Podcasts about Journaling

Christina and Jeff kick off the new year of Overtired sans Brett. They delve into Christina's impending cervical spine surgery, ICE raids, and neighborhood signal groups. How do you keep mental health in check when Homeland Security is in your alley? Tune in for a wild start to 2026. Sponsor Copilot Money can help you take control of your finances. Get a fresh start with your money for 2026 with 26% off when you visit try.copilot.money/overtired and use code OVERTIRED. Chapters 00:00 New Year Kickoff 00:41 Personal Updates and Health Challenges 01:49 Surgery Details and Insurance Woes 04:45 Exploring Surgery Options and Recovery 12:44 Journaling and Mental Health 15:40 The Artist’s Way and Creative Practices 24:31 Unexpected Alley Incident 38:10 Family Activism and Signal Setup 38:52 Unexpected End of Year Incident 39:35 Speculations and Concerns 40:13 Dealing with Law Enforcement 45:35 Reflections on Responsibility 54:43 Gratitude for Signal 59:31 Tech Talk: Synology and Backup Solutions 01:03:08 Mac Updater Alternatives 01:10:03 Conclusion and Well Wishes Show Links Journaling – The Artist's Way Signal Synology Updatest Join the Conversation Merch Come chat on Discord! Twitter/ovrtrd Instagram/ovrtrd Youtube Get the Newsletter Thanks! You’re downloading today’s show from CacheFly’s network BackBeat Media Podcast Network Check out more episodes at overtiredpod.com and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. Transcript Promise Not to Whine [00:00:00] New Year Kickoff Christina: Well, happy New Year. You are listening to Overtired and I am Christina Warren, and I’m joined as always by Jeff Severance Zel and, uh, Brett Terpstra couldn’t be, uh, here with us in this, uh, happy early 2026 episode, but I’m, I’m super excited to be able to kick off the, uh, the first pot of the year with you, Jeff, how are you? Jeff: I am good. Happy New Year to you. Christina: Likewise, likewise. Um, oh, here, here, here’s to 2026 being significantly better than 20, 25. So Jeff: So far, not so good, but I’m, I’m really, I’m really excited about 2026. I’m Christina: I was gonna say, like, like globally, globally, so far not great, but, but, Jeff: in here. Good in here. Personal Updates and Health Challenges Christina: So, um, so how are, uh, uh, how, how, how is the, I guess a, I guess we can kind of a drill into like a, a brief kind of mental health or, or just personal update thing if we want. Um, how, um. How are things for you so far? Um, I guess the end of the year. How are things with the kids? Um, the [00:01:00] wife, everything. Jeff: the, how the year ended is, and that gets us back to almost a political level. I will save for a topic ’cause boy do I have a story. Um, but, uh, generally speaking, doing really well. Like we traveled, saw my dad and stepmom in Iowa. Saw my in-laws in Indiana, had a really nice, just like generally had a really nice time off. Um, and despite the fact that I’m under a super stressful deadline over the next few days, I feel good. How about you? You got a lot going on. Christina: I, I do, I do. So I guess just kind of a, a, an, an update on, um, the, uh, the Christina, you know, cervical spine, um, saga since we last spoke a couple of weeks ago. Um, I guess maybe two weeks ago now. Um, uh, it was maybe a week ago. Um, uh, it was two weeks ago, I think. Sorry, it was, it was right before Christmas. Surgery Details and Insurance Woes Christina: Um, I was still awaiting, um, hearing back about when I would be scheduled for, uh, surgery and I’m getting, um, uh, artificial disc replacement in, um, I guess [00:02:00] between like C six, C seven of my cervical spine. And I do finally have a surgery date. Yay. Um, the bad, yeah, the bad news is it’s not until February 2nd, so I’ve gotta wait, you know, a month, which sucks. Um, I would have been able to get in, you know, uh, three weeks ago at this point. Um, had I been able to like, I guess like book immediately, but without insurance, like approval, um, I didn’t really want to do that. Um, I think, I think people, uh, can understand why, like, you know, when the doctor’s like, well, we can book you now, but you’ll just need to sign some forms that say you’ll be responsible for the bill if insurance doesn’t pay. Jeff: Oh fine. Get Where’s my pen? Christina: right, right. And I’m like, yeah, this is, you’re gonna keep me overnight just for, you know, observation to make sure like nothing bleeds or, or, or whatever’s a problem. Um, ’cause they’re gonna go through like the, the, the front of my, of my neck to, to be able to reach, you know, um, things that way and, and, and so, [00:03:00] you know, and be under, you know, anesthesia, you know, it’s, it’s, it’s not like a huge critical procedure, but it’s still neurosurgery. Jeff: is through the front of your neck. Christina: and, and, and, and, and, and again, and it’s a neurosurgeon and it’s like, you know, they’re gonna, you know, take some stuff out and try to make sure that like, you know, very, like they’re gonna be, you know, um, screwing up against my trachea and stuff. And like, yeah. I mean, like, you know, it’s, it’s not, it’s not minor. It’s not like I can just go in in an afternoon and be like, oh, I’m, I’m, I can just like walk out. Jeff: Right. Christina: Um, um, although apparently I will feel better, uh, as soon as it happens, but yeah, I mean, this is probably gonna be a six figure, you know, operation, I’m assuming so. No, I, I, I’m sorry. In, in this climate, uh, I don’t feel comfortable. Just, I need my name to be like, oh, yeah, I’ll, I’ll be responsible for that, and then be responsible for trying to track everyone down to, to pay. So that’s the frustrating thing is that, and now of course, you know, you, you get the beginning of the year, a bunch of people have been waiting, you know, to get, you know, things scheduled, I’m sure, and [00:04:00] whatnot. So I’m grateful that I’m scheduled at all. Um, I’m also grateful that right now I’m not insignificant pain, which is a really good thing because if this had been the pain level that I was in for the first few weeks, then like, I wouldn’t, I, you know, I mean, I would wait. I mean, if, if, if you have to wait, you have to wait. But, um, I, I, I might have like pressed upon them like. Is there any way we can move this up? Um, but I’m not in that position, which is good. The only thing is just that the numbness, um, on both arms. But, but, but primarily, yeah. No, I mean, that’s not gone away and, and it’s, and it’s not going to is the thing, right? Like there are a lot of people and like, and I, I’ve started now that I’ve got, got it like actually like done and like scheduled and you know, I’m going through all like the, you know, um, checklist stuff before you, you go in and whatnot. And I have like my, you know, pre-up appointments and all that stuff scheduled. Exploring Surgery Options and Recovery Christina: Um, I am starting to, to look more into, I guess like, you know, I guess recovery videos that people have put up on YouTube and, and reading a few things on Reddit. Although I’m doing my best to, to stay off the internet with [00:05:00] this stuff as much as possible. Um, just because for me it’s, it’s not beneficial, right? Like, it, it’s, it’s one thing if you know, um, you, uh, you don’t like. If, if you can separate and not kind of go down rabbit holes and like freak yourself out or whatever, sure. Maybe it can be good information, but for me, like I, I know my own kind of, you know, limits in terms of, of how much is good for me. And so I’ve, I’ve tried to keep that in moderation, but I have watched a few, you know, videos of people, you know, kind of talking about their experiences. And then of course then that gets used sent with like videos of like doctors who of course, for their own reasons, like are trying to promote like, oh, well you should do the, the, the fusion versus the, the, the disc replacement and, or you should do this versus that. And I’m like, okay. I actually watched one interesting talk that, that some guy gave it a medical conference and neurologist gave it a medical conference and it was a neurosurgeon, I guess is, is the proper term. But that I think kind of really distinctly a, it was very similar to. Exactly what my surgeon said to me, [00:06:00] um, when he was kind of explaining the differences in the procedures. Um, and, and b but kind of went into, I guess like the, the difference in terms of outcomes and, um, and it made me feel better about like that if I’m a good candidate for this procedure, that, that this is, um, the right thing to, to do and probably will be better for me long term. Um, because the, the results are, are better and, but not by a small portion, not like by like a, a gargantuan portion. But they are, they are, there is like a sizable difference between outcomes in terms of whether like the average person who needs a revision, um. For, you know, cervical spine versus getting, you know, disc replacement versus, um, uh, fusion. Fusion has been around a lot longer, and so insurance companies are a lot more likely to approve that. But in Europe, they’ve been doing the, the disc replacement stuff for 25, 30 years. Um, and so there is a lot of data on it, but it’s been a much more recent thing in the United States because insurance companies didn’t really start to do it until about five or 10 years ago. And so, and so, you know, some people will, [00:07:00] like some doctors who very clearly have an agenda on, on YouTube and like, that’s fine, like your practices, your practice and you’re comfortable with what you’re comfortable with. But they’ll be like, oh, we don’t have enough data on, you know, the types of, um, you know, discs that we’re putting in people’s, you know, necks and, and how, how long they, you know, last and, and there might be some differences in terms of if you’re doing like a multi-step, meaning you’re doing like multiple discs at once. Or if, you know, depending on like what, what, what part of the spine you’re in. And like, I, I think at this point for, for artificial disc replacement in the US they’ll do it two steps. So they can do two at once, but they won’t typically do three, although they will do three in Europe. And so there are people who will go to Europe and get the three Jeff: They’re so liberal in Europe. We’ll do three. Christina: Well, I mean, I think it’s a difference in, in that case, just a matter of like, if they’ve been doing the surgeries there longer, you know, then, then they, you know, and, and, and you know, and, and this is not uncommon in, in various forms of, of medicine, you know, where like you have different, you know, procedures and different exploratory things in different fields, in different areas.[00:08:00] So anyway, so then I get kind of trapped into those rabbit holes. But the interesting, the night, the, the, I guess comforting thing is that like, you know, I’ve been reading, you know, around reading, but watching people who were doing vlogs, like after their surgery and like there was this guy who. I was a few years younger than me, but he, you know, posted some updates. I, I guess he got his in July and he kind of did like, you know, updates, you know, kind of like, you know, this was me right after surgery. This was me, you know, three weeks later. This was me however many months later. And that was really great to see. Um, and, and his, his scar actually healed really nicely, which was encouraging. So, um, yeah, I mean, I’m, I’m, I’m, I’m hopeful. I mean, the one thing that’s interesting that, like almost the universal thing that people say, of course you have a few people who say, this didn’t help or, or, you know, this, this was bad or whatever. And, and obviously like that’s always terrible to see that, but you know, you’d have to kind of like go by law of averages. But the, one of the central kind of things is a lot of people being like, I should have done this earlier. And, and so I’m feeling good about that because that is, I, I, I, I don’t know what this says about me, [00:09:00] but like there’s was never a moment in my mind where I’ve been like, oh, I’m not gonna get the surgery as soon as I can get the surgery. That’s never even been part of my like, thought process. And, and, and, and, and it’s funny because I think that like, that is actually odd compared to almost everybody else. Um, the general public, I guess, who goes into these sorts of things. Um, or at least the people who are vocal on the internet, right? So, so maybe like, maybe there are a lot more people like me who just don’t go to forums and comment on stuff and are just like, yeah, I’m gonna get the surgery because that’s what the doctor says. There’s the right thing to do, and that’s what makes sense to me and I wanna, you know, not be in pain and I wanna be able to feel my arm and all that stuff. Um, but there are a lot of people who, I don’t know why, um, I mean, I guess the idea of surgery is, is really scary. And, and like, I can, I can understand that obviously, but to the point where they’re like, okay, well no, I’m gonna try physical therapy and I’m gonna do everything I can to avoid surgical intervention. And I’m, I’m like, no. Like, like [00:10:00] freaking cut me up, doc. Right? Like, like, like, get me in, get me in. Like, let’s get better, right? Like, I, I’m not, I’m not here to like fuck around with like, ’cause right now, because the immediate pain is not there, I could be okay. Right? Like, I Jeff: Sure. Christina: try steroids, I could try pt, I could try to do other types of therapies and be like, well, maybe that will move the nerve around. Or maybe it can get the disc like UN you know, bolt, whatever the case may be. And maybe I won’t need surgery. Um, or I could let this go on longer and continue to be weakness, you know, and, and, and in, you know, it’s not like I’m not in, I’m, I’m not in active pain, but it’s not, not painful at certain times. Not worrying about is this just going to become like a permanent way that I feel, which would be. Awful. Um, and, you know, and, and, and like, it’s not the most debil debilitating thing, like I said. Um, if, if I was in a position where I, I couldn’t get surgery, obviously I could be okay right now, but you never know. Also, like, when is it going to, to swap again? Right? [00:11:00] Like, and, and, and, and for me, I’m also, I’m like, I, I don’t wanna have to like, live in fear of doing something, you know, to my arm or my neck or, or whatever, and, you know, making things worse. So, Jeff: right. Oh, I’m glad you’re doing it. Christina: yeah, me too. So anyway, that was a long-winded update, but Wow. Jeff: Yeah, that’s intense. So I’m really glad the pain is not what it was ’cause Holy shit. Christina: Yeah, the pain was, was really, really bad. And I, like, I look back now and it’s, you know, I, I guess ’cause it’s been a couple of weeks since it’s been really debilitating and it is, and again, I don’t know like that this is me or this is like just somebody else, but I, or this is me or this is the comment with other people. Sorry. Um, is that. Like when I’m not in pain anymore. It is such, so much like, I mean, depression is like this too. It’s so much like a vacuum. It’s like when you’re in it, that’s all you can see. But when you’re out of it, like it’s so easy to forget what it was like Jeff: Yeah, yeah, totally. Completely. Christina: totally completely right. Yeah. Jeff: Yeah. I can even imagine being in the [00:12:00] situation you’re describing, knowing I have a surgery coming up and being like, well, do I want to? Which, like, to your point now, you make that call and you’re worrying forever. Am I gonna wake up? And this thing’s there. Next time it happens, I gotta wait another God knows how long before the surgery, when I’ll know it’s time. Like, you know it’s time now. Get in there. Christina: No, totally, totally. And and that’s the thing. And I think sometimes it can be. Like I said, like when you’re not in the thick of, of it, whether it’s like, you know, feeling depressed or feeling overwhelmed or, or stressed or, or in physical pain or whatever, like it’s easy for to forget like what that can be like. And so I have to just kind of like remind myself like, no, this was really fucking bad. And yeah, you got through it and now you’re on the other side of it. And so you’re like, oh, okay, well, you know, I, I, I could, you know, do whatever, but you’re like, don’t, don’t forget what that was like. Right. Journaling and Mental Health Christina: Um, sometimes I think like, and, and I, and I’m bad at remembering to do this, but new thing for the new year, I guess is why, um, it is important I think to like write things down, right. Like however we’re feeling, whether it’s, you know, good, bad, whatever. [00:13:00] Sometimes, like for me, like it is Jeff: Just like journal you mean, right? Christina: Yeah, exactly. Yeah. Yeah. Be, because it can be useful just to like look back and like, if you’re in a darker spot to remember, hey, there were times when I felt this way. Right. Might not bring, bring me back to that place. But it’s a good reminder. But also I think almost just, it’s importantly, it’s, it’s, it’s the inverse where it’s like you need to remember when you’re in a good place. What it can be like to be in a worse place. Um, because, you know, I think that’s why sometimes people make decisions they make about what medicines they’re going to take or not take or what therapies they’re going to continue or not continue. And, um, and it’s, and it’s really easy to get into that, you know, cycle of, okay, well I’m fine now, um, because you’re removed enough from what it felt like to be bad, you know? And, and then, and, and, and also I think sometimes like, uh, and this is why I wish that I’ve been journaling more over the last few years. You can really get yourself into a deep depression and not realize it. Jeff: Yes, yes. Yeah. And I feel like journaling too, just like helps you internalize some of the flags and [00:14:00] warning signs, even if you’re never looking back, like, ’cause you’re gonna process them a little bit. Christina: yeah, yeah. Jeff: can’t, I, I’ve journaled over the years for stints of time. I can’t go back into them. I almost like, I almost like bounce off the page when I try. Um, but I really have come to believe that just the act of doing it is the thing. Christina: agree. Jeff: Yeah, Christina: Yeah, I agree. Yeah, I, I usually don’t re reread my old stuff either, and I haven’t journaled regularly in a really, really long time, and I actually would like to get back into that again. I think it would be better for my overall health, but similar to you, it’s one of those things I wouldn’t necessarily revisit, Jeff: But now, you know, you have a document, you have a reason to go back into it. Christina: right. Well, but, but also, I mean, I think to your point, just the act of doing it, um, you know, and this is case, we’re both writers. I think this is the, the case for a lot of, of people who, who write like it, it is one of those things that like, that’s what will almost like cement it in my mind. You know what I mean? Like, as, as, as mattering [00:15:00] like, like even if it’s something innocuous, even if I don’t remember the small details of just that, that the fact that like, I’ve done it, like, like to your point, helps you kind of process things and kind of, you know, act more as kind of a therapeutic place. Jeff: Yeah, I don’t, when I’m writing like that, or just in general, I don’t feel like I’m writing from my brain or feel like I’m writing on my brain. Christina: Yeah, yeah. Jeff: It’s like I am actually putting the information in, not drawing it out weirdly. Christina: Yeah. Yeah. No, I, I know, I, I, I, I love that actually, I’ve never thought of it before. Writing on my brain. I love that. That’s really, that, I think that’s really profound. Jeff: Yeah. So there’s, um, there’s a kind of journaling that I wish I, I, well, I don’t beat myself up at all to be clear about this ’cause that I’m too old to do that anymore. The Artist’s Way and Creative Practices Jeff: Um, but there’s this book I read back in. Oh God, 2019 99 called The Artist’s Way by this woman Julie Cameron. And I don’t remember much about this book except for, and I probably have talked about it on this podcast [00:16:00] years ago at this point, but she has this practice, she calls morning Pages. And the idea is you sit down first thing in the morning, you fill three pages, you don’t think about what you’re writing or why you just keep the pen moving. And, and I, what I have found, that’s the only kind of real regular journaling I’ve ever done. It’s a great, great hack for me. ’cause it, it, I can do that. And I fill, I’ll fill a, you know, big notebook and I have a box full of them from over the years. ’cause again, I’m old. Um, but what is, I have never, I don’t think there’s been a single day that I’ve done those morning pages when I haven’t been a little surprised and something hasn’t emerged that. I’m like, I’ll think to myself, well shit, if I hadn’t have done this, where would that have stayed and lived and, and lodged itself. Right. Like, um, so anyway, I I’m glad you are bringing this up ’cause it’s reminding me of that and New Year is a great time to be thinking about that. Christina: Totally, totally. No, I love that. And I, yeah, I, I found the book The Artist’s Way, a Spiritual Path to Higher [00:17:00] Creativity. Jeff: Yes, Christina: and it’s like this yellow gold book, but like, apparently, and then like they, they, they, they, they sell Morning pages Journal, a Jeff: they do, of course. I Christina: Yeah. Yeah, of course. Jeff: it probably took her two decades to realize she should be cashing in on that, but she did. Christina: No, honestly, so the book, it looks like it was published the first one in 92, Jeff: Yeah. Christina: then they were selling the companion volume to the Artist’s Way as December 29th, 1997. Um, so, so like Jeff: that you’re doing this history. This is delightful. Christina: I, well, I just looked at Amazon is just kind of filling this out for me, so I’m, I’m, I’m, I’m, I’m, I’m, so at least it is possible that, that the, the book pages might have been even earlier than that, but like, good for her on like, recognizing there’s also a Artist’s Way workbook, um, now that was like a decade later, like 2006. Jeff: Yeah, that’s what I, maybe that’s what I’m thinking of. That came much later. Christina: Yeah, yeah. But, but it does seem like she got into that, like a David Allen kind of, you know, like, you know, whatever steps of highly, you know what I mean? Like, like all that kind of like stuff, [00:18:00] which Jeff: You’re letting the publisher have those meetings with you. Christina: Which honestly look good for you if you’re selling that many and whatnot. And, and if you come up with this journaling way, yes, sell the freaking paper. You should be selling PDF copies so that people can have it on their iPads now, like, you know, Jeff: Yeah. Christina: or, or, or on the remarkable tablets or whatever. Jeff: she had another thing actually I haven’t thought about in a long time. It wasn’t as useful to me long term. It helped me in the moment I. In the moment I was in, she called ’em artist dates and the idea was like, ’cause as you said in the title, it’s all about creativity. She was like, you, you take yourself out, go to a, whatever it is, a museum, a art supply shop, something like that. But with intention, like, I am going out to do this thing on my own alone because I know that it has some connection to what feels good to me about art and creativity and expression, whatever it was. That seems like a silly thing. Like it’s basically her saying, go to a museum. There was something about calling it an artist date. I think I was in a relationship too at the time where I was like not, it was not easy for me to [00:19:00] just go do something on my own. It was just a weird dynamic a little bit. So anyway, that was another good thing that came out of it. I mean, I, you don’t really have to work hard to tell me to go do something on my own, but at that time in my life you did. Yeah, she was great. That’s awesome. Christina: Yeah. Yeah. Uh, yeah. No, that is funny. Yeah. So yeah, so apparently that book was published in, in 1992 and, um, you know, uh, was immediately like, well, the first printing was about 9,000 copies. In 1992, the book was published by Jeremy Tarcher. Now part of Pink Wing Group revised and millions of copies have since been sold millions. Jeff: it was total like guru status by the Christina: Oh yeah, absolutely. No, absolutely. You know, and, and in a, yeah, she, she was, uh, she’s a, she was born in 1948, and so, uh, she’s still alive. She’s still kicking it. Um, Jeff: yeah. I think she made some new book that was like kind of a take on it, but it was a different, I don’t remember. Anyway. You’re the Christina: Yeah, no, no. Her, her list of like, of like books that she’s published is, she’s the, the most recent one. So she’s still doing the, the, the [00:20:00] writer’s way thing, living the, the artist’s way. An intuitive path to greater creativity. So I guess they did a 2024 version Write for Life, a toolkit for Writers Seeking wisdom, A spiritual Path to Creative Connection. Six week artist program. Jeff: it’s kind of like David Allen, where it’s like, wouldn’t it be nice to have created something when you were, whatever, reasonably younger, like 20, 30 years ago, that not only that you can ride for a long time, but you probably don’t feel bad about riding it for a long time. Right? Like, ’cause you can create things or have a band or something like that, that like your only choice is to ride that thing, but it gets pretty ugly. I see you Vince Neil. Um, but yeah, anyway, must be Christina: No, it ha it has to be nice, right? ’cause it’s like, okay, well no, and, and then it has all these little spinoff things, so it’s not like you have to feel like, I mean, although th this actually, this would, this would be an interesting idea for like a, a, a novel or a screenplay or something, which would be to be like, okay, you know, and people have have done like riffs on these things before on, on, you know, shows or whatever. But, so this would be an interesting story, I think to kind of focus on where it’s like you have somebody who is like, just famous for like, this, this one thing that they did, [00:21:00] and now their whole life has to revolve around it. But what if it was like, something that they didn’t like actually, like, believe in? Jeff: yes, Christina: what if you have the guru? What if you have the guru who’s like, actually is like, actually I don’t really, you know, I’m, I’m, I’m David Allen, but I, but I can’t actually get anything done. I have to have like a whole, you know, cadre of assistance to actually organize my, my, my, my calendar and my life. For me, you know, I don’t Jeff: Carol and Pluribus, I don’t know if you’re watching Pluribus, but that Yes. Her, her whole like book series. Clearly she was at a point where she’s like, yes, I should still ride this, but I cannot. That’s all right. Things changed for her. Um, okay. I have to tell you about something insane that happened to me at the end of 25. Christina: Okay. Alright. Before, before we do that, let me let Ru first, um, let’s, uh, let’s, let’s go ahead and, and get our, our sponsor read Jeff: Oh, way to remember the sponsor. We remember you sponsor. Christina: We, we, we do. 