Podcasts about Journaling

Our teacher and inspiration for this session is Joanna Macy. What she embodies is a wild love for the world and a fierce hope that rises irrepressible from that. And she carries and lives an important reminder to us that when we love, we will also know pain, and we will know grief that can feel too awful to bear. When we talk about the muscle of hope being reality-based, that means that it does not call us to be brimming with optimism where that is not warranted. What we're called to do is stay present. And when you're present, there will be grieving to do, but that this — strangely, interestingly, kind of miraculously — increases our capacity to love this world. And it unleashes intelligence and ingenuity to sustain that love across a lifetime, as Joanna Macy has.Journaling prompts for Session 5What is the love on the other side of your pain?What is a loss you have perhaps not quite acknowledged?The despair that you began to write about at the outset of this experience, the despair you may be feeling for the world today — what would it mean to stand reverently before your grief? Can you imagine what it would mean — to sit with what it would mean — to turn it into a mourning that brings you more deeply into the love that lies just on the other side of your pain?We've created a beautiful journal for the whole seven weeks, with full-size printable pages, that you can download for free HERE.A Possible Way to Organize This ExperienceTake each week's brief listening offering, each around 15 minutes long, as a meditation to move through the week ahead. And as none of the great virtues — and certainly not hope — is meant to be carried alone, we encourage you to undertake this experience alongside others, perhaps your life partner or family or colleagues or friends, book group or study group.For example, you could:●  Listen to one Wisdom Practice (roughly 15 minutes) — together or separately — around the same time each week. Listen again and/or read the transcript as often as is useful.●  Carry the ideas, invitations, and journal prompts for the session into your ordinary interactions of the days that follow.●  Commit to some time journaling every day, even if just for a few minutes or a few words.●  Meet with or Zoom/call your companion(s) at the end of the week to share, converse, commune.The Hope Portal and this series are adventures in opening the deep enduring teaching that lives inside the 20 years of On Being. We would be so grateful if you would let us know how it goes for you and how it might be refined, by writing to us at mail@onbeing.org. Sign yourself and others up for The Pause to be first to know about all things On Being and to receive Krista's monthly Saturday morning newsletter, including a heads-up on new episodes, special offerings, recommendations, and event invitations.

The Body and Communion – Wholeness in Flesh and Relationship Wholeness Series, Episode 4 Episode Summary: What if your body wasn't just a tool for work or a source of shame, but a sanctuary—a vessel of memory, worship, and communion?   In this episode, we explore the profound connection between our physical bodies and our spiritual lives. From a grandfather's Sunday jacket to St. Francis calling his body “Brother Ass,” we rediscover the body not as an obstacle to holiness but as a companion on the journey. Drawing from Aquinas, John Paul II, and modern psychology, this talk weaves theology, discipline, and delight into a new vision of embodied wholeness. Whether it's fasting or feasting, movement or rest, this episode offers a vision of the body as a living altar, capable of carrying burdens, expressing love, and becoming holy through small, daily acts. We don't need perfect bodies. We need present ones—offered, disciplined, and led gently toward communion with God, others, and ourselves.   Questions for Prayer, Journaling, and Reflection: On the Body as Memory and Offering: What memories—joyful or painful—does your body carry? In what ways have you used your body as an offering in love? How can you begin to see your body as a kind of "sacrament"? On “Brother Ass”: How do you treat your body: as a racehorse, a machine, or a faithful donkey? What might change if you viewed your body with affectionate realism rather than frustration or pride? In what ways does your body carry Christ to others? On Food and Fasting: When do you eat from hunger, and when from habit or emotion? What small, daily food-related disciplines could help train your soul? How might you make meals more sacramental and less rushed? On Movement and Strength: How do you move your body each day? Is it with purpose, joy, or obligation? What physical discipline helps you show up for others with energy and readiness? How might your next workout or walk be offered as a prayer? On Dance and Expression: When was the last time you let your body express something wordless—through dance, art, or play? What emotions might you need to move through rather than just talk about? How could rhythm, music, and movement restore wholeness in your life? On Sleep and Rest: Do you see rest as laziness, or as worship and trust? What rhythms of silence or sleep do you need to reclaim your peace? Where is God calling you to surrender the illusion of control and rest in His love?   Let this episode be your invitation to wholeness not just in thought or feeling—but in flesh and bone, sweat and stillness, hunger and dance.   Subscribe to the podcast. Share it with someone who needs to be reminded: your body is not the problem. It might just be the path.

Episode Summary: The inner critic can be a constant and discouraging presence, stealing our joy and hindering us from walking in the confidence God intends for us. It often disguises itself as self-improvement or humility, but in reality, it holds us back from embracing our identity in Christ. In today’s episode, we’ll uncover the sources of this voice, explore how Scripture equips us to combat it, and learn practical, biblically-based strategies to replace self-condemnation with God’s truth. Quotables from the episode: The inner critic is that internal voice that condemns, shames, or reminds us of our shortcomings. It whispers lies like, “You’re not good enough,” “You’ll never succeed,” or “Who do you think you are?” Often, this voice feels louder in moments of vulnerability, failure, or self-doubt. Scripture reminds us that Satan is the accuser of the brethren (Revelation 12:10). His goal is to steal, kill, and destroy our confidence and joy (John 10:10). He plants seeds of doubt and discouragement, hoping we’ll lose sight of God’s truth about our identity. The enemy’s accusations often feel like they’re coming from within, making it harder to recognize their origin. Our sinful nature and brokenness often give rise to self-condemnation. Past experiences, such as critical words from others, failures, or unmet expectations, can leave scars that fuel the inner critic. We may strive for perfection, believing the lie that we’re only worthy if we meet certain standards. This striving often leads to exhaustion and deeper feelings of inadequacy. The world bombards us with messages that we must perform, achieve, or conform to be loved or valuable. Social media, advertisements, and cultural expectations paint a picture of perfection that is impossible to attain. When we fall short, the inner critic seizes the opportunity to amplify our insecurities and remind us of our perceived failures. For some, the inner critic’s voice mimics the critical or harsh words spoken by authority figures in their lives, such as parents, teachers, or peers. Over time, these external voices become internalized, shaping how we see ourselves and respond to challenges. Even well-meaning criticism can leave an imprint if it’s not tempered with grace and encouragement. The inner critic is not God’s voice. In fact, His voice always aligns with truth, hope, and encouragement. It’s important to identify and challenge thoughts that contradict God’s truth. Taking every thought captive means actively rejecting lies and replacing them with God’s promises. God’s voice always aligns with His character—He speaks love, encouragement, and restoration. While the inner critic seeks to tear us down, God’s Word builds us up and reminds us of our identity in Christ. By meditating on Scripture, we can discern the difference between the voice of the inner critic and the voice of our loving Father. His truth gives us the strength to silence the lies and walk confidently in His grace. God’s voice brings peace, conviction (not condemnation), and hope. He calls us to see ourselves as He does—fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Become aware of when the inner critic is speaking. Pause and ask, “Is this thought true, or is it a lie?” If it doesn’t align with Scripture, it’s not from God. Journaling your thoughts can help you identify patterns of self-criticism and pinpoint recurring lies that need to be addressed. Counter every negative thought with God’s Word. For example, if the thought says, “I’m a failure,” remind yourself of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Create a list of Bible verses that speak to your identity in Christ, and keep them handy for moments of doubt. A grateful heart leaves little room for self-criticism. Start each day by thanking God for His blessings and affirming the ways He’s working in your life. When you focus on God’s goodness, it shifts your perspective and quiets the critical voice. Surround yourself with people who speak life and encouragement. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Healthy, godly relationships provide support, accountability, and reminders of your worth in Christ. Be intentional about building connections with those who uplift you. Ask God to help you distinguish His voice from the lies of the enemy. James 1:5 assures us that He gives wisdom generously to those who ask. Pray for clarity and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and words. Instead of agreeing with the critic, declare the truth of who you are in Christ. Say things like, “I am chosen,” “I am loved,” and “I am forgiven.” Speaking these affirmations aloud helps to reinforce them in your mind and heart. Whether it’s critical people, social media, or unhelpful comparisons, protect your mind by setting healthy boundaries. Consider a social media detox or limiting time spent with individuals who are overly critical or draining. Silencing your inner critic is not a one-time fix; it’s a daily practice of renewing your mind and grounding yourself in God’s truth. Remember, the voice of the inner critic is a liar. God’s voice is the only one that matters, and His voice speaks love, grace, and purpose over you. Scripture References: Romans 8:1, which declares, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” James 3:9-10 “With the tongue, we praise our Lord and Father, and with it, we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness... My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” Psalm 139:14 “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Recommended Resources: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Reserve your free seat at the 'Permission to Prioritize Your Energy' workshop! Learn how to stop energy leaks and become an energized woman through daily permission slips. Are you constantly exhausted even though you're doing "all the right things" to relieve stress and overwhelm? Going to therapy, exercising, reading personal development books, scheduling self-care Sundays... but you STILL feel drained by 3pm?Today's 5-minute journaling session is for the working mom who knows her kids and unfulfilling job are draining her, but can't figure out why nothing seems to bring her energy back. Spoiler alert: the problem isn't what you think it is.In this episode, you'll discover:Why you feel most drained during your day (and it's probably not what you expect)The hidden energy leaks happening through tiny decisions all day longHow asking yourself one simple question can transform your entire energy levelThe real reason self-care isn't working (and what to do instead)Ready to go deeper? Join me for my FREE 20-minute workshop: 'Permission to Prioritize Your Energy' where you'll learn my signature Permission Slip Method to stop feeling guilty for what you want and start choosing what energizes you.Workshop Details:When: Tuesday, June 24th at 9:15am PST | 12:15pm ESTWhat: Live journaling workshop for ambitious moms who are tired of being tiredCost: Completely FREEBonus: First 10 people to attend live get my exclusive 'Instant Energy Reset' visualizationReserve your spot here →Key Takeaways✨ The real problem: You're leaking energy through tiny decisions all day long - every time you choose what you "should" do over what you genuinely want✨ Why self-care isn't working: You're trying to add energy through external things when you're actually draining yourself through micro-choices✨ The solution: Learning to make micro-choices that energize instead of deplete you (and this often takes things OFF your plate)Resources MentionedFREE Workshop: "Permission to Prioritize Your Energy" - Learn the Permission Slip Method to choose energy over exhaustion without changing your to-do list!Calm Mind Blueprint: https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/calm-mind-podConnect with SamanthaDiscover ways we can work together: https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/working-togetherFollow Sam on Instagram: @samanthassaysLove this episode? Leave a 5-star review and share it with a fellow exhausted mama who needs to hear this message. Your support helps more working moms discover they don't have to choose between being a good mom and having energy for themselves.

"What if the loneliness you feel in your marriage is actually preparing you for the solitude that could set you free?"Pat Fenner thought she knew how marriages were supposed to end. After 37 years, the slow drift into loneliness felt normal. But when divorce blindsided her, this mother of five discovered something unexpected: she had been lonely even when married. What followed was a journey from feeling like a "hard little kernel" to coming home to herself in ways she never imagined. Pat's story challenges everything we think we know about fighting for relationships versus fighting for ourselves."I absolutely love my life right now," Pat declares—words she couldn't have said for fifteen years. Through raw honesty, she reveals the red flags she missed, the fear that kept her trapped, and the surprising difference between solitude and loneliness. Her advice? Stop thinking marriage gets worse with time. Sometimes the very thing we think will destroy our relationship—standing up for ourselves—might actually save it. For those facing gray divorce or feeling alone in their marriage, Pat's journey offers both hope and practical wisdom.Pat Fenner is a podcast producer, author, and advocate for those navigating gray divorce, Her book "Rebuilding Your Life After a Gray Divorce: A Path to Healing, Joy, and Significance" features her signature STRENGTHS framework designed to help women savor simplicity, rebuild trust, and embrace their future. Pat also produces the podcast "Silver Women, Bright Future," exploring resilience and personal growth through real-life stories and biblical wisdom. Having transformed her own pain into purpose, Pat proves that life doesn't end post-divorce—it transforms into something even more authentic and joyful.About The Show: The Life in Transition, hosted by Art Blanchford focuses on making the most of the changes we're given every week. Art has been through hundreds of transitions in his life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness he could never have imagined. On the podcast Art explores how to create more love and joy in life, no matter what transitions we go through. Art is married to his lifelong partner, a proud father of three and a long-time adventurer and global business executive. He is the founder and leader of the Midlife Transition Mastery Community. Learn more about the MLTM Community here: www.lifeintransition.online.In This Episode: (00:00) Pat's Divorce Story Begins(03:50) Marriage Red Flags and Warning Signs(09:04) The Phone Problem in Relationships(16:42) MidLife Transition Mastery Ad(19:11) When Did You Know It Was Over?(28:49) Life After Divorce - Growth and Healing(34:19) Building Authentic New Relationships(46:55) Transition Mastery Coaching Ad(49:47) Advice for Those Facing Gray Divorce(58:17) Journaling as a Self-Discovery ToolLike, subscribe, and send us your comments and feedback.Resources:Pat Fenner Website: https://www.patfenner.me/Gray Divorce Resources: patfenner.me/gray-divorceBook: "Rebuilding Your Life After A Gray Divorce: A Path to Healing, Significance and Joy" (Amazon)Email Art BlanchfordLife in Transition WebsiteLife in Transition on IGLife in Transition on FBJoin Our Community: https://www.lifeintransition.online/My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://www.amazon.com/PURPOSEFUL-LIVING-Wisdom-Coming-Complex/dp/1963913922Explore our website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ for more in-depth information and resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition Podcast, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2025. 

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Mindfulness expert, viral quote creator, and host of New Mindset, Who Dis?, Case Kenny, joins Dr. Will Cole for a vulnerable, high-energy conversation on healing your relationship with yourself. From mindfulness myths to modern dating struggles, Case shares how journaling changed his life, why self-worth isn't tied to productivity, and how to release regret and rumination without toxic positivity. If you've ever struggled with overthinking, guilt, or the pressure to “fix” yourself - this episode is your permission to let go. For all links mentioned in this episode, visit www.drwillcole.com/podcastPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Sponsors:Right now LMNT is offering a free 8-count Sample Pack of their most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase. This is a great way to find your favorite LMNT flavor, or share with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/artoeingwell.Listeners can get my exclusive 25% discount off their first order at cowboycolostrum.com using code WILLCOLE, and trust me, your taste buds and microbiome will be thanking you. Head to MANUKORA.com/WILLCOLE to save up to 31% plus $25 worth of free gifts with the Starter Kit.Get better sleep, hair and skin with Blissy and use WILLCOLE to get an additional 30% off at blissy.com/WILLCOLE.Head to moshlife.com/WILLCOLE to save 20% off plus FREE shipping on the Best sellers Trial Pack. Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You love the gym and it's been your sanctuary away from your stress for years. But what if your go-to stress relief tool is now part of the problem?  In today's episode, we dive deep into why intense workouts might be silently burning you out rather than building you up. If you've been feeling exhausted, foggy, or stuck despite training hard, this one's for you. We explore why cardio and high-intensity workouts only offer temporary relief from mental stress and how they can actually strain your nervous system when your cortisol is already tapped out. I'll share what's really going on when your “post-workout high” feels amazing in the moment but leaves you drained long-term.  More importantly, you'll learn five powerful, science-backed stress management tools that rebuild your system instead of depleting it. From daily walks to somatic resets and nervous system journaling, this episode is all about redefining strength.  Because true power isn't in pushing harder: it's in knowing when to rest. If your body is in overdraft, it's time to stop swiping the stress credit card and start healing for good. Time Stamps: (1:26) Family Birthday Bash (3:42) Why Working Out Is A Terrible Way To Handle Stress (7:37) Putting On Body Fat (12:22) Cortisol and Energy Production (21:16) Managing Stress Appropriately (22:52) Daily Walks (24:02) Nervous System Resets (27:42) Somatic Exercises (29:14) Journaling or Nervous System Mapping---------------------Follow @vanessagfitness on Instagram for daily fitness tips & motivation. ---------------------Download Our FREE Metabolism-Boosting Workout Program---------------------Join the Women's Metabolism Secrets Facebook Community for 25+ videos teaching you how to start losing fat without hating your life!---------------------Click here to send me a message on Facebook and we'll see how I can help or what best free resources I can share!---------------------Interested in 1-on-1 Coaching with my team of Metabolism & Hormone Experts? Apply Here!---------------------Check out our Youtube Channel!---------------------Enjoyed the podcast? Let us know what you think and leave a 5⭐️ rating and review on iTunes!

