Podcasts about Nervous

As 2025 wraps up, it is normal to ask, "What's next for my fertility?" Maybe your cycles felt unpredictable, lab results felt confusing, or you have been living in constant action mode with supplements, protocols, and timelines. In this episode, we slow it down and get intentional. Instead of piling on more, we look at what your body has been signaling and how to enter 2026 with a clear, steady plan using a functional fertility lens. You'll learn: Why pausing at year-end can support ovarian signaling and reduce the stress loop that keeps you stuck How to review 2025 without spiraling, including what helped, what added pressure, and what your symptoms have been communicating Which labs to consider rechecking in 2026 and why they matter for fertility strategy, including TSH, vitamin D, ferritin, hsCRP, AMH, and FSH. The foundation for egg quality support through mitochondria basics, including sleep, protein, minerals, and CoQ10. How to build a realistic nervous system plan that fits a Type A life, so your next step is aligned, not rushed Sarah Clark is the founder of Fab Fertile Inc. and the host of Get Pregnant Naturally. Her team specializes in functional approaches for low AMH, high FSH, diminished ovarian reserve, premature ovarian insufficiency, recurrent miscarriage and helping couples prepare their bodies for pregnancy success naturally or with IVF. This episode is especially for you if: You have low AMH (ng/mL), high FSH, DOR, or POI and want to enter 2026 with a plan that supports your body without adding more overwhelm You have been pushing through and want to make decisions based on insight, not urgency You want a functional fertility approach that connects testing, nutrition, lifestyle, and emotional balance in a practical way Next Steps in Your Fertility Journey Subscribe to Get Pregnant Naturally for evidence-based guidance on functional fertility, and share this episode with anyone on their fertility journey. Not sure where to start? Download our most popular guide:  Ultimate Guide to Getting Pregnant This Year If You Have Low AMH/High FSH it breaks everything down step by step to help you understand your options and take action For personalized support to improve pregnancy success, book a call here. --- Timestamps 00:00 – Reflecting on fertility as 2025 ends and why slowing down matters 01:05 – Why constant doing and hypervigilance disrupt ovarian signaling 02:10 – Nervous system dysregulation in low AMH, high FSH, DOR, and POI 03:15 – Why rushing into IVF at year-end can backfire 04:40 – Secondary infertility and when fertility issues appear unexpectedly 05:20 – Reviewing what actually helped your energy, sleep, digestion, and mood 06:15 – Supplements vs personalized testing and why guessing adds stress 07:30 – Gut health, thyroid, inflammation, and missed underlying imbalances 08:45 – Retesting labs and focusing on mitochondria and egg quality 10:05 – Choosing your next fertility step intentionally, not from fear --- Resources  

Send us a textIn this episode of Be Freaking Awesome, Angela and Sami dive deep into the world of coaching, what it is, what it isn't, and why it can be such a powerful catalyst for personal and professional growth.Together, they explore the difference between coaching and consulting, why your brain naturally resists change, and how nervous system regulation plays a foundational role in leadership, decision-making, and confidence. Angela shares her journey from consultant to executive coach, including how public speaking coaching, emotional intelligence, and business strategy all intersect.From executive coaching to public speaking fears, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what actually creates sustainable growth, and why skill-building alone is rarely enough.If you've ever felt stuck, resistant, overwhelmed, or unsure why “knowing what to do” still isn't helping you move forward, this episode will help you understand what's really happening beneath the surface.In this conversation, we talk about:- The difference between coaching and consulting, and when each one is actually helpful- Why your brain resists growth and how that shows up in work and leadership- How nervous system regulation impacts confidence, decision-making, and public speaking- Why emotional intelligence and core beliefs are key drivers of long-term successIf this episode resonated, share it with a friend, colleague, or leader who's navigating growth or feeling stuck. Order Traveling Light wherever you get your books!Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at podcast@bfreakingawesome.com.

Release irritation and frustration with this guided meditation. In this practice you will focus on where you feel the irritation and then breathe it out, like a pressure release valve being opened. ⁠Join the 2025 NYE at Home Retreat here⁠ More Mindful in Minutes ⁠Join the free 5-day Nervous system reset to overcome overwhelm⁠ Books ⁠Order Meditation For The Modern Family⁠ ⁠You Are Not Your Thoughts: An 8-Week Anxiety Guided Meditation Journal⁠ **⁠Download 4 sample days from You Are Not Your Thoughts Here⁠** Join MIM on Patreon here ⁠Order Meditation For The Modern Family⁠ Let's Connect Email Kelly your questions at info@yogaforyouonline.com Follow Kelly on instagram @yogaforyouonline Please rate, subscribe and review (it helps more than you know!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Creating Emotional Safety Within Yourself & Patreon Launch In this Sunday reflection, we gently close the week's theme of Strengthening Self-Trust Through Small Wins — honouring the quiet consistency and honest effort that builds real confidence over time. This episode also introduces next week's new theme: Creating Emotional Safety Within Yourself.A grounding series focused on learning how to feel steadier inside, especially during moments of stress, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm. We'll explore how safety can be created through breath, awareness, and gentle self-support — without needing anything outside of you to change first. You'll also hear a soft introduction to a new Patreon space, created for listeners who would like to explore meditations ad-free and access a calm, organised library for sleep, anxiety support, and daily grounding.There's no pressure — this podcast will always remain freely available — but the option is there if it feels supportive. A gentle transition to help you integrate the week, rest, and prepare for what's next.https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheMeditationShow?utm_source=search&vanity=TheMeditationShow

In this final meditation of the Strengthening Self-Trust Through Small Wins series, you're invited to reflect on the steady, imperfect, and reliable way you've continued to show up for yourself.Rather than focusing on who you think you should be, this session helps you recognise the version of you that returns again and again — the foundation on which real self-trust is built. Through calming breathwork and reflective imagery, you'll explore how consistency, honesty, and self-connection create confidence that feels grounded and real.A reassuring and integrative practice to help you close the week feeling steady, capable, and supported.

This spiritual inner journey gently guides you beyond the surface of the mind and into the quiet depths of your inner world. Through slow visualization and spacious moments of stillness, this meditation invites deep presence, inner connection, and a return to your most grounded, aware self. Designed to feel like a living inner landscape rather than a traditional meditation, this journey supports spiritual integration, nervous system calm, and profound inner rest. Ideal for deep reflection, soulful grounding, or moments when you long to reconnect with something steady, wise, and timeless within.

In this 10-minute meditation, you're invited to soften the pressure to feel motivated and reconnect with self-trust through gentleness and consistency.Rather than pushing against low energy, this session supports you in learning how to show up for yourself in small, honest ways — even on the harder days. Through calming breathwork and reflective guidance, you'll explore how compassion, flexibility, and realistic effort build lasting self-trust.A grounding practice for anyone learning to stay connected to themselves without burnout, self-judgment, or pressure.

It’s two in one today! Here’s what you’ll hear from Episode 16 and 17 from Season 1: The guys are together and recording live! Anthony runs in the snow for the first time Steven runs in Chad’s basement facing the wall by himself The Gomers run together for the first time!! Anthony kicks around a no fast food 2009 The first teaser that this might continue after the half marathon. The guys are getting very nervous because people are paying attention now Steven’s dad can’t listen to the podcast because he’s too worried about him Cinnamon Challenge is teased Mario Kart Here are our 2025 specials, avalable for purchase now! Remember: DO NOT PURCHASE THESE THROUGH THE PATREON APP ON IPHONE unless you want to pay a 40% upcharge. Do it through your browser on your computer or phone instead. Go to www.patreon.com/twogomers or press AND HOLD one of the links below and open in your browser – it will take you directly to the Patreon website (not app) to purchase. Thank you for helping us get to and run the big race in January! $10 Special: The Gomer Gift Exchange $20 Special: Steven’s Top Ten Books of 2025 + The Gomer Gift Exchange $50 Special: Anthony’s Christmas Bassoon Quartet, “All I Want For Christmas is Two (Gomers), Steven’s Top Ten Books and The Gomer Gift Exchange $100 Special: A Special Thank you From the Gomers, Anthony’s Christmas Bassoon Quartet, “All I Want For Christmas is Two (Gomers), Steven’s Top Ten Books and The Gomer Gift Exchange

Big Moves as ECI Starts 2nd Round of SIR in West Bengal | 1 Cr Deletions Make Mamata Didi Nervous

What if your weight struggles, cravings, emotional eating, and stubborn belly fat were never about discipline — but about stress?In this episode, I'm breaking down the one hormone that quietly controls your metabolism, hunger signals, fat storage, emotional regulation, and eating behaviors — your stress hormone.This conversation goes far beyond food rules and diet culture and into the real driver of self-sabotage: your nervous system state.In This Episode, I'll Teach You:Why Cortisol Is the Master HormoneCortisol isn't the enemy — it's your body's survival hormone. But when it stays elevated, your body shifts into protection mode, prioritizing survival over fat release, digestion, and emotional regulation.When cortisol is high:Metabolism slowsCravings increaseHunger hormones riseSatiety signals shut downFat storage is favoredYour body isn't broken — it's responding exactly the way it was designed to.How Chronic Stress Drives Emotional EatingI explain how constant stress — emotional, psychological, physical, or environmental — creates a cycle of:Blood sugar spikes and crashesIntense cravings“Out of control” eating momentsShame and self-blameAnd why trying to diet from this state only makes the cycle worse.The Hidden Reason Willpower FailsWhen cortisol is elevated, the prefrontal cortex goes offline — the part of your brain responsible for logic, decision-making, and restraint.That's why you can know exactly what to do… and still feel unable to stop.This isn't a character flaw — it's biology.How Cortisol Impacts Other HormonesYou'll hear how chronic stress disrupts:Thyroid hormones → slowed metabolismInsulin → blood sugar chaos and fat storageEstrogen → PMS, PCOS symptoms, water retentionMuscle tissue → metabolic slowdownWhen one hormone becomes dysregulated, it creates a cascade throughout the entire body.Why Weight Gain Often Shows Up in Your 40sIt's not “just menopause.”This phase of life often comes with:Increased emotional responsibilityCaregiving stressLoss, grief, or major life transitionsThe nervous system adapts to chronic survival mode — and the body responds accordingly.How to Begin Regulating CortisolHealing doesn't start with harder workouts or stricter diets.It starts with:Nervous system safetyThought awarenessReducing perfectionismNourishment (not restriction)Rest and recoveryAddressing unresolved emotional stressHealth truly begins from the shoulders up.Key TakeawaysCortisol isn't bad — chronic stress isFat loss begins with stress regulation, not restrictionEmotional eating is a symptom, not a failureHealing the stress response changes everythingClosing ReminderYour body is not working against you.It's responding to stress the only way it knows how.When you create safety — everything changes.Listen to more episodes at makepeacewithfood.com/podcast or subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and YouTube.Listen to more episodes at www.makepeacewithfood.com/podcast or subscribe to me on Spotify, Podcast, and YouTube so you never miss an episode!Join my Facebook Community: www.myfoodfreedomlifestyle.com Work with me: www.sherryshaban.com/transform Go deeper: www.makepeacewithfood.com Share your biggest takeaway and tag me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn

What if “leveling up” has nothing to do with doing more, pushing harder, or chasing the next goal?In this honest 2025 wrap-up episode, Louise, one of the world's leading health, fitness and performance experts, reflects on a year that changed her in ways she never expected. While the outside markers of success were there, running strong, looking more fit, exponential business growth and endless client wins, the real transformation happened internally. She opens up about the unexpected ways burnout can show up, perimenopause, nervous system overload, and the pressure women feel to constantly prove themselves in a loud, opinion-driven wellness world.Louise shares why she stepped back from social media, returned to science over trends, and recommitted to deeply personal, holistic work with her clients. She challenges black-and-white thinking around hormones, HRT, fitness, and health, making space for nuance, choice, and individual needs. Most importantly, she reframes success as energy, presence, health, and alignment, not hustle or scale.This episode is especially meaningful for ambitious active women navigating perimenopause, burnout, or a quiet sense that the old way of pushing just isn't working anymore. It's a reminder that slowing down can be the most powerful step forward, and that working with your body, not against it, changes everything.Check out my blog's new bonus free resource “Is it perimenopause, running burnout or BOTH? Here are predictive biomarkers to track BEFORE burnout.”: https://www.breakingthroughwellness.com/blog Learn & level up with my free nutrition guide and award-winning Badass Breakthrough Academy to thrive through perimenopause with less stress: https://www.breakingthroughwellness.com/Link to our FullScript where you can see our curated best supplement picks & save 20% off: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/breakingthroughwellness/store-start Take advantage of our podcast listener discount and save 20% off all of Kion's science-backed clean products: https://www.getkion.com/pages/maximizingEpisode Highlights:(0:00) Intro(4:08) Redefining what leveling up means(5:37) Burnout behind high achievement(7:21) What holistic care really means(10:31) Making space for the gray(12:54) Choosing science over noise(16:00) Cynicism as a burnout signal(20:21) Why calories in calories out fails(22:31) Nervous system first, always(25:30) Choosing life over hustle(29:31) Healing requires space(32:53) Learning to value your work(43:26) Lessons that changed everything(47:07) A healthier path forward(48:07) OutroTune in weekly to "Maximizing Hormones, Physique, and Running Through Perimenopause" for our simple female-specific science-based revolution. Let's unlock our best with less stress!I'd love to connect!Instagram

It's another Amnesia Christmas!!! Join us as we talk about megachurch grifts, New Years resolutions (smoking cigarettes and eating hot dogs, duh!), and our “favorite” Christmas prisoner, Jody Arias. Write us some of your cringe stories at nervouslaughterpodcast@gmail.comThe socials: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