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That’s try dot copilot money slash Overtired and use that coupon Overtired and you will, as I said, save 26% off your first year. So try copilot money slash Overtired. Use the coupon code Overtired. Thank you very much. Copilot money. Jeff: Bam. Can you hear my Synology? Christina: No, Jeff: Oh, that’s funny. ’cause I, I get this. Hum. I recently com I, I’ll visit this in GrAPPtitude. I, [00:24:00] uh, I completely clean, installed my Synology after like six years. ’cause when I did. Build it. Initially, I actually didn’t really understand how to use it, and I, and I made some mistakes that because of all the stuff I put on, it was hard to sort of, I was treating it like it was gonna be an external drive and I could just kind of work with, you know, which was a huge mistake. Um, but anyway, I, it’s working so hard. It’s working so hard and it’s on my desk, which it normally wouldn’t be. So I hear this humming. Didn’t know if you heard it. Christina: I, I did not, I did not, which is a good thing. So, okay, so, all right. Uh, let, let’s, let’s go back. So what, what, yeah, I’m ready. I need to hear what happened to you at the end of 2025. All right. Unexpected Alley Incident Jeff: All right, so, um, my boys are out. They’re almost never out, but they’re both out with friends, different places. My wife and I we’re home and we were eating dinner and I got an alert from my back door ring camera, and. That almost never happens. It’s only exists to, to notify me of like alley shoppers. We’re in, in the city. We have an alley behind us and, and we get a fair amount of pretty [00:25:00] harmless alley shopping. Like it’s, is the car unlocked? If it is, you got some change. If not, I’m moving on. Um, but I like to know when they’re there. Christina: yeah, Jeff: We’ve had some bikes stolen and some people go into our garage and stuff like that. It’s very rare that it goes off less than I actually thought it would. Um, and so it goes off and it goes off at around 7:00 PM very unusual. And, uh, and so I, I, I pull it up and I look and, and I, all I can see is there’s two cars parked in the alley. I have this weird view where, um, it’s kind of a fence and then our garage. So I can see between those two things to the alley basically. So there’s two cars. That’s weird actually. And when I see some of people’s like videos about folks breaking into their cars, there’s often two that come. And so I was like, oh, okay, well it’s, I should just like go out and look. So we go and we kind of look at our, at our back window to see if we can see anything. And we’re just like, yeah, it’s weird. They’re not only parked but the headlights are off. And like, I’m gonna go out and check it out. She’s like, well first, why don’t you look at the video it recorded, which I wasn’t thinking of at all. So I pull up the video, it recorded, and I see these [00:26:00] cars park, but it’s like three or four of them come through the two that I can see park. And all of a sudden there are probably seven or eight figures running down the alley from these cars. Okay? And I’m like, well, that’s crazy. And so I walk out there and I go up to the first car and it’s got Texas plates. And around here where we have a little bit of an ice invasion, Texas plates are reported a lot. I look at the next car and it’s got no plates at all. And I look at the car after that and it’s got vanity plates, specifically chosen one with a Z. Um, and, and I’m like, oh my God. It’s the thing like ice is in my alley. And, uh, and so I come back in, I I’m like, you tell my wife, like, should probably get your coat on. I think it’s the thing is what I said. And, and we go out and sure enough, like at the end of our alley where there is a family and, and they are, um, US citizens, they’re Mexican immigrants, um, that’s where I see all these officers sort of, or these agents sort of coalescing and um, I’m gonna leave some aspects of this out. They were [00:27:00] actually, they were serving, uh, uh, narcotics warrant that ended up being totally misguided. Nothing happened of it. Um, but it was super scary. But I kind of don’t wanna say more than that because I wanna be really clear that as everyone should know about policing, a search warrant is not an indictment. Um, and oftentimes search warrants are so searching and, and, and often come up with. With nothing. Right? And, and maybe even were targeted at the wrong person. And there’s didn’t even have the name of my neighbor on it. It’s this whole thing. But the point is, it was a little different from what we’ve been hearing because there was a different agency there serving a warrant. It was the airport, airport, police department, ’cause of a package. So there was that piece, there was actually a signed warrant. ’cause everyone’s trained to say, show me the warrant. Show me the warrant. So everyone, you know, my wife and I were the first ones there. Um, and then another neighbor rolled up, and then I’ll get to the rest in a second. Um, so it, it’s shocking that it’s happening in our alley. Christina: in our alley, right? Jeff: just like, Christina: you, yeah. Jeff: what? What the Christina: I, I mean, how [00:28:00] I would feel to a certain extent would be like, I’d be like, am I in Amer in an episode of the Americans? Like, like, you know, Jeff: is, did they have to write it this way? Just ’cause how else are you gonna bring it to the people? You know? It’s, you gotta bring it to the characters. Um, so anyway, we go down there and, and there’s one, so all of the, everyone decides the airport PD guy who has no mask and is kind of like presenting like a pretty normal cop basically. And he is got a badge and a name and a number. But walking in and out of the house, all around us are these guys who are in full battle fatigues. They’ve got masks on, they’ve got ars. Um, they are, they are a weird mix of people. There’s a woman in there who’s like looking like, literally like she was cast for a movie to be, uh, an, an ice person. In this case they were Homeland Security Investigations, HSI. But it’s all intertwined at this point. Um, and then there was a guy that must have been like eight feet. That was crazy. There was a single guy that was wearing a, like a straight up like helmet, uh, for, as if he were going into battle. [00:29:00] Nobody else is wearing a helmet. Um. And none of them were talking. They were just passing through. And, um, and so we tried to engage one of them, talked to them for a little bit, do the thing you do. Hey, why don’t you take that mask off? You know, I don’t wanna get docked. I was like, uh, Christina: around. Jeff: it was like, I both understand why you don’t wanna get docked. I also feel like you’ve got the power here, brother. Um, and which was the conversation we had, um, I was like, you have a mask on. You also have your finger on the trigger of a gun. And he’s like, well, that’s not, it’s not on the trigger. This is how we hold guns, dude. I was like, I understand that, but your finger is itching at the trigger of a gun. And so he put his hands on top of the butt of the gun. ’cause it was kind of, you know, mounted the way it is. Is that better? I was like, no, you’ve still got all the power. Take the mask off. Like, at least. Um, and uh, what, what was really interesting, and I I have this sort of like wrap up that occurred to me later that kind of blew my mind is, you know, in our neighborhood, um, because ice activity has been going on all around our neighborhood, like in. Neighborhoods [00:30:00] surrounding our neighborhood or a little further out, but all within a, I could get in the car and rush out there distance. Basically we have these, we have these neighborhood signal groups. The first one that popped up was actually around my son’s school, which is very close to here and has a lot of East African and Hispanic, um, immigrants and, and, um, and so that we knew that was like, you know, people were scared there. Some kids weren’t coming to school. And so, um, some neighbors organized in such a way that they could a, have a signal, uh, communication channel. But also part of that was planning at the beginning of the day and that release time for enough people to sort of be paired up in areas around the school, but not so close that it freaks the kids out. That like if something happened, there could be sort of a rapid response. So we had that signal group. There’s a broader signal group that probably covers like a four block area, and then there’s a wider one that’s our wider neighborhood basically. And that one’s like a rapid response signal group. So these have been going. Pretty, like consistently [00:31:00] ever since it was announced that we were getting ICE and Homeland Security folks here. Um, so the network was all in place. And, and so I’m out there initially and I see all the cars. I’m like, holy shit. Wife and I go to the end of the block. We start talking to first the airport PD guy who’s there, and then the the one HSI guy who comes out. Then another neighbor, another neighbor. I go back to take pictures of the plates because folks around here are keeping a registry that you can get through the signal group of all of the makes and models of cars that we know have been at these, um, kind of ICE activities or homeland security activities, and then their license plates. And so there’s like a running log, which has happened in other cities too. So I was taking pictures of all the cars. Um, but I was pretty like, I mean, I’ve been through some shit and. Having it in your alley is very different from going halfway across the world as like an activist or something. Um, and having it ha neighbors are people we know and care about. And so knowing that, not knowing what’s happening for them, which I don’t mean to bury that lead [00:32:00] ’cause I’m kind of getting to that part, but I also want to just respect their privacy. Um, so like the thing I should have mentioned at the top is like, we know these folks and it was fucking terrifying to be standing there arguing with these HSI guys knowing that at some point, or just assuming at some point these people we know are gonna be dragged outta the house in front of us. And then it was just like this constant question of what the fuck will we do? Then? It did not happen to be really clear, uh, ahead of time. So I’m taking pictures of these cars, I’m like, oh shit. I’m supposed to notify like the signal group, but I’ve got, I’ve got all the presence I need to take pictures of cars. I’ve got the presence I need to engage these guys, which my wife was doing plenty good job of, so I could just like walk away and do the license plate thing. But when I pulled up my phone. To open signal. I opened Slack three times, like I could not, I got an S into my search, my app search, and like kept clicking the wrong thing. I was shaking. It was also freezing out and so like I’m shaking and so [00:33:00] thank God it occurred to me. I have one friend I know on this signal group that I, I know would answer the phone, so I called her. I called her and I was like, I need to be quick. Here are like the fundamental details. Can you please notify? The signal group and the rapid response people. So that was great. She did initially, the first group that showed up, which was just incredible, were like all of our neighbors, we all know this family. Like it’s not, they are just neighbors. It’s not like it’s a special offset group or something. Like they’re neighbors. So all of the neighbors show up. We have a really tight block. Um, that was incredible because it’s not like it’s a neighbor of activists. It’s what’s been incredible about this stuff from the beginning, which is like how easy it seems to be for people to pop outta their house and be like, Uhuh. Like it seems like, it seems like a lot of people are not feeling inhibited about that, which I think is really cool. And I totally respect the people that feel inhibited, right? Like, ’cause it’s just, it’s a whole thing to go out there. So we had this great group of neighbors and they were all, we had a public school teacher who was just killing it with this one HSI guy. It was so, [00:34:00] so good to watch and it felt really powerful and I think she was doing a really good job of trying to sort of like. Knock some things into this guy’s head knowing that like, you know, you’re in a dynamic that kind of you, there’s not a lot of room for things to change. Right. But given that she, it was really just inspiring watching her do her thing and then the like rapid response community showed up, which is like a mix of, you know, folks who are kind of just dedicated neighbors and then people who are sort of what you might call the usual suspects, right? Like the people you would expect, especially in South Minneapolis to show up at a thing like this. And I don’t know if you’ve heard about the thing people do with whistles around these things. Christina: Yeah. Well, I, I, all I’ve heard is that, and I ha, so all I know is I think sometimes people have whistles and kind of like, like, like blow them, almost like to alert people like that, that like, like the, like the, the, the, that like ice is there. Jeff: Yes, exactly. And that yes, that’s exactly it. And that’s been going on here and, [00:35:00] and everybody’s getting whistle. You know, sometimes when you get a good, it’s, I’m not calling it a bit, ’cause I’ll tell you in a minute why it was effective, um, in ways that I hadn’t anticipated. But, uh, you know, it’s like a, it’s, I can do this, I can get a whistle, I’m gonna get a whistle, right? Like, that’s something I can do. Like, it’s something that really caught on and there’s all these whistles being passed around and people on the neighborhood group being like, got a bag of whistles if you wanna come by. So I, ima imagine at this point that when these HSI or ICE people roll up to a thing before they get out, they’re like T minus 15 minutes to whistles, right? Like, this is how long we have before everyone shows up. And, and so pretty soon it’s whistles everywhere. I had a neighbor who kept putting off her, um. Car alarm just to make more crazy noise. We had another neighbor next to this neighbor who is a very conservative like Trump guy who, when he doesn’t like the noise that’s happening in the neighborhood sets off fireworks. And for some reason he was like, I’m gonna do the thing I do, even though there’s all these guys with guns and I’m gonna set off fireworks. But in that case, ’cause he is pissed off at all of us, like it was so [00:36:00] fucking chaotic for a minute. Um, but it was, it was an incredible thing to see how quickly people can deploy basically. Um, ’cause we aren’t like Chicago where like we’ve had a lot of activity here, but it’s been pretty quiet activity. Like, it’s like what happened here? It’s like you and your neighbors know about it and maybe 20 people showed up from your neighborhood rapid response. But like, they’re not the kinds of stories that. They’re not landing on rooftops, they’re not showing up with a hundred cars and calling people away. They’re hauling one person at a time away. And you hear about it here and there, but it’s been very quiet, unlike Chicago. Um, and so to have it given that, especially to have it show up just in your alley was like really, really insane. Um, so anyway, so it all, fortunately the, the police HSI, everybody left with nothing. They did not carry our neighbors away. They did not have any, any result of this warrant that we could tell. But of course, we’re not gonna know. Another [00:37:00] theme of this is how, how hard it is for good information to be resilient in a moment like this, right? That’s a whole other theme. And that, that’s one that gets me kinda riled up when people start after the fact or during the fact really kind of shouting out almost things that are wrong. Like the, the call that went out. For people to come. Said there were six cars in my alley with Texas plates, but I was very clear, there are six cars in my alley. One of them has Texas plates, right? So it’s like, that kind of stuff is a little spooky, but here’s what happened. So at the end it was all over. Our neighbors were able to pop out, wave at everybody, thank everybody. They had been handcuffed this family, um, in their living room while HSI figured out if they were citizens. And, um, what had what the whistles meant in this case was that they knew people were all over around the house. And that was, I’m sure, a level of comfort to know that like something’s happening out there. And then we learned later that there was an immigrant family down the block in the [00:38:00] other direction, across kind of a thoroughfare that we’re on the intersection of who heard the whistles and knew like, let’s stay in the house. There’s a lot going on out there. I dunno what it is, but now I hear whistles. Let’s stay in the house. And, um, and so it was quite a, quite a thing. Family Activism and Signal Setup Jeff: And what I kind of realized afterwards. Was we started this year. My family, my in-laws, my in-laws especially, were very, they’re, they’re, they’re very, um, active. They do kind of activist work, but it’s very like, um, service oriented. But they’ll go to an anti-war protest. They’ll go, you know, they’ll do the thing. They’re, they’re lovely people. And my father-in-law, especially at the beginning of the year, I was like, I don’t know what’s coming. Um, I hear that it’s good for everyone to have signal if we wanna be able to communicate to each other. So I wanna learn how to use signal. And so I helped him, my mother-in-law set it up. I created kind of a family group for Signal and everyone was setting up signal, right? Like at that point, not knowing what was gonna come. It wasn’t even January 20th yet. Unexpected End of Year Incident Jeff: And I wrapped up my year activating a signal network for rapid response because I [00:39:00] had masked people in my alley with guns refusing to identify themselves driving cars from out of state. That is insane. And I was like, that looks pretty tight. Season wrap up. Like, what the fuck? Because I kind of had gotten to the point, I guess prior to when ICE got here in, in the first place, I’d gotten to the point where I’m like, I don’t even really think about Signal anymore. Um, but then they came here and it, and it popped up. So that’s what, that’s what happened in my alley. Um, at the end of the year. Christina: And, and, and, and, and, and I mean, and, and, and you said, you said your neighbors are okay. Speculations and Concerns Christina: I mean, do, do you know anything more about like, like what, what happened or like what the, what the situation was? Jeff: I don’t know anymore. And that’s where I’m like a little cautious because since it was like a warrant for something, it was a narcotics warrant, right? Like, I, I have no idea what happened there. I don’t know. I can, I can only speculate. Um, but I know that the, the [00:40:00] name on that warrant was not someone that lives there. Um, so I can tell you that ’cause I saw the warrant. Um, and, and that’s the most I really feel comfortable saying. Christina: Fair enough. Yeah. I, I, I, I, yeah. I’m not, I’m not trying to like, Jeff: No, I get it. I get it. That’s me actually. Dealing with Law Enforcement Jeff: I’ve been wrestling with like, how much, even on the, I kind of like was asking people to be cautious, even on the signal, because they were sharing details about the warrant. I was like, Hey, details in a warrant. Do not share those, because that sticks to people. And like the details in the warrant were just like, no, we’re not gonna do this. Even when the guy read me the warrant, I was like, are you serious about that? He’s like, oh man, for sure. Okay, sounds good. Let’s, we’ll talk in an hour when you’re all done and you don’t have anything. Like I, I’ve been down this road before. I was a reporter for a long time, like I watched The Wire. Um, Christina: exactly. I was gonna say, yeah, I was gonna say the, the sort of reporting I did, like, yeah, I watched the Wire. Um, so would be Jeff: I said that to the guy. I didn’t say I watched the, yeah, I didn’t say I watched The Wire to the guy, but I was like, he [00:41:00] kept gaslighting us and I was like, come on man. Like you and I we’re smart people, you and I, and that was me being generous. But like, we’re smart people. You and I like, we know this thing you’re saying. It’s like, it’s totally not the case. Like when I asked him. The airport PD guy. What’s up with the cars with Texas plates and no plates and vanity plates? I don’t know, I don’t coordinate with those guys. I was like, okay, that’s weird. ’cause like here you are and they’re walking all around you. Surely you coordinated with them enough to get them here. It was just like, what the fuck? Just so much gaslighting that I won’t even get into, but it was just nonstop. But I was so proud watching my neighbors when the rapid responsible showed up. It was a, there’s always like some people in those situations where I, I, I get pretty activated around lack of discipline and I understand how that happens. But having been in like really super high stakes situations where people could, and who this was one, right? Like I don’t, I don’t react well internally to people who I feel like are working out something that’s theirs. Um, [00:42:00] and at the same time, how do we know how to process this, right? Like, I don’t, we, it was something incredible to watch Mask men and one masked woman walking up and down my alley, bumping past me with guns, with masks, with no idea, with no badges, refusing to pro produce any saying, why does it matter anyhow, saying how much threat they’re under, seeing how they get followed, like just, it was, it was an incredible thing. I had my reaction, but my reaction was based on wiring, based on really intense, unusual experiences. Um, other people, this is new to them. This kind of thing is new to me too, but, so anyway, I, I just like, I saved that. I didn’t even tell you guys when it happened. I’m like, I’ll just tell them on the podcast. ’cause Christina: yeah, no, I mean, that’s, that’s wild. I mean, like, and it’s just, it’s just, well, and, and it’s, I don’t know, it’s so dystopic, right? Like, it’s such a, like a, a terrible like thing to like have to like witness part of, right? Because like, look, yeah, there are going to be circumstances when maybe like, you know, Homeland Security or somebody else, like really actually does need to be involved and, you know, [00:43:00] um, you know, at your neighbor’s house. And like, that’s unfortunate, right? But like, there, there are real circumstances where that could be a case. Like I, I, I, I, I mentioned the, the Americans earlier, that was like, based Jeff: I need to watch that. Christina: It’s a great show. But, but the, the, the, uh, a former CIA agent was one of the, the, the, the creators. But the, um, the idea came to like, uh, one of the showrunners basically, he read an article, I think in the New Yorker or something about a, a family that like seemed like, just like the perfect, like normal family next door. And like the kids came home from school one day and the parents had been picked up because it turns out that they had been Russian spies living in the United States for like 20 years. And like, they were like actual Russian spies. And, and then that kind of like went into, okay, well, well, well, what happens then? Like, what happens to that family and, and what happens to get to that point? Like, what happens? Like if your neighbors are those things, right? And so there are those like very much like stranger than fiction. Like, like things, right? But in most cases, that’s not the circumstance. And, and certainly the way that like all this has been handled and the way that they’re doing all of this treat things for, [00:44:00] you know, like whatever the warrants were for whatever the situations are where they’re like, okay, now we’re gonna bring all these other groups in. We’re not going to have any due process at all, and we’re not going to, to bother with any sort of thing of humanity at all and then freak everybody else out, like is just, you know, then, and then it puts you like, as, as the neighbor, like in this position where you’re like, okay, well how do we get the word out? How do we help, how do we, you know, make sure that if’s something, is that if this is something that you know, isn’t what we, what we think that it is or whatever, that we can make sure that they’re not going to be. ’cause we see all the reports all the time. I mean, US citizens are getting arrested for, Jeff: Yeah, totally. Christina: the wrong way, Jeff: Oh yeah, we had a, we had a woman here probably, I think she was like in her sixties, and she walked out of her house ’cause there was something happening across the street. And in moments she was in the car, she was gone. Her husband didn’t know where she was. She was released later that day. Like we’ve had a lot of stories like that. And so that was stressful too, going in, right? Like when my partner and I went, went up to talk to this guy, I, I left down the alley to take pictures, but I [00:45:00] was like looking over my shoulder constantly. ’cause she and I have talked about how, like, can you imagine if one of us was taken and we didn’t know? And I was like, oh, we are in a situation right now where no way can I say, there’s no chance one of us will be taken. Like, no way. And you know, the longer you’re there, the more you push it a little bit, you know, not push it like physically or something, but just like push it a little more people out front. Someone kicked an ice car in, in an HSI car and got like pepper sprayed or whatever. Um, Christina: and it’s, and it’s like, don’t do that. Like, don’t like, Jeff: Well, it’s funny because, it’s funny because that per I, this is, I, I know there are people listening who will think I’m such an asshole for this, but I, to I, I feel zero apologetic for it. Reflections on Responsibility Jeff: So I am, I’m not like a huge fan, like kick the car when there’s a family that we don’t know how they’re doing and these people are around, like, don’t escalate in that way with these people. Don’t set off fireworks behind the guys that have their fingers resting near triggers. Like you Christina: That’s what I’m saying. That, that, yeah. Jeff: yeah, you just don’t do that. Uh, but here’s the part that makes me sound like an asshole and, and I don’t mind at all. [00:46:00] Um, they were, they were the only person that was pepper sprayed. And, and it was this, you know, certain people that come from outside the neighborhood. It was this very dramatic thing, whatever they pepper spray, you know, whatever. And I was like, what, what happened? They kicked the car. I was like, eh, I’m going in like, I mean like, yeah, you got pepper spray because you kicked the car. I assume you were in for that. Like you signed just like the guy with the mask who’s worried about being docked. He signed up for this dude. Christina: I was gonna say, you, you, you, you signed up for this, you, you, you, you’ve signed up because you saw Christina O’s you know, like ridiculous, like, you know, like, come, come join Ice, you know, like, like, you know, freaking social media, you know, posts or whatever, like there ads you’re doing like, yeah. Like you, you know exactly what you’re doing, so fuck off. I don’t, yeah, I have zero. Jeff: I I said you signed up for this. I did not sign up for this. I said you signed up for all of it, dude. Like you Christina: Yeah, absolutely. No, I mean, honestly, well, well look, you know, it’s the same thing like the military, frankly, like, you know, like in the, in, in the seventies and stuff, and we saw, you know, more of it then, like, I’m not saying that it was like the, the right or like nice or like humane thing to spit in the, in their faces. [00:47:00] Right. But like. Especially after the draft was gone. Like, you sign up for that shit, Jeff: It’s a tough man. I, I had that, I, that experience throughout the Iraq war where. I knew. I mean, there’s the economic draft. There’s all right, there’s all these reasons people end up in war. But at the end of the day, when I am walking around a city I love, and other Americans are there in armor and Humvees and they have destroyed a city, I feel like this is what you signed up for. It’s not what you signed up for, but it is literally what you signed. Same with police. It’s a little bit Christina: that’s Jeff: I totally respect the trauma. I respect that you’re in situations where Christina: that’s real. No. Jeff: your values. Like I Christina: Absolutely. Absolutely. And, and, and that, that is real. And, and to your point, there might be like, like economic scenarios, drafts and other scenarios where like you’re like, well, I had a choice, but I didn’t have a choice. Okay, but you knew that this was a trade off. Like you knew that this was a thing that comes with, with, with the territory. If it comes with adulation, but it comes with the bad stuff too. Right. Jeff: And if you’re killing people, I don’t feel super bad about saying that. I feel super bad for you for having to live with that [00:48:00] fact. But like I don’t feel bad for saying, Hey man, Christina: well, I mean, like, and, and it’s a Jeff: have said no. Christina: and it’s a completely different like thing. I’m not even trying to categorize it the same way. ’cause it’s, it’s not. But like, just, just like in, in my life, you know, people oftentimes will like, yell at me about stuff that they don’t like, about, like the companies like that I work for. And you know, what I, I’m, I’m part of my job is to kind of be a public face for, for those things. And that means that I get yelled at and that’s okay. And like that, that I, I quite literally knew that I signed up for that. Does that mean that I always appreciate it? That is, does that mean that I don’t get annoyed sometimes? Does that mean that I like being like tarred and feathered with like mistakes or decisions that like, I had nothing to do with Absolutely not right. But like, that’s quite literally part of my job. So, you know, it, it, it is. So I can’t like turn around and be like, oh, well, you know, you can’t, you know, like. You know, say, say this to me, or whatever. Right. Um, but, and, and again, I realize it’s a completely different scale of things. I’m not in any way trying to equate the, the, the, the two [00:49:00] scenarios, Jeff: No, but it’s, I mean, it is, yeah, Christina: but all of us, but all of us, we have jobs and we do things and like in a case like this, like if you work for those agencies, right. Especially right now, and like I recognize and I can be sympathetic that you may not have signed up. Under these circumstances. Having said that, I will say that if you signed up in the last eight years, you knew that these were things that were going in a certain direction, right? Um, I, I, I, I, I will, I will further say that like I, I’m not gonna say that like every single person is involved, but I will say like in the last eight years, you’ve, you’ve seen which way the wind was going and, and, and, and, and that’s okay. You can make that decision and, and like, I’m not gonna judge you or your character as a person for that decision. I’m, I’m, I’m, I’m not. ’cause we all have to make decisions about where we work. Having said that, that just also means like what we’ve been saying, you’re gonna have to deal with some shit. You’re gonna deal with people recording your face. You’re gonna have to deal with people being angry with you. You’re gonna have to deal with, to your point, people kicking the cop car. And if that’s all that happens and like, and, and, and, and it’s not gonna lead to another escalation point, that’s fine. I, I’m with you. I