Get registered for the ASTA Expo 2025 at the Raleigh Convention Center: https://geni.us/ASTA2025 Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABEDon't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2025Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitabilityMake sure you mention: CTISUMMER to get FREE data migration!Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing.Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into one sleek, digital platform.Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today!In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Josh Parnell of Limitless Leadership. Josh explores the challenges of leadership in the automotive industry, emphasizing the importance of connection and trust-building within teams. The discussion dives into effective onboarding, consistent coaching, and why prioritizing leadership development is essential for sustained business growth.00:00 Father-Son Love and Acceptance08:12 Consolidating Cosmetics Ventures14:03 Pioneering Black Woman in Men's Grooming18:45 High-Quality Personal Care Products23:25 Expert Insights on Corporate Culture28:48 "Effective Communication and One-on-Ones"34:33 Embracing Self-Doubt and Awareness40:01 Reassuring Client After Bad Experience44:43 Mastery Through Focused Practice49:40 "Prioritizing Vacation Time"58:55 Passion Fuels Diagnostic Mastery01:00:12 Over-Invested Technician Dilemma01:09:19 Strategizing Scenarios for Clarity01:12:11 Muscle Supplements: Dosage and Effects01:15:26 Podcast Musings: Seeking Direction

In this episode, Stephen Martin discusses the concept of two-way writing as a tool for dyslexics to improve self-esteem and confidence. He emphasizes the negative impact of self-talk and introduces two-way writing as a method to reframe thoughts by writing to oneself from the perspective of a supportive figure. The episode provides practical advice on how to implement this technique in daily life, encouraging listeners to explore their emotions and thoughts through writing.TakeawaysTwo-way writing can help improve self-esteem and confidence.Negative self-talk is damaging and pervasive.Writing to oneself as a third person can change perspective.Visualization is more effective than affirmations for dyslexics.Journaling can be a powerful tool for emotional release.Writing letters from supportive figures can provide comfort.The process of writing is more important than the outcome.Letting thoughts flow freely can lead to surprising insights.Forgiveness can be expressed through writing to oneself.Regular practice of two-way writing can enhance emotional well-being.Keywordsdyslexia, self-esteem, confidence, two-way writing, negative self-talk, personal growth, emotional well-being, journaling, mental health, self-improvement, ADHD, adults with dyslexia, support for adults.If you want to find out more visit:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠truthaboutdyslexia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our Facebook Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/groups/adultdyslexia⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow the RightSiders Supplement Journey⁠⁠⁠⁠rightsiders.org/wait-list ⁠