 Quaranteam - Dave In Dallas: Part 3 Houses Belsus bonds over pain. Based on a post by RonanJWilkerson, in 12 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels. Becca took a small sip of her drink. Her eyes flared lightly, but she didn't cough or choke. "Dave, tell me a story from when you were younger. Something stupid you once did." Dave's head fell back against the couch. "Oh boy. I didn't do any of the usual stupid stuff. Far too insular for that, no group of friends to drag me into wild, hilarious mistakes." Dave thought for a minute, trying to decide if he should tell this particular story. Or if he could. Hell, they were stuck living with him, they deserved to know. "Okay, so this happened in my second summer of college. I was tutoring a lot, and one lady in particular met with me at least once a week. Really nice person, pretty too. Her name was Kim Dawson. She'd gone all in on the late 80's media image of what pretty looked like; dyed blonde hair, boob implants, blue contact lenses. That helped her professionally of course; she worked as a stripper and did well enough to pay her tuition out of pocket, plus a small but nice rent house for her and her son." "You went to her house?" Dave nodded while swallowing the sip he'd just taken. "After the first several sessions, we got comfortable with each other, and it was helpful to her for me to come over on days she didn't have classes, especially if she had to go to work after our tutoring session." Dave paused for a moment, gathering the courage to continue. "So, about two months after we started working together, I'm at her house, sitting at her dinner table. It's a small round table to one side of her kitchen. Like I said, it's a small house, but good condition and she kept it well. Big enough for her and a six year old. Anyway, she gets up to take a brain break and decides she's going to change. She wasn't heading to work, and had come back from running errands, so she wanted to put on something more comfortable." Dave noted the ladies exchanging glances amongst themselves. "Just,; don't judge okay?" He paused again for a moment. "She left her bedroom door open, but the table was well away from the door, like a big angle away." Another look shared. "I didn't follow her with my eyes or anything, but she started talking to me through the open door, so naturally I turned my head towards the door. There was a mirror on the wall that I could see. Now, no, no she wasn't visible in the mirror. At least not from the angle and distance I was at." The looks passing among the ladies were both cryptic in the specifics and utterly obvious in the general meaning. "Oh, I forgot to mention that earlier we had discussed payment. She said this might have to be the last session for a while because she didn't think she could afford to pay. I had told her we could work something out." Three sets of eyebrows raised. "No, not like that. I just assured her I'd let her pay it out if she needed to. I was trying to be accommodating. She needed the help, she put in the work, I was just trying to be helpful." "Oh, baby." Jan said sympathetically. Dave winced. "So then she says she can't hear me well and asks me to come to the door to talk to her." He sighed. "I didn't. I told her I couldn't, I didn't want to violate her privacy. I don't think those were the actual words I used, but it was something like that." Dave couldn't even look at the others, just stared up at the ceiling. "She insists, says she strips to a G-string multiple times a night and she's already in a bra and shorts, she's just looking for a shirt, so it's no big deal." Another sigh. "Then she finally says she wants me to come back there; to; be with her. She; she said I could sleep with her in exchange for tutoring." "Oh my god, David you didn't did you?" Lupie asked. "No, no of course I didn't. And that was the problem. I couldn't. I felt frozen. What she was asking me to do was against everything I'd been taught about being a good guy. And I had nothing against her, but I'd been taught that all the guys at the strip club were abusing her, and I didn't want to do the same, so I stayed put and told her I couldn't do that to her, we can work something else out. After a bit more back and forth, she got pissed and told me to leave. My legs had been frozen the entire time, locked up. I finally managed to force myself up and walked out." All three ladies were absolutely silent. "That wasn't the end of it. After waiting a week, I tried calling a few times to see if she wanted a tutoring session. She never answered." More silence. "Two semesters later, I take organic chem, and one of my classmates and study partners is a friend of Kim's. I didn't know that at first, she waited until we had been working together awhile. She finally told me it was a ruse. Kim made enough in two or three nights to pay rent for a month, and another four covered all the groceries for a month. Mind you, this was early 90's so a lot of things were cheaper. Hell, gas was barely over a dollar a gallon. Kim had set it up to make a fantasy play and I blew it. According to Beth, Kim felt hurt. That was absolutely mind boggling to me. I just couldn't accept the idea that I could mean enough to a woman to hurt her in anyway, certainly not by not having sex with her." Becca shifted against him, turning toward him. "Yeah, I know. I'm an idiot." "You really had no idea?" Jan queried. "Not a bit. I just didn't want to hurt her. I didn't want to be the jackass. Turns out I was anyway." "David," Becca asked, "could I get some help with my math?" She kept her tone even, but her face belied her joke. "Oh hush." Becca worried about missing out on college, so Jan suggested she work through some of Dave's history and biography books as a substitute for a history course. The two were downstairs in the library, reading and talking. This left Lupie and Dave alone in bed. Both were certain it was not a mere coincidence. Lupie curled into Dave's side, her head resting on his chest. She wore a light camisole. He wore his usual; nothing. "David, I wanted to thank you for backing me up the other morning with Esme." "You're welcome. I just thought it was important she not get the idea she can play me against you." Lupie snuggled him tighter. "Still, I think it fair you know what she was about to say." "Only if you think it necessary." "It's a little embarrassing. I thought she was asleep. And I thought I was being quiet." Lupie paused, blushing. "Still it has been several years since I've,; um;” "Gotcha." "Yes, so, um, there have been times when I've; taken care of certain needs. And I was thinking of you. She must have been awake and heard me call your name." Lupie's head was buried as hard into his chest as possible without breaking ribs. "Well, now you don't have to imagine. You have me, and I have you." "You're not upset?" "More like flattered. And frustrated with myself. If I'd picked up on some signs, maybe;” "Let's not go down the 'what if' road David. You're right. We have each other now. We'll build from here." Dave tightened the hug for a moment. "You know, I passed by when you were on your computer earlier. It's kinda cool to see you work. You have this penetrating gaze, like you're dissecting everything you read, weighing each word in a balance and jettisoning the unworthy." "Hmm, must have been when I was working on that memo about handover protocols. Those details can give anyone a headache." Lupie kissed his jawline. "But I don't want to talk about work now. Just hold me, David." September 23, 2020. "What do you want to make for dinner tonight?" Dave asked as he and Janice entered the kitchen. "Not sure just yet. Tell you what, you check the fridge, I'll go into the pantry and check the shelves. Let's see what we come up with from what we see." "Okay." Dave started scanning the fridge shelves for ingredients when a thought occurred to him. The pantry was private. It had been a day or so for Jan. He walked over and opened the door. "Oh good, I was wondering if I'd have to play damsel in distress needing my big strong man to help me find something in this tight little space." "Well, I do have a probe made especially for tight spaces." He kissed her, balancing hunger with tenderness. Jan hummed into the kiss. She wrapped her arms around Dave's neck and pulled her body against his. "Umm-hmm, and that probe is so very good too." She nibbled lightly on his lower lip. Knowing they had little time, and Jan was up for a quickie, Dave took hold of her slacks and panties at the waist band and pulled them down to her knees. Jan emitted a delighted squeak. Her eyes shone with excitement as he stood and picked her up, carrying her to a bare patch of wall between shelves. He shoved his cargo shorts and boxers to his ankles, then hooked his hands under her thighs and lifted and folded her in one motion as he pressed her to the wall. She gasped and moaned, giving her approval and yielding herself to his power, confident that he would meet her needs as he saw to his own. Dave drove himself into her, the serum effects having made her fully wet already. He slid full length on the first thrust. She groaned happily, hungrily and gripped his shoulders. They were pressed for time, so he pounded into her hot wet tunnel with fervor. Such was her excitement that she reached her first climax in just a few minutes. Desperately trying to contain her enjoyment, Jan bit Dave's shoulder as he accelerated his thrusting, pounding more vigorously than he ever had, racing Jan to a second climax a minute before he burst inside her, kicking her over the orgasmic abyss a third time. Dave stopped, holding her in place as both panted for air. The enclosed pantry suddenly felt hot and muggy. His legs felt wobbly. He carefully lowered her legs to the ground, allowing himself to fall outside of her as he did so. Jan pouted for a moment, then dropped to her knees to clean off his cock. "Can't make a mess in here now can we?" She said with a wink. She pulled his shorts up before drawing her own pants into place. Then she sauntered out the door. Dave followed, but nearly ran into her when she stopped short two steps out the door. Lupie and Becca stood there, smirking and clapping. Jan blushed and turned, burying her face in Dave's chest. "Get over it girl, we're all gonna catch each other like that once in a while." Becca said. "I'll remind you of that when it's you," Lupie razzed. Dinner was only a little late, but it was good. Lupie winkingly attributed the good taste to the fact it was made with love. September 24, 2020. Dave looked into the kitchen and saw Lupie at the counter, her back to him, working away. He walked carefully up behind her and gently placed his hands on her hips. She started for a second, then settled into him, allowing her back to rest on his chest. She laid her work down and lay her head on his shoulder. "Hmm. This, this right here." Dave turned his head to hers and they shared a slow, soft kiss as he brought his hands around to her abdomen. They rocked slowly together, swaying to unheard music. What Dave had intended as a happy little moment escalated when Lupie started grinding her rear against his crotch. A moment later, she brought his hands up to her tits. Dave was caught between excitement and control. He very much wanted to paw at her lovely mounds. A wonderfully medium size, Lupie's tits were just barely less than a handful. About as pert as could be natural for a woman in her early thirties. She moaned as he groped. Lupie spun in his arms, kissed him, grabbed his hand, and took off to the bedroom. Dave kept up easily, grinning and laughing the whole way. He stopped her twice to pull her in for a kiss. Once the door closed, they each ripped off their own clothes and sprinted to the bed. Lupie pulled Dave on top of her, her legs apart, insistently rubbing her body against him. "Hungry much?" "What's going on is a tragedy of epic proportions, but I also feel more free than I have in ages. Since I was a teen. Now fuck your bitch in heat David." She snagged his head in her hands and kissed him passionately. Her legs wrapped around him, leaving him enough room to maneuver himself to her entrance. Her own thrusting and abundance of lubrication had him sinking deep into her the moment he lined himself up. She kept up her pelvic motions, timing them with Dave's thrusting. They fucked frantically, frenetically, neither pausing or relenting until Dave burst into Lupie, shooting several thick ropes into her warm, waiting depths. Lupie shuddered with his emissions, griping him tightly with her arms, legs, and inner muscles. They lay panting for a few moments and then looked at each other and laughed. September 25, 2020. Friday mid-morning found Dave on the couch, debating a point of fandom with Becca. "Picard was way wilder than Kirk. They just seem the other way around in contrast with their first officers." "That's crazy talk, Becca. Picard is the staid diplomat that negotiates treaties. Kirk is the bar-room brawler that fought every alien in the sector, or bedded them." "Kirk was the A-student that cheated on the big final exam but got a pass afterward since he was a teacher's pet. Picard was an athlete and got into a bar fight with Naussicans. And got stabbed through the heart." "How dare you speak so insultingly of Jean-Luc the great?" Dave mock-scowled. "Because he's good but not great." Becca giggled. "Blasphemy! I'll shall exorcise the demon from your mind young one!" "And just how to do you plan on doing that?" The grin was the same, but her eyes had picked up a hungry glimmer. Dave did not answer. He lunged at her, hands reaching for her ribs. And then he began tickling her. Becca let out an "Oh!" As Dave barreled into her, pressing her against the couch arm. As soon as he began tickling her, she let out a loud happy shriek, followed by a series of cackles. Dave relented briefly and she caught her breath. Becca gave him a quick kiss, then slipped from under him, heading for the stairs with a look over her shoulder. With a huge grin, Dave shot after her, catching her at the top of the stairs and tickling her again. Her legs gave out from under her during the pleasant bombardment on her sides. He scooped her up and carried her the rest of the way to the bedroom. He kicked the door shut, then walked over and tossed her on the bed before jumping atop her, kissing and groping. She responded in kind, hungry and happy. They started shedding clothes wildly, paying no heed to where they landed. Mutually nude, mutually aroused, hands roaming they rolled on the bed. Dave slipped his hands to her ribs again. Becca squealed in anticipation just as he began to tickle her. Laughing and cackling she wiggled about, half-heartedly trying to escape his grasp. In the commotion, Dave still managed to align himself with her entrance, and pushed himself partially inside. He stopped his assault on her ribs just as he penetrated. A cross between a gasp and a sigh ushered from Becca. Eyes closed, she grinned wildly. Dave drove himself slowly, methodically within her. She draped her hands around his back and her legs around his waist. A look of blissful contentment blazed forth from her. He coaxed her to climax three times before finally allowing himself to spill into her. Afterward, they lay spooning in bed, Dave's chest against Becca's back, his right arm draped over her side, hand resting on her tummy. Breathing, just being close. Until Dave heard soft sobs from her. "Becca?" "I'm sorry. It felt so great, and then I thought about telling my Aunt Teresa about how my life is changed, how good I feel in bed with you, having you in my life like this." She shuddered with grief. "She's; she's; I'll never get to talk with her again. She's the one; I could talk to. When mom was stuck on rote doctrine, Aunt Teresa talked to me. Even if she echoed mom's position, she talked to me. Now they're all just gone." Dave held her firmly, letting her cry, letting her know he was there with her. After several minutes of silence, he spoke. "We live in dark times, beloved. For now anyway, happiness comes in bursts, sadness in buckets." He paused to compose himself. "We cling together to weather the storm. Separately, we may all drown." She placed her hand on his, reassuring herself he was there, as she cried herself to sleep. She never noticed his tears falling in her hair. September 28, 2020. Dave opened the door, half-expecting a National Guardsman with a woman to add to his house. He wasn't wrong. The lady in question stood ready, with a bright smile. A telegenic smile. And Dave recognized her after a moment. "Holy crap. You're Shawna Cooper! How the hell did you wind up here?" "Well, according to Oracle, you were my best match at 93%" with that same rich, assuring voice he'd come to appreciate from the TV. "Wow, okay." Dave paused to sign the form. He hadn't paid too much attention the first two times so he scanned the document quickly. He burst out laughing. The soldier grinned. "Yeah, some chairborne ranger had a little fun with that one." Shawna looked at him funny. "Something I should know?" "I'll tell you inside, with the others. They should hear this too." Dave waved as the military truck pulled away, then lead Shawna into the living room. The rest of the house must have heard the door. All three ladies currently bonded to Dave were already in the living room. "Hello" said Shawna, cautiously attempting to engage the other women. "Hey aren't you; " "Shawna Cooper, Senior Meteorologist at WFAA. Although, I may get promoted to Chief Meteorologist soon." A short round of congratulations circulated for the next minute. "Wow, Dave, you're accumulating a real smorgasbord of women. A blonde, a Latina, an Asian woman, and now a black woman." Jan smirked. Dave shook his head and closed his eyes. Shawna chuckled. "If she hadn't said it, I would have." "I'm surrounded by smart alecks." "Each of whom was selected by a computer especially for you." Apparently, the new arrival wasn't giving a holiday on sass. The playful smile on her face was already enchanting Dave's heart. "God help me." "He did David, He sent you us." Lupie punctuated her statement with a quick kiss. The others laughed. "Okay, what was that at the door about the form?" Shawna inquired. "And something about an airborne ranger?" Dave smiled. "No, a chairborne ranger. It's the army version of a desk jockey. Someone that works an army office job, but probably has a bunch of military memorabilia. They think they're a badass, but they've never been in the field without a GP medium and a heater." "You served?" Jan asked. "No, but I had a good friend that was special forces. Taught me a lot." A grey cloud of uncertainty fell across Dave's face. He shook it off. "Anyway, desk jockeys handle the paperwork and sometimes make new forms. All government forms are identified by letters signifying the department that created it, followed by some numbers. The form I have to sign when y'all get dropped off must have been created by an army guy because it's Form DA-6969-R." After a two count, the meaning of the numbers sank in and everyone burst out laughing. "Hmm, now that's giving me ideas" purred Shawna, her eyes slightly hooded. "I try to give each of you some time to get used to me and the house before making that last leap." Lupie piped up, "But we do have precedent for no delay." Becca blushed. "Oh, poor baby," Shawna teased, "did the pretty little blonde jump your bones before you were ready?" "There were some extenuating circumstances, which you will learn in time. I'm sure it will be part of the family story as we go forward. We did know each other before she got vaxxed, so I had some comfort level that she wanted this without the serum effects." "Could I get a quick thumbnail description?" "I'm Dave's next door neighbor." Lupie pointed through the wall towards her house. "Becca was my babysitter," Becca gave a shy smile and a head nod "who was watching Esme, my daughter when the lockdowns hit. We all worked together, staying isolated to get through all this. When the CDC guy came, Becca and I asked Dave to request us. Jan," the lady mentioned waved her hand "was delivered the next morning to Dave's house as we were picked up to get the shot. Something bad happened at the vax center that I don't want to go in to fully at the moment, so Becca was adamant about not waiting when we arrived. Our tender loving man didn't get to be as tender with Becca's first time as he intended." "Sounds like I have a lot to catch up on later." A look of sorrow settled on Shawna. "I'm sorry to ask but where is Esme?" "Oh, she's upstairs reading. We didn't want her down here in case the conversation got a little; risqué." Lupie replied. "She's nine. According to the CDC people, she'll be safe when she reaches eleven. I didn't understand the full explanation, but the important part is she is safe and will remain safe from this thing." "Got it, so no mounting Dave on the couch." "Preferably not." Lupie's Cheshire cat grin matched Shawna's. "Then I think it's time we headed upstairs, tender loving man." In the bedroom, with the door firmly shut, Dave and Shawna stood before each other, gazing at each other's face, eyes roaming across the other's body. "Nervous?" Shawna asked. "Never been with a black woman before?" "My lifetime dance card is a little short, so yeah, still working through the nerves somewhat." Dave temporized. "And no, actually, I've never been with a black woman, but I suspect all the parts work the same." That made her laugh. "See, I can be a smart ass too. Actually, until the last week, I'd never been with a Latina, and Asian woman, or a blonde. Well, not a natural blonde. And I've dated a Latina, but it never went that far." Shawna kissed him. Dave gratefully accepted the interruption of his babbling and joined her. Lips gently merging, pressing. Slowly probing with tongues. Twirling against each other. Mutual tongue stroking turned to suckling on each other's tongue. Hands rubbed backs, pulling insistently. Her soft upper body sandwiched between them. His hands roamed to her sides, then to her bosom. Dave began unbuttoning her blouse. Shawna pulled Dave's t-shirt over his head. "Hmm, nice. Fit without being gross. I like a man that finds balance. Huh." Dave kissed Shawna's neck at the clavicle, suckling and licking. His hands finished with her buttons, he shucked her shirt over her shoulders and she shrugged to drop the shirt off. Cupping her bra-clad bosoms from below, Dave dove into Shawna's cleavage, reveling in the feel of her ample tits surrounding his face. "Yeah baby. Feast on these boobs. You lovin' the size or the taste baby? I'm different than the others in both respects." "Infinite diversity in infinite combination." Dave lifted his head to speak. He brought his hands around to the back to unclasp her lacy orange bra, but couldn't find the mechanism. He pulled his head back from her chest to focus his eyes. Shawna just chuckled as his hands came back to the front, in the center of her bra to release the imprisoned twins. Her hands roamed his back and tousled his hair as he dallied with her chest. With her bra tossed away, Dave took a nipple in his mouth and suckled. Shawna gasped and hummed appreciatively. Her hands moved down his sides, seeking his waist band. She caught hold of his shorts, hooked her fingers beneath them and his boxers, and shoved both to his ankles. One hand grasped his shaft, the other massaged his testicles. Dave groaned from the stimulation of her efforts. "Yeah baby, that's it. You and me, we're gonna give each other a lot of happy." Shawna cooed into his ear before nibbling on it. Dave switched his attention to the other nipple. One hand teased the wet nipple, while the other dropped to the waist band of her slacks. One handed, he unbuckled her belt and unsnapped her pants. He worked the zipper a few inches down one handed also, until they loosened. Then he tugged downward, revealing her lacy orange panties. Dave caught her under the curve of her rump in both hands and lifted her to his body. Shawna squeaked and then hummed her approval as he continued to nibble her neck. She wrapped her legs around his waist. In two steps, he had them at the edge of the bed. Dave crawled onto his knees on the bed and brought his hands under her shoulder blades before lowering their torsos to the bed. Dave hooked his fingers through the thigh straps of Shawna's panties and slipped them from her. Her naked essence now exposed, Dave brought his face to her core and inhaled deeply, reveling in the scent of an aroused woman. He pressed in, his lips and tongue investigating his new partner, caressing her most intimate area. "Hmm, baby that feels so nice, but I need you in me." Shawna tugged at Dave's head. "Dock that thing in the shuttle bay captain." Dave crawled up over top of her with a huge grin on his face. She was sloppy wet below, so he slid in easily as he moved up her body. They were instinctively in sync so that they aligned themselves without discussion or fumbling. Dave was aroused as well, of course, to the point he already had a few beads of precum at the tip of his cock. As he entered, Shawna's body stiffened, then shook. She let out a loud groan as all the air left her lungs. Dave held her until the shaking stopped. "Damn," she said when she caught her breath, "they weren't lyin'." Hunger dominated her features as a wicked smile spread over her face. She rolled them, still connected, taking the top spot. "Ride 'em cowgirl." Shawna laughed as she began rolling her hips, her body writhing sinuously with the motion. Her bounteous tits swayed rhythmically, hypnotically. Dave grasped them, curling his torso up to bring his mouth to her pec pillows and feasted greedily upon the supple flesh. Shawna moaned louder with the attention. Her hips moved faster, beginning to hop an inch or so with each swish of her hips. "Let's kick this to Warp 10 baby." Shawna braced her hands on Dave's shoulders, pushing him flat to the mattress. Using him as an anchor, she began lifting and lowering herself along his rod, riding him hard and fast. Immediately her vocalizations were louder, more primal. Dave could feel the tremors rising in her body just as his own arousal raced to the peak. Dave held off for several minutes before letting loose. As she received his load, Shawna's body shook like she had gripped a live electrical wire. Her torso collapsed on to him like a marionette with the strings cut. Dave heard her chant "Imprinting;” twice before the room started to spin and everything went black. September 29, 2020. When Dave awoke, he was alone in bed. For a moment, by the light level, he thought it had only been a few hours. Then he noticed the angle of the shadows and realized it wasn't later that afternoon, it was several hours past the following daybreak. On the plus side, he felt great. And,; something was wrong. He couldn't place it. No, was something right? It'd be easier to concentrate if Esme's giggles from the kitchen weren't punctuating his thoughts. He couldn't hear any words, but the background sounds sure made it seem like she was helping someone in the kitchen. What? How the hell could he hear them that far away? He hadn't heard that well since his early twenties. And Where The Hell Was His Tinnitus? Ho-lee shit. The high-pitched whine that filled his days and haunted his nights was gone. Shit, now it would be easier to hear women and kids again. Dave barely remembered to throw on shorts and a shirt before sprinting downstairs. He picked up Esme and spun her around. "I hear you! I hear you! All the way up in the bedroom and I could hear you!" He hugged her close. She giggled, once she realized he wasn't mad. Dave set her down and gave her a big kiss on her forehead. "You are officially my favorite stepdaughter." This apple didn't fall far from the tree. She narrowed her eyes and grinned. "I'm un-officially your only stepdaughter." "Still my favorite." He said, his voice receding with him. Dave went upstairs to his office. He had a Zoom call to make that he'd been putting off. "Hi, Uncle Dave." The deep brown eyes, framed by pale skin and equally brown hair of Olivia Barnes stared back at Dave from the screen. Her father's hawkish features softened by the influence of her mother's rounder ones. Except the skin around her eyes was reddened, and somewhat puffy. Dave feared he knew why his goddaughter had been crying. It had been more than a month since he'd heard from his best friends, Carter and Janelle Barnes. "Hey Livy Bean." Maybe his longtime nickname for her would be comforting, of a sort. She did brighten slightly. Like a slightly less dim twilight. "Sorry I haven't called in a while. Things have been changing a bit around here." "Oh, that's fine." She couldn't have sounded more like Eeyore if she tried. "I just; " Olivia was cut short by the playful screech of Esme rocketing into the room, obviously being pursued. She hid behind Dave's chair as Becca entered. "Hey, you two, settle down, I'm on a Zoom call." "Oh, sorry." Both said. "Dave?! What the hell are people doing in your house! Why aren't you quarantining!?" "Yeah, that's part of the busy." Dave looked to Becca and Esme, starting to leave. "Don't go just yet. I should introduce you. Liv, this is Esme, she's the daughter of Lupie, my next door neighbor. Becca was Esme's babysitter doing a long-term babysit when the lockdowns started. We quarantined in separate houses, but worked together to make sure we each had what we needed." They each waved as their names were mentioned. "I recognize the names from earlier conversations. So how are they in your house now Dave?" Energized by questions that needed answering, Olivia strangely seemed more alert than at the beginning of the call. Dave shooed Esme out, Becca following after her and shutting the door. "About two weeks ago now, a guy came to my door, telling me they had a vaccine for this virus. But it has some weird effects." "What kind of weird effects?" Olivia's redheaded roommate Melanie Ustanich popped her head into view. "Well, they can't give the vaccine to men at all. At least not directly." This is not the way he had intended this conversation to go, but here they were. "Women can take the vaccine, and then; transmit the immunity to a man." "How?" Melanie asked with a scowl. "Oh boy. That's were this gets surreal." Dave temporized. "Giving the vaccine directly to a man is 100% fatal. But, a woman can share her immunity with a man directly, through, um,; intercourse." "Okay, I'm calling bullshit." Melanie huffed out of frame. By her footstep sounds, she left the room Olivia was transmitting from. "That's crazy Uncle Dave." "Yeah, that's what I said. But then I red all the documentation, I took the survey. And I have four partners." "Four?" "The effects of the vaccine only partially transmit to the man, and have to be reinforced by frequent; contact. In order to keep a man; safe; he should have multiple partners." Dave winced. "Last I heard, the ultimate goal is twelve to fifteen women per man. And it's permanent. Once a woman gets the vaccine and; sleeps with a man, sleeping with any other man would be dangerous, even fatal." Dave paused while Olivia absorbed what he'd just said. "It's for a lifetime, Liv. Look, if you know someone you think you can make it work long-term with, you should find him and talk to him. The people doing the vaccination should be getting out to Stephenville in another week or so. Maybe you can find someone suitable by then." Dave squirmed in his seat. "I don't have to look anywhere Dave. I know who I'd want to bond with for the rest of my life. The same man I've yearned for; for years." "Good, you should call him immediately. And tell your roommate to think about who she'd want to partner with. And she might want to consider the same guy." With a small smirk Liv replied. "Not a bad idea. This guy likes redheads. But he has a blind spot though. Has trouble noticing when women like him. Especially younger women. He keeps passing it off as infatuation. 'Just a crush'." "Well maybe you need to; " Dave stopped with his mouth hanging open, frozen. He had to remind himself to blink. "Dave, you ok? Do I need to turn you off, then turn you back on?" The sarcasm snapped him out of it. "Very funny Liv." He gathered his thoughts, or tried to. They kept scattering like cats at bath time. "I'm more than twice your age Olivia. I changed your diapers for god's sake! I helped raise you. You came to me when you were afraid to talk to your parents. Biologically it's not incest, but damn." "It's not the same David! Please; " a knock at the door interrupted them. Shawna slipped in. "Is everything okay in here?" She brought herself into the camera's field of view. "Uh, hi. I'm Olivia, David's goddaughter. Who are you?" "I'm his newest partner. I just imprinted yesterday." Shawna settled gently on Dave's thigh, keeping part of her weight on her feet. "Imprinted?" "That's what they call the binding process that happens when the vaccine serum mixes with a man's semen inside a woman's body." "Huh." Olivia looked pensive. Melanie had come back into view. Presumably, she'd been in hearing range for a minute or so. Olivia squinted at the screen, as if trying to pick out an important detail. "Anyone ever tell you that you look like the weather lady on channel 8?" "It's been known to happen." Shawna said coyly. "You may have noticed I wasn't on the air last night. And I won't be for two more nights. Vaccination leave. Some places give longer, but there's only so much staff at the station these days. I couldn't drop that much load on the rest of the weather room staff." "Oh wow. Wow. Just. Okay. This is a lot all at once." Behind Olivia, Melanie typed furiously on her phone. When the site she searched for came up she held the phone out, as if beside Olivia's laptop screen, her eyes scanning back and forth between the two. "No fucking way. Your uncle is banging the channel 8 weather chick?" Shawna's eyes narrowed. "I have a master's degree in meteorology. I have five years' experience storm chasing, another four years' experience at NSSL, and six years' experience at the station. I am a scientist as well as a broadcaster. I am not a weather chick. Hell, I have three scientific papers as the PI." Melanie looked cowed. "I'm sorry. I got a little caught up in the moment. You're right that was out of line." She paused. "Wait, you're a detective too? How does that work?" "No," Shawna said with a hand to the bridge of her nose, "PI is principal investigator; it's the polite term on a scientific team for the HMFC; head motherfucker in charge." Dave stroked her thigh, keeping his face blank. He wasn't going to laugh at her phrasing, nor admonish her harshness. "Yeah, now I need to dial it back. Sorry girls." "Don't. It's fine. Kinda funny actually." Melanie's face began receding from its earlier attempt to match her hair color. "I apologize for being brusque, but can we get back to the topic at hand?" Olivia pleaded. "David, have you ever noticed or wondered why all my relationships never lasted longer than three months?" "I just figured they weren't good enough for you." "Well, you're not wrong there. I measured them; all of them; against you and they came up wanting." "I would have thought a better comparison would be your dad. I mean, let's face it, he's a much more manly guy than me." Dave hoped he'd kept the bitter tone out of his voice. No one showed any hint it registered with them. "I never wanted to fuck dad." Olivia stared at him like she could bore holes in the screen. "Damn girl." Shawna chuckled. Melanie turned her head to Liv with her eyes wide. "When I first heard about how babies were really made and what those parts of me were for, I thought about doing that with you. When I started feeling the desire to have sex, you were the one I wanted to be with. All of you said it was just a girlish crush. I tried dating other guys. I threw myself into relationships with, nice guys, good men, but none of them were you." She paused to catch her breath. Her argument was turning into an emotional plea. "I can't give you my virginity David, but I can give you all of me forever." "Olivia, I; I just; " "David, how about you let us girls talk for a bit. After all, she's been an important part of your life for many years. I'm your brand new partner. I'm sure she has some juicy stories to tell." Shawna winked at the screen. Dave nodded and left. Dave spent some time in the greenhouse, tending the plants and 'smelling the green'. A few grow beds had separated at the corner so he repaired them. He checked the time to find it had been almost two hours since he'd left Shawna on the Zoom call with Olivia. He went back in to discover the ladies all gathered in the library. They shooed him out the moment he opened the door. "Yeah, they wouldn't let me in either. I finished my last book and wanted a new one, but they have some important discussion going on, so here I sit, rotting my brain with TV," Esme said, with air quotes for emphasis. "You could always choose a documentary instead of anime." "You could always eat a tofu burger instead of red meat." Esme giggled. "Blasphemy." Dave said, ascending the stairs. That brought a full chuckle from his nine-year old housemate. Dave sat at his computer, working out a reasonable set of instructions for a physics lab students could do from home, with materials they already had. It was maddening to think they'd gotten a sizable grant only two years ago for some great equipment, which would now sit unused in a storeroom because everything was moving online. His focus was broken by Esme's voice. "Hey Dave, they're in the living room waiting for you. I'll be reading in my room." "Thank you, my sweet Esmeralda." Esme rolled her eyes, but accepted the hug. Entering the living room, Dave found all four of his partners smiling, but serious. In just a moment's read of the resolve written there, he knew which way this was going to go. Huh. Maybe he was getting better at this. He chose a seat that could easily view everyone else's and lowered himself. Then he realized, they probably chose their spots so he'd be in this spot. "So, what's up?" Lupie spoke up. "We think you should accept Olivia, David. Her roommate Melanie is interested, and we think you should accept her as well." "I spoke with both of them for about an hour and a half, David." Shawna added. "Olivia's earnest in her feelings for you. I work beside media types, onscreen talent and production executives. I have a good feel for when someone's bs ing me. If Olivia isn't in love with you, she's very close to that. My bet is, she madly in love with you. She'd be unhappy anywhere else." Dave stared at Shawna. That last bit hit home. Olivia's happiness meant a lot to him. He suspected that last sentence was calculated, not just a lucky shot. He swallowed once and looked away. "You don't understand. I've known this girl since before she was born. I changed her diapers. She's stayed over at my house. I helped her understand boys as she got older. I've watched over her while camping or at the pool. Hell, I've seen her in bikinis since the time she started developing tits and I've never allowed myself to think of her in; lascivious terms." "Do you think she's pretty?" Jan prompted. "Absolutely. She's as lovely as her mother." A very quiet ripple ran through the room. Dave realized he'd left an opening for another tale. One he did not want to get into. "And that's just the wrapping paper. She's got a hell of a lot more than her looks going for her." All the ladies grinned. "David, do you hear yourself?" Lupie prodded. "Not just what you've said, but how you say it?" "Yes, she is dear to me. I'd do anything for her." "Then do the one thing she needs you to do right now. Love her as a woman. Allow your love for her to grow to encompass the physical." Dave breathed heavily. A whole host of emotions welled up within him. "I held her in my hands; hand; when she was only a few hours old. I cleaned her boo-boos when she fell off her bike." He chuckled through tears. "You've given her unconditional love her whole life, David. Is it any wonder she fell in love with you?" "I just worry I'd be betraying their trust." "Who?" Shawna asked. "Carter and Janelle. Livy's parents." "So ask them." Shawna suggested. Dave replied with a pained expression. "I haven't heard from them in over a month. And when we started the Zoom call, Olivia's eyes were red and puffy." A sobering silence held the room in its grasp. "David, wouldn't that mean you're all she's got left?" Lupie asked tenderly. "Yes." Dave sighed. Well, he did know walking in how this would go. "Okay. Okay. I'll contact the vax center and see what it takes to put in a request." "And you need to include Melanie, Olivia's roommate in the request." Shawna added. "I know nothing about her." "We took the time to talk. Olivia told her enough about you she said she would be willing." "That's an awfully thin data set for a life altering decision that you can't take back!" Dave objected. "David," Lupie said in her most soothing tone, "when you requested Becca and me, we still got a sheet of information about you, our match percentage in Oracle, and the chance to say no. If we said no, we'd be given a list of ten other men with their data and match percentages." "This is a lot to take in." Dave paused. "You said a bio and a match percentage?" "Yes." "And she can refuse?" "Yes. "Okay. Hell, I like redheads anyway." Dave smirked. "And she's doing something in computers. That could be very handy. And if she can share a small off-campus house with Livy, she's probably reasonably compatible anyway." "So we're resolved on this?" Becca asked. She'd been quiet during most of the conversation, although she nodded in agreement with some of the points made by the other women. "Yes, Becca, I'll request both of them. I'll call them tomorrow to confirm, then I'll call the vax center." "David, when we finished the call today, I made sure to get a clear answer from each of them." Shawna said. "Go ahead and call the vax center first, then call them to let them know the request is in." Dave stared at her for a moment. "On something like this, I want to ask them myself. Hell, there's a chance with a night to think it over, they may have decided this is a bad idea. But I will call them a second time after I call the vax center." Becca "Um, Dave, so, a friend of mine from school has been talking to me." October 3, 2020. When Dave opened the door he was greeted by an enthusiastic "Woof!" and two paws immediately planted on his chest. "Roscoe!" Dave rubbed the large Rottweiler's flanks and dipped his head to kiss Roscoe's forehead, then quickly back to dodge the dog's tongue. "Oh look, you brought Livy and her roommate with you. Good boy." Dave signed the form, thanked the soldier, and led the ladies and Roscoe into the living room where most of the house waited. Roscoe spotted Esme and bolted to her. She let out a squeak, then giggled as he licked her face. "Roscoe, down! Heel!" The happy canine trotted back to sit beside Olivia's feet as she sat on one end of the couch. "He sure is friendly. I thought Rotts are supposed to be mean, like guard dogs." Becca said. "If you train 'em mean, or abuse 'em sure. Or if they are seriously inbred. You treat 'em like family they will love on you like nobody's business. And rip the head off anyone that hurts the family. So, Esme, you play with Roscoe anytime you want. He'll love it. He's great with kids." Lupie grinned appreciatively at Livy's suggestion. She'd clearly understood Livy's implied meaning of acclimating Roscoe to see Esme as family for the purpose of defending her. "Yeah, when we go to the park for walks, it can be a real job to keep him from running and frolicking with the kiddos." Melanie chimed in. "So where's Shawna?" Liv asked. "Work. Her new partner leave was up. She has the five and six o'clock broadcast, so she won't be back until this evening." "And she's the only one Mel and I have met, so to speak." Liv said dryly. Her big toothy grin capturing attention of everyone. "Although, I've heard bits and pieces about Lupie and Esme over the past few years." Olivia introduced herself, telling everyone she had been a junior studying horticulture at Tarleton State University when lockdowns started. She's into shooting and hunting, and lots of outdoor activities. Becca looked pensive. "Oh, but don't worry," Liv assured her, "I'm usually down for group games and such. I take it your more of an indoor person?" "Mostly. I mean, I like going to the pool, and sometimes the park." Becca's spoke in soft tones. "Great. You show me some games you like, and I'll show you how fun hiking and camping can be. Maybe even teach you how to shoot." "You can do that? I mean, teach me?" "Liv manages to hit the target once in a while." Dave chuckled. "Hey, I'm a better shot than you! I've taken a deer, first shot, every season I've gone out." "I was teasing Liv." Dave temporized. "I'm still working to wrap my head around; this." "Well for me this is the realization of a dream I couldn't let go of and didn't think I'd get." The room fell quiet for a moment. "Oh, one thing about Roscoe, I almost forgot. He has some hearing loss. He's still got some hearing and a great sense of smell, so he won't get jittery when surprised as long as there aren't any unfamiliar scents." "So give him time to sniff us and adjust for a few days before walking up behind him?" Jan smiled. "Sure. That would work. And if he does get spooked, just hold still and let him sniff. By the end of today, he might not register everyone here as family, but he will understand you're all accepted by Dave and me." Another moment of quiet, and all eyes turned to Melanie. "Oh, hi. I'm Melanie Ustanich. I'm Olivia's roommate. I was a senior last year at Tarleton. I'm working on a four plus one degree in cybersecurity and network administration." Melanie's green eyes and hair balanced between coopery and auburn accented the face set in a perpetual impish smile to tell of the Irish part of her ancestry. "Four plus one?" Becca asked. "It means I began working on my master's while I was still an undergraduate. Instead of four years for a bachelor's and then two or three years for a master's, I get both done in five years." "Oh cool." "It should have helped me get into the workforce faster with less student loan debt." Melanie rolled her eyes. "I think we're going to find the financial sector changes a lot with what's going on." Lupie supplied. "Hi, I'm Lupie, Dave's neighbor; well used to be. I also used to be an investment advisor until our firm shutdown." "Oh wow. So like stocks and bonds and shit?" Lupie nodded in reply. "Do any day trading?" "Yeah, it's been handy. The market tanked, but if you know what you're doing you can still manage something positive out of it." "Good to know. And thanks about the loan info. That's something I've been worrying about. Not in school means I have to start paying my loans, but I have no job so I can't, and there's no one answering the phone lines to set up a deferment." "I thought President Pelosi suspended all debt payments and interest accrual until Congress could get together and pass something permanent." "I wish." "I'll check into that later today. You shouldn't have to worry about debts in all this mess." "Thank you, that would be a huge relief if true." "So, Tarleton isn't holding any classes?" Jan asked. "Not this semester. They said they might hold some online classes in the spring, but wouldn't commit to it. They emptied the dorms too, but Liv and I had an off-campus apartment and a trickle of income to cover the basics. We still cut into some savings. The landlord was happy to still have some income, so she cut our rent in half since; May? June?" "June." "Yeah, so that helped." Everyone talked a bit about interests, hobbies, and happenings but eventually the suitcases loomed large and we decided it was time to get Olivia and Melanie's things put away in a dresser like they lived here. They each carried their own up the stairs, only using the roller wheels as they got to the upstairs hallway. "What happened here? Why is the wall patched? Dave?" Olivia curious expression evaporated when she looked at Dave. His face twisted in pain. His heart exploded with repressed mourning. "Eddie." That one word, spoken in anguish, struck Olivia like a poleax. She fell towards Dave in faltering steps as he thumped backwards against the wall and slid down, coming to rest in a wailing mess, his precious Livy Bean clinging to him, sobbing her heart out. Janice looked bewildered. Melanie furrowed her brow. "Liv has a friend named Eddie. They even tried dating, but decided to just stay friends. Really good friends." Lupie came flying up the stairs, having heard the heart-rending cry from below. "What happened?" Melanie and Jan both shrugged, trying to catch up still. "We don't know," Janice replied, "Olivia asked why the wall had been patched. Dave looked like his heart was being ripped out and said 'Eddie' and collapsed. Olivia collapsed with him." Lupie's eyes watered and her hand flew to her mouth. "Oh, David." She squatted beside the weeping pair and placed a hand on Dave's shoulder. The other three looked at each other, mildly frustrated. More mourning and no explanation. Lupie glanced up at the confused trio. "Eddie is David's son." Chapter 5: Healing Begins. October 3, 2020. House Belsus was in mourning. Lupie and Jan got an arm under Dave's armpits and lifted him up, guiding him to the bedroom once he got his feet under him. Becca and Melanie did the same for Olivia. Together, the quartet removed the shoes and socks of the weeping pair and draped a blanket over them. Roscoe trailed behind the troupe, whimpering and trying desperately to get in close to Olivia. He planted himself firmly against her in the bed once she was positioned. The pent-up pain manifested itself in force. Edward, Carter, Janelle. Three faces Dave and Livy would never see again. Three laughs they would never hear again. Three hearts they would never touch or be touched by again. It was just too much to hold in any longer. As he wept, Dave could hear a rustling sound off to the side of the room. He knew one of the women of the household was sitting there, ready if he or Livy needed anything. It was one small reassurance as images of a happy little towheaded boy played through his mind. The boy he barely got to see after the divorce. More images of the angry young man, full of his mother's twisted commentary, coming to him, beginning to realize he may have been lied to. That may be the most painful memory. After years of trying to be a dad, and being rebuffed, his boy had sought him out. They'd rebuilt slowly from there, starting on Edward's fifteenth birthday. Eight years. Eight years he'd had with his son as he grew from his mid-teens into a young, twenty-three year old man. A damn good man. And now he was gone. A memory, frozen in time. Forever young, static and unchanging. Never to find love. Never getting to be a father himself. Eddie would have been a great dad. No more Carter either. His friend from college. The man that taught him the value of being prepared. Guided him to take a martial arts class. Taught him how to use a gun. Taken him hunting and fishing. Without that time with Carter, he never would have been able to take Eddie fishing in those early years before his ex began denying visitation. And sweet Janelle. That lovely face seemed so soft. Most would think she'd never keep up with Carter's active outdoorsy life. They were wrong. She would much rather do nearly anything in the city or suburbs, but the guy she'd fallen for was an avid hiker and camper. She took to it with a borrowed passion that never relented. Janelle did everything with so much energy you'd think she could power a city with her smile and peppy personality. She managed to stay just this side of sickening bubbly though. Thanks to his newly healed hearing, Dave picked up the telltale sounds of two people working in the kitchen. Dinner? How long had he lain here, whimpering like a little bitch? It was time to get up. Dave tightened his hug on Olivia briefly, then released her and went to the bathroom to wash up and take care of needs. And wash from the elbows down. Roscoe had taken to nuzzling and licking his hands and arms in an attempt to soothe. When he returned, Lupie sat on the bed speaking soothingly to a quiet Olivia. Roscoe's head briefly turned from Olivia to give Dave a baleful look as he re-entered the room. A quick whisper brought Olivia's head up and around, rolling slightly to see Dave. She sat up and rose shakily to meet him. He hugged her again, and they each steadied themselves to stave off another crying jag. Liv slipped around Dave to enter the bathroom. Lupie met him where he stood. She placed her arms loosely around his neck, bringing their foreheads together. "I love you, David. I wish you had shared this with me earlier, but I understand why it hurt too much to address." She kissed him softly on the chin, then looked into his eyes. "I'm here for you David. Even if all you can handle is a hug, I'm here for you." She hugged him tightly. Olivia emerged, her face cleansed of tear streaks and make up. She chose not to apply new makeup. Why bother when she's liable to start crying again? Her loose black blouse and the large ruffle attached to the neck showed creases and wrinkles from lying in bed. Her work-style jeans showed no such effects, having been made to take more punishment than lying in bed could dish out. As they passed Esme's room enroute to the stairs, they heard a shout of "Dave!" just before 80 pounds of love bug smacked into the man so named and wrapped her arms around him tightly. Esme had met Eddie a few times, had a few memories of him. More than that, she wanted to console Dave in his grief. He was a figure in her young life and he was hurting. The outpouring was almost enough to set Dave off crying again, but he choked it back. Lupie gave Esme a short time to show her support, then shooed her back to her room with a hug and a kiss. "Did you get something to eat mija?" "Yes, mama. And I have a few good books in my room. I'm good for awhile." The trio continued to the stairs and emerged into the living room. Becca sat on the couch fidgeting, not really watching an anime. When she looked up, she immediately rushed to Dave and hugged him fiercely. Their height difference left her cheek bone pressed against the top of his sternum, the top of her head nestled under his chin. Dave stroked her back softly. "All those times you comforted me about my family, and you never once mentioned Eddie was gone?" She said as she pulled her head back, looking up into his eyes. Her arms remained firmly encircled around his chest, not budging a millimeter. "If I wasn't hurting for you so much, I'd be peeved at you." "Wow, didn't take you long to start talking like a wife." "Better believe it buster." "Yes dear." Her eyes laughed as she pulled him down for a comforting kiss. Their eyes stayed locked for a moment after they broke the kiss. Shawna, Janice, and Melanie slipped in from the dining room after each dropped off an item from the kitchen. Shawna still wore her on-air clothes. Today it was a stylish, breezy blouse in a vibrant shade of orange that contrasted beautifully with her dark skin. A long, loose, tan skirt below it reached to mid-calf at its lowest point, the bottom cut at an angle that exposed her right knee when she walked. She typically wore short heels at work, but had already ditched them somewhere downstairs, her feet bare but for her sheer pantyhose. Without her heels, she was barely an inch shorter than Dave, the tallest among his household. She came straight to him and wrapped him up in a warm hug. In his ear she whispered, "Anytime you need me baby, whatever it is you need, just tell me." Dave nodded and she peeled away. Jan came to him next, gently leading Mel along with her. Jan gave him a chaste kiss on the cheek, her eyes conveying her sorrow and support as eloquently as words or a hug. "I knew you may not be hungry David, but if you are so inclined, I asked Mel to make bruschetta for the grazing meal we've prepared." A week or so ago, Jan's culinary journey had turned to a discussion of favorite appetizers and finger foods. Dave's number one favorite was bruschetta. "Hey now, I just made the olive tapenade and the tomato topping, you assembled it, including toasting the bread." Melanie took Dave by the hand and led him to the table decked out with several offerings, from of course, bruschetta, to deviled eggs, pigs in blankets, and a charcuterie board assembled from things Dave knew they'd had on hand this morning. Except for the bowl of fresh rolls beside it. The aroma of fresh bread permeated the air. "It looks and smells wonderful. Thank you." He gave them each a soft kiss on the cheek. He stepped back to the living room. "Shawna, I take it you are also partly to thank for tonight's spread?" "Oh, they were well along in the making when I got in from work. I just slapped some canned dough around some smokies and baked 'em." He kissed the top of her head and hugged her from behind as she sat in one of the soft chairs. "Thank you." She patted his arm lightly before he pulled away. Not hungry, but wanting to show appreciation for Jan's thoughtfulness, Dave went back to the table and snagged a piece of bruschetta before returning to the living room. The only empty spot was on the couch, with Becca on one side, Olivia on the other and Mel between the arm and Olivia. Dave settled in before taking a bite. "Oh, wow. This is great ladies." Dave said after savoring for a moment. "And Jan, before you try to turn all of it aside to Mel, proper presentation is important. Besides, the toast is perfect. Just the right amount of olive oil, nicely crisp with just a little give. Those are important parts of getting bruschetta right. And; I really appreciate the thought and the effort." "Thank you," Jan beamed. The others took turns getting plates in pairs while everyone engaged in chit chat. To be continued in part 4, Based on a post by RonanJWilkerson, in 12 parts, for Literotica.

