODIE THE MOM:To learn more about Jodie, please visit: https://lifeunboxed.blog/about-the-mom-work-from-home-mom/FOLLOW JODIE:Website: https://lifeunboxed.blog/Business: https://www.jodierperry.com/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/LifeUnboxedFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LifeunboxedblogInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeunboxedblog/Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-647543YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lifeunboxedblog Music for the intro/outro is Like it Hot by Tenoaxehttp://teknoaxe.com/Link_Code_3.php?q=1579 Disclaimer: This video and description contain affiliate links. If you purchase using one of these links, I make a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me keeps things free for you, and who doesn't love free stuff.Support the show

Sarah Jaffe is the author of Work Won't Love You Back: How Devotion to Our Jobs Keep Us Exploited, Exhausted, and Alone. She and Chris discuss the emotional toll of modern work culture and the importance of community. They also dive into Sarah's newest book, From the Ashes: Grief and Revolution in a World on Fire, and explore the idea that between pandemics, climate change, and economic inequality, many of us are feeling a huge (and often unacknowledged sense of grief. Sarh explains the concept of “disenfranchised grief” and how collective mourning can invite meaningful social connections.For a chance to give your own TED Talk, fill out the Idea Search Application: ted.com/ideasearch.Interested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyouTEDSports: ted.com/sportsTEDAI Vienna: ted.com/ai-viennaTEDAI San Francisco: ted.com/ai-sf Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It may come as a surprise, but for some, summer isn't always a time for rest and recharging. Quite the opposite, in fact. This phenomenon, known as “mid-year crisis” or “summer burnout,” is a type of seasonal depression that occurs during the summer months. According to The Guardian newspaper, symptoms include drowsiness, lack of appetite, decreased libido and energy, and a general feeling of being overworked and tired. These feelings can occur during or after vacations, even after a period of rest. It's as if the positive effects expected from a holiday were totally ephemeral. Worse, some people feel more sensitive and irritable than before their break. What are the symptoms? How do you explain this seasonal crisis? But isn't summer supposed to be special? `In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠What are the biggest misconceptions on beating heatwaves?⁠ ⁠What are the health benefits of using sex toys?⁠ ⁠Which foods should I avoid after their expiry date?⁠ A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast: 3/9/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EP532. Have you ever noticed that the second you finally get a break, on vacation, or even just a quiet afternoon... you crash? That's the let-down effect: when your body finally feels safe enough to relax, all the exhaustion you've been holding back shows up. In this solo episode, Renee talks about what the let-down effect really is, why so many moms experience it, and three simple practices she is looking into that can help regulate your nervous system day-to-day: 1. Breath work to calm your body in the moment2. Journaling to process emotions and release mental clutter3. Cutting back on social media/phone use to give your brain real rest If you feel like you're constantly running on fumes, stuck in fight-or-flight, or crashing the second you get a break... this one's for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most of us aren't exhausted because we're “doing too much.” We're exhausted because we keep living for everyone else. You're tired because you don't know how to say no. You're drained because you keep putting yourself dead last — convincing yourself that's loyalty, strength, or love. But it's not. It's self-abandonment.In this episode of  @empoweredwithgina  , Gina breaks down the hard truth about why you're burnt out and how to finally reclaim your peace. She shares the mindset shifts and daily practices that will help you start putting yourself first — without guilt, without apology, and without explanation.You can't be the best partner, parent, friend, or leader if you're running on empty. True strength starts with protecting your own energy. This is your permission to stop abandoning yourself, start saying no, and finally choose YOU.

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We start with breaking news that President Donald Trump's civil fraud penalty has been thrown out. From Florida to Maine, the East Coast is preparing for the effects of Hurricane Erin. Exhausted soldiers may be an issue for Israel's military as it pushes ahead with its assault on Gaza City. The Kremlin is pouring cold water on the prospect of a meeting between Russia and Ukraine's leaders. California has received a boost in its congressional redistricting plan. Plus, we pay tribute to an unlikely social media star known for fairness and compassion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Exhausted but still organizing drawers at 10pm? Staying up for "one more episode" when you should sleep? This isn't about discipline - it's about the hidden beliefs keeping you from resting.This 8-minute strategic journaling session reveals why you can't give yourself permission to rest, even when your body is begging for it. We'll uncover the hidden beliefs keeping you running on empty and give you four powerful prompts to shift your relationship with rest.You'll get to know;Why "I'll sleep when the kids are older" is actually fear in disguiseThe real reason you feel guilty sitting still when there's stuff to be doneWhat you're really afraid it means about you if you restHow to stop believing rest has to be "earned" through exhaustionStrategic Journaling Prompts:What thoughts go through your head when you try to rest but there are still things to be done?Who in your life would judge you for resting? What would they say or think?What do you believe you have to accomplish before you're "allowed" to rest?What would change if you believed rest was productive, not lazy?Perfect for the mom who works through lunch breaks, volunteers for one more committee, and checks emails on vacation. Your worth isn't measured by your productivity.Resources Mentioned:Episode 15: The 7 Types of Rest to Avoid BurnoutCalm Mind Blueprint: www.samanthapenkoff.com/calm-mind-podWays to work with Samantha:1:1 coaching: Now accepting applications, 1 spot open. Learn More here: https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/privatecoachingGet on the Waitlist: https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/assessments/2148353310Connect with Sam on IG: https://www.instagram.com/samantha.s.saysDM Sam on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoachSamanthaHawley/