Welcome back to 'Don't Cut Your Own Bangs!'    In this lively and heartfelt episode, Danielle Ireland chats with Ashlyn Thompson from the Parent Empowerment Network. Ashlyn shares her journey from growing her nonprofit organization to the emotional rollercoaster of her daughter's complex medical journey.    Get ready to explore how pain can be an unexpected teacher, the magic of community support, and why tapping into creativity can be your secret weapon against anxiety. Filled with laughs, valuable insights, and touching moments, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and joy. Tune in and enjoy the ride!   00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 00:20 Ashlyn Thompson's Journey and Nonprofit Growth 01:10 The Importance of Community and Support 01:37 Embracing Big Feelings and Finding Joy 02:52 Welcoming Ashlyn Back and Discussing Growth 05:44 Navigating Pain and Empowerment 09:51 The Power of Perspective and Decision Making 14:27 Balancing Life and Nonprofit Work 21:21 The Role of Pain as a Teacher 30:48 Finding Comfort in Movement and Nature 33:09 Returning to Basics 33:35 Reflecting on Past Decisions 35:20 The Role of Pain and Fear 38:20 Parent Empowerment Network 44:25 Creativity as a Lifeline 49:21 Embracing Emotions 53:07 Don't Cut Your Own Bangs Moment 01:01:20 Conclusion and Resources   Ashlyn Thompson interview links Ashlyn Thompson, a passionate advocate and storyteller, is co-founder of the Parent Empowerment Network, a nonprofit providing emotional and mental health support to parents navigating pediatric medical complexities. She also co-hosts theEmpowered by Hope podcast, which equips parents with practical tools, resources, and a strong sense of community—delivered with a heavy dose of humor and hope to empower them as their child's best advocate. Ashlyn's fire for advocacy was ignited by her daughter Emery, who was born with bladder exstrophy. After Emery nearly died following a major surgery at just seven weeks old, Ashlyn became a fierce voice for patient safety. Unwilling to accept the limitations of domestic medical care, she discovered a surgical option in the U.K. that wasn't available in the U.S. at the time. In early 2023, Emery became the first American to undergo this procedure—and thanks to Ashlyn's relentless advocacy, that surgery is now available in America. When she's not advocating or recording podcasts, Ashlyn moonlights as a budding driveway chalk artist, chaos coordinator for her spirited family, and an avid nature lover. Chocolate is her daily vitamin, ADHD is her superpower, spiders and small talk are her sworn enemies, and she firmly believes laughter and boldness are two of a parent's greatest tools.   Parent Empowerment Network:  The Parent Empowerment Network exists to support, encourage, and educate parents of children with medical complexities—empowering them with community, knowledge, and confidence to be their child's fiercest advocate. www.ParentEmpowermentNetwork.org Empowered by Hope podcast on all major podcast streaming platforms: https://parentempowermentnetwork.org/podcast/   Social Media:  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Parent-Empowerment-Network/100083218456295/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentempowermentnetwork/   She is Charlotte book by co-founder, Emily Whiting:https://parentempowermentnetwork.org/she-is-charlotte-book/ DANIELLE IRELAND, LCSW I greatly appreciate your support and engagement as part of the Don't Cut Your Own Bangs community. Feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or anything you'd like to share. You can connect with me at any of the links below.   Website: https://danielleireland.com/   The Treasured Journal: https://danielleireland.com/journal   Substack: https://danielleireland.substack.com/   Blog: https://danielleireland.com/blog/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielleireland_lcsw   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danielleireland.LCSW   Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@danielleireland8218/featured “Don't Cut Your Own Bangs” is about creating a community around, and familiarity with, the messy middle—that uncertain and often chaotic and uncomfortable time in the middle of a process or journey. The messy middle is replete with ambiguity and challenges, but it's also where the hard and rewarding work happens.   Transcript [00:00:00] Danielle: Hello. Hello, this is Danielle Ireland and you are watching or listening to Don't Cut Your Own Bangs. I am so excited to be back in the interview seat. We've done some solo cast. It's been a blast. But Ashlyn Thompson is here with me today, and we just wrapped an incredible conversation. Ashlyn came on as a guest to talk about her work with Charlotte's Hope Foundation a couple of years ago. [00:00:26] She was about ready to embark right in the interview we were, she was. Days away from embarking on a trip to the UK for her daughter having a surgery with the only surgeon in the world who performed the specific type of surgery that her daughter needed. Her daughter's made a full recovery. It's a beautiful story we're gonna get into in this episode, but what I'm truly, if you could imagine even beyond that beautiful story, what I'm so excited to introduce to you and to that I was so grateful to witness and learn from. [00:00:53] Is that Ashlyn has grown her nonprofit organization, not no money in organization, but yes, a nonprofit organization that at the time, two years ago when we last checked in with her, was called Charlotte's Hope Foundation. It has grown. It's expanded, and it's evolved, and it's now the Parent Empowerment Network. [00:01:10] She and her co-founder also have a podcast for that same work, and what I love about the work that they do. They create community connection space and resources for parents and families raising children or any provider helping a child navigate medical complexities. And that sounds like such a hard and heavy and challenging topic. [00:01:33] And it is. But what Ashlyn embodies is. The work that I really wanted to bring to this season and this new phase of don't cut your own bangs, which I want big feelings to feel less scary. I want approaching them to feel possible. And then with that in mind, wherever possible, as much as possible, finding lightness, levity, and joy. [00:01:54] However we can do it. And I'm telling you, in this episode we did that. We accomplished that. We talk about important things, we talk about heavy things, and Ashland is vulnerable in a way that is inviting. But also something we can all learn from. And through the specificity of her life experience and what she's learned, there are universal nuggets that we can all find value in. [00:02:17] I know I did, and this was such a beautiful place to share, and we laughed. We had joy, we smiled . I hope that this topic invites you and encourages you to lean in and tune in because there are so many great nuggets of this. Thank you for being here, and I can't wait for you to sit back, relax, and enjoy. [00:02:38] Ashlyn Thompson [00:02:39] Hi. Yes, I know. Big jumps for both of us. I know. I feel like we're, it does feel like a lifetime ago. It I mean, in many ways it is. It's like we're, I mean, I'm still, me and all the key players are still playing. Right. But it does feel like a different life in a way. And I, with that in mind, I just wanna officially welcome you back. [00:02:55] Yes. Welcome. Ashlyn Thompson. Oh, thank. Don't cut your own bangs. I am so excited that you're here for many reasons, but the thing I'm most excited about is I think that. Building something or starting something creates a certain amount of effort and energy. Sustaining something, growing with it, breathing new life into it, that's a different part of a different element of a creative process. [00:03:17] And that's something I think specifically I'm really excited to talk to you about because you're parent Empowerment Network, which has it, it exists to support, encourage and educate parents and caregivers of children with medical complexities. And that was, it already was in existence when we, right, when we recorded the first time. [00:03:34] But it has grown. Grown. I went to a gala, people, she's throwing a gala fundraiser for her for her network. And so, I mean, I wanna hear about all the twists and all the developments of that, but more specifically the context I wanna provide for us and for this conversation. The thing that I'm really excited about, , and why I feel really passionate about bringing this to video. [00:03:57] Is that I want to help make big feelings feel less scary. Yeah. And I want to make, approaching them feel possible. And then with that in mind as much and as often as possible, laugh as much as possible. Amen. And so, right? So like, you are swimming in the trenches with people and even in your own life with people who are holding and making space for heavy things. [00:04:23] Yes. And yet there is a bright smile on your face. There's a twinkle in your eye. You laugh and you smile. And I wanna, and I don't know how to articulate what that is, but I want to, I wanna, that's something I wanna make space for in this conversation too. So it's important and it's big and it's emotional for sure, but also like, let's allow levity too. [00:04:42] Absolutely. I am so excited to be continuing our conversation, and I'm also really happy to know that. The person who's sitting here with you today is very much a different person from two years ago. And I feel like I have gone through multiple versions of myself just in the past two years. And that's one of the things that I truly celebrate about, not just the journey of parent empowerment network, but I think just growing and evolving as a human spirit, experiencing this life is recognizing that I say this phrase to only certain people, but I act, I feel compelled to share it now. [00:05:26] I feel like I have died a thousand times. And greeted so many versions of myself. But every time I rise into that extroversion and realize who I am, I like that person more and more. And. I feel like one of my greatest accomplishments just this past year has been truly settling into a, knowing a deep belief that life is meant to grow through, not go through. [00:05:58] And that change, that pivot of how I see the next big thing that comes up has been such a grounding force for me and has really helped me feel like I'm actually sitting in the driver's seat of my car. I don't know what I'm going to pass as I'm on this highway. In life. And sometimes life yanks me off on an exit I didn't plan. [00:06:23] And those exit ramps are typically the next lesson. But I'm grateful to be at a point where I can now see the next really hard thing emerging and not wanna hit reverse. Wow. Wow. Not that I like it all the time. No, God. But I can appreciate that this isn't out to crush me. This isn't here to take me down like I used to feel. [00:06:53] , Wow. There's a lot to unpack there for. Thank you so much for sharing that, but also not going in reverse. I wanna make a mental note, not going in reverse. The next version of me, I like better, and this is not here to crush me. Right. The, there's something, I got chills. I got full body chills when you, the la with the last thing that you said, because when I'm working with clients, there is this element and this is something. [00:07:18] I promise I'll come back to that original point there. There's an element of the work that I do where, and I'm sure you get this in your own way too, with like hearing stories from families who are holding really hard and heavy things. I think when I meet people for the first time, a common response is, wow, I don't know how you do what you do, or I don't know how you listen to that all day. [00:07:36] Or Oh man, and I think, yes, sure. There, there are certainly days and clients or moments where those stories are making space for people's big, heavy, painful experiences. Right. Is can be a lot at times. Far less anymore. But I think more than anything the va like, I feel so lucky to have the experience a hundred maybe even thousands of times over hurt people's pain. [00:08:03] And I know what pain sounds like. Yes. And there are different types and one thing that I absolutely believe to be true is that our pain is not personal. Our story is personal, right? But pain is not personal. And the events of our life, even things that happen to us, it's, there's it's almost shifting out of a, and I hope I can say this within the context that, that is heard with love. [00:08:27] But shifting out of a victim mentality right into it. Because being victimized or being stricken with grief or holding something hard like that is absolutely real. And also knowing that this is happening to me, but this is not gosh, what are the words I'm trying to find. It, what I'm hearing is you recognize how hard this is. [00:08:51] Whatever that insert blank. I recognize how hard this is, and I'm not going to make this pain so precious that I don't also see it as temporary. Yes, exactly. But there's something, so I think there's something really powerful and there's so much nuance to that because I certainly don't want to, people can be victimized, but the victim mentality is one of, in my professional experience it's one of the more challenging headspace to, for someone to walk out of. [00:09:21] Agree. It's really hard. Exactly. It shrinks your world. So, so much. That's well said. And we experience that very often. We really fo I mean we say all the time, you know, we are non diagnosis specific, non prognosis specific with the families that we work with, and we focus on the parents or the parent role, which could be performed by a sibling, a grandparent, a friend, an adopt, a lot of different people, but. [00:09:51] What we really found early in our journey and what helped us evolve into parent empowerment network was that recognition that, like you pointed out, pain is not it's not customized to your experience. The feeling, the emotional and physical experience relationship with pain is common through all of us, and it actually is a way that we can connect with each other when we recognize that. [00:10:18] When we stop comparing one another's pains. Now, don't get me wrong, if your kid got a bump on the head versus your kid needs a, you know, brain surgery. Right. Those are different. Yes. Very different. Yes. But most of the time we're not dealing with that. And what we have found is that when somebody is in that victim mentality, which is understandable, I think that's a, very important aspect to acknowledge when you're feeling like a victim, why is this happening to me? Or why is this happening to my child? Because I'll be the first to say, it's never okay when your child is hurting or sick or in harm's way or worse. I will never be okay with it. But when we say stuck in a victim mentality, our ability to problem solve goes from about here to here. [00:11:08] Yeah. And then your child is really the one who suffers. And I hate, it's a hard truth. But we have to face that truth because when we can help a parent start to find glimmers of hope, start to see that there's a way to build on quality of life rather than cure. Then you start to see this new version emerge where they are truly, you know, empowered advocates for their child. [00:11:45] There's something that I heard in what you said too, that a lot of times when I'm working with clients who are maybe knee deep in anxiety or depression, for example. I think why can be a powerful question, but I think a misplaced why is a really exactly damaging question. Like, why me? Why them? [00:12:02] Why this, why now? Because those are questions you can't answer that only lead to a defeating answer. Exactly. And usually another question or shame, but what I'm hearing a lot in when you. When you can kind of broaden your focus and sort of release that constriction from why you then can open yourself up to a different type of question. [00:12:23] How can I, exactly. How can I get through today? How can I get through this moment? What is needed most of me now? What do I need now? Right. And those types of the what and the how. Who do I need to show up for? Is it me? Right. Is it them? Who do I need to ask for help? Who has information that I need? [00:12:43] Those types of questions don't eliminate the pain, but it broadens the scope Yes. Of, of your field of vision. And I know that though, like, 'cause you are here in many ways. Oh, I hope it's okay to use this term. But I hope that you're here as an expert and you're also the executive Hope director of of the power impairment network. [00:13:05] And I think a lot of times. What we would imagine as the worst possible case scenario. Like the worst thing we could imagine would be something happening to our kids. This has been your lived experience. This has been your business partner's lived experience. And for, even though you have a podcast as well, where you really create a space and content and a community that helps people with that very specific set of circumstances, that Right. [00:13:33] I would imagine it's like. The best and worst club to be a part of. So we always say, we're so sorry you're in this club. Yes. But we're so glad you found us. Yes. Like it's the yes, we're really sorry, but at the same time, like, welcome home, welcome. And so I think a lot of the, a lot of the people who tune in to don't cut your own bang, I don't know how many would have this specific life experience. [00:13:57] Right. And if you do, oh my gosh, what a gorgeous resource you have in Ashlyn. Oh, thank you. And the Parent empowerment network and their podcast. But I do think that even in something like this, in within the specificity of everything you're saying, there is such a broad truth that I think we can all access and find value in. [00:14:16] And, yeah. So just thank you for all of that. And I want to, okay. I wanna shift a little bit to the growth of the parent Empowerment network. Right. Because, so when I originally started this podcast, what I was, what I really motivated me, one was I was terrified of becoming a therapist and having worked as a creative, and I just wanted to surround myself with other people who, who were building things, right? So that I could sort of sneak in my own needy questions. Like, how did you do it? How did you figure it out? What happened when you were scared? Like, what happened when your computer crashed? Oh my gosh. And you went from newly building something to, you have really grown. [00:14:53] Yes. You have really grown. And I wanna know having experienced the, you know, the gala that Right. That you that you threw that was so lovely. I wanna know . What led to the growth over the last two years? Because you're still momming, you're still life. Yeah. Your daughter is still being you. [00:15:08] I mean, like your life is still life and Yes. Life is still lifeing. How, in the midst of your lifeing, how have you also continued to grow this? And I really wanna know like what fueled your fire. And just tell me more about that story please. Yes, absolutely. So at the beginning of this, you know, when we started talking, you were very talking about how I'm sitting here smiling and I mean, I am fully, I am genuinely full of joy in this moment. [00:15:35] And I think I know actually that comes from being in something like we have with Parent Empowerment Network, which has been truly its own huge like business, right? We are called a nonprofit, but let me tell you, I mean, it is straight up business. [00:15:57] Is what it is in a lot of ways, and. That's the worst possible name for a tax category. It totally is. Because it's so confusing. Nonprofit doesn't mean no money. Right. Exactly. It's so confusing. We do not exist for free. Is great an idea as that sounds. I want that to be the slogan for every nonprofit. [00:16:16] I just, 'cause we don't exist for free. Right. You know the whole, you get what you pay for. It's, yeah. That's a whole other conversation. We're not gonna spend too much time there today. We should have a part two then. There we go. I'm okay with that. All right. So for that, what I think the biggest lesson that has. [00:16:33] Emerged from this journey just since we were, you know, you and I were talking a couple years ago when we were actually still called Charlotte's Hope Foundation. Yes. Which was our initial name. Yes. Because we had an idea for something that was this big at the beginning. And the name Charlotte's Hope Foundation fit that in theory. [00:16:52] But the thing I'm most proud of my, of Emily Whiting, who's my co-founder, fellow mom, fellow sister, fellow savior, at times the best thing we have done is allowed ourselves permission to grow and shrink as needed. And that's what we've done throughout this journey. It has not been a step process. [00:17:15] There have been countless times where we have grown two or three steps, been bigger, you know, working with international teams of surgeons, pulling together collaborations that have never been done, and then. There have been times where we have pulled back and we haven't released an episode for six weeks. [00:17:33] We have had maybe two or three social posts because our lives were on fire or just demanded all our attention, but it didn't mean we had to stop. I need to, oh my gosh. I don't know how many of you listening or watching can relate to that. I, there is a relationship I have with the expansion and contraction of output where if I'm not putting something out, producing something, making something that it really does a number on my sense of self worth. Right. And self esteem. And that is something that I'm still actively healing and repairing, because I definitely know the facts. I know. The really bumper stickery, self helpy sounding talk. [00:18:26] And I believe it. It's not that I, I don't hear it and think like, yeah. Right. It's just that there's a more practiced version of me, right. That has just had more at bats operating in a certain way. And then life in many ways rewards you for that. In theory. In theory. And I don't mean the like the laurels, like you get the the kudos pat on the back accolades but there is a cost, right? [00:18:47] There is a cost. And I think, in the I this past year I wrote a children's book called Wrestling a Walrus. And this the act of writing this book was something that I didn't realize that in the contraction, or even like in the I love the visual of the caterpillar becoming the butterfly. [00:19:09] 'Cause there's a two week process where the caterpillar is literally, we talk about the messy middle in this podcast and think, thank you Brene Brown, wherever you are for creating language and context for us for this very conversation. 'cause so much of this is inspired by that, but that gooey, mushy middle where it's not a butterfly, it's literally goo and it's Exactly, and it, and, but in that place, there is magic happening there. [00:19:33] Even if it, even though it looks like a pile of shit, right. Like, it's, there's magic happening there. I'll say the impetus or the inspiration, the. It was tough moments with my daughter, moments where I didn't feel like I was doing anything. Right. It like hitting the wrecking ball of, you know, being a parent of a toddler and a parent of an infant like that was, there's not enough grace in any space to help you go through that without serious, you know, support. [00:20:02] There were, I had some victim mentality at that point in time, even, and all things can be true at once. But all of that was what I experienced before I had the idea to write the book. And had I not had that experience, I wouldn't have been able to do that. Exactly. I don't think it would've been the same. [00:20:16] And [00:20:16] , and I promise this whole podcast isn't an ad for the book, but like, I really believe in this damn book and I love it so much. And I love that you talk about that expansion and contraction for yourself. And that you doesn't, it doesn't mean you have to stop. 'cause I think a big reason why I maybe avoided picking up the torch again and doing this podcast like I left it for so long, or I abandoned it for so long, or can I still do it right? [00:20:41] Like all of that stuff. And then yeah it. Yeah. Doubt doesn't mean you're done. No. And taking a pause doesn't mean you're stopping forever. But yeah. I mean, you can't just exhale forever. You can't just output like you eventually have to breathe in. Exactly. And that relationship is very necessary. [00:21:00] And so, I mean, everything you're saying is exactly what I need. Thank you. Thank you. You're welcome. You're welcome. And it, that lesson doesn't come easily. Nope. But I think another element of that, you know, building off of what you were just talking about, pain and discomfort and naturally shying away from it. [00:21:21] I challenge anybody in life to just take a moment to consider pain as a potential teacher, as a professor, rather than pain as an enemy, or pain as a destroyer. Right. If you ask yourself. Why does this feel painful? Because how many times do we all experience in our life something that really gets under our skin, but whether it's a spouse or it's a friend or a coworker and they seem totally unfazed by it, [00:21:56] and that used to be something that bothered me. I was kinda like what's, am I ever sensitive? Or like, what is my thing? And I grew up always hearing, not necessarily even from my parents, but I feel like. Teacher schools and saved by the bell commercials about find what you love in life and you'll never work a day in your life. [00:22:16] And that was great in theory, but I'm a very eclectic person. Yep. I love a lot. And all I was getting was a lot of burnout. That's also like saying like, love your kids and you'll never have a hard day with them in your life. You're like, no bs. No. I love my kids. But like, you know, oh my gosh, kids are the greatest, hardest thing of life. [00:22:33] Right. Right. But I think the same is true. Like , I never stopped loving this. Right. But I don't always have control over the life around. Right. But it's a, I think allowing things to be a part of you, not all of you, is really important. Yeah. And I think it's so easy to define ourselves by that output. [00:22:53] For me and Emily, the word is often it's impact. Are we actually making an impact? And the thing that helped us. Become okay with hitting the pause button when we needed to, and not officially throwing in the towel. Don't get me wrong, there were conversations about it, but we were always very honest with each other and we held each other accountable that if you are feeling like this is not jiving with your life, if it's not jiving with you personally, or it's not good for your family at this moment, let's hit the pause button and talk about it. [00:23:26] But realizing that if we only help each other while working on this, Emily and I, that's helping our kids, that's helping our families. And there's a domino effect from that goes from that. And if that's all we ever do, what's bad about that? You said something that I, it still stuck with me and it will probably be the title of this episode. [00:23:49] Pain is a Professor. Yes, it is. And I wanna go back to that because something that I talk about in my sessions a lot is that your emotions never lie to you. Now your thoughts are very different. Yes. Your thoughts can go a, now granted, we need to think critical thinking is important. [00:24:04] We probably need more critical thinking, but thoughts happen to us all day, every day, constantly. Right. I don't remember what the statistic is. I think we have roughly like eight thoughts a minute, something like that. I'm surprised it's not . Maybe that's just a DH adhd. And that could be too, like, yeah, there, maybe there's a spectrum. [00:24:18] Maybe it's eight to 80 thoughts a minute. Give or take. Give or take a hundred. But so thoughts happen to us now. We can certainly consciously choose what to focus on and what we think. But thinking happens, the emotions are in response to what we're thinking and believing. Exactly. And they never lie. [00:24:35] Right. And I But something you said like pain as a professor. And I like the thought that emotions are energy in motion. Yes. And they always have something for you to learn. There's something for every emotion. There is something it wants you to know. Right. And when you're not feeling good are we have more pain receptors in our body, unfortunately. [00:24:55] We have more pain receptors in our body than we do pleasure receptors. Like, and so when pain is activated, it just has a firmer grip. There's something that Martha Beck talks about that I love. It's called the, I think she calls it the Viper in the box of puppies. So if you were to imagine like, and enough said, right. [00:25:10] Done. You get it. But you hand, if I handed you a box full of like 15 adorable, gorgeous little puppies, I mean, it's, they're the most abundant, silly, loving, fuzzy source of love, safety, pleasure. I could really go for that right now. I mean, would it, that should be a, I'm hoping there's one hiding around somewhere. [00:25:28] We have a surprise for you, but if I were to then put a Viper in or a cobra in your box of puppies. All you're gonna see is the threat. Exactly. All you're gonna see is the threat. And I think in life, it's like we pop mo most of us more often than not, are probably living in lives with a lot of puppies. [00:25:48] But the viper, the threat is what consumes Oh yeah. So much energy and attention and shifting your focus from one to the other is easier said than done. And I wanna talk to you specifically about how you have found meaning or, and I, when I say success, I don't mean it in like a bullet point sense, but right. [00:26:12] Where you have found access to, you know, the viper, you know, or the cobra, you know, the box of puppies. Right. How you access that. I can certainly share how I have, but my emotions, I. I've learned in time. I don't always know exactly what they're telling me in the beginning, but I trust them enough to know that it's something. [00:26:36] And so the first place I try to access, if I'm not dissociating or avoiding, is to sit with it. Yeah. So usually it's like, I'm I'll just dissociate in my fantasy book or rewatching parks and recreation for the MPH teeth bajillion time. You know, it's just always a Sure bet. Yeah. It's just, it's hard for, life can only be so hard with Leslie Nope and little Sebastian, you know? [00:26:57] So anyway. But I wanna know where you find yourself in that shift. Yeah. Yeah. So you've got my head's like turning, I'm also still picturing puppies to be honest. That's okay. So I actually, I feel like I wanna give an example of something that I experienced last year, so two years ago. [00:27:11] It's crazy to think two years ago I went on this crazy journey to England. I went to London to take my daughter, who was not quite two years old yet to have a surgery over there for her ultra rare condition that was not available in the States. And I had talked to everybody in the States, of course, that had any knowledge about it and all they could tell me was, we don't really know anything about it. [00:27:35] We don't do it here. Kind of you're on your own, go for it. Or don't, we can't say that we would support you. All that matters is I went for it. And fortunately it did end up being the right decision, but I also knew that it could not be the right decision. And what I found on that experience was that I was originally desperate for picking the right way in life to move forward, that I could not make a decision. [00:28:06] I could not possibly move forward unless I was a hundred percent sure. But guess what? Life isn't real big on giving you a guarantee. Yeah. Guarantees with anything. And I think where I, that's where I started to learn that I don't have to have the answers to move forward. I can be looking at that box and I can see, oh my gosh, this could go terribly wrong. [00:28:34] But I think living with a hopeful mindset is something that allows me to keep my eye on that viper and then still interact with the puppies over here. My eye is still trained on it, but what I found is a peace in making my decision. And it was a, that feeling, that gut feeling. You know, it, I, it doesn't matter what you've gone through in life. [00:28:58] I can't believe that there's anybody out there who hasn't just had that. I call it just that knowing in