As we begin a new year, cohosts Laurel Holland and Laurel Boivin invite you to slow down, tune inward, and ask a powerful question: What would it look like to make your life easier?In this episode, they explore the idea of ease—not as a life without challenges, but as a gentler, more conscious way of meeting whatever life brings.This conversation isn't about fixing yourself or flipping a switch overnight. It's about beginning—softly, honestly, and with compassion—so your inner work can support a more beautiful, ease-filled life.You'll hear about:* The practice of “what's on top”—a simple yet grounding way to acknowledge what's on your mind without letting it run the show* Letting go of self-criticism around ease and redefining what it truly means to live with flow* How honoring divine timing can reduce force, pressure, and burnout* Real-life reflections on caring for the physical body, allowing priorities to unfold naturally, and trusting when things are “ready”* Choosing a Word of the Year (or phrase) as a touchstone for intention, clarity, and self-awareness* How structure and spaciousness can coexist—and why both matter* The role of embodiment and noticing how ease actually feels in your bodyThe episode closes with thoughtful journaling prompts to help you reflect on where life feels hard, where ease already exists, and how you might bring more grace, patience, and awareness into the year ahead.Journaling prompts:1. What's on top for me right now?2. Where do I want more ease in my life?3. What feels hard right now?4. Where do I already experience ease or flow in my life?5. How am I showing up differently where things feel easy versus where they feel hard?6. What does ease feel like in my body?7. How can I recreate that feeling of ease in places that feel challenging?8. What feels essential right now? What is not essential right now?9. What am I trying to force that might benefit from more space or time?10. What does “making my life easier” mean to me?11. Where do I believe things shouldn't be easy?12. How am I approaching this part of my life—through force or through ease?13. What am I being asked to trust right now?14. Where am I struggling to surrender to timing?15. Where do I crave more structure?16. Where do I need more spaciousness?17. What does un-busying my life look like for me?18. Who am I becoming in this season of my life?The email to send questions to Laurel Boivin is laurel@fluxflowcoaching.com and for Laurel Holland - laurel@liveyourinnerpower.comThe link to our private Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/beautifulworkbeautifullifeHost/Cohost/Guest InfoGuiding others to become effective leaders of their own lives, Laurel Holland has been on a journey of awakening and transformation throughout her life. Writing about inner work, Laurel has authored four books, including Crossroads and Love's 8 Laws. Her books, Live Your Inner Power, the Journal, and Courageous Woman, introduce, share, and explore the eight foundational practices for creating transformation from the inside out. Through her books, programs, and innovative talks, Laurel's great desire is to lift others up and courageously step into the life they came here to live. You can learn more about Laurel, her books, and work she does at www.liveyourinnerpower.com.Laurel Boivin, life coach and founder of Flux+Flow Professional Coaching, helps high-performing professionals overcome overwhelm and disillusionment by increasing self-awareness and shifting perspective to improve performance, increase personal contribution, and experience a greater sense of fulfillment and purpose. Laurel began coaching after a 30-year corporate career. A Reiki master and yoga practitioner, collector of sea glass and antiques, she lives in New Hampshire and summers in Maine. You can learn more about Laurel and the work she does at www.fluxflowcoaching.com.

