• Ep. 26: Life lessons from coaching youth sports (from a washed up college athlete & mom of 2)
    Oct 2 2024

    In this episode, I share my experiences and insights gained from coaching my kiddos' soccer teams.

    I reflect on the challenges and rewards of youth coaching, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and personal growth in parenting and mentoring.

    Throughout the episode, I reflect on how my own healing journey has positively impacted her coaching style, allowing me to foster resilience and confidence in young athletes.

    Hear which life lessons I've learned through sports and the significance of creating core memories for children.

    Key takeaways:

    • Coaching youth sports can be a rewarding experience.
    • Self-awareness enhances parenting and coaching effectiveness.
    • Sports serve as a metaphor for life's challenges.
    • Creating positive environments is crucial for youth development.
    • Healing from personal issues improves relationships with children.
    • Curiosity in communication fosters better understanding with kids.
    • The importance of teamwork extends beyond the field.
    • Core memories from childhood sports are invaluable.
    • Parenting styles vary, but self-healing is universally beneficial.
    • Engaging with child development experts can provide valuable insights.


    Resources:

    Coaching and Parenting Young Athletes, Psychology Today


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    21 mins
  • Ep. 25: Finding humor in adversity - how my friend, comedy writer Josh Lebowitz, laughs through life
    Sep 26 2024

    In this episode, my dear friend and former colleague, Josh Lebowitz, and I explore the importance of humor in navigating life's adversities.

    Josh is HILARIOUS.

    He and I hop on the mic (and I mostly laugh) as we share personal stories about friendship, Josh's career in comedy, and the challenges of parenting...oy vey, as Josh would say!

    Our chat shines light on how critical community support is during tough times and how laughter can be a powerful coping mechanism.

    Josh shares his experiences working as a comedy writer at Comedy Central and working as a voiceover actor for HBO Family.

    He shares how his move to Portugal is making life even sweeter.

    Key lessons from Josh:

    • Humor can be a powerful tool in overcoming adversity.
    • Community support is crucial during tough times.
    • Parenting with humor can strengthen family bonds.
    • Laughter can help process difficult emotions.
    • Josh's journey reflects the importance of resilience.
    • Friendship can provide comfort and joy in hard times.
    • Navigating life changes requires adaptability and humor.
    • Personal stories can inspire and connect people.
    • The role of comedy in professional settings can enhance creativity.
    • Building connections with others can lead to happiness and longevity.
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Ep. 24: Why podcasting helped me develop more confidence in 8 months than anything else in my entire life
    Sep 21 2024

    In this episode, I reflect on my journey of starting a podcast, discussing the challenges and growth I've experienced over the past 8 months.

    I share insights on building confidence, embracing creativity, and overcoming imposter syndrome.

    Key moments:

    • Starting a podcast has significantly boosted my confidence.
    • It's important to focus on the process, not just the results.
    • Learning to be an active listener has improved my interviews.
    • Imposter syndrome is a common feeling among creators.
    • Investing in quality equipment enhances the listening experience.
    • Creativity can lead to personal growth and self-discovery.
    • Feedback is essential for improvement and growth.
    • It's okay to feel vulnerable when trying something new.
    • Every creative journey is unique and valuable.
    • Encouragement from others can help you take the leap into creativity.


    Resources


    MAONO Microphone with Studio Headphone Set 192kHz/24bit Vocal Condenser Cardioid Podcast Mic

    $79.89 (ON SALE!)


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    11 mins
  • Ep. 23: Redefining disability - Insights from Jayy, a 27-year old fitness trainer living with Cerebral Ataxia
    Sep 16 2024

    In this episode, I speak with my new friend Jayy, a fitness trainer in the UK who is living his life to the fullest, despite being diagnosed with Cerebellar Ataxia at age 15.


    We discuss Jayy's journey with his disability, the importance of independence, and the role of community and support systems in overcoming adversity.


    Jayy shares his insights on challenging perceptions of disability, the significance of human connection, and the impact of his fitness journey on others.


    The conversation emphasizes resilience, inspiration, and the need for compassion in a world where everyone is facing their own struggles.


    Jayy's Instagram pages:

    @FitnessbyJayy__

    @ataxiasoldier


    Donate to his GoFundMe! Help him buy a new wheelchair

    Help Jay live daily life with even more independence!