your gut, it's a physical experience and that is something. That has helped me move forward in life. Because here's the thing, guys, nobody can ever stay truly still. And that's where a lot of our pain and discomfort comes from, is fighting moving forward without certainty. [00:29:23] Oh, let's pause right there. Oh my gosh. So there's something that Dr. Becky Kennedy who she has the good, she wrote the book Good Inside, and she's got her own beautiful podcast and work and content. She does. She really she focuses on kids, but she's really working on parents relationship with their inner child and by extension their parenting. [00:29:43] But she talks about something called, I've called it the Gap, but she calls it the learning space. So with kids, most of their frustration, tension and meltdowns happen between meeting a moment or. A moment arising and knowing how to meet the moment. And that learning space is usually the gap in knowing or understanding of this is what's arisen and I don't know how to meet this moment. [00:30:04] Right? And then if their context or their ability to meet it, if the moment exceeds their ability that's usually when there's a lot of pain or big feelings. Right. And I think with adults, that's usually where I see self-doubt, rumination anxiety, self-destructive tendencies. [00:30:23] Come in and you're right. You're, I love that you said we're never really still, I mean, one that's just true based on science and physics. We're never still that's actually one of the, like, there's like two necessary components, maybe three to being a living, being or a living entity. [00:30:36] I think, what is it? Movement, cell division, reproduction, and, I don't know, something else. Hey, anyone here pop off in the comments if you're a science boss, please gold star for you. Please. But but yeah, we're never truly still. And so even when you feel stagnant and stuck and even hearing you say that I'm actually processing in real time, one of the things that I have done that I, I discovered by accident, but probably because my body knew better than my mind did. [00:31:04] I would, it often does. I would take my feelings on walks. I would, I talked about that movement is essential if you are literally feeling stuck. I tell, that's what I tell everybody. Anytime they're spiraling. Which it's understandable. Go for a walk. Even if it is five minutes, walk up and down your stairs. [00:31:22] Or at the least one of my favorite things thank you Instagram reels for sucking up so much of my life at times in the hospital, but sometimes, but it's, sometimes it's, it is the perfect escape. It's okay to let the pressure off of ourselves. But there was this one that I saw it was this therapist who was like in her seventies and she was in Ireland and she's walking around in like this, you know, the quintessential Ireland landscape. [00:31:47] And she said, I tell all of my clients when you have a problem or a worry or something that's making you feel like you need to hurry, walk outside where you can see the sky and look up. Because the moment you remove a ceiling from your view, from your your line of sight, your mind opens with it. [00:32:08] And possibilities grow. And I have experienced that so often. And you think about it where you, when you're in a confined space. It only adds to those feelings of I'm stuck or I'm out of options, or I can't deal with this. But when you go outside and the world is just showing you how big it is and how small you are, there's actually a ton of comfort in that. [00:32:35] There's, I've also read and heard that there's something about the way that our eyes sort of gently move and follow and track side to side. Yeah. The movement around us that activates a similar calming sensation that our body experiences in REM sleep. Because if you're tracking a bird or tracking a squirrel, or just simply seeing like the trees and movement, track your kids. [00:32:55] Right. That'll keep you, your eyes all over the place. Girl. But like, 'cause right now we're facing a computer screen and we're in, we're under lights. Like, it's a very I mean, it's a lovely container, but it's a sterile container by comparison of being outside. And I Right. I do think that sometimes, like, like Lifeing. [00:33:11] It can be hard, and I never wanna oversimplify holding the challenges and moving through the challenges. Right. And yet I think sometimes when something feels overly, when something feels complex and impossible, it's almo. I, my instinct is to abandon the basics. And that is always the place to start. [00:33:32] That's always the place to start, is to go back to the basics. [00:33:35] Knowing what you know now what. Do you think the version of you, I wrote down three years ago, but I wanna go back to two years ago bef, like as you were navigating all the travel plans and the decision to go to the UK for your daughter's surgery, what do you think that version of Ashlyn needed to hear or needed to know? [00:33:55] And then the follow up question to that, after you answers, do you think she would've believed you? [00:33:59] It's really funny that you're asking this question because I actually had a conversation yesterday with a neighbor's daughter who is a film student, and this question has actually been going through my mind a lot lately about, I wonder where my life would be if I'd known this in my early thirties, if I'd known, or if I had known this in my twenties. [00:34:23] And I kept kind of going backwards like, I didn't know this then. Oh maybe if I'd known this. And I kept just, like I said, looking back and then what I realized is. It's so important that I didn't know those things because I had to experience them with the challenges. I had to climb the mountains for the first time to really understand the importance of gaining those skills for myself. So I actually think that Ashlyn, a couple years ago, I may have wanted to hear, I, what I wanted to hear was, you're making the right decision. I wanted to be validated by doctors, by people who I typically refer to as the ones who have the alphabet after their name. [00:35:06] Can somebody please just tell me, check, you know, you're making the right choice. Or this is what I would do if it were my child. And I wanted it so desperately that I, it did almost prevent me from going. But I am blessed that because of other experiences before that, right where pain had started to evolve into a guide for my life, a way of understanding what is most important to me. [00:35:37] It clarifies a lot. Exactly. Because often, you know, pain and fear are often about things we can't control, right? And what it showed me was that I don't need guaranteed outcomes to be able to sleep at night. I know that if I don't give it everything, including the kitchen sink, I won't be able to sleep at night. [00:36:03] I won't be able to look at Emery when she's an adult and tell her. We tried absolutely everything we could to give you the best quality of life, and that's what I needed to be able to give her. In order for me to feel good about the mom I am. And that's what was most important to me at that time. [00:36:23] So it sounds like maybe you trust in your ability to meet the moment enough that you don't think you would've gone back and told yourself anything? No, I think, and that's something that, like I said, I'd been thinking about a lot, like how many times if I'd only known this, if I if I'd only held my boundaries or if, or you know, these standards or, you know, all the things I could have done differently. [00:36:48] But as I said at the beginning of this, I feel like I have lived a thousand lives and become. A thousand new versions of myself, but you don't become your next self without going through something that carves away at you to reveal it. We don't grow through the easy no we stay stagnant. And besides small talk, my biggest fear in life is staying stagnant. [00:37:20] God, can we just let go of small talk? Oh my gosh. We all have a weather app and we all know the traffic patterns at this point. Like, do you know what's so funny about the weather app? I'm gonna use it every day. I treat my husband like the weather app, and we have an Alexa, like in, literally, like, I'll ask him what the temperature is and he'll be like. [00:37:41] Alexa. I just, oh my goodness. It's like those basic the basic like things of moving through life. I don't know why. It's like I've, I have this like faux that's of publicist. I'm like, I don't know what I'm, so what's the weather? I can't look out the window. I can't ask my own Alexa. [00:37:56] I always think, I think it's, I think it's more like, I think it's fair to acknowledge those as high. There's higher priorities that take up front of mind space. That's right. That's right. Things' so focused on the big things. Right? Yes. It's okay. We're not meant to like, you know, and I think that's another, that's one point I feel really compelled to bring up in this conversation based on all these things we've talked about, you know? [00:38:20] Yes. thank you for the chance to share what Parent Empowerment Network does, and the Empowered By Hope podcast is about addressing the real hard, the messy like, because as far as we're concerned, like once you get the news, your child is not okay. You're living in the messy middle from there on out. [00:38:36] And it can make you, or it can break you. And we're there to tell everybody, we promise this will make you. Even with worst case scenario, and that's a bold statement, but, you know, but it's one you've lived and I exactly. And I've seen countless others live, right? But I think it's so important that everybody, you know, I guess my dream would be if everybody could just realize we are not meant to carry pain and hardship and struggle by ourselves. [00:39:07] That's really what Parent Empowerment Network does. That's really what our podcast does, is it directly says to everybody who gets a chance to interact with us or who we have the honor to meet with. It just says, Hey, you are not expected to hold this alone. You know, put some of that on our plate. [00:39:24] Let's hold it together because it'll be better for everybody. It's not just you is like, again, that's what frees you from a victim mentality. You are not the only one who's ever experienced this. Right. You are not the only one who has suffered this way. And in by no means it's not to minimize. [00:39:40] Right. Exactly. It's not belittling it, it's not, it's definitely not dismissing it. But it's meant to serve as a lighthouse. Right. Our stories are unique. Yes, of course. And so that's, and I think that's what is endlessly, I will never be bored having an in-depth. Not small talk with the love of God, but like, I will never I will be endlessly fascinated by other people. [00:40:01] Because the stories are unique. Yeah. But there is a common thread that we can all see ourselves in or relate to. That, it's so enriching. Yeah. It's almost like, maybe because it's spring and, but I'm thinking it's like the pain is like the compost. Yeah. Something has to die in rotten decay in order to nurture something new. To grow. Yep. Exactly. And I, and that pain serves as fur. It's fertilizing the new, the next round of growth. Right. Yeah. It's not making anything vanish or destroying it, it's just, but it has to break down to build back up. I think that's why mosaics are my favorite type of art. [00:40:39] Yeah. I have such a strong connection to any piece that I see that's made up of a mosaic. And I remember that coming true for me when my dad had his massive stroke and. You know, he was completely debilitated, couldn't speak for himself, couldn't move his own body. He lived like that almost two years. But I remember getting really close to a couple key therapists in his life. [00:41:04] And I remember just after he passed, I got them both a small gift. It was these little mosaic art pieces for them. And I said, when I saw those, I knew that this was the right thing because you didn't see my dad as a destroyed person. You saw him as for the broken pieces. He was that to be put back, to be put together into something that was new and beautiful on its own. [00:41:33] And that's what I feel like pain has the ability to do for all of us. It's okay. And I to acknowledge that you are broken. But it's also just as important to acknowledge that you can be remade into something. You, the old you is gone. You know, when we go through something awful hard, unimaginable it's really easy to think that I will feel this way forever. There is a finality that we attach to painful experiences and it takes often somebody from the outside to gently help us realize that's not reality. I often, when I'm in that transition and I'm not aware or I'm just not ready to admit there are either, there's usually it's I there's usually things I wanna carry along with me. [00:42:28] Yep. It's like. Like an old dingy snugly blanket or like a stuffed animal that like has like holes worn in and like an eyes popped off. It's just but I when I've gone through those transitions, it's saying goodbye to maybe friendships that aren't serving me. [00:42:42] Yep. Or titles, roles levels of output expectations, stories, ways of being and the way, and to go back to pain as a professor, which is going to be the title. That it's only when I try to take the old way of being or the old relationship that is no longer serving into my new now reality. [00:43:04] When it feels anything other than good. Yeah. That's information exactly that it's showing me something and. That curiosity over constriction can also for me look like curiosity over criticism. And because that criticism is usually either dialed inward, what's wrong with me? Right. Or what's wrong with them? [00:43:25] Versus , what is happening Exactly. What's going on? What is this showing me? And I would say probably saying goodbye to relationships or friendships has probably been the hardest. Yeah. The hard, because there is this idea that I'm like if I like it, and it's like in a possessive way. [00:43:42] It's, if I like you forever. And I, and of course that is true. I mean, it, there's nobody who's been in my life that's added value that I don't appreciate. Right. But but I think that the shedding. Yeah. It's like I, I want the next thing, but I also don't wanna let the old thing go. [00:43:56] Right. And so it's, I think I've spent a lot of time and energy trying to like, pull that thing with me. Whatever it is and whatever that stage. But I think that there's when you can fully embrace, 'cause what I'm hearing from you is when you can fully embrace I am different now. [00:44:11] Yep. This is different. This mosaic. I'm not, I may not be able to carry water like I was as a vase. Right. But I'm gonna look really great as this. Yeah. And the other thing I wanna shift to before, before I get to your, don't cut your own bangs question. What I wanna ask you, you've mentioned art a couple of different times. [00:44:28] And this is to, to reference Dr. Martha Beck again. She has done a lot of incredible work in the last couple years where a way to. Step out of anxiety is not to try to access calm. 'cause we talked about going for a walk, right? So, because as much as I love these big conversations, it can be sometimes like, what is something tangible I can actually hold onto? [00:44:53] So walking with something we talked about community and connection with something else we talked about, but Art, I wanna talk about that for a moment because that is what my book was for me. Yeah. It was I created something that only that felt like it was to serve me. The process of interacting with that idea was so delightful and so delicious and so fun that I was like, I feel like I'm just the luckiest person that like this is, oh wow, I get to play with this thing. [00:45:21] Yeah. And it wants to play with me. And I don't feel that all the time. Like sometimes it's origami or doodling or coloring with my daughter. But to go back to Dr. Martha Beck's work that the opposite of anxiety is not calm, it's creativity. Oh, I love that. And you have by default really spoken through, like just healing through creating. [00:45:43] Oh, absolutely. And also there's something about, 'cause calm, there's something about calm that like, we must be still, and granted I love meditation, but like, I must be still, I must be calm. But when you are holding something that is buzzing and shaking or heavy or hot, like just some emotions are hot, like you, it's like you wanna move it through your hands or your words or your body and make something, right. [00:46:06] And you made me, she made me this bracelet before we started this episode. So like, it feels like you have a relationship with creativity too. A hundred percent. Creativity is a lifeline. And I feel like, and the most chaotic moments of my life have been the least I'm my least creative and I think it's a really. [00:46:29] Valuable, tangible thing for anybody to take from this conversation is if you are feeling out of control, lean into something as simple as I'm obsessed with those adult, you know, like the coloring books. Yes. You know, for adults to have like tons of different like lines all over the place that you have to be like really specific to keep the marker in there. [00:46:51] It can't, I do get a little bugged when it like bleeds over to the next section, but, , it's okay. I know I'm working through my, , my stressors at that moment. But yes, giving yourself a creative outlet, it's like taking a big drink of water after you've been exercising and you are so parched. [00:47:07] And I also agree that , calm sounds great in theory, but for me I feel like the more important, like the word that's become more important or I'm better able to. Absorb is the idea of am I grounded? Are my feet touching the ground? I can still have a lot going on, but when I'm like rising higher, you know, off the ground, 'cause like, I'm like a bird at this point, just flapping my arms so fast, right. [00:47:35] That I'm actually taking flight. I'm not in my best head space, but when I can just take a moment to literally just ground myself, make sure that my feet are, whether it's in the grass or sit down like this. And a conversation with a friend, somebody who really knows you is a great moment for that. [00:47:53] It's a great way to remind you who you are is somebody else. Sometimes I talk all the time about the value of when you can connect with somebody who feels with you, not just for you. Oh my gosh. It makes the world so much lighter and goodness. I mean, huh. That's probably if I could have answered the question I asked you a little bit ago, what's something that you could have if I could have told my former therapist self, like when I very when I first started, you're there to hold space for people to feel and feel with them. [00:48:23] Right. Exactly. You're not there. It's sacred. Yeah. It's there's nothing, one, it's like, there's nothing I can tell someone who's deeply in pain that they're actually gonna No. , That's, the words are just like, right. It's just noise. Yeah. And not to take anything. I'm sure I have clients who have been impacted by words. [00:48:40] But having a safe space to feel your feelings free of judgment. Is one of the reasons why I love journaling so much, but also doing that in communion Yeah. With another human right who expects nothing of you. I love Elizabeth Gilbert has language I love, like there's no precious outcome. [00:48:57] Like I can, that I can sit and have space with you or I can make plans with you or be, and there's no precious outcome. You don't have to perform for me. Right. You don't have to be anything for me. Like we can just be that is what a gift. Yes, that is. I just want to, this conversation has inspired way too many thoughts, but in the best way. [00:49:15] But something that hit me and then I think we could absolutely move on to Yeah. This the cut your bangs question. But what I've realized even in our conversation is that logic is not loud . our emotions are loud and they get louder and louder. The more we. Push them back the more we ignore them. [00:49:36] Think of your kids until they, when they need your attention. Because they deserve your attention. They do. The best thing we can do is acknowledge those emotions and just, even if it's as simple as, it's totally understandable. I feel this way right now. That is such a freeing sentence. Of course, I feel this way right now. [00:49:58] That was some serious shit that I just went through. Yeah . of course, I feel, and it doesn't have to make sense when those feelings hit the timing a lot of times feelings for me, I've found won't hit until I'm in a safe space much further down the road. Yes. And it's like being T-boned, like yes, totally out of the blue. [00:50:19] But that's also what happens to kids when they have tantrums. Ah, yeah. They'll hold. And then when they're finally either home at the end of the day or something, when the container is so full and they're finally in a place where they feel safe, they'll erupt over an orange peel not being peeled correctly. [00:50:32] Or , or a banana not being peeled correctly. Oh gosh. And it's not that, don't even start me on string cheese. God. Oh God. Parenting is fun. The best, but No, but you're right. Sometimes, I think that's probably why I cry almost with like every movie and TV show I watch. [00:50:47] Yeah. Because the emotions are just always right there and I just need a place to let it trickle out. Right. And that's okay. And I think, but just not judging ourselves for feelings. And then I think once we give that space or the feelings, the sooner we can do that, the sooner that logic, you know, like you, you mentioned multiple times, I know this, then you give logic. [00:51:13] The space that it needs to speak to you in a calm and quiet manner that you can actually trust. And that's where I think that those gut feelings truly come from. Those inner knowings are, when you've allowed space for the emotions first, given them their due. So then the logic can start to talk to you because it's never going to yell for your attention. [00:51:35] No. And I think we want it to, but that's not the way it works. And that's okay. A lot of times things make sense in hindsight, oh gosh, hindsight's 2020. Always. South Park has a great episode. If people if you have just like a dark sense of humor and you wanna laugh at, there's a character called Captain Hindsight and it's really funny. [00:51:54] . So yeah, a lot of times things don't make sense until we're. A little bit more removed from them. Yep. And some what I have found to be helpful, I've noticed you using your hands. Yeah. And I find when I am, when my mind is really active and I need it to stop or slow down or I just i'll sometimes even throw my hands up. Yeah. And I'll say, and even saying. I'm feeling something and just to myself in my kitchen. 'cause I'm almost always , because I work from home, I'm either like in my office or in my kitchen, like I'm feeling something. As soon as you did that, it's gonna show on video. [00:52:25] I like saw from the corner of my eye myself, naturally going, whew. Yeah. Just sound like inhale. Exhale. Yes. It's like something is being felt. Something's happening. I don't know what it is, but something's happening. And I think, in a lot of ways too, like that's how we have these internal smoke signals. [00:52:42] Yeah. And it's the same way, like your smoke detector in your house doesn't know the difference between burnt toast and something on fire, right? But it will beep when it senses. Yeah. When it senses something. And so my body is like sensing something. Is this a threat? [00:52:56] Are we safe? Yes, we're safe. Oh, we're likely. We just needed water. We're just dehydrated. Uhhuh. Or we just, yeah. So any number of things. But that was so good. Thank you. And yes, I would love, love, love to know your don't cut your own bang moment. And for anybody who is new to the podcast, 'cause I think there are some new people here. [00:53:15] Thank you for being here. Don't cut Your own bang moment is a moment where you went all in on something like cutting your own bangs, you grabbed some scissors, you watched a YouTube video, you're like, I got this. And you go, and then, oh no, this wasn't what I thought it would be. But the value in a don't Cut Your own Bang moment is not only that we can share in the silliness of humanity and mistakes, but also like maybe we learn something from it. [00:53:42] So, Ashlyn? Yes. I would love to hear your Don't cut your own bang moment. Oh my goodness. I think that there's probably a plethora of them. Oh, of course. And, let's see here. I'm even, I tried to have one prepared, and then I got excited about the rest of our conversation. Oh my gosh. Don't worry. So, okay I'll share one. [00:53:58] So what's a good, don't a good, oh. I invited my husband to record a podcast with me because I thought it would just be, , fun to bring him back on. And what I realized was I didn't prepare him for it at all. I just set up lights and set up a camera and asked him to sit. And he was so, visibly like he was trying, he was sitting, he was trying. [00:54:23] But I could just tell, again, something's happening. And I could tell he was a little uncomfortable and a little stiff. And I kept, because our eyes look out. My first assumption is, what's wrong out there? And I was like, what are you okay? What's wrong? And he he was , I don't really know what I'm supposed to be doing. [00:54:41] And then I was like. Oh, no, it was snip the bangs. I didn't provide any context. I didn't give him any preparation for what we'd be talking about, why we'd be talking like he had no context. And the whole setup is different, uhhuh. And it was such a humbling, settling moment of context. [00:55:04] It's I'm writing something right now about this idea of play. I'm a freedom loving, freedom seeking play hungry, greedy person right now. I want more play. I could never get enough. But what makes play feel fun and safe is to understand the context. Yeah. , There's rules in a game. [00:55:20] Otherwise, what is it? And I, my first instinct is to buck. Rules. I don't like ingredient lists. I don't like recipes. I just wanna feel my way through it. But, if you wanna make a beautiful croissant, you can't just feel your way through that. There's a very exacting way to do it. And so, it, it was such a one, I'm endlessly grateful for him and his patients with me. [00:55:40] I'm grateful that , our dynamics not new, so he probably knew what was going on, but just did yeah he's pretty sweet that way. But I, it was such a refresher that , if I wanna create a space and container to play safely with people Yeah. I need to give them the context. Absolutely. And it doesn't matter how long I've known someone, how well I know someone. [00:55:59] I laughed at myself because I, the part of the reason why it feels funny to me, but in like a humbling way. I thought the problem was him for like the first 15 minutes. I was like, what dude? Relax. I was like, what? Is he doing it right? [00:56:12] Yeah. like come on. And I was like. Oh no. Context. Zero. Oh my goodness. So that was a great one. Thank you. Okay, I'm gonna do mine in like short seconds because this one just hap this that inspired me perfectly. So my 8-year-old son and I are both going to the same therapist right now. [00:56:30] I'm a believer everybody should have at least an annual checkup with a therapist, but that's a great endorsement. Everyone should have an you annual checkup. You welcome, reach out to Danielle, she's fantastic. If you live in Indiana, by all means. If not, we'll help you find someone. Yes. And also order the book. [00:56:44] Yes, order the book. Get resting the wall risk. Get treasured. Yes. But go on please. So anyway one, one of the things that my I, the reason I love the person we're working with is because she's the first therapist I've worked with when it comes to, with my kids, she actually tells me what I can work on rather than just , you're doing the best you can and like you just love 'em. [00:57:03] And like, yes, I know, but that is not helping me. And so one of the things that got pointed out to me. Was so Cole , has very low frustration tolerance, like more so than is necessarily healthy for an 8-year-old. And of course with all the trauma with our his sister, our journey, it's understandable. [00:57:22] So we're working on that. What she kindly pointed out to me was, okay, we could work on his, but do you also realize that your tolerance for acceptable emotions is about this big? Oh, she's , therapist, be therapist Uhhuh. She's , but there's like a whole lot more emo like, she's , it's like a whole rainbow. [00:57:42] We need a whole arc for acceptable emotions. She's so you need to stop making it your responsibility to control which emotions he experiences. And it's up to you to provide the solid ground for him no matter which emotion comes up for him. And I will say that has changed my parenting in the last week. [00:58:04] More than maybe anything has like faster than anything. Because all of a sudden I'm like, of course it's acceptable that his sister just made him extremely mad. Of course it's understandable that he's jealous or sad or excited or whatever the feeling is, but it also doesn't define him as right or wrong, what emotions he's experiencing in that moment. [00:58:28] And the big thing was the realization that every emotion he experiences is not a direct reflection of who I am as a parent. No. Because that was what I needed to let go of that any emotion that is considered negative that my child has doesn't mean. That I'm doing a bad job as a parent. Oh my God. [00:58:49] That is one. What a beautiful. Don't cut. Thank you. With Dr. Sarah. Yes. Thank you, Dr. Sarah. You'd be therapizing all up in that session. That was so good. And it's the, that to me is a great example that hard truths can always be delivered with kindness. Yeah. But I think the big important thing there is you had the right context. [00:59:12] Exactly. You went to her for that information. Right. It wasn't like someone on the street. But the thing that we can't give someone what we don't have. Exactly. And I actually think that what you just said, if there was ever an endorsement for what. Self-care actually is not the commoditized, right. [00:59:29] Faux sense of, I'm gonna create a problem and I'm going to prescribe collagen. Did you know that the reason why, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah is these things that you need to buy and, oh, my program for blah, blah, blah, blah. And I'm gonna, I have all that stuff. I'm not I'm wanna, I wanna keep it in perspective. [00:59:45] I am drinking the same Kool-Aid 'cause I'm getting sent the same algorithm ads that we're all getting sent. Like I'm doing colostrum now. I don't even know. Like, I just, because I was like, my gut might grow up I own, but anyway but I think self-care and the best possible context is when you nurture. [01:00:03] And heal yourself. It becomes the medicine. Yes. Yes. And the offering for the other people in your life that you love most. It's like as you increase your own palette of what you're able to allow yourself to experience, you're then also able to see it in your son and give it to him. That is so beautiful and it's hard. [01:00:26] Sometimes, but it's some God that a well timed, articulated loving truth like that can change your life. Yeah. That is amazing. Thank you. I don't know, we can't top that. That was good. We're good. That was real good. Ashlyn Thompson, thank you so much for coming back and we're going to have you back. [01:00:43] You have to come back. Yes. And you're coming over to Empowered by Hope very soon. I would love that so much. And Yes. And so all of the ways, if you or anyone you know in your life has been impacted by a little one with complex me complex medical issues and you want some support, you want some information, you want some resources. [01:01:01] The link in the show notes will have every way that you can connect with Ashlyn, her business partner, and what was formally Charlotte's Hope Foundation, what is now the Parent Empowerment Network. Pick up all the books, all the resources, everything I talked about too for my stuff is also in there. [01:01:16] But , it's all linked for you there. So I hope that you get what you need and. Thanks so much, . Oh my gosh. [01:01:21] If you've ever wanted to pick up journaling,