Want to submit an episode topic request? Text 'em here!Are you running on empty, secretly exhausted, and wondering why nothing feels like enough? What if your burnout isn't really about your workload, your family, or your business responsibilities…but about the way you've been carrying it all?In this raw and eye-opening episode of the God Empowered Entrepreneur Podcast, I'm revealing the real reason so many creative entrepreneurs feel drained, disconnected, and out of alignment: we're performing instead of stewarding.You'll discover:The painful difference between performing for people and stewarding for GodWhy pretending everything is “fine” leaves you more exhausted than the work itselfHow dropping the facade unlocks true peace, healing, and divine strengthA powerful mindset shift that will transform how you approach your business, your calling, and your overall lifeIf you've been feeling burned out, stuck in perfectionism, or like you're just putting on a show for the world while struggling inside...then this episode is your heart check and the beginning of your breakthrough moment.Listen now and learn how to stop performing, start stewarding, and finally find the peace your soul has been craving.Share this episode with a friend who may need it today! ⏰TIMESTAMPS01:04 when my performance didn't match my reality02:00 welcome to what God has been teaching me02:51 the moment I realized I couldn't keep running like this06:35 how God shifted me from performance to stewardship07:16 the difference between performing for God and walking with Him09:00 my call to choose authenticity over applause12:02 what makes christian entrepreneurship so challenging14:57 how stewardship brought healing to my soul18:27 my encouragement if you feel tired, burnt out, or unseen Prefer Video? Get the full podcast video experience on YouTube RIGHT HERE!

Start your week with a powerful dose of encouragement on this episode of Positive Mindset Monday! If you've been feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or just run down by the demands of life and work, you're not alone and there's a way to rise above it. This episode dives into the true source of lasting energy: reconnecting with your purpose and mission. Discover how remembering your “why” can reignite your passion and help you push past fatigue and burnout. You'll learn why staying focused on your vision, not just your to-do list, keeps you resilient, energized, and ready to make a real impact. Whether you're a leader, a team member, or simply someone who wants more positivity in your day, this episode offers practical insight to help you thrive, renew your motivation, and fuel up for the week ahead.   Here's a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book 'The 7 Commitments of a Great Team' today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It's advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my Day of Development! You'll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You'll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It's time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

You're not lazy. You're not behind. And your energy isn't broken. It's likely misalignment — not burnout. Learn why high-capacity humans feel depleted, and how breath, identity, and presence help you recover without quitting it all.You're eating well. Sleeping decently. Still ambitious.So why do you feel so drained?Today's episode will help you name what most high-capacity humans can't:Your exhaustion isn't about doing too much — it's about doing it from a misaligned identity.Julie Holly walks you through why so many leaders, creatives, and vision-carriers feel fatigue they can't explain — and why your nervous system often knows the truth before your mind will admit it.You'll learn:Why adrenaline can feel like energy — until it doesn'tWhat “wired but tired” really meansThe difference between high performers and high-capacity humansHow breathwork can begin re-regulating your nervous system in 90 secondsHow to reclaim energy without blowing up your lifeJulie also guides you through two simple breath practices — 4-7-8 and Box Breathing — and explains how shallow breathing signals stress to the body, while deep breathing invites safety.Plus, she shares how Michael Gervais, high-performance psychologist and author of Finding Mastery, shifted elite training from output to presence. His quote, “The quality of our lives is a direct reflection of the quality of our inner world”, anchors this recalibration. Julie shares how this book shaped her journey — and links it in the show notes.Today's Micro Recalibration“Where in my life am I feeling tired — but it's not physical?” → “What version of myself am I still performing that no longer feels true?”For team leaders:“What's one thing you're doing that feels more like proving than flowing?”This is your permission slip to stop overriding your system and start listening to it. Your exhaustion isn't failure. It's feedback. And when you recalibrate your identity, your energy returns — without burnout.RESOURCES:The First Rule of Mastery: Stop Worrying About What People Think of You by Michael GervaisIf this episode gave you language you've been missing, please rate and review the show so more high-capacity humans can find it. Explore Identity-Level Recalibration→ Follow Julie Holly on LinkedIn for more recalibration insights → Schedule a conversation with Julie to see if The Recalibration is a fit for you → Download the Misalignment Audit → Subscribe to the weekly newsletter → Join the waitlist for the next Recalibration cohort This isn't therapy. This isn't coaching. This is identity recalibration — and it changes everything.