Robin Long is the Founder and CEO of Lindywell, a global wellness brand helping women build strength, reduce stress, and find balance through Pilates, nutrition and nervous.system support. What began in her living room has grown into a global digital platform serving tens of thousands of members in over 80 countries - and recently celebrated 10 years of empowering women to feel strong, vibrant, and resilient at every age. Her “grace over guilt” philosophy and sustainable approach to wellness have been featured on The Today Show, LIVE with Kelly & Ryan, Well + Good, and the Lindywell app was voted Best Pilates App by Women's Health Magazine. As a mom of four, Robin is passionate about building a company that aligns with her values - proving it's possible to grow a successful business while prioritizing family, health, and purpose. In this episode, Robin shares how nervous system dysregulation impacts exercise tolerance, blood sugar balance, hormone health, and mental well-being, especially for women in midlife. Together, Erin and Robin unpack why intensity isn't always better, how short consistent movement supports resilience, and how nourishment, breath, and self-compassion create true healing from the inside out. This conversation weaves science, psychology, and faith into a compassionate framework for sustainable strength, calm, and purpose, reminding us that wholeness begins when the body feels safe. Key Topics: - How Pilates rebuilds connection to the body instead of punishing it - The hidden nervous system cost of high-intensity, all-or-nothing workouts - Why consistency matters more than intensity for long-term health - Nervous system dysregulation, burnout, and midlife hormone shifts - How stress and over-exercise contribute to blood sugar dysregulation - Why protein, fat, and fiber stabilize both mood and energy - Nutrition “noise” to let go of (supplement overload, perfectionism) - Why the body can't heal if it doesn't feel safe - Redefining health beyond body size, aesthetics, and fitness culture - Self-compassion as a biological regulator, not just a mindset shift - Honoring your God-given purpose through sustainable care of your body Download Robin's Lindywell app to access her workouts, recipes, and mediations. Follow her on Instagram at @wearelindywell and @robinmarielong Join Erin's monthly mailing list to get health tips and fresh meal plans and recipes every month: https://mailchi.mp/adde1b3a4af3/monthlysparksignup Order Erin's new book, Live Beyond Your Label, at erinbkerry.com/upcomingbook/