In this deeply reflective episode of the Spiritual Journey Podcast, hosts Nimesh Radia and Stacey Brown explore the often uncomfortable, yet profoundly transformative, experience of waiting on the spiritual path.Together, they unpack the difference between emotional stagnation and spiritual stillness, the surrender required when things feel paused, and how to stay connected to presence and purpose even when the next steps feel uncertain.Through powerful personal stories — from Stacey's current visa journey to Nimesh's career pivot from corporate to soul-led — this episode invites listeners to see waiting as sacred, and to trust that the universe is always working behind the scenes.Whether you're in a season of stillness, transition, or seeking clarity, this episode is a reminder that you're not behind — you're becoming.Topics explored:

In this powerful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, Dr. Laura Gabayan—physician, researcher, and author of Common Wisdom—joins us to explore how journaling transforms emotional overwhelm into grounded wisdom. Dr. Laura shares her personal journey navigating life-altering disability and loss, revealing how the simple act of writing helped her process grief, find clarity, and cultivate resilience. We unpack the eight core traits of wisdom—resilience, kindness, positivity, spirituality, humility, tolerance, creativity, and curiosity—and how journaling can develop each of them. About the Guest:Dr. Laura Gabayan is a renowned physician and researcher focused on the science of wisdom. Through her Wisdom Research Project, she interviewed 60 individuals across North America to uncover the essential traits of a meaningful life. She's the author of Common Wisdom: 8 Scientific Elements of a Meaningful Life and a companion journaling guide that invites readers to deepen their personal insights through guided reflection. Key Takeaways: Journaling offers an objective mirror for our thoughts and emotions. Writing by hand slows down thinking, encouraging deeper insight and emotional regulation. Wisdom is not innate—anyone can cultivate it through reflection and intention. Acceptance and emotional processing are essential for growth, leadership, and peace. Organizations can benefit by integrating journaling into leadership development.   Connect with Dr. Laura Gabayan:Website: https://lauragabayan.comBooks available on Amazon: Common Wisdom and her guided journaling companion   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Tune to all our 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind   Stay Tuned And Follow Us!• YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife• Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.pod• Threads – https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.pod• Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind• LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/        https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

In this powerful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik speaks with Thom Barrett—author, adventurer, former PwC partner, and terminal cancer survivor—on what it really means to live while dying. Thom shares how facing Stage 4 prostate cancer has deepened his purpose, strengthened his emotional clarity, and opened a path of profound vulnerability and meaning. From redefining masculinity to writing his way through grief, Thom reminds us that joy is a choice and adventure isn't just about climbing mountains—it's about how you meet each moment. This isn't a story about survival. It's a conversation about living deeply, even when the clock is ticking. About the Guest: Thom Barrett is a storyteller, former PwC partner, cancer warrior, and author of five soul-stirring books including Living While Dying and The Strength of Surrender. With a background in business and a heart rooted in service, Thom now spends his time writing, mentoring, and living intentionally. His mission is to inspire others to embrace life's uncertainty with presence, gratitude, and courage. Key Takeaways: Adventure is a mindset—not a location. It's about engaging with life, especially when it gets hard. Vulnerability is strength. Thom redefines what it means to be a strong man—one who shares, connects, and asks for help. Journaling can save your life. Writing helped Thom process grief, depression, and ultimately transformed into published books. Purpose doesn't end with diagnosis. Thom lives each day to give back, speak truth, and inspire others on their path. Joy is a choice. Unlike fleeting emotions, joy is cultivated through intention and gratitude, no matter the circumstances.   Connect with Thom Barrett:Website: LivingLifeWhileDying.comSubstack: Living Life While DyingEmail: 123.thom.barrett@gmail.com   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatchDM Me Here:https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikTune to all our 15 podcasts:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavikSubscribe To Newsletter:https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/Join Community:https://nas.io/healthymind   Stay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.podThreads – https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.podFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness #livingwhiledying #cancerjourney #choosejoy #mensmentalhealth #purposefulliving

Ep. 203 Reiki isn't just energy work—it's a spiritual recalibration. If you've heard of Reiki but never felt ready to try it, I want to share my story with you. Through Reiki, I was finally able to release pain I didn't even realize I was holding. It helped me realign with my purpose and reconnect with a deep sense of inner peace. In this episode, I open up about how journaling, meditation, and Reiki became powerful tools on my healing journey—and how they can support you on yours. ✨ Key Takeaways: Journaling as Emotional Alchemy: Use words to heal your inner child and gain clarity. Meditation for Mindful Stillness: Calm the chaos and tune into your intuition. Reiki for Energy Renewal: Clear trauma and restore balance to your body and spirit. Small Steps, Big Shifts: Daily commitment leads to lasting transformation. Intentional Self-Care: Build routines that connect you to divine guidance and inner strength.

If hope is to be defining and forceful in the world we have to remake ahead of us, we must also speak hope into being. Ocean Vuong is a fascinating and singular person. The sweep of his work is about bearing witness to the other side of violence and the possibility of joy while taking nothing away and continuing to bear witness to the fullness of what has been carried and what has been survived. And he is wise about the violence of language that is habitually, culturally instinctive — and how changing that is key to shaping our very presence to others and to this world.Journaling prompts for Session 4As you move through these days, get really attentive in every moment to this world's fluency in the language of violence — the vividness and omnipresence of words that engender fear and despair. Notice, and write down the easy metaphors of death and war that are used everywhere from the news to casual conversations to social media, about everything from relationships to politics to the weather. Notice the death and violence metaphors that come naturally in the way you speak.What happens when you alter your language? What does it mean to take off the shoes of your voice?We've created a beautiful journal for the whole seven weeks, with full-size printable pages, that you can download for free HERE.A Possible Way to Organize This ExperienceTake each week's brief listening offering, each around 15 minutes long, as a meditation to move through the week ahead. And as none of the great virtues — and certainly not hope — is meant to be carried alone, we encourage you to undertake this experience alongside others, perhaps your life partner or family or colleagues or friends, book group or study group.For example, you could:●  Listen to one Wisdom Practice (roughly 15 minutes) — together or separately — around the same time each week. Listen again and/or read the transcript as often as is useful.●  Carry the ideas, invitations, and journal prompts for the session into your ordinary interactions of the days that follow.●  Commit to some time journaling every day, even if just for a few minutes or a few words.●  Meet with or Zoom/call your companion(s) at the end of the week to share, converse, commune.The Hope Portal and this series are adventures in opening the deep enduring teaching that lives inside the 20 years of On Being. We would be so grateful if you would let us know how it goes for you and how it might be refined, by writing to us at mail@onbeing.org. Sign yourself and others up for The Pause to be first to know about all things On Being and to receive Krista's monthly Saturday morning newsletter, including a heads-up on new episodes, special offerings, recommendations, and event invitations.

The Cancer New Moon invites us to slow down, turn inward, and reconnect with what truly matters. In this episode, we explore how to harness the deeply emotional and nurturing energy of this lunar phase to reset your emotional center, reflect on what needs healing, and reclaim your inner power.   Whether you're feeling energetically drained, emotionally overwhelmed, or simply ready for a fresh start, this New Moon offers a powerful portal for transformation. Learn how to set meaningful intentions, create sacred space, and align with the Cancerian themes of home, family, intuition, and self-care.   This is your time to soften, listen, and begin again—from the heart.  

