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What if simply allowing yourself to imagine something different could change the energy of your relationship—and your life—before you ever actually did anything?In this episode, JJ Flizanes is joined once again by Doug Sandler for a candid continuation of their conversation about sexual chemistry, intimacy, desire, manifestation, and what has shifted dramatically in their relationship over the last 30 days.And here's the surprising part: the biggest transformation didn't begin with an action. It began with an idea.A sexual fantasy opened the door to conversations, anticipation, vulnerability, excitement, fear, and an entirely different energy between JJ and Doug. That experience became a real-life example of something JJ has taught for years through the Law of Attraction: if you want to experience a new reality, you have to begin accessing the thoughts, emotions, and energy of that reality before you have physical evidence that it exists.JJ and Doug also explore a question most of us rarely stop to consider:Who actually taught you how to have sex?Most people receive very little education about sexual pleasure, communication, desire, or understanding their own bodies. Yet somehow, we're expected to enter relationships knowing what we want—and knowing how to give our partner what they want.Doug shares openly about the male perspective, including performance anxiety, the pressure to know how to please your partner, and what happens when your partner doesn't necessarily know how to tell you what they want either.JJ also explores the connection between sexual energy, creativity, relationships, manifestation, the nervous system, and physical health—and why sexual expression may be an important part of the bigger conversation about whole-person health.This episode isn't simply about having more sex. It's about becoming curious about the parts of yourself you may never have explored, creating enough safety in a relationship to communicate honestly, and allowing yourself to try on a new possibility.Because sometimes you don't have to know exactly where something is going. Giving yourself permission to imagine, explore, and try something new may be enough to shift your energy—and begin creating a completely different experience.In This Episode:How one fantasy changed the energy of JJ and Doug's relationshipWhy anticipation and imagination can be incredibly powerfulHow to use Law of Attraction to access a reality that doesn't exist yetWhy trying something new can change the way you think, feel, and behaveWhy most adults were never actually taught how to have good sexSexual exploration and discovering what turns you onWhy your partner may not know how to tell you what they needThe pressure men can experience around sexual performanceHow sexual dissatisfaction can affect the rest of a relationshipThe connection between sexual energy, creativity, vitality, and healthCreating safety for honest conversations with your partnerWhy these same principles can apply to sex, money, health, career, and other areas of your lifeResources Mentioned:Download JJ's Feelings & Needs List:https://jjflizanes.com/feelingslistLearn more about The Five Levels to Restore Health:https://jjflizanes.com/restoreReady to work with JJ? Apply here:https://jjflizanes.com/apply
What if simply allowing yourself to imagine something different could change the energy of your relationship—and your life—before you ever actually did anything?In this episode, JJ Flizanes is joined once again by Doug Sandler for a candid continuation of their conversation about sexual chemistry, intimacy, desire, manifestation, and what has shifted dramatically in their relationship over the last 30 days.And here's the surprising part: the biggest transformation didn't begin with an action. It began with an idea.A sexual fantasy opened the door to conversations, anticipation, vulnerability, excitement, fear, and an entirely different energy between JJ and Doug. That experience became a real-life example of something JJ has taught for years through the Law of Attraction: if you want to experience a new reality, you have to begin accessing the thoughts, emotions, and energy of that reality before you have physical evidence that it exists.JJ and Doug also explore a question most of us rarely stop to consider:Who actually taught you how to have sex?Most people receive very little education about sexual pleasure, communication, desire, or understanding their own bodies. Yet somehow, we're expected to enter relationships knowing what we want—and knowing how to give our partner what they want.Doug shares openly about the male perspective, including performance anxiety, the pressure to know how to please your partner, and what happens when your partner doesn't necessarily know how to tell you what they want either.JJ also explores the connection between sexual energy, creativity, relationships, manifestation, the nervous system, and physical health—and why sexual expression may be an important part of the bigger conversation about whole-person health.This episode isn't simply about having more sex. It's about becoming curious about the parts of yourself you may never have explored, creating enough safety in a relationship to communicate honestly, and allowing yourself to try on a new possibility.Because sometimes you don't have to know exactly where something is going. Giving yourself permission to imagine, explore, and try something new may be enough to shift your energy—and begin creating a completely different experience.In This Episode:How one fantasy changed the energy of JJ and Doug's relationshipWhy anticipation and imagination can be incredibly powerfulHow to use Law of Attraction to access a reality that doesn't exist yetWhy trying something new can change the way you think, feel, and behaveWhy most adults were never actually taught how to have good sexSexual exploration and discovering what turns you onWhy your partner may not know how to tell you what they needThe pressure men can experience around sexual performanceHow sexual dissatisfaction can affect the rest of a relationshipThe connection between sexual energy, creativity, vitality, and healthCreating safety for honest conversations with your partnerWhy these same principles can apply to sex, money, health, career, and other areas of your lifeResources Mentioned:Download JJ's Feelings & Needs List:https://jjflizanes.com/feelingslistLearn more about The Five Levels to Restore Health:https://jjflizanes.com/restoreReady to work with JJ? Apply here:https://jjflizanes.com/apply
In this solo episode, Amy Wheeler explores the second yama, satyam (truthfulness), and its essential relationship to the first yama, ahiṃsā (non-harming). This conversation moves beyond simple definitions and into the lived complexity of speaking truth in real relationships, real bodies, and real moments.Drawing from personal reflection—including her own experience with illness and voice—Amy invites listeners into an honest inquiry:When do we speak too much, not enough, or avoid the truth altogether?In This EpisodeSatyam as Inner CoherenceSatyam is not simply “telling the truth.” It is the alignment between:PerceptionUnderstandingExpressionWhen these are out of sync, confusion and disconnection follow. When they align, communication becomes clear, steady, and trustworthy. Amy emphasizes that most misalignment comes from incomplete information (avidyā) and unexamined assumptions. As clarity improves, so does our ability to speak in a way that others can receive and trust.Ahiṃsā as the ContainerAhiṃsā is not just the absence of harm. It is the active cultivation of:SafetyCareStability in relationshipSatyam lives inside ahiṃsā. Truth must be expressed in a way that reduces harm and supports connection.This creates an ongoing inquiry:What am I saying that may cause harm?What am I avoiding that also creates harm?Avoidance and harshness are two sides of the same imbalance.The Role of RelationshipThe yamas are relational practices. They are not abstract ideals.Amy highlights that we refine truth through feedback:Honest, grounded relationships help us see clearlyMisaligned or dishonest environments distort our perceptionOver time, trustworthy relationships support the emergence of a deeper, more stable truth.Ṛtam: The Deeper TruthThe episode introduces ṛtam (cosmic order) as the underlying intelligence of reality.Ṛtam → what is (the larger truth)Satyam → how we align with and express that truthAmy describes this as learning to release control and personal agenda, allowing timing, context, and perspective to mature. Truth is not only about correctness—it is about alignment with something larger than the individual viewpoint. A Nervous System LensTruth is not just cognitive—it is physiological and relational.In sympathetic activation → truth can become sharp and reactiveIn withdrawal → truth can become suppressed or avoidedIn regulation → truth becomes attuned and constructiveInteroceptive awareness becomes a guide:Changes in breath, tension, or sensation signal misalignmentThe body often recognizes incoherence before the mind doesClinical and Practical ApplicationIn therapeutic settings, satyam is not blunt disclosure.Instead, it includes:Regulated presenceAttuned listeningReflective languageOften, simply reflecting a client's words allows truth to emerge without force. Truth becomes something discovered, not imposed.Key Reflection QuestionsAmy offers a simple but powerful framework:Is it true? (satyam)Is it kind? (ahiṃsā)Is it the right time, context, and relationship? (ṛtam)This triad supports more skillful communication and reduces unnecessary harm.Closing InsightTruthfulness is not a fixed achievement. It is a lifelong refinement.It asks for:Self-awarenessCourageRegulationWillingness to be wrongTrust in something larger than personal perspectiveAs Amy reminds us, this work unfolds over time, through relationships, and through the willingness to see ourselves clearly.Sanskrit Words of the EpisodeAhiṃsā – Non-harming; active care in relationshipSatyam – Truthfulness; inner and outer coherenceṚtam – Cosmic order; the deeper truth beyond personal perspectiveAvidyā – Misperception; incomplete or incorrect understandingSupport the PodcastJoin the Patreon communityExplore the Optimal State Mobile App (iPhone & Android)Pre-order Applications of Therapeutic Yoga in Integrative Health by Amy Wheeler & Marlisa Sullivanhttps://www.amazon.com/Applying-Therapeutic-Yoga-Integrative-Health/dp/1032888628/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RFZ3L5MCCNPH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.I7harQDOLulfRbd3dx2vVa5VUZa840PHcWB7dDiT3_bB2nravzO7_9Xs9shMhcy2Iwu0wtTA1PxeUG4TTugEQJuK_OEpvzQ-OyVvtsUkXsc.ViqLrL-EQPX7s09wZF6_2eCpLCimHa7Ohfbw-F7Yuk4&dib_tag=se&keywords=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheeler&qid=1775224796&sprefix=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheele%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1
Change is hard, even when it's good for you. In this episode of Conversations for Couples, family therapist Julie Bulitt and divorce attorney David Bulitt turn the microphone on their own marriage to unpack why some people crave change while others dread it, and how that mismatch plays out in everyday decisions big and small.The conversation starts with something small (getting a second dog) and opens into something bigger: how couples navigate change when one partner wants it and the other doesn't. Julie admits she is change averse and prefers predictability, while David describes himself as more adaptable. They trace how that difference showed up when David fell for a rescue puppy named Archie (originally named Crusher), how Julie eventually came around, and what that process revealed about compromise in a long marriage.Julie and David widen the lens to talk about change that gets imposed on a relationship, like a shift in finances that forces a couple to cut back, and why that kind of forced change can hit even harder than change someone chooses for themselves. They also talk about why so many people stay stuck in unhappy situations simply because the unknown feels scarier than the familiar.What You'll Learn:Why some people are naturally more resistant to change than othersHow unspoken assumptions about stability and comfort can create friction in a relationshipThe difference between change you choose and change that gets imposed on youWhy acknowledging what's triggering about a change matters more than trying to "meet in the middle"How Julie and David worked through a real disagreement over adopting their puppy, Archie.Learn more about the Bulitts and their work at thebulitts.com, or connect with them on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and LinkedIn @TheBulitts.Julie Bulitt is a licensed clinical social worker and family therapist. David Bulitt is a divorce and family lawyer. Julie is not your therapist and David is not your lawyer. This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only.