If you're a high-achieving woman who knows what her body needs — better sleep, regular meals, boundaries, nervous system support — but still can't seem to follow through, this episode is for you.In this conversation, I break down why “just do it” stops working when you're depleted, over-functioning, or living in survival mode. We explore the real reason information doesn't translate into change, the nervous system science behind self-sabotage, and why your body often chooses familiar discomfort over unfamiliar ease.This episode is about closing the gap between knowing and doing — not with more willpower, but by working with your nervous system instead of against it.IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARNWhy knowing what your body needs doesn't automatically lead to changeWhat the “implementation gap” really is — and why it widens under chronic stressHow functional freeze, fawn, and fight-or-flight show up in high-achieving womenWhy your nervous system resists even positive changeHow depletion becomes a protective state that keeps you small, unseen, or safeThe connection between nervous system dysregulation, chronic fatigue, and weight loss resistanceWhy your body prefers familiar discomfort over unfamiliar easeHow identity — not discipline — determines long-term follow-throughA simple nervous system regulation practice you can use immediatelyWhat actually creates sustainable energy, clarity, and capacity heading into 2026TIMESTAMPS00:09 — Why knowing what to do isn't the problem 01:26 — My 40-day nervous system streak and why consistency didn't stick before 03:35 — Over-functioning, caretaking, and avoiding yourself 05:58 — Functional freeze: doing everything except what actually helps 08:14 — Why information feels safe and implementation feels risky 10:50 — Fight-or-flight: wired, exhausted, and unable to rest 13:00 — Shutdown and depletion: when everything feels like moving through mud 14:05 — Familiar discomfort vs. unfamiliar ease 15:45 — How depletion protects you from visibility, growth, and risk 19:51 — A simple nervous system regulation practice 22:15 — Inside the From Overworked to Optimized workshop 26:00 — How to start closing the gap between knowing and doingRESOURCES MENTIONEDFrom Overworked to Optimized — 3-Day Workshop (January 6–8) A live, paid workshop for high-achieving women ready to move from awareness into real implementation. You'll learn:Nervous system foundations for daily regulationNutrition for steady energy and hormonal supportHow to build boundaries that make follow-through possibleReplays included. Sign up at: mindfullywell.com/optimizedThe Resourced Morning Routine (FREE) A simple, practical morning guide to help your body shift out of stress and into regulation before the day begins.https://mindfullywell.com/morningCONNECT WITH MEInstagram: @melissa_eichWebsite: mindfullywell.comKEYWORDS FOR THIS EPISODEknowing but not doingimplementation gapnervous system regulationfunctional freezehigh-achieving women burnoutchronic fatigue and stresswhy willpower doesn't worknervous system and identitycapacity building for womenstress physiologyweight loss resistance and stressbody-led business sustainable energyfemale founder nervous systemregulating before respondingfrom overworked to optimized