Neuroaesthetics researcher Susan Magsamen and Google design leader Ivy Ross on creativity as a biological necessity, intuition, and the aesthetic mindset for a good life.   You'll learn:Habits that Susan and Ivy turn to when they need to re-centre.What Susan and Ivy are trying to change in the world with their day jobs. The beginning of Susan and Ivy working together.Clear evidence that proved to Susan and Ivy that their work was needed.Advice for using your intuition to be more creative.How a writer might find their voice.Questions to ask yourself if you're writing a similar book to Your Brain on Art.Principles that Susan and Ivy use to help them live a good life. The link between nature and neuroaesthetics.The transforming power of journaling.Resources and Links:

The Story of the Blob Tree - Ian Long Interview – Rethinking Transference in Person-Centred Therapy In Episode 360 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore rupture and repair in counselling, looking at the inevitable ruptures that can occur in the therapeutic relationship and how recognising and repairing these moments builds resilience and strengthens the therapeutic alliance. Then in ‘Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Ian Long, illustrator and co-creator of the iconic Blob Tree, about the origins, evolution, and global impact of these powerful visual tools in therapy and education. And finally in ‘Student Services', Rory and Ken rethink transference in person-centred therapy, offering insight into how these dynamics show up during training and why they matter - even outside of client work. Rupture and Repair in Counselling [starts at 03:30 mins] Rory and Ken explore rupture and repair in counselling, emphasising that relational ruptures in therapy are not failures but essential opportunities for growth, learning, and repair. Key points discussed include: Ruptures are normal in therapy and can result from misattunement, transference, or triggering of past trauma. Common signs include client withdrawal, silence, defensiveness, or abrupt subject changes. Effective repair relies on naming the shift gently and being curious about the client's inner experience. Understanding your own attachment and trauma patterns is crucial for managing ruptures. Repairing a rupture models emotional resilience and can deepen the therapeutic relationship. Supervision is essential for processing ruptures and supporting ethical, attuned practice. The Story of the Blob Tree – Ian Long Interview [starts at 23:20 mins] Rory speaks with Ian Long, the illustrator and co-creator of the Blob Tree, about how this simple yet profound tool has supported emotional expression worldwide for four decades. Key points from the interview include: The Blob Tree features a group of non-verbal, genderless characters that reflect different emotional states and interactions. Originally created for youth work, the tool has become widely used in counselling, education, and social work. It facilitates expression for those who struggle with words, including children, non-verbal individuals, and trauma survivors. The success of the tool lies not just in the illustrations but in the skill of the practitioner asking open-ended, exploratory questions. The Blob Tree and related tools are now used in over 150 countries and across various disciplines, including business and humanitarian work. Ian reflects on his creative partnership with the late Pip Wilson and the lasting legacy of their work in fostering emotional literacy. Rethinking Transference in Person-Centred Therapy [starts at 44:58 mins] Rory and Ken challenge the notion that transference has no place in person-centred practice, encouraging students to explore how it shows up in training and personal development. Key points include: Carl Rogers acknowledged transference, though he chose to respond to it rather than interpret it. Transference can occur even outside of client work - in group projects, PD groups, and skills practice. Feelings like the urge to rescue, impress, or withdraw may signal countertransference and warrant reflection. Journaling, peer reflection, and personal therapy can support deeper understanding of relational dynamics. Bringing transference into PD groups (not as blame, but as exploration) helps develop emotional awareness. Recognising these patterns early prepares students for ethical, attuned work with future clients. Links and Resources Counselling Skills Academy Advanced Certificate in Counselling Supervision Basic Counselling Skills: A Student Guide Counsellor CPD Counselling Study Resource Counselling Theory in Practice: A Student Guide Counselling Tutor Training and CPD Facebook group Website Online and Telephone Counselling: A Practitioner's Guide Online and Telephone Counselling Course

Kick off your new year with a refreshing and hope-filled conversation about the pressure to set body-related goals and the journey toward real freedom. Hosts Heather Creekmore and Amy Carlson dig deep into why so many women set weight loss as their top resolution and how our culture’s diet obsessions impact families, friendships, and faith communities. You’ll hear honest stories, including “are we getting left behind?” anxiety, the latest health fads (GLP1s and fiber, anyone?), and powerful encouragement to seek God’s “how much more” rather than settle for the world’s lesser goals. Whether you’re a goal-setter, a recovering dieter, or someone wondering what you might be missing by chasing smaller jeans instead of a fuller life—this episode will inspire you to open your hands, journal, and pursue the abundance only God can give. **Get your FREE Obsessed-to-Blessed Mini course here. Journal Prompts from Today’s Episode What am I going to miss if I invest my time and energy into weight loss this year?(Reflect on what parts of your life could suffer or what experiences you might lose out on.) What parts of my life feel stunted or neglected because of my focus on body goals?(Take inventory of relationships, passions, or spiritual growth you could nurture instead.) What is my mind telling me ‘my life will begin when…’?(Finish this sentence honestly and challenge what you believe about starting to live.) What am I not asking God for that would truly bring “how much more” into my life?(Go before God with open hands – ask Him what He wants for you in 2026.) Who else is impacted by my health and eating practices?(Consider your kids, spouse, friends, or community and how your choices ripple out.) How does seeking smaller goals (like a certain weight or restriction) limit the breadth of my ‘garden’—my life?(Picture your life as a garden and consider what fruit you aren’t tending to.) “My life will start when…” versus “How much more does God have for me?”(Contrast your answer to these two prompts and pray for wisdom to pursue God’s best.) Bonus: Community Conversation StarterIf something in this episode resonated with you or led to a new insight or goal, Amy encourages listeners to share their goal or what God is inviting them into for 2026. Imagine how uplifting it would be to see what God’s abundance is unfolding in lives beyond just body-centered achievements! EncouragementYou’re not behind, and you don’t have to settle for less. Hear stories, biblical truths, and real talk that help you stop comparing and start living with open hands, trust, and greater faith. Need more support? Learn more about the upcoming 40-Day Journey here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/40-day-challenge Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When new people find the Nutritional Therapy and Wellness Podcast, they ask, "Where do I start?" While we'd love for you to go back to the beginning and take them all in, this is for those who need a quick catch-up. We're doing a Rapid Replay Series of condensed episodes, including the most popular episodes according to streams and downloads, and a few of our team's personal favorites.  Episodes 76, 77, and 78 are all complementary in helping you structure and organize so you can roll confidently ahead with a solid plan.  On this replay of Episode 24 of the Nutritional Therapy and Wellness Podcast, host Jamie Belz talks with Miles Welch, Founder and CEO of North Star Training Solutions, about the importance and difficulties of being a good leader - for ourselves. Miles is a leadership expert who is passionate about helping business owners build their leadership bench and develop their leadership potential. He has impacted thousands of executives, entrepreneurs, and business owners through his speaking and coaching, as well as the industry-leading developmental programming he has designed. Miles's varied leadership assignments include serving as a Platoon Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, pastoring one of the largest churches in the United States, serving as the Executive Director of the John Maxwell Leadership Center, and launching two successful businesses. Miles and his family live in the Atlanta area. During their conversation, Jamie and Miles cover many topics in relation to building resilience and having the discipline to level-up and ultimately succeed in all areas of life. Topics Discussed: Entropy Busyness Resilience and the difference between pressure and stress The shame of not "succeeding" The key to high performance Midlife Crisis Doing a life audit and recalibration Tips on resilience and holding yourself accountable Staying up late versus getting up early Stream of consciousness writing Television detox Journaling, reading (growing/learning) and Miles's morning routine The reshaping of friendships as life gets busy - kids' activities and youth sports Miles's evening routing Quit eating earlier in the evening - the blood sugar rollercoaster - craving carbs at night - blood sugar's impact on sleep - waking up in the night The upward or downward spiral of wellness and healthy versus unhealthy habits Having accountability partners Miles's primary core values #1 Hiding things in life - vulnerability - talking with others - working with a counselor Life hack for "receiving counseling from Brene Brown and other high-level professionals" The three-pronged system for working through being "stuck" in life Wisdom and the benefit of having mentors Miles's primary core values #2 Miles's primary core values #3 Having a life that is integrated - having a surrendered relationship with the truth Miles's primary core values #4 The hardest challenge in leading yourself The lie we tell ourselves about "the season coming" when everything will be different or easier - not living in the now Don't squander another minute, hour, day, week, month, year, decade… The upward spiral or the downward spiral The best pre-workout Being kind to yourself Getting better at failing Bounce-back rate - falling off the wagon - small vices Miles's favorite self-improvement resources ___________________ Email Miles Welch: Miles@northstartraining.com Website: https://northstartraining.com/ Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themileswelch/ https://www.instagram.com/themileswelch/ Books mentioned: Developing the Leader Within You - John Maxwell The Endurance: Legendary Antarctic Expedition - Caroline Alexander The Greatest Generation - Tom Brokaw ________________________________________ Thanks for listening! If you like what you're hearing, please don't forget to subscribe and give us those five-star ratings!    