Ever looked at a friendship ending and realized maybe it wasn't just about “growing apart”?This week, I'm joined by content creator Efa Akutekha for one of the most honest conversations I've had about friendship breakups, emotional accountability, and the stories we tell ourselves when relationships fall apart.We talk about the pain of losing people who once felt like family, constantly being the “bigger person,” and what happens when one person keeps growing while the other stays the same.We also get into:Why friendship breakups can hurt more than romantic onesThe emotional labor of always repairing the relationshipThe “good person” narrative and avoiding accountabilityOutgrowing certain mindsets, behaviors, and peopleWhy self-reflection matters in every relationshipLearning when to step back before a friendship fully implodesPlus, Efa shares what IT'S ABOUT DAMN TIME for people to realize about friendship breakups and accountability.Yeah…this episode might make you rethink a few relationships.Connect with EfaFollow Efa on TikTok → hereFollow Efa on all other platforms → @aye_effieVisit her website → hereConnect with MeFollow me on all platforms: @DaWholeDamnShowFollow It's About DAMN Time: @ItsAboutDamnTimePodCop the DAMN University merch right here → Shop now
We've been calling it a loneliness epidemic and treating it like a mental health problem. NYU developmental psychologist Niobe Way says that's the wrong diagnosis, and she has almost 40 years of data on teenage boys to make her case.Niobe Way has spent nearly four decades running longitudinal studies with teenagers, tracking the same kids from middle school into adulthood. Her research on boys, friendship, and masculinity has made her one of the go-to voices on loneliness, connection, and what's actually driving rising rates of depression, anxiety, and violence among young men, along with similar struggles with girls. And, these all tend to follow us well into adulthood. Her latest book is Rebels with a Cause: Reimagining Boys, Ourselves, and Our Culture.In this conversation, you'll explore:Why mental health is a symptom, not the root problem, and what Way calls "social health" insteadThe moment, around age 15, when boys start hiding their feelings in publicWhy boys learn to sacrifice the relationship to protect themselves, and girls learn to sacrifice themselves to protect the relationshipThe dinner-table questions that build real closeness instead of shutting kids downA simple, almost embarrassingly doable practice Way uses with total strangers to rebuild a sense of belongingWhether you're raising a teenager, trying to figure out why your own friendships have gone thin, or just wondering why everyone feels so alone lately, this conversation reframes the whole question.You can find Niobe at: Website | Instagram | Episode TranscriptNext week, it's just me, flying solo, to talk about the self-care trap: the difference between practices that actually help you thrive, and ones that just help you tolerate a life that no longer fits. Be sure to follow Good Life Project wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss any upcoming episodes!Check out our sponsors and resources: Visit Our Sponsor PageShare your midlife reinvention story with us HERE. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Part 2 of The Art of Loving Him Well Series : "The Difference Between Mothering Your Man and Loving Your Man"Have you ever realized — maybe mid-sentence — that you sound more like his mother than his lover? In this episode, Melissa gets real about one of the most common (and most costly) relationship patterns she sees in women: mothering energy. And she shares a very personal story about the morning she heard herself doing it to Alex.This is the episode that might sting a little. And it also might change how you relate to him.In this episode, you'll discover:The supplements story — Melissa's own wake-up moment with Alex and what it revealedThe honest difference between Mother energy and Lover energy (and why a man literally cannot desire a woman who mothers him)Why emasculation is almost always a protection mechanism — not a character flawHow the girl boss era conditioned women into hyper-independence that quietly kills polarityThe ⅓ energy rule: where your energy actually belongs in a relationshipThe exact language shifts to move from correction to invitationWhy being his cheerleader — not his coach — is what actually makes him rise✨ Ready to go deeper? LOVER is Melissa's signature relationship transformation program — covering desire, connection, communication, deep inner healing, and erotic intimacy. 5 limited spots available at $111 with code LOVER111. >> Click here to join now.
What is a newlywed marriage really like after the wedding?In this episode of the Say Yes Anyway Podcast, Char and I answer your biggest questions about our first six months of marriage. We're sharing the honest conversations, unexpected challenges, powerful lessons, and surprising miracles that have shaped our journey as newlyweds.From navigating long-distance love and financial stress to learning each other's communication styles, talking about kids, balancing social media, and trusting God through every unknown, nothing is off limits.Marriage hasn't been perfect, but it has been deeply refining. We've discovered that the strongest relationships aren't built because life gets easier. They're built when two people choose faith over fear, grace over perfection, and commitment over comfort.Whether you're dating, engaged, newly married, or simply hoping to build healthier relationships, we hope this conversation reminds you that God often does His greatest work in the middle of life's most unexpected seasons.In this EpisodeThe biggest lessons we've learned during our first six whirlwind months of marriageHow long-distance dating prepared us for married lifeThe greatest challenges we've faced before and after saying "I do"Learning to navigate finances with different money personalitiesHow healthy communication has strengthened our relationshipOur honest conversation about having childrenWhy trusting God has carried us through uncertaintyHow we protect our marriage while sharing life publiclyThe biggest misconceptions people have about our relationshipThe surprising miracles we've experienced in our first season of marriageWhy choosing faith every day has changed the way we build our future togetherKey Takeaways✨ Healthy marriages aren't built on perfection. They're built on intentionality.✨ God's greatest miracles often happen in seasons that feel uncertain.✨ Honest communication creates deeper trust and stronger relationships.✨ Marriage is less about changing your spouse and more about growing together.✨ Faith gives you the courage to keep saying yes, even when you can't see what's ahead.Connect with Me
Thin, is unfortunately in. The defining mantra of the 90s and early aughts, has reappeared as celebrities, influencers and everyday women shrink in size. But as people get smaller, others are talking. Online and in person, imperfect, candid and concern conversations are happening about the the thinner frames we see online and in person. But what's the best way to have these conversations? To learn how Brittany spoke with Angelina Chapman, features writer at The Cut and Vanessa Scaringi, PhD, licensed psychologist, to learn how to express concern, without pointing fingers.Want more about body image? Check out these IBAM episodes: GLP-1s & eating disorders have a complicated relationshipThe difference between losing weight & being "healthy"Support Public Media. Join NPR Plus.Follow Brittany on Instagram: @bmluse See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy
Live workshop: Learning to live with (maybe even love) THE MANY FACES OF ADHD
What happens when someone who spent years fixing broken healthcare systems realizes plants might be part of the solution? You get Monica Pastrana of Bellebrook Botanicals.Monica is a community herbalist, healthcare professional, and homesteader in rural Wisconsin who built her herbal product line from three simple, food-like remedies and a clear mission: get effective, approachable plant medicine into people's hands.What's in this episode:How a healthcare career led Monica straight to herbalismThe morning she cut the tip of her finger off processing yarrow, and how that plant helpedBurdock root and the stubborn skin issues it clearedTalking herbs with medical professionals without losing the relationshipThe bonfire analogy for inflammation every herbalist should be usingMonica's seasonal herbal making classes on her Wisconsin propertyFor full show notes, resources, and links visit: theherbalistspath.com/blog/yarrow-burdock-herbal-business-monica-pastranaLearn more about the Community Herbalist Certification and Mentorship Program at theherbalistspath.com/community-herbalist-certificationLike the show? Got a Q? Shoot us a Text!If you've been dabbling in herbs for a while, but that inner voice keeps whispering you'renot 'herbalist enough' to actually do this work, then you're invited to a Free LIVE class "Are You Herbalist Enough", Sign up here.It's happening Wednesday, July 29th at 4:00pm PST(Yup, there will be a limited-time replay) Wondering how you can use your herbal skills to help people when times are tough?Grab Medicine For The People - An Herbalist's Guide To Showing Up For Your Community In Times of NeedIt's loaded with ideas and resources to help you help others!
Have you ever wondered if you've outgrown your husband?If you've been doing a lot of personal growth while your partner seems to be staying the same, this episode is for you.It's a question many women ask themselves, and it's often filled with guilt, confusion, and uncertainty.In this episode, we explore what it really means to grow within a relationship and how to find clarity before making any big decisions.We dive into:What it really means to "outgrow" your partnerWhy personal growth can create tension in a relationshipThe difference between growing apart and growing differentlyHow resentment can cloud your perspectiveWhy communication isn't always the root issueThe role of attachment styles and the nervous systemHow to know whether you've outgrown your relationship or an old version of yourselfThinking about joining a future group?I'm considering creating a small group for women navigating this exact season.It won't be about fixing your partner. It will be about finding clarity, rebuilding self-trust, and understanding yourself more deeply.If you'd be interested, send me a DM on Instagram with the word CLARITY.If this episode resonated with you, I'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, or share it with someone who needs to hear it.