✨Free Nervous System Reset Ritual: https://mfs.myflodesk.com/nervoussystemresetHello, my love

This gentle, soul-led guided meditation is an invitation to pause, soften, and relase the version of you that carried what was never meant to be yours.  In this episode, you'll be guided through a slow body scan and nervous system practice designed to help you unwind tension, come back into your body, and create space for emotional and energetic release. This is a powerful year-end of seasonal ritual for anyone feeling stretched, over-responsible, or ready to close old chapters with compassion instead of force.  This meditation supports: Letting go of old identities and patterns that no longer fit Nervous system calming and embodied presence Releasing emotional and energetic weight Reconnecting to intuition, inner safety, and self-trust Opening to alignment, ease, creativity, and abundance Come back to this meditation whenever you feel the pull to reset, recalibrate, or remember who you are beneath the roles, expectations and noise.  Connect with me: @andreacrispcoach + andreacrisp.ca Original music and production by Stephen Crilly.   

115. 5-MeO-DMT Experience ExplainedA grounded conversation on the 5-MeO-DMT experience—how it affects the nervous system, how it differs from DMT, and why safety and integration matter.Episode SummaryWhat is 5-MeO-DMT, and why do people describe it so differently from other psychedelics?In this episode, April Pride sits down with licensed clinicians and facilitators Roger and Dustin to explore the 5-MeO-DMT experience through both lived experience and emerging neuroscience. Often referred to as the God molecule psychedelic, 5-MeO-DMT is widely described as a non-visual psychedelic experience—one that quiets the nervous system rather than amplifying imagery, stories, or symbols.Together, they break down 5-MeO-DMT vs DMT, explain how this compound interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, and discuss why many people report profound ego dissolution, nervous system regulation, and long-term shifts in how they experience safety and connection.This episode also centers women and psychedelics, examining why women—particularly those who have spent years in control, caretaking, or emotional labor—may feel especially drawn to this form of surrender-based medicine.If you're seeking grounded insight into psychedelic harm reduction, integration after 5-MeO-DMT, and what makes this medicine fundamentally different from other psychedelic experiences, this conversation is an essential listen.