In this episode, I'm joined again by my twin sister, Samantha Hawley, a mindset and clarity coach, as we dive deep into the topic of performance anxiety for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). We discuss the emotional and mental struggles that can come from worrying about how you walk in public and what others might be thinking. Samantha shares practical journaling and mindset strategies you can use before, during, and after challenging situations—helping you shift your focus away from potential judgment and toward self-compassion, confidence, and inner peace. If you've ever felt anxious about your MS symptoms being visible, this conversation is filled with actionable MS tips, exercises, and mindset tools that will empower you to manage anxiety, overcome self-doubt, and improve your quality of life with MS. About Samantha: Samantha Hawley is a journaling coach who guides women through challenging transitions to help them feel hopeful and validated. She brings her personal experiences and professional insights to the conversation, providing valuable tips on how to recognize and disrupt self-sabotaging patterns. Connect with Samantha: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samantha.s.says/ Website: https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/ Email: hello@samantha-says.com Samantha's Podcast - Journal Entries Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/3mpi2ClLG6T7xtlUs274O0?si=4d353a9a4a1744e8Journal Entries Samantha's Podcast - Journal Entries Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/journal-entries/id1651843607 Resources mentioned in the episode: Calm Mind Blueprint - https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/calm-mind The MSing Link, Episode 107, Journaling to Uncover Your True Voice - Apple | Spotify The MSing Link, Episode 219, How Self-Sabotage Is Impacting your MS (And How To Stop) With Samantha Hawley - Apple | Spotify Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com Website: www.MSingLink.com Social: ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

“You don't need to be perfect to start. You just need to be honest with yourself—and keep moving forward with love.” -Julio Vincent Gambuto In this heartfelt and humor-filled conversation, Kristen Olson sits down with filmmaker, author, and cultural voice Julio Vincent Gambuto to explore the layered journey of a creator navigating identity, family, and the digital age. From his viral essay “Prepare for the Ultimate Gaslighting” to his debut feature film Team Marco and bestselling book Please Unsubscribe, Thanks!, Julio shares the mindset shifts and personal rituals that keep him grounded and in motion. Whether you're a storyteller, entrepreneur, or evolving human trying to live more intentionally, this episode reminds us that it's never too late to lead with empathy—and to keep writing your story. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila00:40 – Sponsor shout-outs01:20 – Introducing Julio Vincent Gambuto02:10 – Julio's childhood in Staten Island & early creativity04:30 – Growing up gay in a Catholic Italian family07:00 – Journaling, poetry & emotional expression09:00 – Mental health, therapy, and owning your identity11:00 – Creative evolution from essays to screenwriting13:45 – The cultural impact of Please Unsubscribe, Thanks!15:30 – Navigating capitalism, storytelling & influence18:10 – How Team Marco bridges generational gaps20:00 – The power of presence over perfection21:45 – Advice to young creatives and late bloomers23:15 – Spirituality, family, and rethinking success25:00 – What's next: Silver Fox & storytelling workshops27:00 – Final thoughts on authenticity in today's world28:00 – Closing + how to connect with Julio online Julio Vincent Gambuto: Julio Vincent Gambuto is a filmmaker, author, speaker, and cultural critic known for his heart-driven storytelling and fearless social commentary. A Staten Island native and Harvard graduate, Julio began his career in New York's theater and comedy scene before earning his MFA in film from the University of Southern California. His debut feature film, Team Marco, is an award-winning intergenerational story distributed globally and praised for its tender, timely message about family and screen culture. Julio rose to national prominence with his viral essay “Prepare for the Ultimate Gaslighting”, which led to his bestselling book Please Unsubscribe, Thanks!—a call to action on consumerism, tech, and reclaiming intentional living. Julio's work has appeared in TIME, NBC, The Guardian, and The Boston Globe, and he's spoken at SXSW, Harvard, and other premier storytelling events. Through his production company, Benevolent Mischief, he continues to develop bold, thought-provoking film and television projects while teaching creative workshops that champion authenticity and emotional intelligence. Connect with Julio: Website: www.juliovincent.com Instagram: @juliovincent Twitter/X: @juliovincent LinkedIn: Julio Vincent Gambuto   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

Today on the podcast, we welcome Jamie Dobson, technologist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Container Solutions. Jamie joins us to share a deeply reflective journey—spanning childhood curiosity, extreme programming, leadership challenges, and the hard truths of building a company with purpose.Known for his systems thinking, sharp wit, and grounded view on management, Jamie has spent decades bridging the gap between technological innovation and human-centered leadership. Whether he's decoding the transistor's origins or dissecting what makes a high-performing executive team, Jamie is always seeking out better ways to work, grow, and lead—with clarity and courage.This episode explores the mindset shifts required to lead through ambiguity, the costs of integrity in leadership, and how discipline, self-awareness, and naivety can sometimes be your greatest assets.Jamie Dobson is the co-founder and former CEO of Container Solutions, a consultancy helping organizations adopt cloud-native technologies. A self-proclaimed management nerd and lifelong learner, Jamie's early career as a software engineer evolved into a calling to improve the world through better people management. He's the author of Visionaries, Rebels, and Machines, a sweeping narrative on the evolution of computing and leadership. Jamie now advises executives and writes about how systems—both technological and organizational—can be redesigned for the better.Key TakeawaysAct on Inspiration Fast: Jamie shares why taking immediate action on a good idea is a rare but powerful leadership move.Leadership as a Moral Responsibility: Decision-making isn't just strategic—it's ethical, emotional, and deeply human.Naïveté as a Strength: Why approaching challenges with curiosity and a beginner's mindset can spark unexpected breakthroughs.Letters to Self as Feedback Loops: How Jamie uses journaling to reflect, recalibrate, and lead with discipline.Psychological Safety Isn't Optional: The timeless (and still underused) foundation of every high-performing tech team.Bullsh*t Detection 101: From recognizing deceptive behavior to building a culture of honesty, trust, and clarity.Managing Technologists is Solved: The real challenge isn't how to manage engineers—it's having the discipline to do what works.Episode Highlights00:00 – Episode RecapJamie reflects on how childhood curiosity and Maslow's philosophy laid the groundwork for a career blending tech and leadership.04:27 – Acting on Inspiration ImmediatelyWhy most people hesitate—and how taking fast, decisive action can be a leadership advantage.07:42 – Leadership as a Moral WeightJamie discusses the emotional cost of doing the right thing and why real leadership isn't always rewarded.11:14 – The Loneliness of IdealismFrom bold bets to navigating skepticism, Jamie shares what it's like to hold the line on your values.15:31 – Shifting Systems, Building TrustWhat it really takes to lead teams through technological and cultural transformation—and why trust is the hardest part.18:41 – Spotting Bullshit in BusinessJamie breaks down how to recognize deception in the workplace—and how to protect your team from it.23:20 – From Sympathy to Self-Responsibility Letting go of victimhood narratives and embracing accountability as a leadership discipline.28:09 – Journaling, Feedback, and Decision Hygiene Jamie shares the personal practices that help him lead with clarity and consistency.32:03 – Psychological Safety Still...

In this episode of The Women on Top, Valerie Lynn speaks with Jenneh Rishe, a registered nurse and chronic illness advocate, about her journey with endometriosis and the challenges of receiving a proper diagnosis. Jenneh shares her experiences with the medical system, the lack of awareness surrounding women's health issues, and the importance of advocacy.  They discuss the broader implications of endometriosis on overall health, mental health, and identity, as well as provide advice for those who suspect they may have the condition. In this conversation, Jenneh Rishe shares her journey through chronic illness and the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare.  She emphasizes the need for persistence in seeking answers, effective communication with healthcare providers, and the value of shared decision-making. Jenneh discusses the therapeutic benefits of journaling and the hope she finds in advancements in medicine.  She encourages women to trust their bodies and validate their experiences, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Chronic Illness Advocacy01:44 The Journey to Diagnosis08:22 Lack of Awareness in Women's Health10:56 Understanding Endometriosis Beyond Gynecology13:14 The Impact of Endometriosis on Overall Health15:03 Mental Health and Identity After Diagnosis17:45 Advice for Those Suspecting Endometriosis21:38 The Importance of Persistence in Health Advocacy22:44 Navigating the Healthcare System: A Patient's Role24:56 Effective Communication with Healthcare Providers26:00 Shared Decision Making in Healthcare30:46 Journaling as a Tool for Mental Health33:41 The Journey of Writing and Future Aspirations36:14 Finding Hope in Chronic Illness39:24 Empowering Women to Trust Their BodiesConnect with Jenneh: Website: https://www.jennehrishe.com/aboutThe Endo Co: https://www.theendo.co/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeabove_illness/?hl=enConnect with Us: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify or anywhere you get your podcasts and Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! The Women On Top on YouTube The Women On Top on Instagram The Women On Top on LinkedIn

In this episode of Learn to Swing Trade the Stock Market, host Brian Montes explores one of the most important — and often most overlooked — aspects of successful trading: emotional discipline.If you've ever hesitated on a setup, panicked during a drawdown, or chased a breakout that turned into a fakeout, this episode will help you understand why it happens — and what to do about it. You'll learn how to train your mind to trade without emotion so you can stick to your process, make smarter decisions, and become a more consistent swing trader.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy emotions like fear and greed sabotage good trading decisionsHow to focus on process over profitsThe power of using a trading checklist to stay objectiveHow to use journaling to uncover emotional patternsWhy embracing boredom and repetition is the key to consistencyKey TakeawaysEmotional trading leads to inconsistency — a process-driven mindset leads to discipline.A clear trading system paired with a repeatable routine removes uncertainty and guesswork.Journaling your thoughts and emotions is just as important as logging your trades.Success in swing trading isn't about reacting — it's about following your rules even when it's hard.Connect & Learn MoreReady to become a more disciplined, confident swing trader?Join the community inside the Disciplined Traders Academy and access tools, training, and support to level up your trading results.

Welcome to the 'Super Sensitive Secret Strength' podcast - an intelligent, empowering and heartfelt space for the intuitively attuned, the emotionally aware, and those who've been told they “feel too much.” In this powerful episode, Wendy K Laidlaw opens up about her journey from emotional suppression to self-trust, and how journaling, biofeedback, creativity, and connection became vital tools in healing major medical conditions like endometriosis, adenomyosis, and many more - naturally! You will hear more about how:- Emotions as messengers, not enemies Journaling, meditation & creative practices rewrite the brain and body Building biofeedback and neurofeedback trust How to explore your sensitivity ways as strengths Why highly sensitive people often disassociate or self-reject — but how to reclaim their power Creating emotional safety, setting healthy boundaries, and rewriting your subconscious script So, if you've ever been shamed for feeling too much or too deeply, or if you've tried to numb out to survive, or if your body has started whispering (or indeed shouting/screaming at you) then it's trying to get your attention. That something/someone is wrong or causing you harm... ...and this episode is the start of a gentle call 'back home' to yourself.  Wendy speaks candidly about how embracing your emotional depth and sensitivity is not a weakness - but a secret SUPERPOWER waiting to be explored, protected, nourished, and unleashed. Whether you're just beginning your emotional healing journey or already guiding others, this is your invitation to reconnect with your innate wisdom within. Learn more at https://www.WendyKLaidlaw.com #WendyKLaidlaw #SuperSensitiveSecretStrength #EmbracingEmotions #Emotional Empowerment #HealingNaturally

In this episode of Season 6 I am sharing about how fear can hold you back and I'm sharing some of my own experiences and my own observations. You will hear me talk about: Sharing my story with my own fears How I started to move through the fears Journaling prompts to help you explore how fear shows up for you    This episode of the Self Care Edit is sponsored by Juno Magazine ~ "a print and digital bi-monthly magazine which promotes a natural approach to family life and inspires and supports parents as they journey through the challenges of parenting." Find out more and get your copy or subscription here ~ https://junomagazine.com/   To see more of Emma, the Journal Club, Journals, Online Courses and Coaching Sessions, resources and workshops head to: Journals - https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Ms-Emma-Benyon/author/B0DMM7KKTG Facebook - @emmabenyon.coach Instagram - @emmabenyon.coach Instagram - @journalingwithemma Website - https://emmabenyoncoaching.co.uk/ Email - emma@emmabenyoncoaching.co.uk If you are ready to deepen your journaling practice, find out more about my four week online journaling course ~ https://emmabenyoncoaching.co.uk/journaling-courses/mindfulmomentsjournalingcourse Sign up to the newsletter and get your Wellness Life Check and review your life right now ~ https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/851037/114640934069601722/share

In this episode of "People Not Titles," host Steve Kaempf interviews Traci Quinn, CEO of Pink Hat's Development and Construction Group. Tracy shares her inspiring journey from her upbringing in Chicago and nursing career, to her advocacy for medicinal cannabis, and her incarceration for cannabis-related charges in Tennessee. She discusses overcoming adversity, finding strength through faith, and her commitment to rebuilding underserved communities. Tracy also highlights her innovative work with hemp-based construction and her family's involvement in her business, emphasizing resilience, forgiveness, and the power of helping others.Podcast Introduction (00:00:00) Family Background & Upbringing (00:00:54) Transition to Valparaiso & High School Experience (00:01:58) Mother's Community Work & Influence (00:04:45) Nursing Career & Founding Home Away From Home (00:06:55) Introduction to Cannabis in Medicine (00:07:16) Cannabis Success Stories & Research (00:08:32) Holistic Cancer Protocol & Forgiveness (00:10:55) Proper Cannabis Dosing & Medical Education (00:12:03)Arrest & Incarceration in Tennessee (00:12:55) Legal Challenges & Prison Experience (00:16:06) Spiritual Growth & Helping Others in Prison (00:17:41) Release from Prison & Reuniting with Family (00:22:03) Impact of Incarceration on Family (00:23:02) Daily Practices & Faith in Prison (00:24:51) Journaling & Writing Books in Solitary (00:29:14) Post-Prison: Entering Construction (00:31:44) Growth of Pink Hat's Construction (00:34:12) Introduction to Hempcrete & Sustainable Building (00:34:53) Benefits and Uses of Hemp in Construction (00:36:02) Pink Hat's Construction Team & Business Lessons (00:38:41)Vision for the Future (00:41:52) Full episodes available at www.peoplenottitles.comPeople, Not Titles podcast is hosted by Steve Kaempf and is dedicated to lifting up professionals in the real estate and business community. Our inspiration is to highlight success principles of our colleagues.Our Success Series covers principles of success to help your thrive!www.peoplenottitles.comIG - https://www.instagram.com/peoplenotti...FB - https://www.facebook.com/peoplenottitlesTwitter - https://twitter.com/sjkaempfSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1uu5kTv...

If you or someone you know has had to go through Grief related to the loss of a loved one crossing over to the other side, this is the episode for you. On this week's episode, Shanta is joined by Christine Marie Aitchison. In this powerful episode of Authentic Talks 2.0, host Shanta Generally welcomes trauma-informed healer and ceremonial guide Christine Marie Aitchison for a heartfelt conversation on grief, healing, and sacred transformation. Christine Marie opens up about her personal journey—growing up with a father who struggled with heroin addiction, a mother dealing with mental health challenges, and surviving a near-death experience that changed everything. Together, we explore the emotional terrain of loss, trauma, and the healing practices that help us move from pain to empowerment.Christine Marie shares insights from her 90-day healing journal, Grieve with Guidance, offering rituals, reflection, and real tools for anyone walking the path of loss and forgiveness. We also talk about the silence around grief, the weight of “not knowing what to say,” and the sacred power of presence. This episode is an invitation to heal—authentically, gently, and with grace.  Christine Marie will return for a future panel discussion centered around her journal—so stay tuned!Connect with Christine Marie:Earth & Energy Medicine SchoolWebsite: ChristineMarieHeals.comInstagram: @christinemariehealsBook: Grieve with Guidance (Available on her website and major retailers)Website:https://www.christinemarieheals.com/?msID=815c5e15-0e36-4451-a7ef-dfb83abaf278https://www.christinemarieheals.com/energymedicineschool?msID=589050f4-082f-43d7-899c-de02d118efe7Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/Grieve-Guidance-support-journey-forgiveness/dp/B0F1C298JW?msID=c91c57e0-2c95-499e-84a7-6b8f90da246fApple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Spreaker | Castbox and more. Connect with the host:Instagram: @AuthenticTalks2.0 Email: AuthenticShanta@gmail.com Website: www.AuthenticTalks2.com Facebook: AuthenticTalks2 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authentic-talks-2-0-with-shanta--4116672/support.