“You are not responsible for removing your child's grief. You are responsible for the environment you help create.”What if parenting through divorce didn't require you to make everything okay, but instead invited you to understand what is actually yours to carry?This conversation holds space for the quiet, often unspoken grief that comes with the end of a relationship, especially when you are still showing up every day for your children. It offers a gentle reorientation away from pressure and toward presence, helping you consider what steadiness can look like in the middle of change.If you've been feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or unsure how to support your children while navigating your own grief, this episode invites you into a more sustainable way forward: one rooted in connection, capacity, and small, meaningful shifts.In this episode, we talk about:What it means to parent while grieving the loss of a relationshipThe difference between creating safety and trying to prevent painWhy you are not responsible for fixing your child's griefHow connection supports children more than perfectionThe role of repair when parenting feels messyCreating small, consistent moments of safety and belongingHow to begin tending to your own capacity, one week at a timeLinks + Resources from this episode:Alan Wolfelt on divorce & grief: https://amzn.to/3NGVZCCLisa Rites: https://amzn.to/4dMPaK9Get the workbook/Become a Patron!Learn more about Restorative Grief
We have a special episode for you today! A few weeks ago, Dr. Sabrina was invited to a webinar in the Pumpkin Planners Rock Facebook Group to consider this important question: “Is your business killing your relationship?” We've found that this topic resonates deeply with small business owners everywhere, because we all fear that our commitment to our work is taking over our lives, killing our marriages, and damaging our relationships with loved ones. We are bringing you this webinar to increase understanding about entrepreneurial burnout and to prevent your business from becoming the uninvited third party in your relationships. If you want to show up fully present in your most important relationships, this episode is for YOU. It could change your life!Donna Leyens is the president and co-founder of Pumpkin Plan Your Biz. She is on a mission to save small businesses from extinction by providing tools, strategies, training, and support to business professionals who want to make a big impact as small business growth strategists. This mighty team of strategists uses The Pumpkin Plan Action Guide, a business growth program Donna developed based on the methods in the book, The Pumpkin Plan, written by her co-founder, Mike Michalowicz. Pumpkin Plan Strategists help small businesses not just stay afloat but also scale and grow in both profitability and size, while giving the owner time for life and relationships. Profit by Design is a Tap the Potential production. Show Highlights:The mission of the Pumpkin Plan programThe early warning signs that your business is damaging your relationshipThe trap: Being physically present and mentally “checked out” with our familiesHow to know when your business is taking up way too much of your mental spaceYou're not a bad person if you're a burned-out entrepreneur! (Our Better Business, Better Life Assessment is the only tool that measures burnout in entrepreneurs and the health of their businesses.)Burnout: A combination of all the small things and stressors we absorb (Listen to the cold, hard facts that our research has shown.)Dr. Sabrina's story (Listen to learn why this mission is a personal one.)Entrepreneurs are disconnected at home. Why?We need to value our time differently. (Are you working on $10,000 an hour activities? Download your chart now!)Are your team members working from their strengths?What are the $10,000 an hour activities in your relationships? Nothing else matters!Action steps to start today: Recognize that limits drive innovation and creativity, completely turn off your phone in the evenings and on weekends (Do you need a “Work supports life” sticker?), and ask your loved ones what would be going on if your relationship were at a “10.” Resources:Take the Better Business, Better Life Assessment to identify what may be keeping you stuck and killing your relationships!
Yup… we're doing it. In 2021 I sat across the table From Lewis Howes and his beautiful now-wife, Maria, listening to them gush over their then-new relationship… and how from Day One, therapy was a non-negotiable. Both individually and as a couple, they committed to working on themselves to give such a special union the best chance possible.I've never forgotten that.Fast forward to one year ago when I met Ryan, I immediately knew he was special. Our connection was special. And more than anything… it is a thing worth protecting and growing. Patterns are a real thing. And to be honest, I have more than a bag of destructive patterns…individually and relationally. I'm aware enough to know these days that if I don't continue to peel back the layers of healing, I will continue to repeat those patterns which have destroyed precious things historically.This podcast is about that. And it's about how over the last year Ryan and I have both committed to diving in head first.Relationships are mirrors… and sometimes those damn mirrors are hard to look into. But only by allowing the mirrors to be held up, can we become aware of our blind spots and ultimately (hopefully) evolve into two people who can hold a healthy relationship. :)This conversation touches on communication, self-awareness, people-pleasing, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to be fully seen by another person. We explore how our past experiences still shape the way we show up today and why healthy relationships often reveal the parts of ourselves that still need attention.In this episode, we discuss:Why personal growth doesn't stop when you find the right relationshipThe relationship patterns we never want to repeatHow unspoken expectations can create distance and resentmentThe challenge of balancing ambition, family, friendships, and connectionWhat vulnerability actually looks like in a healthy relationshipThe fears and insecurities that still show up for both of usChoosing curiosity over defensiveness during difficult conversationsHow growth often begins where comfort endsMore than anything, this episode is a reminder that the strongest relationships aren't built by two perfect people. They're built by two people willing to keep learning, keep communicating, and keep choosing each other through every season of growth.Here are the key moments from the episode:00:00 What Happens When Old Patterns Return04:03 Why We're Finally Talking About Long Distance07:07 Redefining What “Failed” Relationships Really Mean10:23 Can the Honeymoon Phase Actually Last Forever?13:19 When Your Partner Notices Every Tiny Shift16:11 The Fear of Being Fully Seen18:06 When People-Pleasing Starts Stealing Your Peace21:56 The Pattern Heidi Refuses to Repeat26:16 Why We Chose Therapy Before Things Broke29:21 The Truth About High Expectations in Love33:36 When Independence Makes Partnership Harder36:52 Becoming the Average of the Right People37:43 Losing Yourself to Be Loved40:10 What Comes Next After the Therapy Intensive41:47 Why Therapy Is a Tool, Not a Last Resort43:31 Awareness Is Where Real Change BeginsConnect with Heidi:Website: https://heidipowell.net/Email: podcast@heidipowell.netInstagram: @realheidipowellFacebook: Heidi PowellYouTube: @RealHeidiPowellTrain with Heidi on her Show Up App: https://www.showupfit.app/
For parents, there is nothing that can make the hairs on our neck stand up more than a comment about our child's behavior or environment. We spend so much energy on raising our children that our focus on our marriage and our spouse can suffer. When we look to God's word, we can see His intent on the family structure, and we see how we should prioritize the roles in the family unit.Today's family is threatened by:Our society downplaying the role of the husband-wife relationshipThe rise of child-centered parenting
Richard Blackaby joins Steve Adams for a powerful conversation about spiritual maturity, daily rhythms with God, and what it really means to experience God in everyday life—not just in the extraordinary moments.Drawing from the legacy of the bestselling study Experiencing God and the new release Experiencing God in Everyday Life, Richard shares deeply personal stories about his father, Henry Blackaby, spiritual formation, abiding in Christ, and how ordinary believers can learn to recognize God's presence in the middle of everyday life.Together, Steve and Richard discuss:Why many Christians feel disconnected from God in daily lifeThe danger of reducing faith to activity instead of relationshipThe role of spiritual rhythms and habits in transformationThe importance of spiritual companionshipHow suffering and disruption shape maturityThe next generation's hunger for authentic faithWhy most of life is lived in the “valleys,” not the mountaintopsThis conversation is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and practical insight for anyone longing to walk more closely with Jesus in the ordinary rhythms of life.
We have been looking forward to this conversation for a long time, and it did not disappoint.Mike Prince is a friend of the Eversio family, founder of the Conscious Man Project, and a coach who helps men stop performing their lives and start actually living them. He is the kind of guest that makes you put your phone down and just listen. And if you have a man in your life who you love and quietly worry about, this one is especially for you.Mike walked away from the identity he had spent decades building: high-achieving athlete, corporate leader, husband, father, the guy with everything. At the peak of it, he felt completely empty. A Lyme disease diagnosis became the forced pause that changed everything. What he built in that stillness, he now helps other men find. He calls it conscious creation.This conversation went deep, fast, and it did not stay in the lane of men only. We talked about masculine and feminine energy, what women unknowingly do that makes it harder for their partners to heal, and what it actually looks like to design a day with intention rather than obligation. Whether you showed up today as a woman, a partner, a mother, or someone in the middle of your own reckoning, this episode will give you something real to work with.What You Will Learn In This EpisodeWhat it actually means to be an unconscious creator and the one habit that keeps most people there without realizing itWhat men are almost never able to name in a first coaching session and why naming it changes everythingThe physical toll of living out of alignment and why the body starts speaking when nothing else willWhat well-meaning partners do that feels supportive but actually makes it harder for men to find their wayWhy congratulating your man for grinding might be the thing quietly costing you the relationshipThe difference between masculine and feminine energy that has nothing to do with gender, and why both of you need bothHow Mike's Lyme disease shifted from purely physical to something he now calls his greatest giftWhat a consciously designed day actually looks like for someone who is not a monk and has three kids and a full lifeThe one thing Mike's male clients resist the most, and then cannot stop talking about after they try itWhat Mike wants his three boys to understand about being a man that took him far too long to learn himselfResources Mentioned:The Conscious Man Retreat: www.consciouscreator.worldEversio Wellness Chaga mushroom: https://www.eversiowellness.com/products/chaga-mushroom-extract?variant=42490371211463Shop all Eversio Wellness mushrooms: https://www.eversiowellness.com/collections/all-productsConnect with Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theconsciouscreatorcoachWebsite: https://www.consciouscreator.worldYour Next Steps:Shop Eversio Wellness: https://www.eversiowellness.com/en-us/collections/all-productsUse code PODCAST15 for 15% off your order: https://www.eversiowellness.com/discount/PODCAST15Follow us on Instagram @eversiowellness: https://www.instagram.com/eversiowellness/