From microplastics and “forever chemicals” in household items—from our kitchens to our bathrooms—to the charred bits of meat on a barbecue grill, to the smoke and fumes we inhale simply by walking through a city, and recently even kimchi (?!), concern about cancer risk seems to be everywhere. Like cancer metastasis itself, the conversation is rapidly spreading across social media and online forums. But how many of these so-called “carcinogens” are truly worth our time, apprehension, and caution?In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Timothy Tiutan, MD (known online as Dr. Tim), a board-certified internal medicine physician, oncology/cancer hospitalist, author of 'The Mediterranean Diet,' and assistant medical professor based in New York City. With nearly two million followers on social media, Dr. Tiutan's unique "edutainment" style delivers pertinent general health and cancer-prevention education to his online audience.Dr. Tiutan received his BA/BS in Spanish and Physiology and MD from the University of Arizona College of Medicine and completed his Internal Medicine residency at Weill Cornell Medical College. Currently, he is an oncology specialist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Medical Contributor at CBS News, the official media spokesperson of the American Cancer Society, and a member of the World Health Organization (WHO) Fides Network, a select group from around the world that combats misinformation in the media and supports health initiatives for communities globally.Dr. Tiutan has been featured on the New York Post, HuffPost, Yahoo!, Daily Record, UNILAD, LADBible, The Independent, Times of India, CBS News, and Daily Mail.Follow Friends of Franz Podcast: Website, Instagram, FacebookFollow Christian Franz (Host): Instagram, YouTube

In this episode, we break down the pursuer–withdrawer dynamic and why partners so often misunderstand each other during conflict. We explore how our nervous systems, personal histories, and internal stories shape the meaning we make of our partner's behavior. By slowing down and getting curious, couples can interrupt the cycle and create more connection instead of escalating disconnection. Main Talking Points • Pursuer vs. withdrawer • Meaning-making stories • Nervous system responses • Projection in conflict • Windows of tolerance • Curiosity over certainty Check Out Relationship Academy Give Me Discounts! Cozy Earth -  Black Friday has come early! Right now, you can stack my code “IDO” on top of their sitewide sale — giving you up to 40% off in savings. These deals won't last, so start your holiday shopping today! Beducate - Use code relationship69 for 65% off the annual pass. Skylight - Use code “IDO” for $30 off your 15 inch calendar.  Function - 160+ Lab Tests for $365. Amazfit - Use Code “IDO” to get 10% off Spark My Relationship Course: Get $100 off our online course. Visit SparkMyRelationship.com/Unlock for our special offer just for our I Do Podcast listeners! If you love this episode (and our podcast!), would you mind giving us a review in iTunes? It would mean the world to us and we promise it only takes a minute. Many thanks in advance! – Colter, Cayla, & Lauren Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Raising Wild Hearts, Ryann Watkin sits down with chiropractor and nervous system educator Dr. Kristina Guerriero, founder of StillPoint, to explore how true healing happens when the body feels safe.➳ Join Dr. Kristi's Resilience Reset for Free with Code WILDHEARTSVIPTogether, they unpack what neural tension really is, how living in survival mode impacts our emotions, creativity, and physical health, and why slow, subtle nervous system work often creates the deepest and most lasting change. This conversation is especially for overwhelmed moms, recovering perfectionists, and anyone feeling stretched too thin — a grounded reminder that healing doesn't have to be dramatic to be meaningful. Topics we cover:• Nervous system regulation• Neural tension + stress• Healing through safety and stillness• Motherhood, capacity, and overwhelm• Gentle chiropractic & tonal workSupport The Mission:

In this 16 minute guided journey for the solstice Kelly leads you through a guided practice where you reflect on the year behind you and then take some time of deep intention rest in the setting of a magical pine tree forest. Join the 2025 NYE at Home Retreat here More Mindful in Minutes Join the free 5-day Nervous system reset to overcome overwhelm Books Order Meditation For The Modern Family You Are Not Your Thoughts: An 8-Week Anxiety Guided Meditation Journal **Download 4 sample days from You Are Not Your Thoughts Here** Join MIM on Patreon here Order Meditation For The Modern Family Let's Connect Email Kelly your questions at info@yogaforyouonline.com Follow Kelly on instagram @yogaforyouonline Please rate, subscribe and review (it helps more than you know!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feeling ungrounded, overwhelmed, or in need of a pause?This December 2025 Solstice Guided Meditation offers a grounding, restorative practice to support your nervous system and reconnect you with the steady rhythm of the Earth during this powerful seasonal turning point.In this Solstice meditation, you'll be guided through the 5 Elements — Earth, Water, Air, Fire, and Ether — allowing your energy to soften, reorganize, and settle naturally. Whether you're experiencing the longest night or the longest day, this meditation works with the Solstice as a moment of balance, stillness, and quiet renewal.Gentle 7 Hz binaural beats support a relaxed, receptive state, helping calm mental noise and bring you back into your body, breath, and intuitive awareness. This practice is designed to ease stress, support emotional balance, and create a sense of grounded presence as the season shifts.Created by Crystal of The Psychic Soul, this guided Solstice meditation is a nourishing ritual you can return to throughout the season — or anytime you want to feel steadier, more present, and connected to what matters most.I LOVE YOU! - Crystal

The Wise Guys are previewing NFL Week 16! Epic TNF game recap. Brady is nervous about Pats Ravens. Week 16 Wise Picks!

Everyone seems very skeptical about the Patriots' chances against the Ravens especially after their loss to Buffalo. Why are people nervous about the Pats and is Baltimore really as good as some think?

Beautiful soul, this episode is for anyone feeling mentally scattered, emotionally tired, or disconnected from their intuition. Julie is joined by Zelana Montminy for a grounded, compassionate conversation about focus not as productivity or discipline, but as presence, nervous system safety, and spiritual alignment. Together, they explore how constant stimulation, digital overload, and cultural pressure pull us away from our inner knowing, and why slowing down is often the fastest way back to clarity. This episode gently reframes rest as spiritual medicine, focus as a gateway to intuition, and boundaries as acts of self-trust. It's especially supportive for mothers, caregivers, entrepreneurs, and anyone navigating burnout, ADHD, hormonal shifts, or major life transitions. Episode Chapters (3:25) Welcoming Zelana Montminy and her work on focus and presence (5:09) Why focus is essential for intuition and spiritual clarity (7:00) Dopamine, devices, and nervous system overload (11:00) Avoiding discomfort vs. healing through presence (14:33) Motherhood, work, and releasing guilt around rest (18:46) Nervous system regulation and energetic boundaries (21:01) Slowing down as spiritual medicine (25:12) Small, realistic practices to restore focus (31:03) Using technology without letting it control your life (34:29) ADHD, hormones, and attention challenges (40:27) Grace, worth, and redefining productivity (44:42) Closing angel message and energetic reflection Work with Julie & Your Angels If you've been feeling the nudge  I want to hear my angels clearly, I want to work with them every day here's how to go deeper:

In this deeply personal solo episode, Darin shares how to truly thrive through the holidays — not by white-knuckling your way through obligations, but by protecting your energy, honoring your body, and healing what's ready to be released. From food and supplements to trauma, forgiveness, boundaries, and future-self visualization, this episode is a roadmap for turning the holiday season into a period of restoration, clarity, and intentional creation.     What You'll Learn (Timecodes) [00:00] Welcome to SuperLife — sovereignty, possibility, and building a SuperLife together [00:32] Sponsor: EnergyBits — why spirulina and chlorella are some of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet [01:51] Thriving through the holidays — why this conversation goes deeper than food, fitness, and supplements [02:14] An honest check-in — are you enjoying the holidays or just trying to survive them? [03:10] Holiday triggers — why the season activates stress, old patterns, and family dynamics [03:41] The real goal — moving from white-knuckling to truly thriving [04:00] The power of questions — how inquiry opens intuition, clarity, and deeper listening [04:30] Defining the holidays — choosing love, connection, and generosity over pressure and obligation [05:28] Family roles and energetic boxes — outgrowing old identities while being around family [05:56] Energy economics — why obligation silently depletes your vitality [06:10] The thriving question — what would it take for your physical, emotional, and spiritual health to flourish? [06:28] A healing opportunity — addressing old wounds instead of pushing them down [06:56] Emotional release — why forgiveness heals you, not the other person [07:11] Permission to dream — using the holidays as a reset rather than a pause [07:25] Releasing judgment — letting go of pain without denying what you've lived through [07:40] Resilience and self-love — how self-love strengthens the nervous system [07:59] Nervous system capacity — why healing expands your ability to receive life [08:19] Presence over performance — why the holidays aren't about perfection [08:31] Practical strategies — eating well and maintaining discipline without waiting for January 1st [09:15] Environment design — why willpower alone doesn't work [09:30] Visualization as identity training — choosing who you want to be before the event [10:01] Darin's personal approach — sharing transparency rather than a prescription [10:09] Protecting energy — choosing not to go home for the holidays without guilt [10:57] Conscious boundaries — why clarity builds the future you want [11:49] Creating new traditions — why this is the most excited Darin has felt about the holidays [12:15] A year of rebuilding — closing a long cycle of challenge and stepping into what's next [13:03] Sponsor: Our Place Cookware — why non-toxic cookware matters for long-term health [15:39] Releasing early wounds — how unresolved birth trauma shows up as physical pain [16:38] Compassion and history — understanding family addiction and patterns without excusing them [17:36] Shedding the old — how excavation creates space for new love and opportunity [18:11] Building momentum — creating safety and love for the year ahead [18:51] Nourishment rhythms — simple, clean food as a reflection of inner clarity [19:31] Strength from pain — why strength equals resilience on every level [20:04] Darin's supplement stack — mitochondria, minerals, adaptogens, and hormone support [22:02] Nervous system regulation — NuCalm, meditation, and future-self visualization [23:09] Deep regulation tools — red light therapy, sauna, and creating stillness [25:02] Connection over content — replacing screen time with meaningful evening rituals [26:23] Future vision — integrating supplements, technology, and purpose-driven work [27:41] Creation as fuel — how intentional creation restores energy [27:57] Final holiday guidance — protect your energy, honor your body, and heal your heart [28:10] You are not alone — permission to build a life that feels good [28:45] Protecting attention — minimizing algorithmic noise to maintain intention [29:12] Leading from the heart — how one year of intention can change everything [29:30] Closing message — thriving, courage, and living your SuperLife [30:08] Join the SuperLife Patreon — where the deeper work continues [31:12] End of episode     Thank You to Our Sponsors: EnergyBits: Get 20% off your entire order by going to https://energybits.com/ and using code DARIN at checkout. Our Place: Toxic-free, durable cookware that supports healthy cooking. Go to their website at fromourplace.com/darin and get 35% off sitewide in their largest sale of the year.     Join the SuperLife Community Get Darin's deeper wellness breakdowns — beyond social media restrictions: Weekly voice notes Ingredient deep dives Wellness challenges Energy + consciousness tools Community accountability Extended episodes Join for $7.49/month → https://patreon.com/darinolien     Find More from Darin Olien: Instagram: @darinolien Podcast: SuperLife Podcast Website: superlife.com Book: Fatal Conveniences     Key Takeaway The holidays don't have to drain you. They can restore you — if you choose intentionally, protect your energy, and lead from the heart.     Past Podcasts Addressing Trauma Dr. Jessica Stavale: Beyond the Muscle—How Fascia Can Free You from Chronic Pain Date: October 3, 2025 Focus: Explores how the fascia (connective tissue) acts as a "quantum interface" that stores unprocessed trauma and emotions, and how to release it through physical therapy and breath. Link: Listen on Apple Podcasts Stress Isn't the Enemy — It's the Message You've Been Ignoring Date: November 13, 2025 Focus: A solo episode where Darin discusses "hidden trauma" and how old wounds unconsciously drive our stress responses, offering tools like grounding and nature immersion to reset the nervous system. Link: Listen on Apple Podcasts Dr. Aimie Apigian: How Trauma Lives in the Body—and How to Finally Let It Go Date: August 1, 2025 Focus: Features Dr. Aimie Apigian, a biology of trauma expert, discussing the three layers of trauma repair (mind, body, biology) and why you cannot just "think" your way out of trauma responses. Link: Listen on Apple Podcasts Jeff Turner: How Music and Creativity Heal Trauma Date: June 27, 2025 Focus: An interview with freestyle artist Jeff Turner about his journey through the foster care system and how he used creativity and "flow state" to process deep emotional wounds and finding community. Link: Listen on Apple Podcasts Mastering Stress, Anxiety, and PTSD in a Chaotic World Date: January 23, 2025 Focus: Darin shares his personal experience with the California wildfires to discuss PTSD, resilience, and science-backed strategies for managing acute stress and anxiety. Link: Listen on Apple Podcasts Dr. Olivia Audrey: Why 7 Days Can Change Your Health Forever Date: January 17, 2025 Focus: Discusses the "circaseptan rhythm" (7-day biological cycle) and specifically touches on birth trauma as a foundational body memory that impacts healing cycles. Link: Listen on Apple Podcasts

What if the pain in your knees, hips, or even pelvic floor… starts at your feet?