Welcome to the Triple P Life Podcast! Ever feel like you're giving away your power to others? Wondering how to create a life of excellence without falling into the perfectionism trap? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Jay LaGuardia sits down with accomplished entrepreneur, coach, and author Rand Seelig to explore what it truly means to thrive in today's world. What You'll Learn How to reclaim your personal power through baby steps and generous listening The critical difference between pursuing excellence versus perfectionism Why building an "integrated life" is far more valuable than a "balanced" one Practical ways to define success on your own terms The importance of self-awareness and self-love in creating meaningful relationships Rand shares his wisdom from 30+ years as an entrepreneur, serving on 18 boards, and authoring the acclaimed book "Thriving: How to Create a Healthier, Happier, More Prosperous Life." His approach to thriving isn't about financial success alone—it's about creating a portfolio of well being that includes physical health, emotional wellness, spirituality, and meaningful relationships. Ready to stop merely existing and start truly thriving? Listen now and take the first step toward reclaiming your power and creating the life you deserve! Content Chapters: 00:00 - Welcome to Triple P Life Podcast 02:37 - Meet Rand Seeley: Author and Entrepreneur 05:12 - Building an Integrated Life 08:33 - Reclaiming Your Personal Power 12:20 - The Power of Baby Steps 15:42 - Generous Listening: The Key to Relationships 19:15 - Pursuing Excellence vs. Perfectionism 22:48 - Rewire Instead of Retire 26:35 - Journaling for Self-Awareness 30:08 - The Story Behind "Thriving" 33:22 - Defining Success as a Portfolio 37:46 - Self-Love and Relationship Building 42:03 - Words Matter: Reframing Your Language 44:57 - Closing Thoughts and Book Information Find all things Triple P Life by visiting the website. Follow Dr. Jay: Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube Get Dr. Jay's Book: Change Your Mind Change Your Destiny Find all the nutrition and supplement products Triple P Nutrition has to offer here.

Michelle Moore is an EdTech expert turned mindset mentor and the creator of 100 Days to Self-Love, a transformative journal designed to help individuals reconnect with their worth and purpose. After years of leading in the education technology space, Michelle felt called to deepen her impact by guiding others through personal healing and growth. Blending her experience in education with her passion for mindfulness, energy alignment, and self-reflection, Michelle now supports others in living with intention, confidence, and joy. As a certified yoga instructor and advocate for self-care, she believes in the power of daily rituals to cultivate self-worth and unlock true potential.Her journal, 100 Days to Self-Love, reflects her mission to inspire others to embrace their authentic selves, align with their values, and live lives rooted in meaning and inner peace. 100% of the proceeds benefit Warrior Retreats where the idea for the journal was birthed. When she's not mentoring or creating tools for healing, Michelle enjoys traveling, laughing, and spending quality time with her two sons. 
Connect with her on Instagram @michellenmoore_
Grab your copy of 100 Days to Self-Love: https://a.co/d/9V8CJkD Check out these resources Michelle mentioned during our conversation.Passion project https://m.youtube.com/@thepassiontestforyouHuman design https://ahumandesign.com/Jillian on love https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jillian-on-love/id1640172049Journal link https://a.co/d/iqyzNP0Warrior retreats https://www.instagram.com/warriorretreats?igsh=NXoyMWs1bDFweGF1 ______________________________________________________________________ The Edupreneur: Your Blueprint To Jumpstart And Scale Your Education BusinessYou've spent years in the classroom, leading PD, designing curriculum, and transforming how students learn. Now, it's time to leverage that experience and build something for yourself. The Edupreneur isn't just another book—it's the playbook for educators who want to take their knowledge beyond the school walls and into a thriving business.I wrote this book because I've been where you are. I know what it's like to have the skills, the passion, and the drive but not know where to start. I break it all down—the mindset shifts, the business models, the pricing strategies, and the branding moves that will help you position yourself as a leader in this space.Inside, you'll learn how to:✅ Turn your expertise into income streams—without feeling like a sellout✅ Build a personal brand that commands respect (and top dollar)✅ Market your work in a way that feels natural and impactful✅ Navigate the business side of edupreneurship, from pricing to partnershipsWhether you want to consult, create courses, write books, or launch a podcast, this book will help you get there. Stop waiting for permission. Start building your own table.

 Complaining is Like Junk Food: Just as fast food offers fleeting satisfaction but lacks nourishment, complaining provides only temporary emotional relief. This episode invites listeners to reconsider the impact of their words and thoughts on their well-being. Drawing an insightful analogy between complaining and consuming fast food, Margaret highlights how we often seek quick emotional relief through negative expressions that ultimately leave us feeling unsatisfied and burdened. This discussion reminds us that while life's challenges are inevitable, our responses can lead us toward either suffering or personal growth. As the episode unfolds, Margaret introduces her new mantra: "Change is difficult. Complaining is easy." This mantra serves as a powerful reminder that while it's natural to express our grievances, we also have the opportunity to engage in deeper, transformative practices that promote healing and growth. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences with change, to acknowledge their feelings of disappointment, and to consider how they can shift from empty complaints to meaningful introspection.

#265 - 5 Life Changing Journaling Habits For RunnersIn this episode, Coach Tadris talks about the benefits of making journaling a daily practice. The Keep Calm And Run To The Best You (The Podcast) w/ Coach Tadris is for all things Motivation, Running, Weight Loss & Crushing Your Goals. I have a passion for helping people reclaim their lives and go from the OLD you to the BEST version of yourself.Let's Dive In. Would You Like To Support the Show? https://www.runtothebestyou.com/sponsors❤️If you love this episode, please share it on your Instagram stories and tag me at @coachtadris Please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcast. Thank you. HOW WE CAN WORK TOGETHER Whether you'd like to lose weight, run your first 5k, or obtain some other health goal, let's create memories together. It all starts with your first FREE call or workout with Coach Tadris.Train For Your First 5k w/ Coach TadrisClick Link To Register Today!https://www.runtothebestyou.com/run-walk-clubLEAVE A MESSAGE FOR SHOW (Voice or Text) @ coachtadris@gmail.com FREE RESOURCES: BLOG: https://www.runtothebestyou.com/news-notesWEBSITE: www.runtothebestyou.com FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/tadris.parkerINSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/coachtadris Thanks For Listening And Remember, Keep Calm And Run To The Best You! - Coach Tadris

In this powerful episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler tackles imposter syndrome, urging men to reject feelings of inadequacy and embrace their divine purpose. He challenges the notion of being an imposter, labeling it as selfish and rooted in insecurity.  Michler provides a candid, no-nonsense perspective, offering five actionable steps to reframe negative self-stories, unpack insecurities, and lean on others' belief in oneself. With raw honesty, he inspires listeners to recognize their worth and take bold action to become the men they're meant to be. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:30 - Introduction to Imposter Syndrome 02:56 - The Selfish Nature of Imposter Syndrome 04:42 - Acknowledging Strengths and Weaknesses 06:54 - Value is Subjective 08:56 - The Comparison Trap 11:07 - You're Not an Imposter, You're Learning 12:57 - Imposter Syndrome is Just a Story 14:58 - Unpacking Insecurities with the Five W's 17:07 - Journaling to Confront Insecurities 19:11 - Rewriting Your Past Story 21:22 - Crafting a New Story 24:50 - Leaning on Others' Belief in You 27:05 - Rejecting Imposter Syndrome 29:11 - Moral Imperative to Be Your Best 31:18 - Closing Thoughts and Iron Council Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

This is a Fan Fav episode. On this episode of Women of Impact, I (Lisa Bilyeu) invite you to take a raw, real, and actionable journey into the core of self love, self discovery, and what it means to truly prioritize yourself. Joined by powerhouse women—including Mel Robbins and other inspiring voices—we strip back the pressure of “just love yourself” and dig deep into the practical tools, honest struggles, and daily habits it takes to actually build self-acceptance and confidence from the inside out. With unfiltered conversation, candid stories, and advice you can use today, we break down the difference between knowing who you are and loving who you are, tackling everything from the shame spiral to the importance of journaling, honoring your victories, and standing strong in your identity—no matter what life hands you. SHOWNOTES 00:00:00 – Defining self love: Treating yourself as well as you treat your most loved person 00:00:32 – How meditation and journaling spark self discovery and identity beyond others' opinions 00:02:25 – The power of supportive relationships: Learning from partners who model self-acceptance 00:04:44 – Facing life's punches: Developing resilience through setbacks, not just pep talks 00:09:49 – Journaling as self-creation: Practical exercises for connecting with your future self 00:13:04 – Why just “loving yourself” isn't enough—and the liberating step of acceptance 00:17:01 – Discovering what truly fulfills you beyond roles, titles, or external validation 00:20:35 – Unpacking childhood wounds around worth, appearance, and identity—and the power of healing before the fall 00:22:44 – Redefining wealth and worth: Why fulfillment must go deeper than money or success 00:24:08 – Everyday self love in practice: The humblebrag challenge and rewiring your own narrative CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS Vital Proteins: Get 20% off by going to ⁠https://www.vitalproteins.com⁠ and entering promo code WOI at check out.  BIOptimizers: Head to⁠ https://bioptimizers.com/impact ⁠and use code IMPACT for 10% off.  OneSkin: Get 15% off with code LISA at ⁠https://oneskin.co ⁠ Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠https://shopify.com/lisa⁠ FOLLOW MEL ROBBINS: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melrobbins/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/melrobbinsWebsite: https://melrobbins.com/ FOLLOW JAY SHETTY (Referenced in the episode): Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayshetty/ Website: https://jayshetty.me/ You'll walk away with practical tools and the belief—you've got this, girl. Now let's love ourselves out loud, one honest moment at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

✍️ As-tu déjà pensé que tenir un journal pouvait t'aider à progresser vers le niveau avancé? Pour mieux écrire en français bien sûr, mais pas seulement! Dans cet épisode, je t'explique comment le journaling peut transformer ton apprentissage à plusieurs niveaux. Si tu reçois du feedback sur ton écriture, ça peut même t'aider à penser en français sans tout traduire de ta langue maternelle.

Feeling overwhelmed or rushed? Discover how simple creative tools like watercolor, die cutting, and alcohol markers can calm your mind, ease stress, and spark everyday joy. In this uplifting episode of Crafting Your Calm, Addie explores why crafting is more than a hobby—it's a healing ritual for your heart and mind.Whether you're a seasoned maker or simply curious about mindful creativity, this episode reveals how small creative moments can make a big impact on your well-being.You'll Learn:How watercoloring can teach you to embrace imperfection and let go of control.Why die cutting creates more than shapes—it creates focus and clarity.How alcohol markers boost both skill and confidence—can coloring be your new therapy?The secret way crafting connects you to a joyful, supportive community. If this episode inspired you, share your latest creation or a mindful moment on Instagram using #CraftingYourCalm—and don't forget to hit “Follow” so you never miss an episode dedicated to nurturing your creativity and peace of mind. Craft your life with Altenew! Follow us for more design inspiration:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/altenewllc/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/altenewYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/altenewPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/altenew/Card blog: https://www.blog.altenew.com/Scrapbook blog: https://www.mixedmedia.altenew.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altenew Check out Artistry by AltenewInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/artistrybyaltenew/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCY0ifFqCq6irkxFZeQGrXg Visit https://www.altenew.com to shop for your crafting stash.Contact our Customer Happiness Team at support@altenew.com if you have any questions.*Created with the assistance of artificial intelligence, including AI-generated voices and content.

In these next few sessions, we investigate some orientations and ways of being that are companions to hope. If hope is a muscle that can be exercised to become stronger and more supple, these qualities might be thought of as fascia, or the tendons — complementary ligaments that make the whole viable and sustainable. The wonderful poet Naomi Shihab Nye is winsome and wise about how writing is a companion to life, and certainly a companion to hope, for her. And it's a companion to the way we are investigating hope here: the calming simple act of writing things down.Journaling prompts for Session 3Exchange words with yourself — the many selves alive inside you — about what you're doing here. What has hope meant in your life and in your world(s)? Do the different selves inside you have different orientations to despair and to imagination with real-world consequences? How about your best self?During this week and in the following weeks, as it feels interesting, try this exercise proposed by Naomi. Land on a single word or phrase that you find animating in this Wisdom Practice, and “use it as as an oar that could get you through the days” — just by holding it in your mind (and heart) and seeing how it rubs against other words and how it meets experiences and other words. And remember Mary Oliver's advice: Keep your journal close by at all times.We've created a beautiful journal for the whole seven weeks, with full-size printable pages, that you can download for free HERE.A Possible Way to Organize This ExperienceTake each week's brief listening offering, each around 15 minutes long, as a meditation to move through the week ahead. And as none of the great virtues — and certainly not hope — is meant to be carried alone, we encourage you to undertake this experience alongside others, perhaps your life partner or family or colleagues or friends, book group or study group.For example, you could:●  Listen to one Wisdom Practice (roughly 15 minutes) — together or separately — around the same time each week. Listen again and/or read the transcript as often as is useful.●  Carry the ideas, invitations, and journal prompts for the session into your ordinary interactions of the days that follow.●  Commit to some time journaling every day, even if just for a few minutes or a few words.●  Meet with or Zoom/call your companion(s) at the end of the week to share, converse, commune.The Hope Portal and this series are adventures in opening the deep enduring teaching that lives inside the 20 years of On Being. We would be so grateful if you would let us know how it goes for you and how it might be refined, by writing to us at mail@onbeing.org. Sign yourself and others up for The Pause to be first to know about all things On Being and to receive Krista's monthly Saturday morning newsletter, including a heads-up on new episodes, special offerings, recommendations, and event invitations.

Jones gives practical advice as to how we can engage in deep inner work through focused journaling. She shares exercises that can act as powerful tools in reframing the pieces of our past and our life stories so that suffering becomes meaningful and can boost our healing, empowerment, growth, and transformation. Catherine Ann Jones is an award winning playwright, screenwriter and a Fulbright Scholar to India, studying shamanism. She holds a graduate degree and teaches depth psychology and archetypal mythology. As a screenwriter, Jones has contributed to such television series as “Touched by an Angel,” and wrote the teleplay “The Christmas Wife.” She teaches writing workshops. She is the author of: Heal Your Self With Writing (Divine Arts 2013) and The Way of Story: The Craft & Soul of Writing (Michael Weise Productions 2007).Interview Date: 2/28/2014 Tags: Catherine Ann Jones, memory, traumatic events, body dialogues, inner voice, intuitive voice, authentic self, allies, shamanism, Pre-Hindu Dravidian people in India, artist, synchronicity, personal metaphors, archetypes, deep listening, active listening, Writing, Personal Transformation, Self Help, Shamanism, Mythology, Arts & Creativity

In this episode, Susan Hensley shares the transformative power of art journaling and discusses why this 'portal for play' can help you move through resistance, channel more joy and create a full and happy life.Connect with Susan:WebsiteSusan's Book - Art for your SanityOnline CoursesReady to reclaim your body, your power, and your peace? Start here: 1.