Send us Fan MailThere's a particular kind of loneliness that happens inside a relationship, not outside of it. You still share a home, a bed, a life. But somewhere along the way, you stopped really talking. Not the logistics, those still happen. The real things. The thoughts you used to share without thinking twice now get held back. You measure your words. You wait for a better moment that never quite comes.If that feels familiar, this episode is for you.In this fan-favorite replay, Staci, Tom, and Brooke unpack emotional safety, what it actually is, how it quietly erodes, and why its absence is so often mistaken for the end of love. You'll learn why no amount of begging or pushing can pull honesty out of someone who doesn't feel safe, what's really happening when a couple drifts into feeling like roommates, and how emotional safety can be rebuilt, slowly, and on purpose.Staci shares the simple balloon metaphor that reframes every hard conversation, the role of permission in healthy communication, and an honest, vulnerable story from Brooke's first marriage about what can dismantle emotional safety in an instant.Whether your relationship is thriving, strained, or somewhere in emotional limbo, this conversation will help you see your silence, your conflict, and your distance in a completely new way.What You'll LearnWhat emotional safety is, and why it's the foundation beneath every healthy relationshipThe small, often invisible ways emotional safety erodes over timeWhy begging, pushing, or prodding a partner to "just talk" almost always backfiresThe two survival responses: shutting down (collapse) and attacking (control)What it really means when a couple starts to feel like roommatesHow to rebuild emotional safety through permission, practice, and small repeated winsWhy we tend to hurt the people we love the most, and how to interrupt that patterTake the Better Love QuizWondering where your own relationship actually stands right now? The Better Love Quiz is a free, few-minute assessment that walks you through the real skills that keep love steady: knowing yourself, staying grounded when triggered, holding boundaries, communicating clearly, and repairing after conflict. When you finish, it shows you where you're already strong, where the strain is coming from, and what kind of support would help you most.Take the quiz: betterlovequiz.comTimestamps: 04:13 Emotional Safety Explained05:25 How Safety Erodes07:44 Punishing Honesty09:37 The Mess Metaphor11:35 Safety First Principle14:26 Building Safety Over Time18:53 Dating Shows We Know21:29 When Safety Is Gone22:38 Rebuilding Is Possible24:51 Balloon Metaphor26:54 Catching the Leak28:36 Permission Over Defensiveness30:34 Emotional Pushups Practice31:42 Hard Truths Example35:58 Fragile and Sacred Safety37:29 Investing in Love Daily49:00 Quiz and Farewell
AI companionship is exploding — and it is not just lonely men in basements.More and more people are developing emotional attachment, dependency, and even intimacy with artificial intelligence systems designed to capture human attention and mirror emotional needs back to us.In this video I explore why women may be particularly vulnerable to AI emotional manipulationWhy men need to establish healthy boundaries around AI use in relationshipsThe spiritual danger of artificial intimacyThe difference between information, knowledge, and wisdomWhy AI companionship can never replace embodied human relationshipThe deeper loneliness and fragmentation driving this phenomenonI also react to a woman openly teaching people how to emotionally bond with AI companions and explain why I believe this represents a serious cultural and spiritual warning sign.The solution is rebuilding real human relationships, community, brotherhood, family, grounded on Christianity.⚔️ Path of ManlinessOnline men's groups focused on accountability, brotherhood, discipline, and spiritual growth:https://pathofmanliness.com
Send us Fan MailHave you noticed how quickly we reach for someone else's answers before we even slow down long enough to hear our own? We Google it. We poll our friends. We scroll for reassurance. And now, we ask AI. Quietly, underneath all of it, something deeper is happening: we are losing our relationship with our own inner wisdom.In this episode, Tom, Brooke, and I sit down to talk about what I believe is one of the greatest relationship crises of our time. When we can no longer hear and trust our own voice, we cannot deeply trust our choices, ourselves, or the people we love. The consequences are showing up everywhere. In our anxiety. In our self-doubt. In the emotional gap that keeps widening with our partners. In how easily we are manipulated by strong personalities, influencers, and fear-based narratives that promise us certainty.Here's what we explore:Why emotional overload and information overwhelm have led us into avoidance, self-doubt, and isolationHow social media, religion, self-help gurus, and now AI have become the oracles we hand our lives over toThe difference between "I don't want to do that because it's hard" and "this dismantles me" (and why discernment is the skill almost nobody is teaching)The simple two-minute practice that brings you back home to yourself, no childhood archaeology requiredWhy nuance is the real territory of life, and what black-and-white thinking is costing your relationshipThe bird and the branch metaphor that changed how I think about self-trustIf you have been feeling confused, overwhelmed, or like you have lost touch with who you actually are, this one is for you. You are not broken. You are living in a world flooded with noise, fear, and urgency, and the way back to yourself is closer and simpler than you have been led to believe.New: The Better Love Skills AssessmentHow are you actually showing up in your relationships right now? Take our brand new 16-question assessment to find out. You'll get a score in each of the four skills that build a thriving connection: knowing yourself, navigating your emotions, holding your limits, and communicating so others can hear you. Plus your next best step to grow from where you are. It's free, and it takes about three minutes.Take it now at betterlovequiz.comTimestamps:06:12 Staci Origin Story07:47 Tom Foundation Lessons09:17 Religion And Inner Voice13:07 AI As The New Oracle16:34 Vulnerability And Manipulation19:27 Discernment Versus Resistance25:04 Couples Impact And Anxiety28:49 How To Start Listening Inward35:29 Skills Over Labels37:34 Why We Avoid Ourselves38:49 Emotions Two Choices39:04 The Upside Of Self Work41:31 Power Of The Pause42:26 Recalibrating In Real Time44:44 Clearing The Emotional Backlog46:14 Self Esteem Through Self Knowing48:17 Boundaries And Accountability51:14 Discernment Defined54:58 Nuance Over Black And White57:54 Triggers Progress Not Perfection01:00:11 Stop Outsourcing Your Answers01:01:59 Three Minute Check In01:04:04 Trust Your Own Wings01:06:21 Better Love Skills Assessment
Put Yourself First Podcast | Self Care | Personal Growth | Goal Setting | Inspirational Interviews
If you've been holding something back from your partner - hoping it'll resolve itself, telling yourself you're overthinking it, or convincing yourself it's not that big a deal - this episode is for you.In this episode I'm talking about avoidance. Not just why it feels easier in the moment, but what it's actually costing you and your relationship over time.In this episode we cover:Why avoidance isn't neutral - it's slowly poisoning your relationshipThe moment avoidance becomes a red flag (and why you might be the one waving it)The feminine energy myth that keeps women stuck and silentWhy "I've already told him" is often not the full storyWhat's really underneath the avoidance - and what to do about itIf you're ready to stop carrying it all silently and start feeling actually supported in your relationship, this one is for you.LINKSInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kat_horrocks/1:1 Coaching (video invite with details) - https://www.khorrocks.com/private-inviteSisterhood - https://www.khorrocks.com/sisterhoodJoin the Email Newsletter (+ get a Put Yourself First meditation) - https://www.khorrocks.com/meditation
"Cold outreach is a great way to start — but it's not how you scale."Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this solo episode, host Dan Irvin makes the case that the most efficient gig you'll ever book is the one you just finished. The problem? Most speakers walk off stage, shake a few hands, grab a photo, and move on — completely missing the two, three, maybe five opportunities that were already sitting in that room.Dan breaks down the exact post-event process he uses to turn every speaking gig into referrals, rebookings, and long-term relationships — including the story of a low-fee local event that turned into over $50,000 in workshops with a client he's still working with today. This isn't about doing more work. It's about doing the right work after the work most people think is the finish line.You'll learn:Why the stage is just the beginning — and what your job actually looks like in the 48 hours after you leave itHow Dan's post-event process generates referrals, repeat bookings, and long-term clients on autopilotThe handwritten thank you note habit Dan swears by (and why it still works in 2025)Why post-event calls are non-negotiable — and exactly what Dan covers in every single oneThe performance review section: how to ask for honest feedback without making it awkwardThe one question Dan always asks to surface referrals — and who you should (and shouldn't) be asking it toWhy most event planners won't bring the same speaker back year over year — and why that's actually great news for your businessHow to stay top of mind without forcing the relationshipThe $50,000 follow-up: what happened when Dan showed up to a packed standing-room event he almost didn't takeWhy your next 10–15 gigs are probably already sitting in rooms you've spoken inAnd much, much more! "Your next gigs are already sitting in the rooms you've spoken in — but only if you treat the relationship that way."Want help building a post-event system that actually works?Grab a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment at thespeakerlab.com/SBA — Dan and the team will look at your audience, pipeline, and revenue model and help you figure out exactly what to do next.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Well Sh*t. It really is that simple - Episode 204 - "How to navigate your villain era" is now LIVE!Full Show notes: https://bit.ly/WellShitEpisodeGuideIf you joined us last episode, you know we've embraced our villain era and we're back talking about our villainous ways again. This week we're discussing how becoming the best version of yourself in your story can lead you to be the villain in someone else's. Tune in to discover how you can navigate this villain era and possibly help rewrite the storyline so that both people have the opportunity to have the happy ending that serves them best.In this episode we cover:The salad that confuses ClaireBecoming the villain by bettering yourselfWhen you're no longer the person you wereHow linear healing journeys can bring relationships closer together or farther apartOne person's healing can be another person's kryptoniteHealing and removing a trauma bondTrying to convince someone to go on a healing journey they aren't ready or wanting to go onFinding the right professional to support you in your journeyHow Serena's marriage was effected by her own growth and healing journeyWhy you have to really want what is on the other side of a healing/growth journeyHealing isn't one size fits all - why healing the self doesn't necessarily mean healing the relationshipThe threat you pose to others when you are trying to be being a better version of yourselfPlaying out a storyline that is set in stoneChanging the shared storyline and what it takes to do soThe ironic twist some villain stories takeAdmitting and addressing when we're the villain Episode References:The episode where we talk about how to address things when you screw up - The Apology Blueprint episode - Episode 156 - The 6 essential parts of an effective apologyPodcast Episode guide and full show notes: https://bit.ly/WellShitEpisodeGuideFind our website and connect with us on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/theuniversalneeds Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Doing Divorce Different A Podcast Guide to Doing Divorce Differently