Dear Boss Babe... you've been telling yourself, “I'm fine. I'm just tired. It's just a busy season.” But what if that's not the truth? What if you're ignoring the very signs that are trying to save you? Most high-achieving women don't break down from one big moment — we burn out because we dismiss months of small signals, all while performing, producing, and pushing at a level that looks impressive… but feels heavy. Today's pep talk is the reminder your spirit has been waiting for. In this short but powerful reset, Ericka delivers the kind of tough-love pep talk every ambitious woman needs. Inside this episode, you'll hear: How chronic stress hides behind success, competence, and hustle culture — and why you've normalized exhaustion without realizing it. Your spark. Your joy. Your voice. Your identity. Your energy to dream the way you used to. Ericka breaks down the difference between: – “I'm overwhelmed” – “I'm shutting down” – and the dangerous autopilot many high achievers mistake for strength – Tight chest – Clenched jaw – Irritability – Forgetfulness – Heavy routines – Sparkless mornings – Sleep that doesn't restore you Ericka guides you through: – Questioning your pace – Checking whether you're surviving or actually thriving – Micro-moments that bring you back home to yourself – Nervous-system safety resets – Small acts of self-care high achievers forget to do This is the pep talk every boss babe deserves — especially the ones who never slow down long enough to hear their own truth. burnout, chronic stress signs, pep talk for women, high achiever burnout, hustle culture recovery, self care for ambitious women, nervous system support, feminine wellness, overwhelm, emotional exhaustion, productivity pressure, burnout vs stress ✨ Share this pep talk with another high-achieving woman who needs the reminder. ✨ Leave a review on Apple & Spotify — it helps other women find this podcast. ✨ And listen to Episode 130 for the full deep dive into chronic stress vs burnout. This podcast was produced by: ⁠@yourgirlmedia⁠  Follow me and join my world: Instagram: ⁠@theerickanicole⁠ // ⁠@bossbabereset⁠ ⁠Website⁠ You can invest in SILKENN for less than a flight to Cancun! Ready to own a piece of the glow-up? We  just opened Silkenn's Community Investment Round—and this time, the gatekeepers are out and the girls are in.  Join the movement at ⁠⁠wefunder.com/Silkenn⁠⁠, become part of the ⁠⁠Silkenn ⁠⁠story, and snag some exclusive investor-only perks (think yacht days, mastermind dinners, and behind-the-scenes access).  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, guest host Chris Liddle takes the mic to explore why the traditional, linear ways of thinking don't serve aging clients or the fitness professionals who work with them. Drawing from his experience coaching adults 50+ both online and in-person, Chris dives deep into non-linear thinking, systems design, and holistic strategies that foster client trust, retention, and business sustainability.You'll learn why older clients aren't less motivated—they're simply less tolerant of friction. Chris shares actionable strategies for fitness professionals to better serve this powerful demographic by rethinking how they show up, structure sessions, and design long-term career stability. He also explains why Jay Croft's book Selling Longevity is essential reading for your 2026 business plan.If you serve people over 50 or want to build a resilient fitness business, this episode is packed with insights you can put to work right away.Guest Host: Chris Liddle Instagram: @christianliddleMentioned Book: Selling Longevity by Jay Croft – https://a.co/d/iumKfjTEpisode Topics & Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction by Chris Liddle 01:00 – Why linear thinking fails with aging, fitness, and business 03:00 – What is non-linear thinking? And why it matters after 40 04:00 – Systems thinking: Creating calm, consistent client experiences 05:30 – Case study: The impact of trainer punctuality 06:30 – Nervous system regulation and gym environments 07:30 – Why older clients quietly leave broken systems 08:00 – Another example: Listening to client feedback and adapting programs 09:00 – Holistic thinking: Seeing beyond just the workout 10:00 – Why older clients care about gym cleanliness, systems, and trust 11:00 – Linear vs. lateral income thinking in fitness careers 12:00 – What's a media kit? How trainers can stabilize income 13:00 – Ethical brand partnerships and user-generated content 14:00 – Enhancing income stability with strategic collaborations 15:00 – Time to reflect: Audit your systems, time, adaptability, and fragility 17:00 – Why Jay Croft's book Selling Longevity is a must-read 18:00 – The power of clarity, messaging, and Prime Fit Content 20:00 – Using guest experts like dietitians to build trust and results 21:00 – Nutrition's role in holistic client transformation 22:00 – Divergent thinking and designing calm, reliable systems 23:00 – Final thoughts: Which system, if improved, would make the biggest impact?Resources Mentioned:Selling Longevity by Jay Croft – https://a.co/d/iumKfjTPrime Fit Content – https://primefitcontent.com

In this video, you'll learn When Parenting Triggers Your Own Emotional Wounds | Healing as You Raise kids | Alysia Lyons Coaching | Mindset & Parenting CoachU.S. moms are telling me they're reacting faster and harder than ever before—and they don't know why. If parenting feels triggering, confusing, or overwhelming, it is not because you're failing. It's because old emotional wounds are being activated. Today, I'll show you why this happens and how to heal it.When parenting triggers your own emotional wounds, it can feel overwhelming, confusing, and heavy. In this episode, we explore why motherhood activates old emotional baggage and how to heal while you raise emotionally healthy, connected kids. You'll learn practical mindset tools, energy healing support, and real-life parenting strategies for navigating triggers with compassion and confidence.If you've ever thought, “Why did that moment hit me so hard?” — this episode will help you understand the deeper layers and begin healing the parts of you that are finally ready to be seen.✨ Topics We Cover:• Why kids activate old emotional wounds• How triggers become invitations to heal• The Pause → Presence → Reframe method• Nervous system grounding tools for moms• EFT, Body Code, and energy-based emotional release• Real-time parenting strategies when your child is melting down• How to break generational emotional patterns• Using the P.E.A.C.E. Framework for daily emotional clarity✨ Take the Mom Quiz: Why Does Being a Mom Feel So Heavy?Discover your core emotional wound so you can understand your triggers and lighten the mental and emotional load.

What if your cycle wasn't something to “get through”—but a secret superpower? In this empowering episode, Wendy sits down with hormone health practitioner Kate Nguy to explore how syncing with your hormonal rhythm can transform the way you parent, work, and care for yourself. Kate shares her personal story of healing infertility, the surprising truth about cortisol and stress, and how understanding the four seasons of your cycle—spring, summer, fall, and winter—can help you regulate your nervous system, communicate with more ease, and parent with greater patience and presence.

Part 3: Nervous System Self‑Care In this episode of the series, I talk about WHY nervous system care matters right now. When we witness threatening events, our nervous system naturally activates — it's literally it's job to protect us. But when that state of activation sticks around — prolonged stress, fear, or hyper-vigilance — we stay stuck in fight‑or‑flight instead of coming back into rest, calm, and emotional safety. I share real, personal examples of what nervous system self‑care has looked like for me in the thick of it — not as a luxury, but as a necessity. Listen in and walk away with: A crystal clear understanding for how and why your nervous system responds. Real examples of what nervous system self‑care can look like in practice — the choices that help you feel regulated, instead of staying 'on edge' or overdrive. 3 simple nervous system regulation tools you can use anytime — breathwork, self-holding, and grounding — to calm your system and create emotional safety. Nervous system care matters more than ever because it gives your body rest and supports emotional safety. This is not self‑care fluff. It's medicine for your nervous system and human experience. LISTEN NOW Brenda PS. GRAB THE HOLIDAY PLAYLIST  For Holiday Season support, we've curated a list of my best holiday and end-of-year episodes — all in one place. You can find it at: www.brendalomeli.com/holidayplaylist  

Sara Billups (type 4, 4-5 pairing), author of "Nervous Systems: Spiritual Practices to Calm Anxiety in Your Body, the Church, and Politics," joins us for a conversation about anxiety that's especially needed as we head into Christmas. Sara explores how anxiety manifests in three interconnected ways, and how couples who are in the sandwich generation (Millennial, Gen X especially) navigate personal anxiety, church disillusionment, and political division all at once as their nervous systems rise up in anxiety. Drawing from her experience caregiving for aging ill parents while parenting teens with their own anxiety along with her own anxiety, Sara offers wisdom for couples in the sandwich generation stretched thin caring for multiple generations while trying to protect their marriage. She also unpacks scrupulosity and how being trained to pursue "being good" is often far from healthy holiness, especially for those raised evangelical, and how this performance anxiety shows up in marriage. Sara's prescription for anxiety is holy indifference, the Ignatian concept of open-handedness toward both blessings and trials, not as giving up but as giving into the Spirit, and what this looks like practically when anxious about outcomes or when life isn't going as hoped. Rather than offering prescriptive how-to lists, Sara offered a soothing balm for anxious hearts heading into holiday chaos. Find "Nervous Systems" wherever books are sold. Watch on YouTube, too! Get Sara's book, Nervous Systems, here! https://a.co/d/ieVOMum Deeper Dive Guides on sale here! Use code DEEPERDIVE for $10 off! https://www.enneagramandmarriage.com/deeper-dives Find more about your type, the pod, freebies, and SO much more at our website right here! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.EnneagramandMarriage.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Love what you're learning on E + M? Make sure you leave us a podcast review so others can find us, too⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ here!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Christa's Best-Selling Book, The Enneagram in Marriage, here! ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://a.co/d/df8SxVx Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join us for a special holiday episode! We have a taste test, more Tyra cringe, and a gift guide from Jamie! What do you think an old people flavor is?! Is Alyssa going to start smoking?!?!?! Tune in to find out!______________________________________________________________________________Santa Camel Cigarettes Adhttps://youtu.be/TCIHkZw-v1s?si=WjFNBjFAVu0hmvNW  Viceroy Cigarettes Christmas Commercialhttps://youtu.be/DK5TnUUSZ7Y?si=3Lw5mhsl8c365arB  Lucky Strike Christmas Commercial 1963https://youtu.be/DPqYFNCjCQw?si=OKb8KLB_hFT3IYSF  Camel - Give the Gift of Cigarettes this Christmashttps://youtu.be/GaORtO4rFoo?si=slgc4yl2OlMRqO8y  Philip Morris I love Lucy Collabhttps://youtu.be/c5zYqNBZzJg AI Santa by Tavus: Talk to Santa https://share.google/6He8reaXsZNOHMyIn Write us some of your cringe stories at nervouslaughterpodcast@gmail.comThe socials: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

Why does your body feel completely different after divorce or prolonged stress, even when doctors say “everything looks normal”?In this episode of The Crazy Ex-Wives Club, Erica is joined by Gigi Hunt, a hormone and nervous system mentor for high-achieving women, for an honest, science-backed conversation about hormone imbalance, nervous system regulation, and cortisol overload during divorce, dating after divorce, burnout, and chronic emotional stress.Together, they unpack why so many women are dismissed with “it's just hormones” or prematurely labeled as perimenopausal or hormonally imbalanced, when the real issue is often nervous system dysregulation driving sleep issues, anxiety, rage, digestive problems, and cycle changes.This episode explores how women's bodies respond to long-term stress differently than men's, why emotional volatility after divorce is not a personal failure, and how nervous system regulation, hormone support, and small, consistent practices can restore balance over time.If you've struggled with sleep issues, emotional overwhelm, digestive problems, cycle changes, or recurring relationship conflict after divorce, this episode offers clarity, validation, and a grounded path forward.You'll learn:Why women operate on a 28-day hormonal cycle, not a 24-hour oneHow divorce and chronic stress disrupt hormone balanceThe nervous system's role as the “conductor” of hormonesWhy cortisol hijacks progesterone and fuels anxiety, rage, and insomniaHow chronic stress and cortisol can mimic perimenopause symptoms at any ageWhy birth control disconnects women from their cyclical awarenessLuteal rage, recurring fights, and emotional pattern recognitionHow nervous system regulation supports hormone healthWhy micro-adjustments work better than major lifestyle overhaulsWe talk about:00:00 Intro01:00 Why women are blamed for emotional chaos03:00 Hormones, emotions, and cultural conditioning06:00 Birth control and loss of cycle awareness10:00 The four phases of the menstrual cycle15:00 Divorce, stress, and hormonal disruption18:00 Cortisol vs progesterone explained22:00 The nervous system as hormonal conductor26:00 Luteal rage and recurring relationship patterns30:00 Nervous system regulation and emotional safety36:00 Seed cycling and hormone support40:00 Perimenopause myths and misdiagnosis45:00 Rebuilding trust in your bodyHoliday Heart to Heart  The holidays post-divorce are brutal because you are trying to "make it magical" when life feels anything but. You need a plan for the emotional spikes without spiraling, throwing in the towel or just crawling back into bed until this season is over.Get quick, divorce specific episodes for mom's trying to bring the magic back post-divorce. You can hit play on the moment it gets hard and find your footing in a few minutes of listening. https://www.thecrazyexwivesclub.com/holidayThe ClubLooking to claim your post-divorce bad ass? Put yourself in the room with other women redefining what it means to be a divorcé.Join the Club - https://www.thecrazyexwivesclub.com/theclubConnect with GigiWebsite: https://gigihunt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gloflo.withgigi/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1033296021856456 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gloflo_withgigi Looking for More Support? Let's ConnectInstagram: https://instagram.com/thecrazyexwivesclub   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecrazyexwivesclub Website: https://thecrazyexwivesclub.com   