What if your life could become a masterpiece of intentional creativity? Join us as we explore this possibility with Pia Leichter, an author, founder, creative director and guide in this special 30-minute episode.   Celebrating the Creative Potential Within Us All In our conversation with Pia, we dive into the essence of creativity as a vital force beyond the arts, challenging the common misconception that it exists solely in artistic endeavors. She shares insights on how creativity is akin to teaching and coaching, requiring courage and the willingness to embrace uncertainty. We also explore creativity in unexpected domains, from science to law, and highlight its universality, encouraging everyone to recognize their inherent creative potential, irrespective of their field or background.   Shared wisdom and stories, like Pia's rather spontaneous decision to take a four-week journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway, illustrate how we hold the power to rewrite our narratives. We also delve into practical steps for nurturing creativity in everyday life, from morning routines to visualizing desired outcomes, empowering listeners to take control of their own creative destinies.   A Bit More About Our Wise Guest Pia Leichter is a creative partner, published author, certified coach, and entrepreneur. Influenced by her mother's boldness and her father's artistic background, creativity for Pia Leichter is not limited to traditional art forms. Instead it is a way of life that permeates every decision and every moment.   Pia's journey from Canada to New York and eventually Copenhagen has been nothing short of transformative. A recovering nomad, she's reported as a journalist in Sri Lanka, graduated summa cum laude from NYU, and worked as an award-winning creative director for some of the biggest brands in the world. Now, as the founder of Kollektiv Studio, she's uniquely positioned to co-create ventures and wild visions.    Pia recently published a book titled, “Welcome to the Creative Club.” Her book is part memoir and part guidebook, and it will challenge everything you thought you knew about creativity.   She joins us from her home in Copenhagen, Denmark. Over the next hour, you will discover why Pia Leichter is one of the wisest people I know.   Resources Pia's website Kollektiv Studio Get Pia's book “Welcome to the Creative Club” via our Bookshop or via Amazon   Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg   Stay Connected with Us on Social YouTube @themainthingpod Twitter @themainthingpod Instagram @themainthingpod Facebook  @TheMainThingPod LinkedIn   Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.   Episode Chapters 0:06:00 - Are we all born with creativity, or just a few? 0:11:15 - The courage to embrace uncertainty 0:13:24 - Moving with trust instead of fear 0:18:16 - Wisdom versus knowledge 0:24:30 - Pia's work as creative advisor to rebels, dreamers and misfits 0:30:35 - Pia shares her Main Thing wisdom nugget 0:36:13 - Overcoming fear; the power of choice 0:38:18 - Sovereignty and awareness in life's experiences 0:41:19 - Creating your desired experience 0:46:12 - Exploring Pia's new book “Welcome to the Creative Club” 0:50:51 - Reclaiming your creative power 0:54:02 - Pia's closing thought: embracing uncertainty when creating

Discover your safe space in the midst of experiencing workplace hostility and prolonged traumatic events. Safety and community are essential according to this episodes guest Dominic Kolleh, a trauma-informed life coach, certified Unbreak My Soul facilitator and experienced HR professional. In this episode of Impostrix Podcast, Dominic discusses with host Whitney Knox Lee the critical importance of community, safety, and somatic care in healing from workplace trauma, particularly for Black women. Dominic shares insights on trauma-informed practices, the significance of having access to physical and mental safety while in the healing process, and the benefits of journaling or guided self-reflection. The episode also explores how ongoing workplace trauma can lead to severe physical and mental health issues, emphasizing the need for self-care and community support. Whitney and Dominic both stress the importance of authentic connections and how to create a supportive environment for trauma recovery. Dominic offers listeners a free download of her guided journal, 30 Days to Peace: Reclaiming Self. Connect with Dominic on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dkolleh Follow Whitney on IG @ impostrixpodcast DONATE to keep the show running! Donations can be made via Buy Me A Coffee here https://buymeacoffee.com/impostrixpod Purchase your I Planned For This: A Life Organizer for When It's Needed today! https://a.co/d/br1d3hJ Thanks Chris @DigitalREM for editing this episode! 00:00 The Importance of Community and Social Interaction 00:28 Introduction to Imposter Podcast Season Four 00:38 Focusing on Black Women's Well-being 01:15 Introducing Dominique and Workplace Trauma 01:36 Dominique's Journey and Expertise 04:10 The Impact of Workplace Trauma on Black Women 06:15 Creating Safe Spaces for Healing 26:39 The Importance of Community in Healing 30:40 The Importance of Empathy and Support in Healing 31:50 Creating a Healing Journal and Finding Community 33:04 Navigating Friendships and Setting Boundaries 41:17 The Power of Journaling in Self-Care 51:30 Addressing Workplace Trauma and Finding Your True North 54:57 Conclusion and Resources for Healing

From housewife to the co-founder of a billion-dollar company, I know intimately what it means to face fear, self-doubt, and that nagging voice inside that says you're not enough. That's why I'm thrilled to share my conversation with Radhi Devlukia-Shetty on this episode of Women of Impact. With her blend of heart, honesty, and hard-won wisdom, Radhi opens up about her journey—growing up heavyset, navigating body image in a world obsessed with “skinny,” and breaking free from external validation through meditation, journaling, and radical self-discovery. She reveals how leaving home and starting over in a new country forced her to face her fears head-on, and how she built a relationship with herself step-by-step. From conscious cooking to confronting the discomfort of leading in business, Radhi's story is a roadmap for any woman wants to find her strength—not in spite of her vulnerabilities, but because of them. SHOWNOTES Radhi shares her experience growing up heavyset and the early effects of body image and external validation on self-worth The pivotal influence of home support and how meditation led her to real self-love Letting go of the “Why me?” victim loop and shifting perspective for growth Practical tools: time-limited processing of emotions, journaling, and turning criticism into useful self-reflection Overcoming the fear of the unknown: moving across continents, letting go of comfort and security, and learning self-sufficiency Journaling as a tool for understanding your own thoughts, qualities, and embracing imperfection How to honor your emotions without wallowing in them: actionable tips to process then move forward Facing career challenges: stepping into leadership as a vegan recipe developer, navigating male-dominated spaces, and setting boundaries The power of embracing imperfection in both personal life and career—take the leap and learn from the mess-ups CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS Vital Proteins: Get 20% off by going to ⁠https://www.vitalproteins.com⁠ and entering promo code WOI at check out.  BIOptimizers: Head to⁠ https://bioptimizers.com/impact ⁠and use code IMPACT for 10% off.  OneSkin: Get 15% off with code LISA at ⁠https://oneskin.co ⁠ Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at ⁠https://shopify.com/lisa⁠ FOLLOW RADHI DEVLUKIA-SHETTY: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radhidevlukiaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radhidevlukiashettyWebsite: https://www.radhidevlukia.coTwitter: https://twitter.com/radhidevlukiaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/radhidevlukia/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let's face it, every crafter has had that moment of confusion or helplessness. Working with new, unfamiliar supplies and techniques can be scary, but persevering makes it all worth it. Dive into this exciting discussion with Bridget Casey and Nicki Baxley as they talk about their favorite crafting tools, the future of stamping, and why it's so important to embrace the creative process despite its challenges.  You Will Learn: Why am I getting frustrated with making mistakes and how do I stop it? What can I do when I want to work on a project but I don't have any ideas or inspiration?Working with messy supplies can get annoying, what are some tips to embrace the process?Where can I find a safe space to learn, ask questions, and share my crafting journey with others? If today's session sparked any ideas or inspired you to work on a project, we'd love to hear your thoughts! Share your favorite takeaway on social and tag us @altenewllc. And if you're ready to level up your skills, check out the Altenew Educator Certification Program (AECP) and explore our ever-growing library of creative classes at Altenew Academy.Craft your life with Altenew! Follow us for more design inspiration:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/altenewllc/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/altenewYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/altenewPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/altenew/Card blog: https://www.blog.altenew.com/Scrapbook blog: https://www.mixedmedia.altenew.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altenew Check out Artistry by AltenewInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/artistrybyaltenew/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCY0ifFqCq6irkxFZeQGrXg Visit https://www.altenew.com to shop for your crafting stash.Contact our Customer Happiness Team at support@altenew.com if you have any questions.

Are you stuck in a rut and can't seem to move forward—no matter how hard you try?You're not lazy. You're not broken. You're just stuck—and in today's episode of Personal Mastery, Jerry breaks down the 5 most powerful tools (grounded in neuroscience, psychology, and real-life coaching) that will help you move from stagnation into sustainable momentum.You'll learn:Why action leads to motivation, not the other way aroundHow to leverage behavioral activation to create a breakthroughThe role of identity and mindset in getting unstuckHow to design for dopamine and ignite motivation againHow to heal emotional blocks and rewire your system for clarity and energyHow reconnecting with purpose + play can make life feel meaningful againWhether you're burned out, emotionally overwhelmed, or just frozen in place—this episode will give you the clarity and strategy to move forward today.

Stoked to announce, the NEW My Best Journal program is officially LIVE! It's your complete framework to coach yourself, create the 2.0 you, and actually change your life. Want more growth in 1 month than most people get in a year? Check it out and pick up the limited-time launch special: https://www.mybestjournal.com  More Journaling Vids:    • The 5 Journaling Techniques That Changed M...      • these 5 journaling questions let you COACH...      • The ULTIMATE guide to keeping a Journal (2...      • the ultimate guide to keeping a journal      • I Journaled Everyday for 10 years. Here's ...      • The Ultimate Guide To Keeping A Journal SE...   FREE: hop on the newsletter and start getting emails that will change your life every Saturday: https://www.clarkkegley.com/free-ques...  The Best of Series | 10 Years In The Making:    • THE BEST OF - Clark Kegley | Top Videos on...   SOCIAL   / clarkkegley      / clarkkegley     / theclarkkegley  P.S. Some of the links in this description are affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you purchase through them. It's a great way to support the channel at no extra cost to you

Babs Sits down for a solo episode. This is a part 1 of 4 where Babs talks about the persoal life changes he has made to better his life and go into why you should consider 1 if not all of the changes to better your life. This episode is on journelling and its benefits for a person both mentally and spiritually. :Please Write a Review and Like/Subscribe to the Podcast! You can support the podcast by purchasing merch— https://teespring.com/stores/babs-lyfe-merch::Follow Me on all Socials @Babs_Lyfe— https://linktr.ee/babslyfe

adrienne maree brown shines a light on an emerging ecosystem in our world over and against the drumbeat of what is fractured and breaking. She works with the complex fullness of reality to move towards a wholeness of living. In exploring the idea of hope — the meaning of it, the practice of it — it feels important to begin with someone who works to shift realities on the ground. Many words and phrases have been used to describe what she does and who she is, who she is to so many people, especially in younger generations: She is a student of complexity; a student of change and how groups change together; a scholar of belonging. And she is an organizer as much as a writer.Journaling prompts for Session 2Preparing inwardly after listening, ask these questions:Examine your orientation to the idea that imagination has real-world consequences. Do you believe that? Trace its reality in the lives of people you admire and in your own life.Ponder emergence. Consider how this way of change has found expression across the years in your life, your work, your world — moments when what you did not plan or control became a catalyst for your growth.“Emergence notices the way small actions and connections create complex systems, patterns that become ecosystems and societies.”“Emergence emphasizes critical connections over critical mass.”“The crisis we are in at scale is in part a response to control or overcome the emergent processes that are our own nature, the processes of the planet we live on and the universe we call home.”We've created a beautiful journal for the whole seven weeks, with full-size printable pages, that you can download for free HERE.A Possible Way to Organize This ExperienceTake each week's brief listening offering, each around 15 minutes long, as a meditation to move through the week ahead. And as none of the great virtues — and certainly not hope — is meant to be carried alone, we encourage you to undertake this experience alongside others, perhaps your life partner or family or colleagues or friends, book group or study group.For example, you could:●  Listen to one Wisdom Practice (roughly 15 minutes) — together or separately — around the same time each week. Listen again and/or read the transcript as often as is useful.●  Carry the ideas, invitations, and journal prompts for the session into your ordinary interactions of the days that follow.●  Commit to some time journaling every day, even if just for a few minutes or a few words.●  Meet with or Zoom/call your companion(s) at the end of the week to share, converse, commune.The Hope Portal and this series are adventures in opening the deep enduring teaching that lives inside the 20 years of On Being. We would be so grateful if you would let us know how it goes for you and how it might be refined, by writing to us at mail@onbeing.org. Sign yourself and others up for The Pause to be first to know about all things On Being and to receive Krista's monthly Saturday morning newsletter, including a heads-up on new episodes, special offerings, recommendations, and event invitations.

How to mark your special day with a dedicated Birthday Journal. Whether you're celebrating on your actual birthDAY, or your birthday week, or taking your whole birthday month to look back and look forward on your life, these ideas and prompts will help you make the most of this period of introspection. The 4 sections of the birthday journal:TimelineWho I WasWho I AmWho I Want To BeFULL SHOW NOTES ARE HEREMENTIONED in this episode:Ep. 249: 4 Ways To Journal (For People Who Don't Like Journaling)ALL JOURNAL PROMPT EPISODESOther episodes about journaling:Ep. 9: 10 Ways to Journal Ep. 62: Should you reread or burn old journals and letters? Ep. 103: Journaling for GrownupsEp. 127: “You read my journals?” (A conversation with my mom) SUBSCRIBE to 10 Things To Tell You so you never miss an episode!CLICK HERE for episode show notesFOLLOW @10ThingsToTellYou on InstagramFOLLOW @10ThingsToTellYou on FacebookSIGN UP for episode emails, links, and show notesJOIN Laura Tremaine's SECRET SUBSTACKBUY THE BOOK: Share Your Stuff. I'll Go First. by Laura TremaineBUY THE BOOK: The Life Council: 10 Friends Every Woman Needs by Laura Tremaine Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Intermittent Fasting Stories, Gin talks to Lisa Evers from Chatham, Ontario in Canada.Are you ready to take your intermittent fasting lifestyle to the next level? There's nothing better than community to help with that. In the Delay, Don't Deny community we all embrace the clean fast, and there's just the right support for you as you live your intermittent fasting lifestyle. You can connect directly with Gin in the Ask Gin group, and she will answer all of your questions personally. If you're new to intermittent fasting or recommitting to the IF lifestyle, join the 28-Day FAST Start group. After your fast start, join us for support in The 1st Year group. Need tips for long term maintenance? We have a place for that! There are many more useful spaces beyond these, and you can interact in as many as you like. Visit ginstephens.com/community to join us. An annual membership costs just over a dollar a week when you do the math. If you aren't ready to fully commit for a year, join for a month and you can cancel at any time. If you know you'll want to stay forever, we also have a lifetime membership option available. IF is free. You don't need to join our community to fast. But if you're looking for support from a community of like-minded IFers, we are here for you at ginstephens.com/community. Lisa is a repeat guest, and she first appeared on episode 384 which came out in February of 2024. Lisa is a retired kindergarten teacher and an intermittent fasting coach. In this episode, Lisa shares how her lifelong struggles with body image and digestive issues led her to discover the fasting lifestyle for health benefits rather than weight loss.As Lisa delves into the transition to intermittent fasting, she emphasizes the relief and freedom from excessive food noise that it provided. This newfound clarity helped her realize a misalignment with her teaching career, prompting her to retire and explore new ventures like writing children's books and starting her coaching business. Lisa shares how intermittent fasting facilitated a major mental shift, helping her release old obsessive tendencies related to food and self-worth. She also discusses overcoming an "all-or-nothing" mindset, which now empowers her to make choices in alignment with her health and life goals.Throughout the conversation, Lisa highlights significant personal victories, including reduced digestive issues and pain, improved thyroid health, and increased mental clarity. She also touches upon the impact of diet culture and how intermittent fasting helped her detach from its toxic grip. Lisa's story emphasizes the importance of adaptation and self-awareness, noting her journey of learning to listen to hunger cues and understand personal body signals over pre-set eating schedules.Lisa concludes with advice for newcomers to intermittent fasting, urging them to practice clean fasting, to be patient and give the lifestyle time to show results, and to surround themselves with supportive, like-minded communities. Journaling is also encouraged to increase self-awareness and document the journey towards a healthier, more authentic self. Her closing words reinforce the idea that intermittent fasting can lead to unexpected and transformative personal growth.Get Gin's books at: https://www.ginstephens.com/get-the-books.html. Good news! The second edition of Delay, Don't Deny is now available in ebook, paperback, hardback, and audiobook. This is the book that you'll want to start with or share with others, as it is a simple introduction to IF. It's been updated to include the clean fast, an easier to understand and more thorough description of ADF and all of your ADF options, and an all new success stories section. When shopping, make sure to get the second edition, which has a 2024 publication date. The audiobook for the second edition is available now! Join Gin's community! Go to: ginstephens.com/communityDo you enjoy Intermittent Fasting Stories? You'll probably also like Gin's other podcast with cohost Sheri Bullock: Fast. Feast. Repeat. Intermittent Fasting for Life. Find it wherever you listen to podcasts. Share your intermittent fasting stories with Gin: gin@intermittentfastingstories.comVisit Gin's website at: ginstephens.com Check out Gin's Favorite Things at http://www.ginstephens.com/gins-favorite-things.htmlSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.