Do you ever feel like you're running on empty, no matter how much you rest? We've been there. In this episode, we open up about our own struggles with fatigue — from Crysanne navigating big life challenges, to Coryn facing postpartum exhaustion while trying to keep up with the demands of new motherhood. We share the moments we realized food was a big part of the problem — whether it was skipping meals altogether (Crysanne) or eating “everything in sight” to keep up with milk supply (Coryn). Then we talk about the small, simple nutrition tweaks that completely changed our energy — like adding more protein, staying hydrated, and ditching the sugar-and-caffeine roller coaster. We'll also be real about the overwhelm we felt with all the conflicting nutrition advice out there, the setbacks we hit along the way, and how focusing on just a few doable changes helped us finally feel like ourselves again. By the end of this episode, you'll have practical steps you can start today — from the first thing you drink in the morning to easy meal tweaks that keep your energy steady all day long. If you're tired of being tired, this is your gentle nudge that you can feel vibrant again — and it doesn't have to mean overhauling your whole life.

Hello to you listening in London, England!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds (and a bit more for courage) for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.It's true what they say: "A story grows in the gaps where the facts fall short." 47 and his cabal are exploiting the gaps to create cruel and obscene stories because they have no facts.Headlines that repeat 47's cruel and obscene stories like reign of terror, being on the eve of destruction, days of the dictator, subservience to the sociopath, and so on reinforce these stories. The more these stories are told without the counterbalance of truth, facts, good news, and how We the People are fighting back, the more these lies will take hold in our exhausted minds because these stories keep on gushing like torrents of water out of a broken fire hydrant.Hear me when I say this: I am no idiot. Treacherous times are alive and afoot. 47 and his criminally complicit cabinet, feckless GOP congress, and subservient SCOTUS on speed dial are after nothing short of the utter desecration of our country. So, We the People must continue to push back, show up, stand up, speak up, fight and ever fight!In the darkest days of World War II when all looked lost in the face of Nazi Germany's advance across Europe and the Dunkirk evacuation, Winston Churchill summoned the will of the British people against those odds.    His famous "We shall fight on the beaches" speech was a galvanizing address delivered to the House of Commons on June 4, 1940.Listen to a portion of history: “The British Empire and the French Republic, linked together in their cause and in their need, will defend to the death their native soil, aiding each other like good comrades to the utmost of their strength. Even though large tracts of Europe and many old and famous States have fallen or may fall into the grip of the Gestapo and all the odious apparatus of Nazi rule, we shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end, we shall fight in France, we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air, we shall defend our Island, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender, and even if, which I do not for a moment believe, this Island or a large part of it were subjugated and starving, then our Empire beyond the seas, armed and guarded by the British Fleet, would carry on the struggle, until, in God's good time, the New World, with all its power and might, steps forth to the rescue and the liberation of the old.”Imagine the immense sacrifice and effort required of the British people to face the adversity and pummeling hardships of war. And yet, they did with courage and determination, with unwavering resolve to resist the Nazi threat, even to the last person, if necessary.If the British defeated the Nazis - against all odds - who are we not to follow in their footsteps and prevail against the enemy within our shores? We have no Churchill to summon us to battle; but we shall fight and we shall win because We the People are defying them and their obscenely hateful stories.Thank you for listening and making good trouble to liberate the land of the free and the home of the brave.  You're always welcome: "Come for the stories - Stay for the magic!" Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, share a 5-star rating and nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, bring your friends and rellies, and join us! You will have wonderful company as we continue to walk our lives together. Be sure to stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website, check out the Communication Services, arrange a free, no-sales Discovery Call, and stay current with me as "Wyzga on Words" on Substack. Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicALL content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.  If you found this podcast episode helpful, please consider sharing and attributing it to Diane Wyzga of Stories From Women Who Walk podcast with a link back to the original source.

Our Dragon Con coverage officially begins, and it might never end! Dragon Con is our favorite nerd event of the year, it's almost here, and this week we're looking through the guest list. Among those tentatively scheduled to appear are stars from Back to the Future, Daredevil, Buck Rogers, Star Trek, The Magicians... and even some actual Muppet performers. Also appearing will be many fine writers, artists, musicians, scientists, and humble podcasters, including a bunch of maniacs from right here on the ESO Network. Also: The 120 Minutes dance party! The return of Sci-Fi Explosion! The debut of HalloweenCon! And our weird idea for a gym teacher panel! Next week: More thrilling Dragon Con preview action! You might want to get to Atlanta and start standing in lines right now. The Flopcast website! The ESO Network! The Flopcast on Facebook! The Flopcast on Instagram! The Flopcast on Bluesky! The Flopcast on Mastadon! Please rate and review The Flopcast on Apple Podcasts! Email: info@flopcast.net Our music is by The Sponge Awareness Foundation! This week's promo: Earth Station Trek!    