Welcome to Bri Books! In this episode, I'm covering how to start a manifestation journal, and sharing my favorite manifestation journaling tips. Consider this your guide to manifestation journaling and morning pages. This episode will be a crash course on what exactly manifestation journaling is, where to start with manifestation journaling, scripting, and how to make manifestation journaling less overwhelming. If you're new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Please tell me where you're traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. 2:00 - What Exactly Is a Manifestation Journal: How to Start Manifestation Journaling A manifestation journal is an excellent way to describe your life story the way you want to manifest your dream life. The process of manifestation journaling not only forces you to organize your thoughts and establish paths to your dreams, but also sparks motivation to go after them.  3:00: What's the Goal of Manifestation Journaling? The goal of manifestation journaling is to create new neural networks and belief systems. By writing each goal and each experience in the present tense to convince your mind into thinking it's already a reality. This primes your subconscious mind to be able to make the changes to achieve your goal while helping you shift self-identity. Remember, the goal here is to bring something into reality by establishing expectations. 4:00: Where to Start with Manifestation Journaling Use a Pen and Paper: Avoid digital versions of manifestation journals at the beginning of your journey, because you want to give the time and energy with pen and paper to unlock your desires. You want your manifestation journal to feel almost ritualistic: something you look forward to.  Define Your Vision: Take a look at your current reality and identify what areas you'd like to improve. I'd say stick to 2 clear visions for 90 days, to avoid completely overhauling your life. Examples of vision areas include professional life, personal/ spiritual growth, physical health, relationships, financial health, creativity, fun/ adventure.  Align Your Emotional State With Your Vision: Cultivate the emotions associated with the reality you're working to manifest. How does it feel to achieve this goal? Match how you feel to what you want. Don't wait until you've achieved everything on the list to feel happiness. When you act as if you already have achieved your goals, your reality will shift to match your emotional state.  Set a Purpose for Your Vision: This will be your North Star on days when you feel unmotivated. A clear purpose will fuel you to move forward. Having a strong 'why' will drive you to make the changes you need to materialize your goals. 7:00: Manifestation Journal Prompts What does my highest version of reality look like? What would make me fulfilled and satisfied from the inside out in this area? What do I want this area to look like in 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3 years? What value will this manifestation bring to my life? What am I working towards and why? What's the value behind this goal? What are my motivations behind this vision 9:00: How to Make Manifestation Journaling Less Overwhelming Combine manifestation journaling with something you love like morning coffee or tea. Morning pages help to make it a daily ritual you look forward to. Be as consistent as possible. Journal at the same time every day (after showering, before bed, upon waking). Be present as you write: feel the emotions of achieving your goals, feel the formation of your new intentions, feel your visions come to life. Put away distractions and give writing your full attention. Remember, the greatest emotion you can cultivate to manifest your goals is gratitude. Gratitude is the state of receiving. When you feel gratitude for what you want before you have it, you naturally attract it into your life.  13:00: How to Use Scripting in Your Manifestation Journaling Scripting involves going into detail on the thing you're working to manifest and what it feels like to receive it. Live in the end.. The 3D just needs a little time to catch up--give it a push. Write affirmations at the end of the script, and write as if you're currently recapping your present moment. LINKS: My favorite journal for manifestation journaling is from stationary brand BeRooted (Target, $13).   Thank you for listening to this episode of Bri Books! What are you manifesting? Let me know on Instagram! ! If you're new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.  Please tell me where you're traveling to by using #bribooks on Instagram and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.

Welcome to the Spiritually Fit Yoga podcast with Amelia Andaleon.It's the final day of the year — December 31, 2025 — and whew… we made it.Today's episode is a recording of a live class I taught this morning, designed to help you slow down, tune inward, and consciously close out the year.In this full-length practice, you'll be guided through:A grounding meditationAn all-levels slow flow yoga practiceTime to journal or quietly reflect using gentle prompts to support reflection, release, and realignmentWhether you're practicing on New Year's Eve or returning to this at another time, this class offers space to pause, breathe, and create clarity as you move forward.

Welcome and Happy 2026, Beautiful Soul ✨This is not a “New Year” episode.This is a threshold.2026 is not easing us in. It is asking for clarity, courage, discernment, and radical self-responsibility. And in this episode, I open the Akashic Records to speak directly to that moment—the one we're standing in right now.What comes through is clear:This year will be remembered for the rest of your life.Not because it's easy—but because it's foundational. Because the choices you make, the way you relate to yourself, and the authority you reclaim will ripple far beyond this single year.Inside the Akashic Forecast, we explore:* Why time will feel strange, fast, and nonlinear—and how to move with it instead of fighting it* The collapse of illusion, distraction, and misplaced authority* Discernment as your most important tool moving forward* Why saving yourself becomes a sacred act this year* How self-responsibility unlocks power, peace, and momentum—even in chaos* What it truly means to live spectacularly, regardless of what's happening in the worldThis is medicine for staying sovereign while everything around you shifts.For keeping your heart open without losing your footing.For remembering who you are when certainty dissolves.I recommend listening slowly. Returning often. Letting it meet you again when things feel confusing, heavy, or overwhelming. This is a living transmission—and it will continue to speak as you evolve.Journaling prompts are provided below to support your integration throughout the year.You are capable of navigating what's ahead.You were built for these times.And 2026 is inviting you to prove it to yourself.I'm so grateful you're here.For a LIMITED time, book your 2026 Akashic Record Soul Reading and find out what's ahead for you & how to navigate it best!I'd love to hear how this episode resonates with you!Don't forget, When you invest in yourself, the world benefits!CONNECT ONLINEInstagram https://www.instagram.com/ahnahendrixYouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5fsN8oqu8Ib8IcvpYZA4jQJANUARY Events & Offerings* For a LIMITED time, book a 2026 Akashic Record Soul Reading HERE: https://ahnahendrix.as.me/* Access the Akashic Records: Self Study Course: https://ahnahendrix.com/access-the-akashic-records-self-study-course/ JOURNALING PROMPTS1. Where in my life have I been accepting things at face value? What truths am I being invited to question, investigate, or see differently — even if it feels uncomfortable?2. When I sit with the collective challenges unfolding around me, where do I notice my heart softening rather than hardening? How am I being asked to love more bravely, more humanly, and more expansively this year?3. In what ways have I felt silenced, quieted, or unsure how to express myself? What is the new version of my voice that is emerging — and what wants to be spoken now that could not be spoken before?4. How does my body communicate with me when I slow down and listen? What does it need to feel safe, grounded, and supported as I move through change?5. Which beliefs, identities, or ways of seeing life are ready to dissolve? What broader perspective is opening for me — and how does this expansion change the way I relate to others and to the world? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit souldrivencollective.substack.com

Your body is always speaking. Most of us never slow down enough to hear it.In this episode, Dr. Brooke Sheehan talks about why real wellness starts when we stop chasing perfect health and start paying attention to what our bodies are trying to say. She explains how physical symptoms, emotional patterns, and even small daily signals point to what we need. We talk about why unprocessed emotions often show up as physical stress, how journaling can help you release what you've been carrying, and why your body thrives when you add variety to your routines, food, and daily habits.Dr. Brooke shares simple ways to work with your body instead of fighting it, helping you build a more intuitive, faith aligned approach to health. This conversation will encourage you to slow down, tune in, and care for your body, mind, and spirit as one connected whole.TAKEAWAYSWellness grows when you stop striving and start listening.Your body gives signals long before bigger issues show up.Emotions that stay unaddressed can stress the body.Journaling helps release tension and brings clarity.mYour body thrives on variety in food, movement, and routines.Health becomes easier when you partner with your body, not push against it.Connect with Dr. Brook Sheehan -- https://drbrooksheehan.com/Download My Free Joyful Living Devotional: https://kristinfitch.com/devotionalReady to take your first step towards a more joyful, faith-filled life? Download our Reignite Your Passion Workbook and start living with purpose today!What to feel more energized in midlife? Grab my 5 Day Energy Reset Jump Start Guide here.Ready to work with Kristin to make a shift in your life? Click here to get started.A Christian wellness conversation on listening to your body, emotional release, functional health, and caring for yourself in a more intuitive and faith grounded way. Kristin Fitch and Dr. Brooke Sheehan talk about mind body connection, stress patterns, body signals, journaling for health, spiritual wellness, and practical self care for women. Perfect for listeners wanting simple, holistic guidance for better health.listen to your body, Christian wellness, faith and health, functional health tips, mind body connection, emotional release, stress and health, women's wellness podcast, holistic health for women, journaling for healing, body signals and symptoms, faith and self care, nutrition diversity, wellness journey, emotional health practices

A new year always brings fresh energy, possibility, and—if we're honest—a little fear. Especially in real estate, where every January 1st our numbers reset to zero and we feel like we're starting all over again.   In this episode, Karen shares her 2026 Word of the Year … and why her original word choice just wasn't enough.   Listen in as she talks about: • How choosing a Word of the Year has guided her life and business for over a decade • Why open felt safe—but not fully transformative • What surrender really means (and what it doesn't) • Releasing the illusion of control, timelines, and other people's expectations • Letting go of old ways of working, people-pleasing, and carrying everything for everyone • Journaling prompts to help you choose your own word for the year ahead   If you've been feeling a nudge toward something deeper, different, or more aligned in this next season, this episode will give you language, courage, and a gentle push forward.   Listen now to episode 386 of Empowering Women in Real Estate® – The Podcast on your favorite podcast app or by clicking the link below.     Click subscribe to be notified every Wednesday when our latest episode is released, and be sure to check out our group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomeninrealestate We are 40,000 members strong and we want you to join us! And if you want to follow me on Instagram, that's where I'm having the most fun right now. https://www.instagram.com/karen.w.cooper/

This week on Acta Non Verba, I’m discussing the common practice of making New Year's resolutions, citing that 80% of people fail within two weeks. Rather than repeating the cycle, I have four transformational questions to help leaders align their goals with their vision and purpose. This episode provides an insight into the philosophies, tactics, and strategies used by successful leaders to overcome adversity and lead extraordinary lives. Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daily Journaling-Tune in to Grandpa Bill's latest episode on Spotify, where he delves into the art of reflection and the importance of self-care. Learn how to cultivate a positive mindset and embrace tranquility in your daily life.

Are you ready to break free from constant stimulation + rediscover your creativity, presence, and true self? In this powerful solo episode, Lindsey opens up about her personal struggle with boredom, distraction, and our society's addiction to always being "on." Ahead, Lindsey unpacks her journey as a mom, partner, and creative, revealing how escaping the mundane is secretly blocking your biggest breakthroughs. She explains why ordinary, “boring” moments are not only essential but downright transformative for your health + relationships.  Plus, Lindsey unpacks the science behind dopamine, attention residue, and nervous system regulation—and delivers actionable challenges to help you unplug, reset, and reclaim your magic. Here's to more presence, creativity, and meaningful connection in the new year + beyond! We also talk about: How chronic distraction impacts your mental health + memory   The underestimated power of “doing nothing” for stress relief   Strategies to build your boredom tolerance, step by step   The link between emotional processing + mundane routines   Why true intimacy in relationships begins with shared silence   How over-stimulation blocks your intuition + creative downloads   Simple ideas for resetting your nervous system without a digital detox   The emotional costs of avoiding boredom (hello, anxiety + irritability)   Reframing household chores as pockets of self-connection   Journaling prompts for breaking your scrolling addiction + inviting clarity Resources: Instagram: @lindseysimcik Order our book, Almost 30: A Definitive Guide To A Life You Love For The Next Decade and Beyond, here: https://bit.ly/Almost30Book.  Sponsors: Ka'Chava | Go to kachava.com and use code ALMOST30 for 15% off your next order. Aura Frames | Visit AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best-selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code ALMOST30 at checkout. SKIMS | Shop my favorite bras and underwear at SKIMS.com/almost30. Hero Bread | Hero Bread is offering 10% off your order. Go to hero.co and use code ALMOST30 at checkout. Revolve | Shop at REVOLVE.com/ALMOST30 and use code ALMOST30 for 15% off your first order. #REVOLVEpartner GoDaddy | Visit Godaddy.com/GDNOW and you can get a domain and professional email plan for just $0.99/month for one year. To advertise on this podcast please email: partnerships@almost30.com. Learn More: https://almost30.com/about https://almost30.com/morningmicrodose https://almost30.com/book Join our community: https://facebook.com/Almost30podcast/groups https://instagram.com/almost30podcast https://tiktok.com/@almost30podcast https://youtube.com/Almost30Podcast Podcast disclaimer can be found by visiting: almost30.com/disclaimer.  Almost 30 is edited by Garett Symes and Isabella Vaccaro. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're a high achiever who sets big goals but rarely pauses to celebrate, this episode will change how you plan your year.In this She Believed She Could Podcast episode, Allison Walsh and Brian Schweitzer break down a powerful year-end reflection process and a practical goal-setting system that helps you create aligned, measurable, achievable goals for 2026. You'll learn how to evaluate 2025 using four key questions (wins, lessons, joy, and drains), how to reduce distractions and protect your time, and how to set goals in 90-day sprints supported by weekly habits and real-life systems.You'll also hear Allison's WIN Framework, plus an inside look at what's coming next, including the She Believed She Could™ Podcast Network and the Spotlight Experience.Chapters00:00 Reflecting without skipping the celebration01:17 Why goal-setting episodes hit different02:00 Setting goals that are aligned + achievable03:22 Brian's “Goal Slayer” energy is back04:14 Reviewing 2025: change, growth, entrepreneurship05:48 You don't have to wait until January to start06:31 The 4-quadrant year audit (wins, lessons, joy, drains)08:10 Define the win: you vs work vs family09:26 When it didn't go well: align + refine11:25 What lights you up and how to replicate it14:41 Inner circle, energy vampires, and protecting your cup17:26 Time leaks, distractions, and reclaiming your calendar18:22 Scheduling self-care like a meeting20:11 Cutting noise and asking “How important is it?”22:27 High achievers: stop the all-or-nothing mindset25:14 90-day sprints, weekly habits, and leaving turbo mode32:30 The WIN Framework36:12 Share your 2026 goal and get community support38:06 2026 behind the scenes: Spotlight Experience + SBSC Network41:50 What network members can expect (strategy, meetups, summits, pod retreats)47:51 Final encouragement: you're worth the effortAccess the WIN Framework: https://www.allisonwalshconsulting.com/freebies  Connect with AllisonInterested in working together? Fill out this form.www.instagram.com/allisonwalshwww.shebelievedbook.comwww.allisonwalshconsulting.comSignature Course | Build Your Brand On DemandAccess The Impact Brand AcceleratorAccess From Podcast to PlatformBeauty Must-Haves!