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    32 mins
  • Ep. 22: Aanchal Arora on the healing power of poetry in her book, "The Efflorescence"
    Sep 5 2024

    In this episode, I interview Aanchal Arora, the author of the book of poetry she wrote and published, called The Efflorescence.

    We discuss various themes in the book, including love, loss, motherhood, self-love, and feminine health. Anshal shares her journey into poetry and how it became a form of therapy for her.

    We also talk about the importance of self-love and the power of vulnerability in writing.

    Key takeaways

    • Poetry can be a form of therapy and a way to express emotions and experiences.
    • Self-love is important and should be a priority. It is okay to say no and take care of yourself.
    • Failure is a stepping stone to success and a learning opportunity.
    • Vulnerability in writing can validate the human experience and help others feel less alone.
    • Dream big and pursue your passions, even if it means taking risks and facing challenges.

    Aanchal dreams of going on a world book tour and spreading her words to a larger audience.

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    46 mins
  • Ep. 21: How firefighter, EMT, & emergency mgmt specialist Parker Melendez uses Stoicism to handle adversity
    Aug 23 2024

    In this episode, I interview Parker Melendez, an emergency management specialist, about how stoicism has helped him navigate adversity in his career.

    We discuss the principles of Stoicism, like controlling what you can and accepting what you can't, and how it applies to emergency situations.

    Parker shares how he discovered Stoicism and the impact it has had on his emotional resilience. He also talks about using techniques like box breathing to stay calm in high-stress situations.

    The conversation highlights the importance of emotional regulation and the idea that obstacles can be opportunities for growth. We dive into the practical application of Stoicism in everyday life, particularly for first responders.

    Parker talks about the idea of accepting what is out of one's control and focusing on what can be controlled. We also touch on the importance of taking action and living in accordance with Stoic principles.

    Parker emphasizes that Stoicism is not a religion but a philosophy that can be used as a set of tools to navigate life's challenges.


    Resources:


    The Daily Stoic website

    The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living

    Ryan Holiday's (author and Stoic expert) Instagram

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    46 mins
  • Ep. 20: How I retrained my inner voice to not be an a-hole
    Aug 14 2024

    Have you ever noticed that everything feels hard when you talk to yourself life shit?

    I have!

    In this episode, I reflect on my own journey of overcoming adversity in the form of that good old inner voice. You know...that one cheers you on when you're doing great, but also blames you for everything and is never quite satisfied with your efforts.

    I talk about positive self-talk and how it has transformed my life. I look back a bit on experiences that have helped me rebuild my inner voice, like therapy, self-reflection, and holding myself accountable.

    In 12 minutes and 4 seconds, I look back on how my inner voice from a year ago has completely changed from weak and confused to clear and confident.


    Resources:

    Huberman Lab Podcast (The Science of Wellbeing) - Dr. Martha Beck - Access Your Best Self with Mind-Body Practices, Belief Testing, & Imagination

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    12 mins
  • Ep. 19: How embracing "the power of the pause" transformed my life as a parent, partner, & friend
    Jul 18 2024

    In this episode, I reflect on the power of the pause and how it is helping me to better navigate life's inevitable challenges.

    I share my personal experiences and insights on how pausing before reacting has helped me improve my communication and regulate my emotions, and ultimately, it helps me make more educated, more informed, and more rational decisions.

    I highlight 3 ways the power of the pause has helped me do the following in my own life:


    1) Be a more conscious, regulated parent

    2) Show up as a loyal and confident friend

    3) Integrate gratitude into my daily life


    I emphasize the importance of taking a pause to evaluate how to respond and rewire the brain for positive outcomes.

    Key messages:

    • Pausing before reacting can improve communication and outcomes.
    • The power of the pause helps regulate emotions and leads to better decision-making.
    • Taking a pause when parenting can change how you react and the effectiveness of discipline.
    • Pausing in friendships can prevent overanalyzing and jumping to conclusions.
    • Cultivating gratitude requires taking a pause and appreciating the present moment.


    Before you listen to this episode, take a pause...your brain will thank you for it :)


    Resources:

    • Mindful.org - the power of the pause
    • Gratitude physically changes your brain, new study says
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    15 mins