Divorce advice, stay or go decisions, and co-parenting tools—this episode dives deep into how to navigate divorce with clarity and protect your kids. If you're questioning your marriage, this conversation on divorce, relationships, and emotional healing will help you find your next step.In this powerful episode of Doing Divorce Different, I sit down with master life coach, relationship expert, and 7-time bestselling author Sharon Pope to unpack one of the hardest questions women face: Should I stay or should I go?We talk honestly about divorce, relationships, and the emotional toll of feeling stuck—and more importantly, what to do about it. Sharon shares practical tools for making the stay-or-go decision, how to stop trying to change your partner, and why doing your own inner work is the most powerful step you can take.We also dive into one of the biggest concerns for women over 40 navigating divorce—your kids. You'll learn how to support your children through divorce in a healthy way and why divorce doesn't have to damage them—it can actually help them thrive.If you're navigating divorce, questioning your marriage, or trying to protect your kids through it all, this episode is a must-listen.Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction to Sharon Pope and her story(04:30) Why Sharon chose to help women navigate divorce(08:15) Can divorce be peaceful? Rethinking the narrative(12:20) The truth about loving someone and still leaving(16:05) How divorce impacts children and generational patterns(20:40) How to know if it's time to stay or go(26:10) Why “trying” in marriage often doesn't work(31:45) The power of working on yourself first(37:20) Why you can't change your partner (and what to do instead)(42:10) The biggest mistake women make in relationships(47:30) How to help your kids thrive through divorce(52:00) A simple tool to reduce your child's fear(56:40) Teaching kids boundaries through divorce(01:01:10) Doing what's best for your kids—even when it's hard(01:06:00) Borrowed courage and finding support(01:10:15) Final takeaway: You can do hard thingsKey Takeaways:You can love someone and still choose to leave the relationshipThe most powerful way to improve your marriage is to work on yourselfChildren don't need perfect parents—they need emotionally aware onesDivorce done well can positively impact future generationsYou don't need certainty—you need tools, support, and courageGuest Bio:Sharon Pope is a master life coach, relationship expert, and 7-time bestselling author who helps women navigate the difficult decision of whether to stay in or leave their marriage. With over a decade of experience, Sharon provides practical tools and emotional support to help women make empowered decisions, strengthen relationships, and create healthier futures for themselves and their families.Resource Links:Sharon Pope Website: https://sharonpope.comSharon's Book: https://sharonpopebook.comLesa Koski Parenting Plan Course: (add your link)Doing Divorce Different Podcast: (add your link)Tags/Keywords:divorce advice, should I get divorced, stay or go marriage, divorce and kids, co-parenting tips, marriage help for women, relationship advice, divorce coaching, midlife divorce, emotional healing, marriage problems, parenting through divorce, healthy divorce, women over 40 divorce
Most couples have had the same money argument dozens of times without ever having the real conversation underneath it. Research shows that 58% of Australian couples report finances as a major source of conflict, and a study of over 5,500 couples found the pattern of the conversation predicted the outcome, not the financial situation.This episode covers:Why money fights are almost never about the moneyThe money stories we carry from childhood and how they shape every conversation about financesHow money becomes about power, identity and influence in a relationshipThe gendered lens we bring to money conversations and why it mattersQuestions to ask your partner to open the conversation rather than shut it downWhy curiosity before problem solving is the thing that actually changes thingsENROL NOW Relationship New Year RESET 2026https://marievakakis.com.au/relationship-new-year-reset-2026/Connect with Mariehttps://thetherapyhub.com.au/https://marievakakis.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/Submit a question to the Podcasthttps://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
Why do so many Christian men struggle in marriage even when they love their wives? In this direct and practical episode of The Impossible Life Podcast, Nick Surface and Garrett Unclebach break down the non-negotiables of a Godly marriage and why most men are missing them. This isn't theory.This is about principles which are the repeatable forces that govern outcomes whether you're aware of them or not.If your marriage isn't where it should be, it's not random. It's the result of what you are or aren't doing consistently. In this episode, they unpack three core pillars every Christian man must lead in to build a thriving, Godly marriage:1. Trust — Keep Your Word. If you don't do what you say, your word loses value. And when your word loses value, your wife loses trust and respect follows. Strong marriages are built on consistent integrity, not occasional effort.2. Intimacy — Date Your Wife. Most men stop pursuing their wife after they marry her. That's where the breakdown begins. If you don't intentionally create time, attention, and connection, your marriage slowly shifts into co-existing instead of thriving. Christian men don't stop pursuing, they lead in it.3. Leadership — Have a Plan. A Godly marriage isn't just about being happy, it's about building something together. Without vision, your relationship drifts. With purpose, your marriage grows stronger. Leadership means knowing where your family is going and leading them there.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why principles not feelings determine your marriage outcomesHow lack of discipline quietly destroys marriagesWhy keeping your word builds respect and trustHow to practically date your wife (even with kids and a busy life)Why many Christian men unintentionally become passive in marriageHow purpose and leadership transform a relationshipThe danger of becoming roommates instead of partnersThis episode is a wake-up call for Christian men who want a Godly marriage built on faith, discipline, and purpose. Because great marriages don't happen by accident. They're built by men who lead. And if you don't lead your marriage intentionally, you will drift into something you never intended.Get With NuWave Home Lenders By Clicking HereJoin a group of likeminded Impossible Life listeners in our FREE Skool community by clicking here.Get the Purpose Playbook by clicking hereGet the FREE Basic Discipline Training 30 Day Program by clicking hereJoin us in Mindset Mastery by clicking hereIf you're a man that wants real accountability and training to be a leader, click here.Level up your nutrition with IDLife by clicking hereGET IN TOUCHSocial Media - @theimpossiblelifeEmail - info@theimpossible.life
Are you stuck in the hourly billing trap, racing against the clock while your clients pressure you to go faster, cheaper, and more? In this episode, Jonathan Stark, the "Ditching Hourly" guy, joins Carly and Joe to break down exactly how solopreneurs can escape time-for-money pricing and switch to a value-based model that benefits both you and your clients.Jonathan shares the surprising moment he realized hourly billing was the root cause of nearly every frustration in his business, from scope creep to client tension to capped income. After making the switch, he doubled his income in year one and watched his client relationships transform almost overnight.This isn't abstract theory. Jonathan walks through his exact process for determining what your work is worth to a client, including his "why conversation" framework, a series of strategic questions that uncover urgency, business value, and what a home run looks like before you ever quote a price. He also explains how to structure a three-option proposal, why he defines scope last (not first), and how to handle scope creep without awkward confrontations.You'll also hear Jonathan's take on retainer pricing, why he doesn't send "rates are going up" letters, when hourly billing might still make sense for newer solopreneurs, and why he keeps contracts minimal even though any lawyer would call him crazy for it.In this episode, you'll learn:Why hourly billing creates a self-fulfilling cycle of scope creep and client tensionThe "why conversation" framework: three categories of questions that reveal what your work is actually worthHow to build a three-option value-based proposal that practically sells itselfWhy Jonathan prices first and defines scope last, and how that changes everythingHow to handle scope creep requests without damaging the client relationshipThe difference between project-based value pricing and retainer-based advisory pricingWhen hourly billing might still be appropriate (and when it's a trap)Why getting paid upfront changes the entire dynamic of client workHow to raise your prices over time without losing existing clientsResources mentioned:Jonathan Stark's free email course: valuepricingbootcamp.comJonathan's website: jonathanstark.comDitching Hourly podcastIf you found this episode helpful, share it with a solopreneur friend who's struggling with pricing. And don't forget to leave a five-star review and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, including YouTube.
Tess sits down with her husband Shaun for a candid, unfiltered couples Q&A, with questions submitted by you, the listeners - covering everything from communication and conflict, to finances, parenting and the conversations most couples avoid.They also open up about one of the most misunderstood topics in modern relationships — prenups (or financial agreements), and why they believe it's less about distrust yet more about clarity, protection and having the hard conversations early.From balancing a young family with ambitious careers, to managing money as a couple, this episode offers a grounded, real look into what it actually takes to build a strong, lasting partnership.In the episode:How to maintain and “optimise” a long-term relationshipThe role of communication, transparency and shared valuesWhat actually makes relationships last (and what breaks them)Navigating conflict and handling things that annoy youGrowing together in business, life and personal developmentThe truth about prenups — and why they're so misunderstoodHow to manage finances as a coupleBalancing a young family with career and ambitionWhy routines, roles and support matter more than you thinkThe importance of appreciating the “season” you're inThis episode is sponsored by Chief, clean, high-protein snacks made with real, grass-fed ingredients and no fillers. Use code TESSTALKS for 20% off.www.wearechief.comFollow Shaun: @shaunwilson29Follow me on Instagram: @tess.shanahan & @tesstalksofficial Follow me on TikTok: @tessshanahanFollow me on YouTube: TessShanahan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
DescriptionIn this episode of Perfect Prey, I'm joined by Emma Katz, criminologist and author of Coercive Control in Children's and Mothers' Lives. Emma is one of the leading researchers in the world examining how coercive control impacts children—not just as witnesses, but as direct victims navigating survival, attachment, and identity.Together, we explore how children experience coercive control in deeply complex ways, how abusers strategically target the mother-child bond, and why so many systems continue to misunderstand—or completely overlook—the perpetrator's role.This conversation offers both profound validation and hope, highlighting the resilience of children and the critical role of protective parents in healing and recovery.What we coverWhy children are not “witnesses” but direct victims of coercive controlHow perpetrators strategically target and damage the mother-child relationshipThe three ways children experience abusive fathers: dangerous, “admirable,” and omnipresentHow manipulation, intermittent reinforcement, and fear shape children's attachmentWhy children may align with the abusive parent—and why that is not a choiceThe psychological impact of coercive control on children's identity, safety, and developmentThe resilience of children and the power of attachment with a protective parentWhat recovery can look like for families after coercive controlWhy listenIf you are a protective parent, survivor, clinician, or professional working with families, this episode offers essential insight into how coercive control shapes children's experiences—and why traditional frameworks often get it wrong.Emma's research brings clarity to what many families are living through, while also offering hope: children can heal, attachment can be rebuilt, and protective parenting matters more than anything.Guest bio (short)Emma Katz is a criminologist, researcher, and author specializing in coercive control and its impact on women and children. She is the author of Coercive Control in Children's and Mothers' Lives and writes extensively about domestic abuse, family dynamics, and systemic responses. Her work has been instrumental in shifting the understanding of children as active victims of coercive control rather than passive witnesses.Learn more about Dr. Emma KatzSubstack:https://substack.com/@dremmakatzOfficial Site:https://dremmakatz.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/emmakatz_phdLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-emma-katz-5b911865/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx1f7_MhfCmVufMQS0ZPRjQX(twitter):https://x.com/DrEmmaKatzBook (Coercive Control in Children's and Mothers' Lives): https://www.amazon.com/Coercive-Control-Childrens-INTERPERSONAL-VIOLENCE/dp/0190922214/Connect with Dr. ChristineLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-christine-marie-cocchiola-443a58204/Protective Parenting Program:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDxTalk:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks:https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode landed for you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and consider leaving a review — it helps other survivors find validation and safety.