In this episode of The Leftover Pieces; Suicide Loss Conversations, I'm joined by Sean Dadashi to explore how journaling can support healing after suicide loss. We talk about why journaling often becomes a lifeline for grievers, how reflective practices help after traumatic loss, and why having accessible tools for processing grief matters — especially in the aftermath of a death by suicide.(P.S... I use and love this app!) Sean shares his own lived experience with depression and suicidal thoughts as a teenager, and how journaling helped him survive during a time when he felt untethered and overwhelmed. That experience eventually led him to co-found Rosebud, a therapist-backed journaling app designed to support emotional awareness, reflection, and personal growth.In this conversation, we discuss the cognitive science behind journaling, why it can be especially supportive after suicide loss, and how reflective practices help grievers begin to make sense of their inner world — without replacing therapy or crisis care. We're clear about boundaries: journaling is not treatment, and it is not emergency support — but it is a powerful companion tool for many people navigating grief and trauma.We also talk about:Why journaling after suicide loss can feel safer for some grievers than talking out loudHow micro-habits and gentle prompts support consistency without pressureThe difference between journaling, therapy, and crisis resourcesEthical technology use in mental-health spacesPrivacy, encryption, and responsible data handlingThe CARE Initiative, focused on safeguarding and accountability in mental-health technologyI also share why I personally value journaling as part of a broader support system after loss — including the option to speak rather than type, receive thoughtful prompts, and engage in reflection without having to “know what to say.”This episode is grounded, educational, and honest — offering grievers, supporters, and clinicians alike a clearer understanding of how journaling can support healing after suicide loss, while honoring the reality that no single tool is enough on its own Rosebud — Journaling App & Resources:

In today's episode, I'm guiding you through a powerful year-in-review alignment audit designed to help you consciously close out the year and step into the next one with clarity, intention, and self-trust. This is a grounding visualization and journaling practice to help you reflect on what truly added to your life, what quietly drained you, and what you're ready to release so you can move forward feeling lighter and more aligned. Think of this episode as a sacred pause - a moment to zoom out, honor your growth, and intentionally choose how you want to feel, live, and lead yourself in the year ahead.After listening, take time to journal with these prompts to deepen the integration:What things drained my energy this year, and what am I officially choosing to release? (consider people, relationships, parts of your career/business, and inner workings + patterns)What brought me the most joy, fun, or aliveness this year and how can I intentionally expand these in my daily life? (consider people, relationships, parts of your career/business, and inner workings + patterns)If joy and alignment led every decision I made in January 2026, what would shift immediately in how I show up, spend my time, and support myself?If I lived all of 2026 the same way I want to live January, who would I become and what would my life look + feel like?Let this episode be your permission slip to choose yourself, choose joy, and move forward with clarity instead of pressure. Take your time with it, and if this practice lands for you, I'd love to hear what came up! @iamnoravirginia Support the Podcast & Get Your Questions Answered: If this episode supports you, it would mean the world to me if you are able to take two minutes to rate it on Spotify and give it a follow/subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, so you get notified when weekly episodes drop! Have a question you'd like to get answered on the podcast or a topic you'd like me to speak on? Let me know here!Ways to Work with Nora:1:1 Coaching: Now Accepting Waitlist Applications. Apply here.Big Vision Mastermind: For online coaches – the mastermind that blends manifestation with proven business strategy to take you from $3k to $10k+ months by building a high-ticket boutique business, stacking recurring income, and converting clients directly from your content and podcast—even with a small audience.The Podcasting for Business Growth Mini Course: This mini course includes everything you need to know to start, grow, and monetize your podcast by making more sales in your business—without the overwhelm.Elevate: The best (& maybe even the only) membership on the internet that truly blends the spiritual with the strategy. Get instant access to 1)...

If you've ever filled journals with words but felt stuck turning them into a song—or if you have music you love but freeze when it's time to add lyrics—this episode is for you. In this episode, I'm sharing a simple way to move from journaling into song lyrics without forcing meaning, overthinking, or trying to get it “right.” We'll talk about how lyrics actually take shape over time, why journaling is already a powerful part of the songwriting process, and how to begin shaping words into songs in a way that feels natural. You'll learn: A simple process for shaping raw language into lyrics How to bridge the gap between words and music—whether you start with lyrics or melody How this fits into a gentle, repeatable songwriting practice This episode is especially for singer-songwriters who want a clear place to begin, without pressure to finish a song or have something profound to say right away. Most songs aren't written all at once (It can happen! Stay open to the magic!)— they're usually written in stages. This episode focuses on one of the most important ones.  

If you've ever felt stuck in a mental loop, replaying conversations, spiraling into insecurity, or feeling something is wrong but you can't quite name it—this episode is for you.In this episode of Top Self, Shanenn sits down with Annette Furio, founder of Season Journals, to talk about how journaling can help you slow down, make sense of your thoughts, and create space between what you feel and how you react.f your brain feels loud or stuck, this episode is about giving those thoughts somewhere to go so you can think more clearly.Together, Shanenn and Annette break down why your brain gets stuck on repeat, how journaling helps close mental loops, and how even five minutes can shift your clarity, emotional regulation, and self-awareness.Golden Episode Nuggets

Summary:In this conversation, Deja White, an AI strategist and workforce innovation architect, discusses the complexities of career evolution, particularly for tech professionals. The dialogue explores themes of identity, misalignment, and the impact of comparison in the workplace. Deja emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own career confusion as a design problem rather than a lack of motivation. The conversation also highlights the role of AI in supporting career clarity and the need for personalized guidance in navigating career paths. Deja shares her insights on micro-pivots, experimentation, and the significance of work-life integration in personal growth.Takeaways:Career confusion is often about identity, not skills.Journaling can reveal patterns in career aspirations.Misalignment can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction.Comparison can amplify feelings of inadequacy.AI should be used as a tool for exploration, not a crutch.Small, medium, and large versions of goals can help in career pivots.People often overlook their shadow work and passions.Networking and community engagement are crucial for growth.Guidance should be personalized and identity-centered.Work-life integration is essential for personal fulfillment.Sound Bites:"People normally just don't know how.""Comparison makes it feel like it's at 100.""You can break some rules in this life."#career #evolution #AI #identity #misalignment #comparison #micro #pivots #experimentation #guidance #worklife #integration #personalgrowth #growth

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New Year´s resolutions don´t work – but a transformational 2026 is still within your reach. It´s in your control to make it your most impactful year yet. All it takes is one small, positive habit change. Kat explains how to identify which area of your life to focus on and which small yet powerful habit change to make. KEY TAKEAWAYS New Year's resolutions often fail because they're too big, vague, and numerous. Real change comes from small, realistic shifts that fit into real life. Start the habit of writing down your thoughts (journaling). That is how you will identify what really matters to you and choose the right small habit change to make. The positive habit commitment that you stick to starts to have this incredible ripple effect. It will improve areas of your life that you can't even imagine. The way to actually achieve all of those goals is to start with one thing. Then, you can stack and you can gradually build on top of it. Specificity and a strong ‘why' are what turn goals into lasting habits. It's far more powerful to commit to being a healthy, energised person for life than to chase short‑term fixes like losing weight for a single event. Committing for 21 days builds evidence that you can trust yourself. That single daily habit change creates a ripple effect. It subtly improves areas of your life you didn't even expect to change. Your thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours are both the biggest barrier and the biggest key to your future. BEST MOMENTS “2026 can be the year that you dreamed of. It really can.” " You don't have to say you can do it for the whole year, just start off with doing it for 21 days." "Journaling - it's essentially just writing your thoughts down. That is how you get clarity, that is how you regain control, and that is how you can take your life to a whole new level." ABOUT THE HOST Kat started her career as a teacher, before moving into Tech where she worked in different executive roles within teaching and consulting working across the globe, both in the public and private sector. Despite appearing 'successful' on the outside, she paid a heavy ‘life' price. In 2016, her whole world collapsed. The reason? The compound effect of years of unhealthy and toxic habits that destroyed her health, relationship, and career. She suffered a severe breakdown and lost everything. In the middle of this she got headhunted for her first CEO role. She rebuilt herself by changing just one small habit and built a series of positive habits which has transformed her professional and personal performance, resulting in becoming the healthiest and happiest version of herself. She is a positive habits international keynote speaker and teacher, giving talks and delivering high impact programmes to organisations across the globe. LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katthorne Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/the_morning_gamechanger Sponsor : VennCard, the last business card you'll ever need. Whether you're a creator, coach, or consultant, VennCard helps you share your details with a tap, capture leads instantly and follow up automatically. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this conversation, Stephen Martin explores the concept of gratitude, particularly from the perspective of neurodivergent individuals. He emphasizes that gratitude is not merely about positivity but serves as an emotional fuel that can motivate and inspire action. Martin shares personal anecdotes and practical tips for cultivating a gratitude practice, highlighting its importance in fostering resilience and personal growth. He encourages listeners to reflect on their experiences and create a gratitude list to carry forward into the new year, framing gratitude as a powerful tool for mental well-being and self-improvement.TakeawaysGratitude is not just about being positive; it's about emotional fuel.Neurodivergent thinkers often find motivation through emotional connections.Gratitude can create an emotional spark that leads to action.It's important to acknowledge both the good and the hard experiences.Creating a gratitude list can help recognize personal growth over time.Journaling gratitude monthly can prevent forgetting significant moments.Gratitude helps carry forward positive experiences into the new year.A gratitude practice can clear shame and spark momentum.Gratitude is a reset tool for neurodiverse minds.Reflecting on gratitude can enhance resilience and motivation.Gratitude, neurodivergent, emotional fuel, motivation, resilience, journaling, self-reflection, personal growth, mental health, positivity, adults with dyslexia, support for adults.Join the clubrightbrainresetters.comGet 20% off your first orderaddednutrition.comIf you want to find out more visit:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠truthaboutdyslexia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our Facebook Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/groups/adultdyslexia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

If you're a Christian entrepreneur trying to grow your faith-based business without burning out, this episode is for you. Many founders scale to 6 figures, get “busy,” and then quietly drift—more stress, less peace, and way less time with God. In this conversation, Steven Pemberton shares how he and his wife built two 7-figure eCommerce businesses, what happened when Amazon shut them down, and how a pivot (and prayer) opened a better path. We talk about the real reason most founders stall: ego—the need to control everything, be the bottleneck, and “do it all.” You'll hear practical ways to build a Christ-centered mindset in business, protect your morning routine with God, and create systems that let you delegate, scale, and lead with vision. If you want Kingdom business growth—profit with purpose, clarity, and spiritual alignment—press play and take notes.  Why ego blocks growth at every level (0→100K→1M→10M)  The danger of getting “busy” and how it pulls you off-center spiritually  A simple Christian morning routine for peace, focus, and leadership  Delegation frameworks: stop being the bottleneck and build real systems  Vision vs goals: how to seek God's direction for your next step  Skill stacking that actually helps you scale (sales, persuasion, execution)  Practical journaling to quiet your mind and execute faster tomorrow  00:00 Intro • Christ-centered business mindset 00:25 Steven's background + 7-figure ecom story 03:34 The Amazon business (and why $1M revenue can mislead) 04:31 Amazon shuts them down → the pivot that changed everything 05:51 Prayer closet > quick fixes (how guidance actually comes) 07:07 The biggest issue founders face: ego 10:33 “Do you really want $1M?” Vision, why, and alignment 12:32 Why people lose center as business grows 13:44 Morning routine: Bible, prayer, walking with God 15:14 Journaling to clear your mind and lead better 15:49 Stop doing everything: delegation + systems 20:42 Action steps: get vision, build skills, take obedient reps 22:47 Where to connect with Steven 23:19 Outro  #ChristianEntrepreneur #FaithBasedBusiness #KingdomBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessGrowth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is your End of Year Reflection and New Year Intention Setting Practice. This includes a mix of short guided grounding practices and meditations mixed with journal prompts as we aim to reflect on this past year and then transition into setting our intentions and vision for the year ahead.Journal Prompts:What is a word that encapsulates this past year for you?What are your highlights, top memories, and proudest moments from this past year? What areas did you struggle? Where did things feel tough or sticky?How do you want to feel next year? What would you like to do, experience, and/or accomplish next year?Is there a word that encapsulates those desires that can serve as your guide? If you found a connection to yourself from listening to this podcast, please rate, review, subscribe, and share it with your friends.END-OF-YEAR PDF JOURNAL https://iamkatiearnold.kit.com/products/end-of-year-journal Free Daily Yoga & Meditation PDF Calendar: https://iamkatiearnold.ck.page/6be45947d9 Quiet the Noise Membership:If you would like an ad-free experience with my entire library of YouTube classes and Podcast audio as soon as they're available and an updated daily practice calendar each month on a completely searchable platform, join the Quiet the Noise Membership here: https://quietthenoiseyoga.namastream.com/product/69209——————Buy Me a Coffee Did you enjoy your meditation? Donations to this podcast allow me to keep creating new content and practices to support your journey while keeping them free and available to all.   You can buy me a coffee and show your support here. (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/katiearnoldyoga) Thank you for your support——————Add a yoga class to your practice today from my YouTube channel, Katie Arnold Yoga.Learn about the 28-day Connection Intensive here: https://iamkatiearnold.com/explore/ Find more from me @iamkatiearnold and @soulconnectionpodcast. Connect with me for more tips for your practice, to learn about live events, and how you can practice with me. —Stock Music provided by wavetune, from Pond5

Jenneth Graser and I met twenty-five years ago at John Arnott's School of Ministry in Toronto, Canada where I was teaching the 4 keys to hearing God's voice. Jenneth adopted them into her life and testifies it had a life-transforming impact on her.Read more here.Support the show

In this end-of-year episode of Beautiful Work Beautiful Life, cohosts Laurel Holland and Laurel Boivin invite listeners into a deeper, more intimate look at their emotional lives. Rather than focusing on year-end accomplishments, this conversation turns inward toward the lived emotional landscape that shaped the year: grief, anger, fear, and joy. Together, Laurel and Laurel explore why emotions are such powerful messengers, how resistance keeps us from processing what we feel, and how building emotional capacity leads to a fuller, more connected life. You'll be gently guided to reflect honestly on how you felt this year, what those feelings revealed, and what emotional patterns are asking for attention as you step into a new season of growth. It's a spacious and soulful invitation to reconnect with yourself, and to design your year ahead from a place of deeper self-awareness. In this episode: * Why developing emotional awareness is essential to authentic living * Four foundational emotional “quadrants”: grief, anger, fear, and joy * The subtle but powerful role trust plays in your ability to feel joy * How to reflect on your emotional year — the highs, lows, and everything in between * Using your emotional inventory to guide the year ahead Your End-of-Year Emotional Inventory: Grief — What was lost, disappointing, or unprocessed? Anger — What boundaries need strengthening or revisiting? Fear — What held you back, protected you, or asked for healing? Joy — What delighted you, inspired you, or called you forward? Journaling prompts are suggested to further your exploration. 1. What losses or disappointments did I experience this year? 2. What sadness have I acknowledged — and what have I avoided? 3. How do I give myself space to sit with and feel my grief? 4. What “small” griefs or disappointments did I minimize or judge as “not a big deal”? 5. What am I angry about from this past year? 6. How is my anger serving me? 7. Where are boundaries needed, strengthened, or repaired? 8. What forgiveness work is calling to me — toward others or myself? 9. In what ways am I still blaming others instead of tending to my own inner work? 10. What did I feel afraid of this year, and how did that shape my choices? 11. When was fear trying to keep me safe — and when was it limiting my life? 12. Where do I feel anxiety, and what emotion might be underneath it (grief, anger, disappointment, etc.)? 13. How can I begin to build a more compassionate relationship with my fear? 14. What genuinely brought me joy or delight this year? 15. Where did I expect joy and not find it — and what does that reveal about my expectations or needs? 16. What gets in the way of me allowing or receiving joy? 17. Where do I need more trust — in myself, others, or life — to experience more joy? Links/Books mentioned: Theosophy: An Introduction to the Spiritual Processes in Human Life and in the Cosmos, by Rudolf Steiner, December 1, 1994 Previous Beautiful Work Beautiful Life episodes on: Transform Your Anger Into Loving Self-Kindness, December 18, 2023 How to Welcome Grief with Sue Burhoe, November 28, 2022 The email to send questions to Laurel Boivin is laurel@fluxflowcoaching.com and for Laurel Holland - laurel@liveyourinnerpower.com The link to our private Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/beautifulworkbeautifullife Host/Cohost/Guest Info: Guiding others to become effective leaders of their own lives, Laurel Holland has been on a journey of awakening and transformation throughout her life. Writing about inner work, Laurel has authored four books, including Crossroads and Love's 8 Laws. Her books, Live Your Inner Power, the Journal, and Courageous Woman, introduce, share, and explore the eight foundational practices for creating transformation from the inside out. Through her books, programs, and innovative talks, Laurel's great desire is to lift others up and courageously step into the life they came here to live. You can learn more about Laurel Holland at www.liveyourinnerpower.com. Laurel Boivin is a leadership coach, speaker, and workshop facilitator. Founder of Flux+Flow Professional Coaching, Laurel works with high-performing professionals and mission-driven organizations to shift from achievement to alignment — helping them connect deeply to purpose, lead with confidence, and create environments where people thrive. You can learn more about Laurel Boivin at www.fluxflowcoaching.com.