12-16-25 - Emailer Asks For Advice In Switching His Wiping Hand As He Preps For Surgery - Megan Noticed A Saddam Was Their Uber Eats Driver And It Brings Up A Nervous Names DiscussionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today Jimmy sits down with Meg Del Toro, better known as Kambo Meg, a Kambo practitioner who facilitates one of the most intense and misunderstood healing experiences out there. For those unfamiliar, Kambo is a traditional Amazonian medicine that uses peptides from frog secretion to intentionally activate the body's fight or flight response. It is not psychedelic, it is legal, and it is designed to purge, reset, and regulate the nervous system. Jimmy has personally sat with Meg multiple times and regularly brings her in to facilitate sessions for men in his group. Meg shares her personal story of childhood trauma, nervous system dysregulation, and the long road through therapy, plant medicine, and embodiment work that eventually led her to Kambo. Together, Jimmy and Meg talk about why chaos feels familiar after trauma, how the nervous system gets stuck in survival mode, and why practices like Kambo, Sananga, cold exposure, and breathwork help retrain the body to stay present under stress. They also break down what an actual Kambo ceremony looks like, why surrender matters more than toughness, the role of purging, boundaries, emotional regulation in relationships, and how healing the nervous system changes the way you show up as a partner, parent, and leader. This conversation is raw, grounded, and honest. If you struggle with anxiety, addiction patterns, emotional reactivity, or feeling disconnected from your body, this episode will give you a new framework for understanding why and what you can do about it. Find Meg:Instagram: https://instagram.com/kambowithmegDM her to schedule a discovery call and learn if Kambo is right for you. Jimmy's Instagram: https://instagram.com/mrjimmyrexJimmy's TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@mrjimmyrexJimmy's YouTube: https://youtube.com/@mrjimmyrex Subscribe for more conversations around healing, personal growth, masculinity, and living with intention.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Tony Ebel reveals why millions of children are stuck in a chronic cycle of ear infections, sickness, and antibiotics—and how it all traces back to one hidden system that conventional medicine completely ignores: the nervous system.Dr. Tony breaks down the Neuro-Endocrine-Immune (NEI) Super System and explains how birth trauma and early interventions create nervous system dysfunction that keeps kids constantly sick. Through compelling research and patient success stories, he demonstrates why antibiotics and medications fail to address the root cause—and how Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care can finally help children heal naturally and permanently.-----Links & ResourcesRead more about the NEI Supersystem HERE-----Key Topics & Timestamps[00:02:00]  Shocking Statistics: 90% of kids get ear infections by age three—but thousands in Dr. Tony's practice never have[00:08:00] Graham's Story: From 50+ rounds of antibiotics and three ear tube surgeries to complete healing[00:15:00] Sympathetic Dominance: Why stressed nervous systems create suppressed immune function[00:19:00]  The Vagus Nerve: The immune system's "off switch" and why it's the key to everything[00:27:00] Birth Trauma's Hidden Impact: How interventions damage the nervous system and create chronic illness[00:36:00] Dr. Tony's Four Kids: Real-life proof—zero ear infections, zero antibiotics, ever[00:38:00] Finding Real Help: How neurological insight scans pinpoint the root cause[00:43:00] Take Action: How to find a neurologically-focused chiropractor and help your child heal-- Follow us on Socials: Instagram: @pxdocs Facebook: Dr. Tony Ebel & The PX Docs Network Youtube: The PX Docs For more information, visit PXDocs.com to read informative articles about the power of Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care. Find a PX Doc Office near me: PX DOCS DirectoryTo watch Dr. Tony's 30 min Perfect Storm Webinar: Click Here

In this heart-to-heart episode, Dr. Desiree Cassell shares a gentle and grounding message for the woman who feels stretched thin this season. If you've spent the year doing all the things — caregiving, working, running a household, or healing your body — and still feel behind, this one's for you. We talk about why your symptoms might flare during the holidays (hello stress, pressure, and tension), and how to shift into a slower, softer rhythm that actually supports pelvic floor healing and core restoration. This is your invitation to stop waiting until January to feel good again — and to embrace your body, breath, and boundaries right now. No hustle. Just healing. And one big exhale.

Nervous about travelling with kids this holiday season?In this special replay episode I discuss the challenges of traveling with kids during the holiday season. I explain the cognitive process that children go through and how travel tests their executive functioning skills. I also emphasize the importance of seeing it through your child's perspective and making it about the journey, not the destination.Ready to nurture your relationship while raising strong, self-aware kids who feel truly seen, heard, and safe to tell you anything? Check out my free gift to you:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠5 Things Your Toddler Needs to Hear You Say Everyday⁠. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch and listen as your child starts to respond differently to you.December 16, 2025Episode 298How to Travel with Kids: 3 Ways to Make it EasierAbout Your Host: Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed. is a mom or three, early childhood author, parent educator, and founder of Core4Parenting. A former preschool and kindergarten teacher with degrees in ASL, Linguistics, and Education, she created the Collaborative Parenting Methodology™ to help parents, caregivers, and educators understand the power of intentional language in shaping a child's identity, confidence, and future success.As host of the top-ranking podcast Transforming the Toddler Years, Cara blends science and soul to show adults how to “talk to kids before they can talk back,” turning tantrums into teachable moments and everyday challenges into opportunities for connection. She is also the author of the forthcoming book Talk to Them Early and Often, a guide for raising emotionally intelligent kids who thrive in school and life.Be the First to Know When Talk to Them Early and Often is Available For Preorder. Get on the list⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Interested in being a guest on the podcast? We'd love to hear from you! Complete the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Guest Application form⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode Cath talks about how many of us go into peak fantasy at this time of year and set ourselves up to have a tricky time. She talks about getting clear about what your fantasy is and to notice that and stop comparing to it.Cath talks about planning ahead to set your family up for success in the holiday time and what that might look like. She also talks about stress responses, recognising these and how you might support the various stress responses. We will be back on Tuesday 6th Jan 2026.The workshop mentioned in the podcast both last week and this week, can be found here: www.cathcounihan.com/triggers-workshopIf you're enjoying this podcast. Please leave a review and rate the podcast, this really helps others to find it.To sign up for the journal prompts and Nurture.Heal.Grow (on Substack) please head to www.cathcounihan.com or @cathcounihan on Instagram. Follow Cath on social media here:Instagram: @cathcounihanSubstack: Nurture.Heal.GrowFacebook: Cath Counihan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

12-16-25 - Emailer Asks For Advice In Switching His Wiping Hand As He Preps For Surgery - Megan Noticed A Saddam Was Their Uber Eats Driver And It Brings Up A Nervous Names DiscussionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why do your conversations keep going wrong? Harvard behavioural scientist Professor Alison Wood Brooks reveals the SECRETS to better communication, real connection, negotiation skills and difficult conversations!  Professor Alison Wood Brooks is a behavioural scientist with 2 decades of experience in conversational science. She teaches a Harvard course on negotiation and communication, and is the bestselling author of ‘Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves'.  She explains: ◼️The ONE word that transforms anxiety into peak performance ◼️The TALK framework for mastering any conversation ◼️Why being "too polite" is secretly destroying your relationships  ◼️Why 99% of apologies fail, and the exact formula that works  ◼️The question technique that creates connection with anyone (00:00) Intro (02:34) People Need This to Communicate Well (04:38) Giving Wrong Impressions (06:23) Being a Better Speaker and Group Conversations (11:31) Experimenting With Communication Skills With My Identical Twin (12:40) The Science on How to Reframe Anxiety (18:47) If You're Nervous, You're More Likely to Make a Bad Decision (20:16) Asking for a Salary Raise (24:39) The Conversational Compass (32:45) How People Should Really Apologize and When It's Too Much (37:31) The Validation Trick in Any Dispute (42:00) Don't Do This When You Disagree (46:19) Stop Doing This During Disagreements (48:07) How to Be Liked (50:02) The T-A-L-L Framework (51:47) Easy Ways to Have More Casual Conversations (55:13) If You Want to Be Liked, Don't Do This (59:23) The Importance of Asking in Conversations and Dates (01:03:27) Never Do This on a Date (01:07:26) The Meeting Mistake You Shouldn't Make (01:09:27) Poor Communication Skills May Be Blocking Your Career Growth (01:12:02) Ads (01:12:53) The Importance of Kindness in Any Conversation (01:17:20) When to Incorporate Levity (01:23:55) The Science Behind Introverts and Extroverts — Is It Real? (01:27:17) Your Contribution Score in a Conversation (01:41:59) Ads (01:43:56) The Male Crisis: Ask These Questions to Make Friends (01:52:57) 10 Questions to Be Liked (01:56:42) How to Persuade People and Be a Better Salesperson (01:58:47) People Confuse Agreement With Listening (02:09:21) This Is the Only Conversation That Feels Real (02:14:58) What Happens When Replacing Myself With AI (02:19:23) Show Your Real Self at Work: Yes or No? (02:25:14) How to Teach Your Kids to Speak Follow Alison: Instagram - https://bit.ly/3YoQOc4 Website - https://bit.ly/4aH172A  TalkStudios - https://bit.ly/3MzbXxF  You can purchase Alison's book, ‘Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves', here: https://amzn.to/48Nl8Sv The Diary Of A CEO: ◼️Join DOAC circle here - https://doaccircle.com/  ◼️Buy The Diary Of A CEO book here - https://smarturl.it/DOACbook  ◼️The 1% Diary is back - limited time only: https://bit.ly/3YFbJbt  ◼️The Diary Of A CEO Conversation Cards (Second Edition): https://g2ul0.app.link/f31dsUttKKb  ◼️Get email updates - https://bit.ly/diary-of-a-ceo-yt  ◼️Follow Steven - https://g2ul0.app.link/gnGqL4IsKKb  Sponsors: Wispr - https://wisprflow.ai/DOAC  Shopify - https://shopify.com/bartlett  SimpliSafe - https://simplisafe.com/DOAC to save 50% on a SimpliSafe home security system. Ketone - https://ketone.com/STEVEN for 30% off your subscription order

I'm sitting down with my friend Dr. Chris Lee to unpack how your nervous system drives your thoughts, emotions, and results—and the simple levers you can pull to regulate in real time. We talk neuroplasticity, dopamine, why "boundaries beat balance," and how to design a morning routine that actually fits your season of life. If you've been feeling overstimulated, under-rested, and stuck on the hustle hamster wheel…this one will change your day. What you'll learn Nervous system basics (in human language!) and why state → story → strategy is the missing link The "one percent change" approach to end procrastination + self-sabotage Transitional behaviors that reset your brain between meetings, carpool, and workouts Why most people don't need more balance—they need better boundaries How to build a custom morning routine (no one-size-fits-all) that protects your focus and energy Dopamine truth: what it is, how modern life hijacks it, and how to reclaim it Resources & Next Steps Follow Dr. Chris Lee on Instagram: @drchrislee Share this episode with your team or best friend who's burning the candle at both ends. Subscribe To My Newsletter: https://moirakfitness.activehosted.com/f/28 Join My FREE High Vibe Life Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/811935653862055 Learn more about MAKE Wellness:  https://meet.makewellness.com/?referral=74249EEEC5 FREE Habit Tracker https://bit.ly/HighVibeHabitTracker Rise up planner + Book Of Proof Journal https://bit.ly/moirakucababooks  Rise Up Course https://bit.ly/moirariseupcourse Follow Me On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moirakucaba/?hl=en Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@moirakucaba5802

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So many women in midlife say the same thing: "I feel heavier inside, and I don't know why." The truth is, hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause can profoundly affect your emotions — often in ways no one ever warned you about. In this compassionate episode of Tea & Truth, Lynne breaks down the real science behind the emotional weight of hormonal change, including how fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, and neurotransmitters influence your mood, stress tolerance, sleep, and overall emotional stability. We also explore the human experience — the overwhelm, the irritability, the tears that come out of nowhere, the feeling that small things suddenly feel big, and why midlife tends to amplify everything emotionally.

Child meltdowns spike when plans change because your child's brain feels unsafe and the nervous system goes into survival mode. I'll guide you through Regulation First Parenting™ strategies to calm, support, and help your child adapt with confidence.Every parent knows the moment when plans change and your child suddenly spirals into tears, anger, or shutdown. It feels overwhelming, frustrating, and sometimes even personal—but you're not alone.In today's episode, we explore why these meltdowns happen and practical ways to help your child stay regulated and resilient.Why does my child shut down when plans change?It's not defiance—it's anxiety in disguise. Many children struggle with flexibility because their nervous system craves predictability.When plans change, the amygdala—the brain's fear center—takes over, and the prefrontal cortex responsible for logic goes offline.Small changes feel like danger to a dysregulated brain.Stress accumulates silently throughout the day (think schoolwork, transitions, friendships), filling your child's “stress cup.”Meltdowns are the overflow, signaling their brain is overwhelmed.Parent StoryMaria's daughter, Molly, would explode every weekend when plans shifted. By previewing the day and co-regulating, Maria helped Molly feel safe—and those meltdowns stopped.How can I help my child cope with unexpected changes?The key is regulation first, flexibility second. You can't force a child to adapt if their nervous system is in survival mode. Instead:Preview changes in advance—give gentle warnings or visual schedules.Co-regulate through transitions—model calm, name emotions, and breathe together.Practice flexibility in small doses—switch dinner seating or minor routines while your child is calm.Tip: Every time your child navigates a small change successfully, their brain rewires for resilience. Predictability isn't coddling—it's scaffolding their emotional growth.Why do some kids struggle more than others?Nervous system sensitivity plays a big role.Children with neurodivergence, trauma histories, or heightened sensory experiences often feel emotions and changes more intensely. Their brains are wired to survive, not to negotiate logic in the moment.Over- or under-stimulation can trigger emotional dysregulation.Daily stress adds up, making even minor changes feel impossible.Developmental expectations vary by age, from toddlers needing reassurance to teens pushing back verbally.A tween might say, “You ruined everything!” while a teen might retreat with, “I don't care.” Same nervous system reaction—different expression.Get instant tools to soothe your child's stress and prevent meltdowns—grab your Quick CALM now at https://drroseann.com/quickcalm/What mistakes do parents make during meltdowns?It's natural to want to lecture, explain, or impose consequences—but when the brain is in red-zone survival mode, logic doesn't land.Talk less,

Drift off to sleep with this guided journey through a misty cloud forest. This guided meditation helps you quiet your mind and relax your body with a breath, body scan, and a guided imagery journey. Grab the last spot in the Awakening Alignment Yoga Retreat Here More Mindful in Minutes ⁠Join the free 5-day Nervous system reset to overcome overwhelm⁠ Books ⁠Order Meditation For The Modern Family⁠ ⁠You Are Not Your Thoughts: An 8-Week Anxiety Guided Meditation Journal⁠ **⁠Download 4 sample days from You Are Not Your Thoughts Here⁠** Join MIM on Patreon here ⁠Order Meditation For The Modern Family⁠ Let's Connect Email Kelly your questions at info@yogaforyouonline.com Follow Kelly on instagram @yogaforyouonline Please rate, subscribe and review (it helps more than you know!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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