What happens when the story you've built your life around begins to unravel?In this deeply personal and courageous episode, beloved singer-songwriter, performer, filmmaker, and author Michael McLean opens up about one of the most painful and transformative chapters of his life.Known for his inspiring music and messages of faith, Michael shares what happened behind the scenes when his son left the Church and came out as gay. What followed were years of confusion, heartache, distance, and a faith crisis Michael never expected.He vulnerably walks us through:The strain that entered their father-son relationshipHis own spiritual questioning and internal turmoilThe turning point that began healing their relationshipThe truth he ultimately discovered about faith, love, and familyThis is not a polished stage story. It is raw. It is real. And it is hopeful.If you have a loved one who has left your faith…If someone you love has come out and you don't know how to navigate it…If your relationship feels fragile or broken…This conversation will meet you in that tender space.Michael's journey reminds us that healing doesn't come through control, fear, or winning arguments—it comes through humility, listening, and a deeper kind of love.This is a rare look into a very private struggle—and a powerful testimony of what can happen when love becomes bigger than fear.Song: Safe HarborsConnect with Shiree at shireebest.com Join the "Just Love Them" Facebook groupEmail Shiree at imlivinginjoy@gmail.com
There is so much noise out there about fertility, timelines, and the “right” way and time to become a mother. I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate these decisions, especially as a single woman wondering what's possible, what's realistic, and what you really want. That's why I was so excited to welcome back Dr. Natalie Crawford for this episode. Not only is she a leader in the fertility space and the co-founder of Fora Fertility here in Austin, but she's also my own fertility doctor.In this conversation, Dr. Crawford shares about her new book, The Fertility Formula. She dives into what to know about the fertility process, what questions to ask, and how to make empowered decisions at every stage. Whether you're just starting to think about your options, actively trying to conceive, or navigating the early years of solo motherhood, you'll find so much useful information here. We touch on the emotional layers of solo motherhood by choice, challenge the “rush” narrative, and unpack how knowledge (not urgency!) creates real freedom and confidence.I left this conversation feeling more grounded and reminded that there is no “right” path - only the choice that's right for you. I hope you walk away with a stronger sense of what's within your control, how to advocate for your own well-being, and ways to gently hold space for the dreams you're building, even if they look different than you once imagined.In this episode, we talk about:Why foundational fertility knowledge matters, and what Dr. Crawford wishes every woman knew soonerThe importance of advocating for yourself and naming your real goals in the fertility journeyHow inflammation, lifestyle choices, and environment actually impact your fertility and hormone healthThe pressures single women face around making the right choiceHow to navigate uncertainty, conflicting emotions, and evolving dreams, whether or not motherhood is your current goalWhat to do if you feel unsupported or uncertain in your clinic/doctor relationshipThe value of taking the next informed step, not letting anxiety or urgency take the leadConnect with Dr. Natalie Crawford:WebsiteInstagram: @nataliecrawfordmdTikTok: @nataliecrawfordmdLinkedIn: Natalie Crawford, MDYouTube: Natalie Crawford, MDPodcast: As a Woman
AWAKENING HEARTS ASCENDING SOULS EPISODE SUMMARYYou can be successful, admired, even deeply loved…and still feel completely alone.In this powerful episode, Nancy reveals the hidden truth behind why so many high-performing individuals struggle with intimacy, connection, and emotional fulfillment—despite having everything they thought would bring them happiness.This is not about communication techniques or relationship strategies.This is about identity.Because the truth is…you cannot experience real intimacy while living behind a version of yourself that was created for survival.If you've ever felt unseen, disconnected, or like no one truly gets you—this episode will open your eyes to what's really happening beneath the surface… and what it actually takes to experience deep, soul-level connection. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL DISCOVER:Why you can feel lonely even in a relationshipThe difference between connection and true intimacyHow your survival identity blocks love, closeness, and emotional safetyThe hidden ways high performers “perform” in relationshipsWhy you struggle to receive love (even when it's right in front of you)The real reason relationships lose depth, attraction, and connection over timeHow childhood conditioning and past experiences shape your ability to be seenThe spiritual foundation of true intimacy and being fully knownWhat it actually takes to experience deep, lasting connection KEY TRUTH FROM THIS EPISODE“Your identity determines the depth of love you allow.”IF THIS EPISODE HIT YOU…You may be someone who:Feels disconnected in relationships, even when things look “good”Struggles to fully open, trust, or be vulnerableHas built success externally but feels something is missing internallyFinds yourself overthinking, pulling back, or needing control in loveCraves deep connection but doesn't know how to access itThis isn't because something is wrong with you.It's because the version of you that learned how to survive…is now blocking the intimacy you were created for. THE INVITATIONThere comes a moment where you realize:You don't need another strategy…You need a transformation.This is the work of shifting from your survival identityinto your true identity-the version of you that is safe to be seen, safe to receive, and capable of experiencing real intimacy. PRIVATE WORK WITH NANCYIf you're ready to go deeper, Nancy offers an exclusive experience designed for those who are no longer willing to live behind the mask:Identity to Destiny Reset (90-Day Immersion)A high-level, deeply transformative journey to:Release subconscious patterns and emotional blocksRewire your nervous system for safety, connection, and loveHeal the root of disconnection in relationshipsStep into your true identity and aligned lifeThis is a private, application-based experience.Message Nancy directly to inquire or email ascendwithnancy@gmail.com FINAL REFLECTIONYou can continue being admired… respected… desired…Or you can become someone who is finally known. SHARE THIS EPISODEIf this spoke to you, share it with someone who:Feels alone in their relationshipIs ready for deeper connectionKnows there is more to love than what they've experiencedJust say the word. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sorry but...the "Girl Math" is not adding up.And by "Girl Math" we mean the class fantasies of young women; the dream of achieving financial freedom by being frivolous with finances (because 'I'm just a girl!')... and really entirely on their husband or partner (with no backup plan!).You see these fantasies peddled in romance novels, divorce memoirs, and, of course, tradwife content. According to Chelsea Fagan, author and CEO of The Financial Diet, these are all part of our culture's obsession with class fantasies. While we may believe much of our social and romantic desires are solely rooted in love, Chelsea wants to encourage women especially to interrogate their financial status and future. Brittany is joined by Chelsea to answer the question: is it really love if you don't have the financial ability to come and go as you please? Want more on financial fantasies or relationships? Check out these IBAM episodes: Money can make or break your relationshipThe embarrassing truth of dating menSupport Public Media. Join NPR Plus.Follow Brittany on Instagram: @bmluseFor handpicked podcast recommendations every week, subscribe to NPR's Pod Club newsletter at npr.org/podclub.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
If you've hit a million in revenue and suddenly everything feels harder, you're not doing it wrong. You've just hit the plateau almost no one talks about.This episode breaks down why growth slows down right when you're trying to scale. Not because your mission isn't strong. Not because you need more tactics. But because the way you lead, communicate, and ask has to change.I walk through the exact patterns I see with executive directors and small teams stuck at this level. The good news is none of this requires more hustle. It requires better decisions, clearer messaging, and a lot more courage in the conversations you've been avoiding.What you'll learn in this episode:Why getting from $1M to $2M is often harder than getting from $0 to $1MHow hiring becomes a major bottleneck and leadership skill at this stageWhy “cheerleader boards” stop working and what real board partnership looks likeHow unclear, long-winded messaging is quietly costing you major giftsWhy your organization must be explainable in 20 seconds or lessHow weak or vague asks leave six figures on the table with donors you already haveThe real reason you're under-asking and how it's actually confusing your donorsWhy focusing on pitching instead of dialogue is limiting your resultsHow to respond when donors say “not now” without losing the relationshipThe connection between avoided conversations and stalled revenue growthYou don't break through the million-dollar plateau by working harder. You break through by saying the things you've been avoiding, asking for what you actually need, and leading donors with clarity instead of hesitation.Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training.If you're an ED or DD of a $1M+ making a difference in your community and you're ready to make bigger, bolder asks, then DM me “CL” on LinkedIn and I'll share details.
Welcome to Raising Confident Girls. In this episode, your host Melissa Jones uncovers a powerful reframe that can transform how you understand your daughter—revealing why silence isn't rejection, but often a way for her to create a sense of control in their world.Melissa breaks down what's really behind the moments that can feel confusing or even hurtful to parents, helping you decode your daughter's behavior with greater clarity and compassion. She explains why timing matters more than pushing for connection, and how giving space can actually bring you closer rather than create distance.With simple, practical strategies, Melissa shows how unplanned, low-pressure moments can become the most meaningful opportunities for connection—allowing trust to grow naturally over time.In this episode, we discuss:What your daughter's silence might really meanWhy giving space can strengthen your relationshipThe importance of timing when initiating conversationsHow to recognize and respond to your daughter's cuesWays to connect through everyday, unplanned momentsJoin Melissa for a reassuring and eye-opening conversation that will help you move from frustration to deeper understanding—building a stronger, more trusting connection with your daughter.Download the Quick Tips PDF of today's episode for future reference.If you know a parent who could benefit from this conversation, share this episode with them! Let's work together to raise the next generation of confident girls.Melissa's Links:• Website • Instagram • Facebook• TikTok• LinkedIn
Has your libido disappeared? You're not alone. Listen to this interview to learn why and what you can do about it.Andrea Donsky, nutritionist, published menopause researcher, menopause educator, author, and co-founder of wearemorphus.com, interviews Dr. Diane Mueller. Dr. Mueller is a naturopathic doctor and board-certified sexologist with two doctoral degrees and over 15 years of clinical experience helping more than 30,000 couples restore libido and intimacy. She founded the Hot and Modern Monogamy Club, wrote Want to Want It, and hosts the Libido Lounge podcast.Topics:Breaking the taboo around pain, pleasure, and desire in perimenopause and menopauseThe importance of pleasure, desire, and why they are essential for overall well-beingKeeping excitement alive in long-term and monogamous relationships Questioning traditional vs open relationship models and how communication makes them workHow to express your needs clearly in a relationshipThe impact of physical, personal, and interpersonal factors on libidoKey differences in arousal and desire between men and womenWhy women need to feel “in their bodies” and the role of foreplay in arousalPractical libido support strategies, habits, and prioritizationApproaching communication without blame, shame, or pressureThe evolution of relationships and intimacy across different life stagesReintroducing play, removing expectations, and reducing pressure around sexPhysical changes, including circulation, pelvic floor health, and tissue healthInterstitial cystitis symptoms and their impact on intimacyLearn more about Dr. Diane Mueller here.Send us Fan Mail ======Morphus: Menopause Reimagined
What do you do when your adult children become parents—and you don't agree with how they're raising their kids?In this Mental Freedom® Moment, Kim Olver explores one of the most emotional transitions in parenting: letting go of control while staying connected.If you've ever found yourself wanting to give advice, step in, or question your adult child's decisions, you're not alone. This episode looks at the deeper fears underneath those reactions—including the fear that doing things differently might mean you did something wrong.Through the lens of Mental Freedom®, Kim shares how to shift from control to connection, respect your adult child's role as a parent, and maintain strong relationships with both your children and grandchildren.You'll learn:Why parenting adult children requires a different mindsetHow unsolicited advice can impact your relationshipThe difference between safety concerns and simple differencesHow to replace control with curiosity and trustReflection Question:Where might I be trying to guide in a way that feels like control—and what would it look like to shift that into curiosity and respect?This episode is for parents, grandparents, and anyone navigating relationships with adult children.