In the second half of this conversation, David and Eugene dive deep into the epiphanies Eugene had from journaling specifically related to ADHD. As two non-medical, non-scientific laymen, we have an honest discussion about what it's been like for him to understand his condition, what help (if any) he's gotten in the past, and in what ways his mental state has helped make him the person he is today. As always, thanks for listening! :) 

It's officially the end of 2025, and whether this year felt like a marathon or a blur — it's almost over. And like it or not, we have to move on. Let's do An End of Year Reflection on the podcast.In this final episode of the year, I want to hold space for reflection — not in an overwhelming, “go journal for three hours” kind of way — but a quiet, honest pause to ask: What did this year teach me, and how am I moving forward?This episode is for the introspective soul. The one who wants to end well, not just sprint into a new year without intention. Whether 2025 was filled with incredible wins or unexpected losses it matters how you close it.I'll walk you through three simple but powerful reflection questions:What was the biggest lesson you learned this year?How will you apply it in 2026?What are you truly grateful for — and who do you need to thankThis is your An End of Year Reflection.Thanks for being here! If you'd like to support the show, please visit buymeacoffee.com/remiroy to give a one-time or monthly gift. And if you can't give financially right now? A rating, a review, or simply sharing the show with a friend goes such a long way.Thank you for being here. I see you. I appreciate you.Support the showContact Us Ask a question or leave a comment, visit shepact.com/voicemail Follow me on Instagram at instagram.com/remiroy Email us: thedrivenintrovert@shepact.com Enjoying the podcast? Share the podcast with a friend: shepact.com/TDIPodcast Leave a review: We'd appreciate it if you could WRITE a review for us. Your support and feedback mean a lot to us. Thank you! For the driven introvert, the introvert leader, the lonely introvert, introvert entrepreneurs, the confident Introvert, dreamers, faith driven entrepreneur, passionate leaders and anyone who wants to close the gap between where they are and where they need to be. We discuss Leadership for Introverts, career development for introverts, introvert success, introvert success strategies, networking for the introvert, and other pertinent issues to help you as an introvert grow personally and professionally.

Free newsleter + gift - https://www.clarkkegley.com/free-ques... Free shadow work Qs - https://www.clarkkegley.com/shadow-work My Best Journal Program - https://www.mybestjournal.com Limited time: (use code "YOUTUBE50" at checkout) Time for the ultimate guide to keeping a journal! This has been our end-of-year tradition for over 8 years now, and I couldn't be more excited to share it with you again. In this video, I'll show you why journaling is hands-down the BEST thing you can do to change your life in 2026. We'll break it down into these parts: 00:00 The one habit 01:01 Why 03:12 What 04:05 How 04:21 Front cover 08:28 Back cover 12:12 Middle Hope you dig it, and happy new year! The Best of Series | 10-years In The Making:    • THE BEST OF - Clark Kegley | Top Videos on... 2025:    • The Ultimate Guide to Journaling: Change Y...   2024:    • The ULTIMATE guide to keeping a Journal   2023:    • the ultimate guide to keeping a journal   2022:    • the ultimate guide to keeping a journal   2021:    • The Ultimate Guide to Keeping A Journal   MY FAVORITE TOOLS

This week, I speak with Christine Valter Paintner about the contemplative practice of "receiving a word" for the year, an alternative to traditional New Year's resolutions and goal setting. The Ancient Practice: The "Give Me a Word" practice is inspired by the Desert Mothers and Fathers (monks of the 2nd–4th centuries), who would offer a word of wisdom—sometimes a single word, a phrase, or a scripture line—to seekers. The word is meant to be wrestled with and explored for a long time, not a quick fix. Receiving vs. Striving: The core of the practice is about opening the heart to receive wisdom from a source greater than oneself, rather than trying to find or force a word (the "try hard" or "productivity hack" approach). The Listening Process: Listening for the word can be integrated into everyday life—through silence, noticing synchronicities in books, shows, or nature, or even by asking a trusted friend for a word of wisdom. Working with Dissonance: They discuss how to work with a word that might feel "bristly" or difficult, exploring the idea that resistance and dissonance can touch on "shadow" aspects of the self (perfectionism, fear of visibility) that hold the deepest creative gifts. Embodying the Word: Suggestions for keeping the word present all year include creatively embodying it through: Creating a collage or visual art. Making a playlist of inspired songs. Writing an acrostic poem. Journaling a narrative explanation of the word's arrival. Links: Guest: Christine Valters Paintner, Online Abbess of Abbey of the Arts (a virtual monastery and global community celebrating its 20th year). Book: Give Me a Word: The Promise of Ancient Practice to Guide Your Year Become a Joyster and join us for the January "Word of the Year Art Party" on January 9th. 

The science of Hitbodedut vs journaling

Today's guest is Kevin Secours. Kevin is a veteran martial arts coach, author, and former security professional with decades of experience across Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, and Russian Systema. Holding five black belts (including an 8th-dan), Kevin has worked extensively in real-world contexts while also teaching meditation, solo training, and strength rituals. He is the author of Rituals of Strength and Unconstrained, and is known for blending martial tradition, modern training theory, psychology, and philosophical inquiry into human development and resilience The conditioning and tempering of the body in striking sports can draw interesting parallels to collisions needed in jumping, sprinting and landing activities. We can also draw many lessons and ideas from the exercise tradition that goes back centuries with martial arts practice. By understanding combat training disciplines, we can draw out universal application for general movement and performance. In this episode, we explore the deeper purpose of physical training through martial arts and sport performance. Kevin reflects on early experiences with body hardening, cold exposure, and Zen-influenced practice, examining where such methods build resilience and where they become self-destructive. Drawing parallels to sprinting, jumping, and strength training, we discuss collisions, long isometric holds, ritualized discomfort, and fatigue as tools for cultivating awareness, reducing excess tension, and supporting longevity. Today's episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:00 – Martial arts origins and body hardening 17:48 – Body tension, trauma, and reading the athlete 28:23 – Isometrics, Soviet methods, and slow strength 33:58 – Journaling, drawing, and learning through reflection 45:02 – Mindset, adaptability, and mental speed 56:46 – Representativeness, ritual, and resilience 1:04:26 – Simplify versus deconstruct in training 1:12:25 – Microdosing discomfort and daily resilience 1:17:24 – Comfort seeking and modern training challenges Actionable Takeaways Martial arts origins and body hardening Extreme methods can build toughness, but unchecked intensity shortens longevity. Training should serve health and preparedness, not destroy the body you are trying to protect. Exposure must be progressive and intentional, not reckless. Body tension, trauma, and reading the athlete Chronic tension often reflects psychological history, not just physical limitations. Coaches should first understand an athlete's motive for training. Creating a safe and inclusive environment allows tension to unwind. Exhaustion can reveal new movement options and reduce overthinking. Isometrics, Soviet methods, and slow strength Long isometric holds build physical strength and mental resilience. Slow strength exposes weak links that fast movement can hide. Discomfort creates space for reflection and adaptability. Training methods were shaped by harsher living conditions and necessity. Journaling, drawing, and learning through reflection Writing and sketching reinforce learning more deeply than words alone. Stick figures and simple drawings improve memory and understanding. Documentation is a form of legacy and long term learning. Mindset, adaptability, and mental speed Adaptability in movement reflects adaptability in thinking. Exposure to opposing viewpoints builds cognitive flexibility. Speed is as much mental as it is physical. Ego and rigid beliefs limit learning and performance. Representativeness, ritual, and resilience Not all training must look like competition to have value. Ritual builds consistency and meaning in training. Resilience is a universal quality that transfers across contexts. Training should include experiences where the athlete loses and adapts. Simplify versus deconstruct in training Simplify first to preserve the integrity of the whole movement. Deconstruct only when specific limitations appear. Always return to full movement patterns after isolation. End sessions with success to reinforce confidence. Microdosing discomfort and daily resilience Small daily challenges build long term mental toughness. Discomfort activates the neural centers tied to willpower. Ritualized discomfort is more effective than occasional extremes. Resilience can be trained deliberately and safely. Comfort seeking and modern training challenges Humans naturally seek comfort when it is available. Modern environments require intentional exposure to challenge. Training should balance safety, stress, and adaptability. Long term growth comes from controlled adversity, not avoidance. Quotes from Kevin Secours “Motive matters more than method. The why has to be bigger than the how.” “Repetition does not make perfect. You can be perfectly bad at something.” “Every technique is like a snowflake. No two are the same.” “Resilience is the most universal commodity you have.” “The greatest relaxation comes from exhaustion.” “Training should not be trauma.” “If you quit midway, you are more likely to come back.” “We are comfort seekers.” About Kevin Secours Kevin Secours is a martial arts coach and author focused on practical skill development, resilience, and real-world application of movement and combat principles. Drawing from decades of training and coaching experience, his work bridges traditional martial arts, modern performance thinking, and personal development. Kevin is known for clear teaching, depth of insight, and an emphasis on adaptability, awareness, and lifelong practice.

**BEST OF** That beautiful leather-bound journal you bought with the best intentions? The one now gathering dust under a pile of books? You're not alone. After 40 years of failed journaling attempts, Michael Bungay Stanier finally cracked the code to sustainable reflection—and it's likely nothing like what you've tried before. Michael is the author behind the Wall Street Journal bestseller The Coaching Habit (which Brené Brown called "a classic"), with over 1.5 million books sold worldwide. Named the #1 Thought Leader in Coaching by Thinkers50, his insights have been featured in Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Fast Company. In this conversation, Michael shares: His surprisingly simple journaling breakthrough that eliminates the most common barriers to consistency A powerful weekly reflection framework that drives tangible results (not just empty introspection) The counterintuitive boundary system he uses to prevent work overload while maximizing impact Why he rejects popular "word of the year" goal-setting (and what he does instead) Whether you're a serial journal abandoner or simply seeking more intentional reflection practices, Michael's practical approach offers a refreshing alternative to traditional journaling methods that actually sticks. Key Quotes: “One thing that is really helpful is just to know I don’t have to say yes right away.” “I have failed to successfully journal since I was 16. I’m now 57, so I’ve been attempting to journal for 40 years.” “If you just start asking yourself what you want day in and day out it just starts forcing a deep clarity.” Connect with Michael via his website, Instagram, LinkedIn, or buy the Do Something That Matters Journal. My latest book The Health Habit is out now. You can order a copy here: https://www.amantha.com/the-health-habit/ Connect with me on the socials: Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanthaimber) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amanthai) If you are looking for more tips to improve the way you work and live, I write a weekly newsletter where I share practical and simple to apply tips to improve your life. You can sign up for that at https://amantha-imber.ck.page/subscribe Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at amantha@inventium.com.au Credits: Host: Amantha Imber Sound Engineer: The Podcast ButlerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 Preparing for 2026: Travel Dreams & Meaningful Connections(Part I): https://open.spotify.com/episode/5J0En4gdtTE8Ye4LkbkmTu?si=t2ogapnNSZaSFVZj0lLN5Q

If you're curious as to whether you have any stored emotions or trauma that might be causing your illness, preventing you from achieving your goals, or even just showing up as the best, authentic version of yourself, I invite you to take my free Stored Emotions and Trauma QuizWhat if the heavy cloud you're dragging around is actually your next lesson trying to get your attention?In this episode, I'm getting real about the funk I've been in for the last few months and what it's taught me about these intense transition periods. I've been moving through a season of irritability, misalignment, and low energy while still holding an inner knowing that something good is on the other side. Reflection and curiosity helped me start asking what I can learn here, what needs to be seen, and why certain patterns keep repeating.What shifts when you move from “why is this happening to me” into “how is this happening for me,” even when fear and frustration are loud? You'll see why you can't muscle through these seasons alone and how having a trusted team around you can hold space, reflect truth, and remind you you're not the only one feeling this way. You'll Learn:[00:00] Introduction[02:44] Why emotional fog can signal a new layer of growth[05:21] What happens when curiosity replaces self-judgment[08:56] How to see the lesson behind repeating patterns[12:38] Why shifting to “for me, not to me” changes everything[16:47] What opens when you name fear without shame[19:33] How approaching discomfort with love and grace softens resistance[23:12] The reason you can't integrate shadow work alone[27:55] What support from the right people makes possible[31:18] How allowing others to hold space moves healing forwardFind More From Dr. Stephanie Davis:Dr. Stephanie Davis | WebsiteQuantum Rx | InstagramQuantum Rx | Skool

Why do so many high-functioning adults secretly feel "something's wrong"—even when life looks fine on paper? In this empowering episode, Lisa A. Romano uncovers the ACOA blind spot: the predictable patterns that form when alcoholism (or "dry" alcoholism) and emotional neglect shape a family system. You'll learn the five core patterns that keep adult children and grandchildren of alcoholics stuck—and the practical roadmap for getting your power, clarity, and self-respect back. The 5 patterns you'll recognize: Reality Denied — Gaslighting and minimization train you to distrust your own signals Feelings Weren't Safe — Emotions got linked to danger, so you muted your inner compass Survival Roles = Identity — Caretaker/hero/scapegoat/lost child replace authentic selfhood Wired for Chaos — The brain's predictive coding + hypervigilance keep you on high alert Internalized Shame — The hidden "I'm the problem" lens that sabotages love and worth You'll also learn: How to bring the prefrontal cortex online and soothe Amy the amygdala & Harry the hippocampus Journaling and mindfulness practices that reorganize the mind and rebuild self-trust Language to spot covert denial, dry alcoholism, and narcissistic dynamics—fast This episode is for you if: No one in your family talks about addiction, yet dysfunction is obvious You're praised for being "strong," but feel unseen, anxious, or chronically not enough You keep tolerating disrespect or pick partners who exploit your caretaking You're ready to identify the hole in the wall—and finally fix it Begin Your Breakthrough Lisa's 12 Week Breakthrough Program gives you a step-by-step, neuroscience-based path to calm your nervous system, reprogram subconscious patterns, and rebuild a self-concept rooted in worthiness.