August 2025 Grief Roadmap Mentorship Is Now Open! Enrollment is open now through Sunday, August 17! The Grief Roadmap is a 12-week mentorship experience for grieving moms who are ready to receive faith-based teaching and process their pain in a Christ-centered community. If you're longing for support, direction, and healing—this is your invitation to join us now. The course begins Wednesday, August 21, and the doors will close Sunday night August 17th. 

Maralyn and Maurice Bailey were always a little unconventional. Maurice was a loner, precise. Maralyn was extroverted and energetic. But when they married in the 1960s, they both felt they had found their person. Together, they dreamed of running away from their ordinary lives — of selling everything and sailing the world. And in 1972, they made it happen. They set course for a fresh start in New Zealand and left England in a 31-foot yacht. All went well until they reached the Pacific, where a chance encounter with a whale sank their boat. They managed to get a few supplies onto their life raft, where they waited for help to come. And waited.And waited. Exhausted, starving, struggling to survive and get along, their marriage was put to the ultimate test. But when they were finally rescued after more than 100 days adrift at sea, they were a stronger couple than before. Author Sophie Elmhirst discovered the Bailey's true story on a message board and knew she had to bring it to a new generation — with the added twist that this isn't just a personal survival story. It's a marital survival story. She joins host Kerri Miller on this week's Big Books and Bold Ideas to talk all about “A Marriage at Sea.” Guest: Sophie Elmhirst writes regularly for the Guardian Long Read. In 2020, she won the British Press Award for Feature Writer of the Year. Her book, “A Marriage at Sea,” was published in the U.S. in July 2025. Subscribe to the Thread newsletter for the latest book and author news and must-read recommendations.Subscribe to Big Books and Bold Ideas with Kerri Miller on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, RSS or anywhere you get your podcasts.

Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you try to manage your time, you're still running on empty? The to-do list grows, the kids need you, work demands pull you in all directions, and you're left wondering if you'll ever have enough time to breathe. In this episode, I share my personal journey of how my perspective on time shifted drastically after becoming a solo parent / single parent when my husband went to Heaven. Suddenly, raising three active kids, being the sole breadwinner, and navigating grief all collided—and I realized my relationship with time needed to change. We'll explore biblical time management—because most “time problems” aren't really about calendars or planners, they're heart issues. Together, we'll look at what God's Word says about redeeming our days, finding rest, and making space for what matters most. You'll walk away with: Heart questions to uncover what's really driving your schedule Practical time management tips rooted in Scripture Encouragement to let go of perfection and walk in God's timing A reminder that He's given you enough time for what He's called you to do If you're an exhausted mom—whether you're working, solo parenting, or just trying to keep up with daily life—this conversation will help you release the pressure, find peace, and step into rhythms that honor both God and your season.   Resources + Links:

In this eye-opening episode, Ben Azadi reveals 7 vegetables that may be silently fueling inflammation, joint pain, and belly fat—despite being labeled as “healthy.” Learn the truth about oxalates, lectins, and goitrogens, and discover better food swaps that support fat loss, gut health, and energy. Ben also answers your top questions about nightshades, leafy greens, and food sensitivities—and gives away a free fat loss ebook to jumpstart your results.

If you're a parent doing everything for everyone - and still feel like you're barely holding it together… If you're exhausted no matter how much sleep you get… If you're doing all the “right” things, but are still snapping, numbing out, or shutting down… You're not just tired. You're burnt out.In this episode, we break down the real reason you feel stuck, and what to do about it. You'll learn:The difference between stress and burnout (and why it's critical to know it as a parent)How to tell if you're stuck in a stress loop that's wrecking your energy, mood, and connection with your kidsThe 6 science-backed tools that will actually help you feel betterWhat happens to your body and brain when burnout goes untreatedThe small, daily shifts that will help you recover - without changing your entire lifeThis is not self-care fluff. This is neuroscience. This is your permission to stop pushing through - and start coming back to life.This episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct, or indirect financial interest in products, or services referred to in this episode.This episode of After Bedtime with Big Little Feelings is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/FEELINGS. Our listeners get 10% off their first month!Visit TubbyTodd.com and use code TubbyToddBigLittleFeelings15 at checkout for 15% off your first purchase! Produced by Dear MediaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.