Alison Armstrong is back for her third round on Heart of Man, and it continues to be a real honor to learn from this woman whose work has deeply shaped the way I understand men, women, partnership, and the often hidden dynamics that govern our relationships.For those who may not yet know her, Alison has been teaching and speaking about men, women, human behavior, and relationships for over three decades. Through her seminars, books, online programs, and media contributions, she has given millions of people access to more fulfilling lives, loving relationships, stronger families, and more productive organizations.In our first conversation, we explored a man's relationship to shame...In the second, we explored the stages of development within a man...And in this third dialogue, we turn toward one of the most charged and important territories of all: how men and women come together in romantic partnership, and what happens when sexuality, protection, and provision enter the field...At the heart of this conversation is Alison's framing of our instinctual responses, not simply as procreate, protect, and provide, but more accurately as procreate first, then protect, then provide. From there, we begin to unpack what tends to happen when chemistry leads the way, when sexuality is used to meet deeper unmet needs, and why so many people end up bringing out the worst in one another while actually longing for love, safety, connection, and partnership.In this episode, discover:Why attraction and sexual chemistry can quickly derail connection in the early stages of datingHow sex is often used to meet deeper needs for love, safety, and connectionWhy you should not have sex with someone if you cannot clearly communicate your needs and boundariesHow leading with chemistry can trigger a “taking” dynamic instead of genuine connectionWhat happens when a man feels he has to protect himself, and how that impacts his ability to provide in a relationshipThe difference between men living with an ever present sense of death and women living with an ever present sense of life How understanding these instinctual dynamics can change the way you approach dating, intimacy, and partnershipThis was a deeply rich and valuable conversation, one that brought us into some of my favorite territories to explore: man-woman relating, relationships, sex, and purpose.Alison continues to offer a level of clarity that I find both humbling and incredibly insightful, and I trust that this conversation will give you much to reflect on in your own life and relationships.—Connect with Alex Lehmann:
Arranged Marriage: Why Random Beats "The One"Arranged marriage statistics reveal a surprising truth — couples with no choice often build deeper love than those who chose freely. In this episode, John and Echo break down why the "I fell in love" foundation is actually one of the weakest ways to start a marriage, and what arranged marriages get right that most Western couples get completely wrong.They dig into why love is an action, not a feeling, why the honeymoon phase ends when the work should begin, and how couples — whether in arranged marriages or not — can build an unshakable bond with virtually anyone willing to do the work. John shares a real conversation from a coaching call where a man was questioning whether marriage was even worth it, and the answer leads to a full breakdown of what makes marriage succeed or fail at its core.In This EpisodeArranged marriages often succeed because couples enter with no illusion that it'll be easy — they expect to build from scratchBasing a marriage on physical attraction or infatuation gives you a foundation that will eventually crumbleLove is an action that *creates* the feeling — not a feeling that sustains the relationshipThe ability to "unchoose" your partner is one of the biggest threats to a lasting marriageThe honeymoon phase ends when the work begins — couples who thrive never stop working, so the phase never has to endYou don't need to find "the right person" — you need to find someone willing to do the work alongside youA stale or disconnected marriage — even after 10+ years — can be transformed if both partners choose vulnerability and depthMen have more influence over the direction of a relationship than they realize, and need to lead toward depth, not just ride the wave of attractionTimestamps0:00 — Introduction & Today's Topic: Arranged Marriage4:06 — Why Arranged Marriages Often Outlast Love-Based Ones7:00 — Building an Unshakable Foundation Beyond Attraction10:10 — Love Is an Action, Not Just a Feeling13:20 — Why Men Are Afraid of Commitment15:40 — Divorce Isn't Stigmatized Anymore — Is That Good or Bad?19:40 — Marriage Takes Work But the Work Makes It Easy25:20 — How This Podcast Holds Us Accountable29:09 — Don't Use a Baby as a Band-Aid for Your Marriage36:36 — It's Never Too Late to Build Deep Love42:08 — A Message for Men: Lead Your Relationship44:56 — Closing Thoughts & SubscribeConnect
Can a firefighter and paramedic build a profitable midterm rental business while working demanding W2 jobs? In this episode, you will learn how monthly rentals on Furnished Finder can create consistent income, significantly fewer turnovers than Airbnb, and a scalable real estate side hustle without quitting your job. Mike and Celine Gonzalez share how they transitioned from accidental insurance bookings to a thriving monthly rental portfolio that now includes STRs, MTRs, partnerships, and a coaching business. After discovering Furnished Finder through this very podcast, they listed their property before it was even finished and received multiple 3 to 4 month booking requests within days.You will learn:The difference between short term vs midterm renter psychologyHow couples can divide roles without damaging their relationshipThe exact Furnished Finder tools they rely on for tenant screening, leases, rent collection, and messaging templatesWhy responding fast to leads can make or break your occupancyHow midterm rentals align with full time or service based careers like fire and EMSIf you are a real estate investor, W2 employee, or couple looking for a scalable rental side hustle with less turnover and more stability than Airbnb, this episode breaks down a proven path.List Your Property on Furnished Finder:https://www.furnishedfinder.com/list-your-property Use code LLD10 for $10 off new listings ⏱ Episode Timestamps0:00 Introduction to Landlord Diaries and Monthly Rental Investing2:05 Who introduced the idea of furnished and midterm rentals first4:30 Scaling beyond the first 9 month insurance booking6:20 Short term vs midterm renter mindset and guest behavior differences7:30 Current STR and MTR portfolio breakdown and partnership properties10:55 How a firefighter and paramedic manage a midterm rental side hustle15:25 Advice from experienced hosts on working with your spouse18:20 Creating boundaries between marriage, W2 careers, and rental business20:00 Staying in your lane and focusing on growth instead of busy tasks21:45 Essential systems and tools for running a successful midterm rental24:50 Why Furnished Finder leads drive consistent monthly bookings25:55 Using message templates to respond quickly and win bookings27:35 Leveraging the Furnished Finder dashboard for screening, leases, and payments28:40 Defining your mission and long term goals before scaling30:45 Why service first hosting leads to long term profitability32:55 Receiving booking requests before the property is fully furnished35:05 Rapid fire questions: The one rental task you would hand off to your partner Explore Midterm Rental Resources:https://www.furnishedfinder.com/Resources/PMResources View Mike and Celine's Furnished Finder Listings:https://www.furnishedfinder.com/members/profile?u=Mike_G The Landlord Diaries is brought to you by Furnished Finder, where you can list your property for one low price and pay zero booking fees.
This Virgo Full Moon on March 3rd carries the potency of a lunar eclipse — a portal of refinement, revelation, and sacred release.Eclipses can feel like a bit of a wild card.But they don't create change from nothing.They illuminate what has already been loosening.In this episode, we move beyond the surface story of Virgo as perfectionist and reconnect with her deeper archetype: the Priestess.The keeper of sacred order. The guardian of discernment. The one who tends the inner flame.This is not an invitation to fix yourself. It is an invitation to become more honest. More aligned. More devoted to what is essential.Here we explore:Virgo as Priestess rather than criticRefinement over self-improvementThe difference between scaling urgency and scaling safetyThe womb as an energetic truth anchorWater and fire in right relationshipThe alchemical cauldron withinIn the second half of the episode, you'll be guided through a 10-minute womb-centered ritual to:
Is it just us… or is everyone exhausted?In this honest and relatable episode of The Ultimate Intimacy Podcast, Nick and Amy tackle a question so many couples are asking: Are we too tired for our marriage?Between careers, kids, packed schedules, hormones, and everyday stress, exhaustion feels constant, and intimacy is often the first thing to fade. But here's the real challenge:Are you truly too tired… or have you stopped prioritizing your marriage?With humor and real-life perspective from 23 years of marriage, Nick and Amy unpack what's behind the “I'm too tired” excuse, and how to shift back into connection.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why exhaustion is often more mental than physicalThe difference between being tired and simply boredWhy you find energy for what you're committed toHow overscheduling drains your relationshipThe power of small, intentional momentsWhy putting your phone down changes everythingHow dividing responsibilities reduces burnoutWhy laughter, play, and celebration actually create energyA Powerful ReminderMarriage isn't about feeling perfect every day — it's about choosing to show up, even when you're tired.Intimacy doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Sometimes it's five focused minutes, holding hands, a compliment, or protecting a weekly date night. If you have energy to scroll, you have energy to connect.If you're exhausted, you're probably doing a lot of good things. But this episode will challenge you to look at your priorities, set better boundaries, and intentionally protect your marriage.Because when you get out of boredom and back into connection, energy follows.If you haven't already, go check out the Ultimate Intimacy App in the app stores, or at ultimateintimacy.com to find "Ultimate Intimacy" in your marriage. It's FREE to download and so much fun! Find out why close to 1M people have downloaded the app and give it such high ratings and reviews!Check out the new UandI App we just released after a year in development.WANT AMAZING PRODUCTS TO SPICE THINGS UP? YES PLEASE... CLICK HEREFollow us on Instagram @ultimateintimacyapp for app updates, polls, giveaways, daily marriage quotes and more.If you have any feedback, comments or topics you would like to hear on future episodes, reach out to us at amy@ultimateintimacy.com and let us know! We greatly appreciate your feedback and please leave us a review.Enjoy the podcast or have some feedback for us? Shoot us a message!