Send us a textIn today's episode of Evolve Ventures, we talk about why change feels so hard, even when you want it badly. We speak to the moments of doubt, emotional weight, and quiet frustration that come from feeling stuck in patterns you cannot seem to break. This conversation is for anyone who senses there is more possible, but is unsure how to move forward without forcing or burning out.This episode is about how growth actually happens over time, and why small, intentional choices matter more than motivation. If you are ready to shift how you think, decide, and show up for your life, this episode offers a grounded place to start.Learn more about:Books For Babes – GoFundMe donation linkhttps://www.gofundme.com/f/books-for-babes-annual-fundraiser-2025Evolve Group Coaching - https://evolveventurestech.com/evolve-group-coaching/ Here are the related episodes, each one builds on today's conversation:#425 | Are You Actually Protecting Your Mental Health? - https://apple.co/4s9AMR6 #453 | What it REALLY Feels Like with High Quality Therapy - https://apple.co/4anaO6d Evolve Together Experiences:

Send us your desired health topic or guest suggestionsA blank page can feel like a cliff edge—especially when your life has been torn open by loss. Author and coach Marie Crews joins us to share how a simple, structured journaling practice helped her survive her son's death and uncover a grounded path back to connection and peace. What started as morning pages became a reliable dialogue with a wiser voice, one that didn't sugarcoat the pain but expanded the story with context, compassion, and courage. We walk through Marie's four-step method—Reveal, Review, Rewrite, Rewire—and why each phase matters. The reveal is raw truth without censorship. The review identifies pain points and beliefs that keep suffering in place. The rewrite offers a kinder, reality-based narrative that includes your limits and strengths. And the rewire uses rehearsal and witnessing to turn insight into a new nervous system pattern. This is trauma-aware, practical, and deeply human work that serves divorce recovery, creative blocks, midlife shifts, and profound grief. Marie also opens the door to her retreats, including specialized gatherings for mothers who have lost a child. In those rooms, validation becomes medicine and connection becomes a bridge to ongoing bonds that don't violate faith traditions or demand a specific spiritual label. We talk about identity shifts, self-love as a daily practice, and why the answers we chase are already inside us—waiting to be revealed on the page. If this resonated, share it with a friend who needs hope, subscribe for more conversations like this, and leave a review to help others find the show.You can find Marie Crews at:Website - https://www.mariecrews.com/ Please Follow and Review this podcast if you would like to support the growth of this show. Thank You! :)If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with two people you know that might benefit from the information. The more knowledge that people have in their hands, the healthier we can all become. If you would like to see a particular health issue discussed, or know someone who would be a great guest, contact the Open-Minded Healing podcast at openmindedhealing365@gmail.com. Note: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Marla Miller, Open-Minded Healing Podcast, any guests or contributors to the podcast, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.

In this conversation, Nicole Zapoli shares her journey towards mental health awareness and the importance of fitness and mindset in achieving overall well-being. She discusses practical tools for overcoming negative thoughts, balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, and the significance of consistency in fitness. Nicole also introduces her book, Live Fit From the Inside Out, which outlines six shifts to living a healthier and happier life, emphasizing that small, actionable steps can lead to significant changes.As you listen:00:00 Just Do the Next Thing02:05 The Journey to Mental Health Awareness05:57 Tools for Overcoming Negative Thoughts08:09 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship11:53 The Importance of Mindset in Fitness16:07 The Six Shifts to a Healthier Life

A lot of wins make you arrogant.A lot of losses make you humble.And that's exactly how it should be.You learn more from your losses than you ever do from your wins.Most people get so focused on the money, they forget the money is just the byproduct of a system.Trap breaks it down:• RSI isn't gospel — runners run.• The play isn't the lesson… your system is the lesson.• The goal ain't $5K a month — the goal is a system that puts you in position 80–90% of the time.• Small losses teach. Big losses sculpt.• Coming out a $1.5M hole is a different kind of mental fortitude.• Wins create ego… losses create students.• Journaling, reviewing, refining — that's the work.• Stop trying 19 trading styles — master ONE.• Your 10,000 reps matter. Stop expecting overnight success.• Social media wants you to “win by tomorrow”… real traders master the craft.Join our Exclusive Patreon!!! Creating Financial Empowerment for those who've never had it.

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik sits down with "Heather-Ann" Ferri to unpack what it really means to move from surviving a family story to consciously rewriting your legacy. Heather-Ann shares how childhood trauma and generational patterns can shape our nervous system, self-worth, relationships, and even the way we chase achievement for approval. The conversation stays practical. Breathwork as a foundation for nervous system regulation. Journaling as a tool to spot patterns and reclaim your voice. A realistic take on healing that is not linear, not pretty, but absolutely possible. If you feel stuck in survival mode, overachieving, people-pleasing, or carrying a “heavy family story,” this episode gives you a clear starting point. About the Guest: Heather-Ann Ferri is an author, speaker, healer, and educator working at the intersection of trauma recovery, self-leadership, and spiritual growth. Her upcoming book, Transcending Victim to Goddess, blends memoir with a practical self-love and healing framework designed to help readers disrupt generational cycles and rebuild from the inside out. Key Takeaways: “Victim to goddess” is not a vibe. It is a decision to face what happened, name the patterns, and reclaim your identity without letting family systems define you. Healing is not linear. Expect layers. Progress can look like getting out of bed and choosing not to escape your life today. Breathwork is the baseline tool. Changing breath patterns helps change stress patterns, emotional reactivity, and survival responses. Start simple. Notice if your inhale feels tight. Ask what you struggle to receive, not just what you give. Overachieving and people-pleasing can be trauma strategies. Breath and body awareness help you stop outsourcing worth to performance. Journaling works best when you have prompts. If you do not know what to ask yourself, guided questions reduce overwhelm and create structure. Quiet time is not optional if you want change. Reflection, meditation, and writing help you hear your inner compass again. Creative expression counts as healing. Five minutes of dancing, singing, drawing, walking, or play can reconnect you to “I am enough.” You can rewrite legacy without waiting for the perfect therapist. Start with one breath and one honest page. How Listeners Can Connect With Heather-Ann Ferri: Website: https://www.heatherannferri.com/  YouTube  Contact: Use the contact form and email listed on her website   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty. storyteller, survivor, wellness advocate. this channel shares powerful podcasts and soul-nurturing conversations on: • Mental Health & Emotional Well-being • Mindfulness & Spiritual Growth • Holistic Healing & Conscious Living • Trauma Recovery & Self-Empowerment With over 4,400+ episodes and 168.4K+ global listeners, join us as we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters. Subscribe and be part of this healing journey. Contact Brand: Healthy Mind By Avik™ Email: www.healthymindbyavik.com Based in: India & USA Open to collaborations, guest appearances, coaching, and strategic partnerships. Let's connect to create a ripple effect of positivity. CHECK PODCAST SHOWS & BE A GUEST: Listen our 17 Podcast Shows Here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Be a guest on our other shows: https://www.healthymindbyavik.com/beaguest Video Testimonial: https://www.healthymindbyavik.com/testimonials Join Our Guest & Listener Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ OUR SERVICES Business Podcast Management - https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/corporatepodcasting/ Individual Podcast Management - https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/Podcasting/ Share Your Story With World - https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/shareyourstory STAY TUNED AND FOLLOW US! 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In this Season One finale, host Talaya Dendy celebrates the milestone of completing The Healing Pen and a Mic Companion podcast. Reflecting on the live October workshop, Talaya shares why she has decided to keep her signature 5-hour "deep dive" format and how journaling serves as a vital tool for movement, not just reflection. This episode features moving testimonials from participants and a first look at the evolving future of the program for 2026 .Support Our Mission / Partner With Us:Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you!Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these much-needed, workshops to the cancer community.For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com.

Get your tickets hereThe "New Year New Intentions Setting Workshop" is a transformative event designed to help participants release past energies and set clear intentions for the future. The workshop includes a hot yoga session, a future self meditation, a catered brunch, and a journaling session focused on setting intentions across major life categories. Participants also engage in a burning ceremony to let go of past irritations and create a personalized "word of the year" bracelet. The event emphasizes personal growth, mindfulness, and community support. Keywords New Year, Intentions, Yoga, Meditation, Journaling, Personal Growth, Mindfulness, Community, Workshop, Intention Setting TakeawaysStart with a hot yoga session to release energy. Future self meditation to bridge current and future self. Catered brunch with light, refreshing food. Journaling session to set intentions in life categories. Burning ceremony to release past irritations. Create a personalized 'word of the year' bracelet. Emphasize personal growth and mindfulness.Supportive community environment. Encourage participants to focus on feelings and intentions. Limited spots available, book early.

Techniques for Coping with Anxiety and Reducing Stress LevelsWelcome to "Finding Peace: Faith Based Approaches to Anxiety and Stress," where we explore practical ways to integrate faith with mental health. Today, we dive into a crucial topic: anxiety and stress management. In this episode April Bordeau and Jean Crane discuss effective techniques rooted in faith principles that can help you find peace amidst life's challenges.Key Discussion Points:Understanding Anxiety and Stress:Define anxiety and stress and their impact on mental health.Recognize the prevalence of anxiety in today's society and its effects on individuals.Biblical Perspective on Anxiety:Explore relevant scriptures that address anxiety.Discuss how faith can provide comfort and strength during anxious moments.Techniques for Coping with Anxiety:Prayer and Meditation:The power of prayer as a tool for surrender and seeking peace.Guided Christian meditation techniques to calm the mind and spirit.Breathing Exercises and Relaxation Techniques:Deep breathing exercises to reduce physiological symptoms of anxiety.Progressive muscle relaxation methods to release tension.Journaling and Scripture Reflection:Keeping a gratitude journal to focus on blessings rather than worries.Reflecting on scripture passages that emphasize trust and God's provision.Healthy Lifestyle Choices:Importance of regular exercise in reducing stress and improving mood.Balanced diet and adequate sleep as foundations for emotional well-being.Connection and communityAuthentic relationships with people who support and encourage youForgiveness as a regular part of communitySeeking Professional Help:Encouragement to seek support from counselors or therapists.Remember that managing anxiety is a journey, and you are not alone. By integrating these techniques with your faith, you can experience a deeper sense of peace that surpasses understanding. Thank you for listening. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share with others who may benefit. Remember, in Christ, there is hope and healing for every anxious heart. Until next time, may God's peace be with you always.Follow Care to Change on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/CaretoChange.org/Follow Care to Change on Instagram @care_to_changeSee our YouTube page hereIf you would like someone to come speak to your group about anxiety, depression or mental health, contact usfor more details.If you are struggling and ready to take a step toward freedom, schedule an appt today.

Plan Your Best 2026: Finances and Activities + Hobbies (Part III)(Part II): https://open.spotify.com/episode/4OBvDJlKQQtFBb8c4FJvz7?si=jFUpMgqDTQ6n9EbJnqYShg(Part I): https://open.spotify.com/episode/5J0En4gdtTE8Ye4LkbkmTu?si=t2ogapnNSZaSFVZj0lLN5Q

In this solo episode of Business, Finance & Soul, Shaun Enders breaks down why meaningful success in life, business, money, health, and relationships almost always unfolds over years, not weeks or months. Drawing from personal experience in entrepreneurship, investing, parenting, and athletics, Shaun explains how discipline compounds, why modern life is engineered against patience, and how learning to sit comfortably in the delay can change your future. If you're building something that matters and wondering why it feels slower than expected this episode will help you reframe timelines, trust the process, and stay committed to the long game.

In this powerful episode of the Healing Pen and a Mic companion podcast, host Talaya Dendy sits down with Lisa Beckendorf, a celebrated cancer survivor and patient advocate.Lisa shares her personal journey through multiple cancer diagnoses and the pivotal moment she transitioned from a career in commercial real estate to full-time advocacy. Initially asking, "Why me?", she realized her experience was a powerful way to give back to the cancer community.This conversation dives into the transformative impact of journaling and storytelling in the healing process. Lisa highlights how the practice, central to the Healing Pen and a Mic Workshop offers emotional release, fosters deep community connections, and is a critical tool for personal growth.Whether you are navigating a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or seeking to turn your personal story into powerful action, this episode offers invaluable insights on finding solace, strength, and purpose through writing and community.Support Our Mission / Partner With Us:Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you!Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these much-needed, workshops to the cancer community.For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com.

My new favorite journaling practice takes less than 2 minutes each day- it's sustainable, enjoyable, and gives us the opportunity to reflect on our life 5 years at a time. But also, who doesn't love a new pen and new journal?   Links: Previous episode: my unhinged journaling practice IG post about the 5 year journaling pracitce The journal I'm using for this (and love) Paper and Pencil- Andersonville, IL Paper and Pencil on IG

Today we have Yeimy. She's 30 years old, from Rhode Island and took her last drink of alcohol on January 19th, 2025.   This episode is brought to you by:   Café RE – the social app for sober people Better Help – 10% off of your first month #sponsored   January 1st, 2026 is the official release date for Paul's new book Dolce Vita and he'd love to have you on the launch team. Email info@recoveryelevator.com to join.   Registration for Recovery Elevator's Dry January course Restore is open. We are meeting 13 times live in the month of January to give you the best chance of ditching the booze.   [03:30] Thoughts from Paul:   Paul shares with us a concept that he still struggles with but has made progress. It is embracing the world of duality that we live in. Of course, we would all want to be happy all of the time, but living in the world of dualities, we have to have opposites for defining purposes.     Do your best to embrace it all. Square your shoulders to this thing called life and don't get attached to any of it.  When you have a good day, be grateful. When you have a shit day, be grateful, knowing that you need them both equally.   [06:33] Paul introduces Yeimy:   Yeimy is 30 years old and works as a phlebotomist. Yeimy says she is still figuring out what she likes to do for fun but says she enjoys spending time with family and trying new things as in food or places.    Yeimy says she was born into alcoholism as both of her parents were heavy drinkers. She doesn't specifically remember her first drink but was allowed to drink as a teenager when on vacation in the Dominican Republic.   In her early 20s, Yeimy worked in a bar and was able to drink on the job. Paired with other substances, Yeimy says her drinking became limitless.  After COVID happened, she started drinking alone at home. Occasionally Yeimy would question how much she was drinking, but when she mentioned it to friends, they would reassure her that it was fine, and she was just having fun.   Over this time, Yeimy said she had a few small rock bottoms including a two-week hospitalization, crashing her car and waking up in strange places from time to time. She didn't take the hint that she should stop the drinking and substance abuse and was determined to continue until something worse forced her to stop.   In 2022, Yeimy went to rehab. She says she wasn't ready but due to the concern of a friend, she went for 30 days and was able to stay sober for another 30 days but became overwhelmed when she went right back into her life with the same people and places.   Yeimy attempted to moderate from time to time to try and avoid losing jobs and relationships like she had in the past. In 2024 while in the early days of her relationship with a non-drinker, Yeimy says she felt like her drinking was under a microscope. She would try to hide her drinking but that became exhausting. December 2024 found Yeimy having a lot of moments and mishaps that led her to realize she couldn't do this anymore.   Yeimy began to go to AA meetings again but was still drinking. Her last rock bottom was when she fell asleep on the job the day after a blackout at a party. She was embarrassed and finally admitted to her boyfriend that she had a problem, and he said he would support her and she was relieved to have finally told him.   Whenever Yeimy felt the urge to drink, she attended meetings or listened to podcasts, staying focused on recovery for her first two months. With family support, she grew confident in her progress; she now works through AA steps with a sponsor. Physically, Yeimy feels strong, and mentally she is more focused and decisive. Journaling, meetings, and connecting with sober people help her stay on track. She can now spend time around her drinking family, though she limits those interactions.   Yeimy's parting piece of guidance: if you think you have a problem, you most likely do.   Recovery Elevator You took the elevator down, you gotta take the stairs back up. We can do this.   RE on Instagram Sobriety Tracker iTunes  RE YouTube