In this episode we'll talk about these energies:Why clarity matters more than intensity in both faith and relationshipThe difference between striving to become and learning to be anchoredHow containment creates safety more than constant expansionWhat it means to lead before anyone is watching or followingHow masculine presence stabilizes feminine intuition without competing with itThe role of receptivity in mature partnership and leadershipWhy learning to receive is as important as learning to stewardHow to practice faith as companionship rather than constant instructionHow pausing, listening, and timing build trust with God and othersWhy peace and resonance are more reliable than excitement and adrenalineWhat it means to become trustworthy with waitingHow safety is created through steadiness, not provingWhy connection becomes sustainable when no one carries more than they're meant toAnd more… CONNECT WITH ME…→ Instagram — @mattgottesman→ My Substack — mattgottesman.substack.com → Apparel — thenicheisyou.comRESOURCES…→ Recommended Book List — CLICK HERE→ Masterclass — CLICK HEREWORKSHOPS + MASTERCLASS:→ Need MORE clarity? - Here's the FREE… 6 Days to Clarity Workshop - clarity for your time, energy, money, creativity, work & play→ Write, Design, Build: Content Creator Studio & OS - Growing the niche of you, your audience, reach, voice, passion & incomeOTHER RELATED EPISODES:Faith Isn't Knowing the Whole Path… It's Taking the Next Honest StepApple: https://apple.co/3MB62IuSpotify: https://bit.ly/4rZw3RN
Soul Custody: Sparing Children from the Hidden Toll of Divorce with Pamela Henry, author of Soul Custody. Guest Website: https://soul-custody.comEpisode Summary:Divorce doesn't just end a marriage—it reshapes the emotional world of everyone involved, especially children. In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Linda's Corner, host Linda Bjork welcomes Pamela Henry, an expert in early childhood education, family systems, and shared custody parenting. She's also the author of Soul Custody: Sparing Children from Divorce, a transformative guide for families navigating the emotional terrain of separation.Pamela shares her own story: a desperate desire to escape her marriage that eventually led to a profound revelation—she wasn't really trying to escape her husband, but the pain of her own unresolved childhood trauma. As a survivor of sexual abuse by her father, Pamela unconsciously projected her confusion, hurt, and rejection onto her relationships—ultimately impacting her marriage and her children.Now, Pamela helps others understand the deeper emotional roots that can influence the decision to divorce. She invites listeners to pause, reflect, and heal before making choices that carry lifelong consequences.In this episode, we explore:The often unseen emotional cost of divorce on childrenHow childhood trauma can shape adult relationshipsWhy healing yourself is key before trying to fix or escape a relationshipThe importance of self-compassion, transparency, and owning our mistakes as parentsHow to create a healthier future by confronting the pastThis episode is a compassionate, thought-provoking invitation to approach relationships with deeper awareness and responsibility. If you're navigating a difficult relationship or healing from your past, this conversation is for you.Resources & Links:
*Note from Mark and Jill: We're so glad to share that the No More Perfect Podcast is now available on YouTube! We love finding new ways to connect with you, and we hope you enjoy the added experience of watching along as you listen.Have you ever thought:I don't love my spouse anymore. Marriage should be easier than this. My spouse doesn't care about me.If so, you are not alone. When relationships become rocky, it's easy for lies like these to consume our minds.Before someone seriously considers leaving their marriage or cheating on their spouse, there is first a battle in their mind. In our own marriage crisis, Mark thought and believed similar things, which eventually led to him stepping out and leaving our marriage.What we see every day as marriage coaches is that the same thoughts that nearly destroyed our marriage are destroying marriages all over the world. That's why, in this conversation, we are continuing our Recovering from Infidelity and Broken Trust series. In case you missed it, you can head back and listen to part one here.In this episode, you'll hear:Some of the lies that drive people to consider leaving their marriageWhy our issues will always follow us to a new relationshipThe essentials of breaking off an affairOur personal story navigating infidelityAnd more!If this topic hit home and you want something practical to dig into, we've written three books we want to share with you:No More Perfect Marriages: https://amzn.to/4bLuwZZMy Heart is Broken: https://amzn.to/3YQZA32I Really Messed Up: https://amzn.to/4sJ81LgFind resources mentioned and more in the show notes: jillsavage.org/recovering-from-infidelity-281Join us for 6 weeks of our Great Sexpectations focus in our Date Night membership where we dive deep into intimacy. Sign-up today!Check out our other resources: Mark and Jill's Marriage Story Marriage Coaching Marriage 2.0 Intensives Speaking Schedule Book Mark and Jill to Speak Online Courses Books Marriage Resources: Infidelity Recovery For Happy Marriages For Hurting Marriages For Marriages Where You're the Only One Wanting to Get Help Mom Resources: New/Preschool Moms Moms with Gradeschoolers Moms with Teens and Tweens Moms with Kids Who Are Launching Empty Nest...
Are you actually ready to date again… or are you just lonely and looking for a distraction?In Talk To Me Tuesday (Episode 2), Nyomi reads a real letter from Marcus, a divorced dad who's feeling pressure from friends to “get back out there”—but he's not sure his heart is truly ready.This episode breaks down the difference between wanting companionship and being emotionally available, plus the real-life signs that you're still healing (and what to do before you start dating again).In this episode, we cover:The biggest signs you're not ready to date yet (and why that's okay)How unprocessed anger and hurt can follow you into your next relationshipThe green flags that show you are ready—emotionally, mentally, and spirituallyHow to get clear on what you want (non-negotiables, values, deal breakers)Dating as a parent: protecting your kids while rebuilding your lifeWhy being single isn't a “problem” to fix—and how to build a life you love firstIf you've been asking yourself, “Should I just jump back in?” this conversation will help you slow down, get honest, and move with intention.New Talk To Me Tuesday episodes drop every Tuesday.Always Keep It So Sexy (A.K.I.S.S).Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ask-nyomi-bridging-the-gap-podcast--5343726/support."Thank you for joining me on Ask Nyomi: Bridging The Gap. Remember, your sexuality is sacred, your desires are valid, and honest conversations create deeper connections.If today's episode helped you see things differently, share it with someone who needs this conversation. And please rate and review the show.Follow me on Instagram @TheRealNyomiBanks and @AskNyomi send your questions – this show exists because of YOU. Visit us at AskNyomi.ComUntil Thursday – stay curious, stay open, stay authentic.This is your girl Nyomi Banks. Keep bridging that gap." Always keep it Simply Sexy"
In today's episode, I'm joined by Ruth for an exploration that begins with goddesses and gently unfolds into land, nature, grief, healing, paradox, and the quiet magick of being alive.In this conversation, we explore:1. Do we choose goddesses, or do they emerge when we are ready?Ruth opens the conversation by reflecting on her work with goddesses across the Wheel of the Year, and the quiet confusion that can arise around “favourites,” loyalty, and doing devotion correctly. What emerges is a shared recognition that goddess energy is not hierarchical or exclusive, but fluid, embodied, and responsive.We explore reframing gods and goddesses as energies that rise from land, culture, and human need, meeting us in forms we can recognise, rather than demanding allegiance.2. Goddess as landscape, not doctrineThe conversation deepens into local goddesses, particularly Andraste, and how land-based deities feel different when encountered in place. Ruth speaks about walking by rivers, standing in landscapes, and feeling connection not through belief, but through presence.We talk about how goddess energies shift across time, culture, and human evolution, emerging in different guises as we need them, rather than remaining fixed or singular.3. Releasing guilt from spiritual practiceWe dismantle the idea that devotion must be constant, perfect, or fear-driven. There's a clear rejection of punitive spirituality, whether religious or magickal. Relationships with goddesses, land, or ritual are described as cyclical, seasonal, and alive.The idea that missed rituals, forgotten candles, or inconsistent practices might invite punishment is named as inherited conditioning, not truth.4. Rhythm, attention, and everyday magickThe conversation turns toward daily practices: tarot, journaling, meditation, walking, noticing. We speak about the danger of turning spiritual tools into checklists, and Ruth reflects on how presence matters more than frequency.5. Nature as a companion through illness and isolationRuth shares her experience of living alone in nature during chemotherapy and lockdown. Stripped back physically and emotionally, she describes how land, trees, animals, and seasons became companions rather than scenery.From butterflies overwintering in outbuildings, to deer sleeping nearby, to trees marked with her birth year, nature is described as witness, mirror, and quiet ally during a time of profound vulnerability.6. Bones, feathers, and respectful relationshipThe conversation moves towards skulls, bones, feathers, and instinctive boundaries. Ruth speaks about collecting skulls with permission and reverence, not as tools of power, but as companions and protectors. And I share my own discomfort with feathers, illustrating how intuitive limits are as important as intuitive pulls.There's no judgment here. Only curiosity, humour, and respect for how differently people relate to material allies.7. Vastness, insignificance, and freedomTogether, we talk on the vastness of the universe, deep time, evolution, and humanity's smallness within it all. Rather than nihilism, this awareness brings relief. Perspective. Permission to make mistakes. Permission to live.8. Becoming part of nature, not its managerWe close with reflections on ageing, cronehood, and belonging. Ruth speaks about no longer fearing the dark, about sitting quietly in woods, releasing hedgehogs, and allowing nature to carry on around her.This is a conversation about remembering that we belong, even when we feel stripped bare.-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --All of the Magick:The A Pinch of Magick App:IPhone - download on the App StoreAndroid - download pn the Google PlayOur (free) magickal Community: Facebook GroupMagickal JournalsExplore on Amazon Rebecca's Author PageWebsiteRebeccaAnuwen.comMagickalHabits.comInstagramFor Magick: Click hereFor a Sacred Pause in Nature: Click hereFor CharmCasting: Click hereFor Merlin, my Dog: Click here