The Best Season
By Brennae McCulloch
The Best SeasonJul 28, 2021
Panic Attacks - S2 E3
Hello, my lovelies.
Today's podcast episode is going a bit deeper. We are talking about Panic Attacks and I will be opening up on my first severe panic attack last week...don't worry, I am ok. But I wanted to be open and honest on how it all went down and what I am doing to help improve my anxiety. I do discuss details so please if you are suffering with severe anxiety or panic disorder be cautious on listening. But I do hope that if you are struggling or if having trouble with mental health it inspires you to seek help, or talk with someone. YOU MATTER. Mental Health Matters.
It is hard to open up at times but I felt this was needed not only for you but for me. I talk of how I am starting my journey with therapy as well. I hope to continue with updates on therapy and how it has helped me.
Also, if you are needing someone to talk to, cry to, vent to, PLEASE reach out to someone. I am here to talk if you need anything. Below are hotlines if you or a loved one are struggling and need immediate help.
Resources:
Call or Text 988 - Suicide and Crisis Hotline
Call 866-903-3787 - National Mental Health Hotline
Text HOME to 741741 - Crisis Text Line
Call 1-800-950-NAMI or Text HelpLine at 62640 - National Alliance on Mental Illness
Extensions - S2 E2
Hello, everyone!
My episode today is all about hand tied extensions. I just got mine done on September 2nd and had quite a few of you reach out. I figured best way is to explain extensions in an episode. I go through research, consultation, finding a stylist, booking appt, buying hair, color, install, upkeep, after care, and MORE. This episode goes in depth on what to expect with cost which is a huge factor in deciding if you want extensions. I hope this episode helps many of you trying to decide on if this is the right move. I plan to give updates periodically about my extensions. But for now, I am in love and obsessed.
If interested in extensions and booking a consultation outreach to @pirlandcosalon via Instagram. Rachel is the BEST.
Also, Rachel got my extensions from JZ Styles. On their page on Instagram @jzstyles.co, they have reels of how they put extension in and the before and afters which are amazing.
I ended up getting 3 rows of the 16 inch extensions in colors Mariah, Sky and Stew. Check out my instagram @beautifullybrennae to see the results.
Xoxo,
B
Manifestation - S2 E1
WELCOME TO SEASON TWO!
It has been a long 5 months, but I am so happy to be back and more ready than ever. This season is about finding yourself, and becoming your best self mentally, physically and emotionally. With Season 1, and lasted a couple years, I was in a rut, not in a good place mentally and struggling. But with Season 2 starting I feel like I am in a much better mindset to give you the best content I can.
In this first episode I will be discussing manifestation. I needed a lot of this when I was looking for a new job. I wanted to believe good things would happen for me, but it would take a lot of work and manifesting positive thoughts and experiences. I am so grateful for manifesting these amazing opportunities in my life, it was continuous hard work, but is now so rewarding in the long run. 5 months later and I am my happiest self. And you can be too.
Enjoy the first episode of season 2 as I discuss why it is so important to manifest the life you desire.
Please comment, like, share on all social medias. And please a review as well.
Love,
B
The Importance of Patience - Episode 37
Hello, lovelies!
The past few months have been an interesting and inspiring time in my life. I am so excited to start my next journey; however, at times I was not the most patient person. I am so grateful that I had this experience because it taught me such about the importance of patience. When you feel like your life is close to falling a part just be patient. As sang in one of my favorite songs, "Wait on the Lord, He will renew your strength, so wait I say". Even though I didn't feel like waiting, I am so incredibly grateful I did. God and my family saved me during these past few months and gave me the strength and courage to keep looking forward to the future. They knew that there would be a light in the darkness and were they right. I was able to find a job that gave me the perfect work/life balance and feel renewed again. I dive into the importance of patience during this trying time in my life and I hope it resonates with you all during your trials in life as well.
If you are struggling with changes in your life, know that I am a friend that will listen. We all go through struggles and it is so important to have a friend to help you through it.
At the end of the podcast, I mention some podcasts I have been listening to. Definitely check out Mission: MCU that explores the Marvel Universe. It is a group of friends that do a rewatch/first watch of each Marvel movie in chronological order. AND they discuss each new movie as they came out - they just did an episode on Ant Man and the Wasp Quantamania since it just came out. If you love the MCU you will LOVE this.
Another one is The Deck Investigates by Ashley Flowers (Crime Junkie/AudioChuck), it discusses the cold case of Darlene Hulse who was taken from her home in front of her two daughters, and found dead. Her case remained cold almost 4 decades later, until Ashley and her team start investigating - check it out!
Love you all! Please leave a review if you can. Also, can't wait to bring more content!
B
Take The Time Off - Episode 36
Hey everyone! I AM SO SORRY I have been MIA for a month. It has been an interesting season but happy to be back talking on the podcast with you all. Today, I am talking about taking time off just to be you, be with your family, or whatever the reason may be. YOU ARE ALLOWED time off and it is needed! This has been such an amazing time with my son and I am SO GRATEFUL for it.
Also, apologies for second half of this episode as I pretty much talk about all the podcasts and some discussion of the Murdaugh trials (CRAZY)! But just keeping it real on what I have been doing the past few weeks.
Much love to you all and I can't wait to bring you more content!
B
Keep Going - Episode 35
Hello, loves. I am so happy to be back this week. This week I talk about how to get rid of the negative thoughts, bring in the positive and manifesting your dreams. To just KEEP GOING, because it will be worth it. Good things come to those who wait, right?
Love to you all,
B
Redirection - Episode 34
Hello, my loves,
I am so sorry I have been MIA the past two weeks. Last Wednesday I got some rough news that I explain more of in this episode. It hit me extremely hard and has been a huge pivotal point in my life. And I have to say, NOT how I wanted to start 2023, but it is okay. This has definitely been a chaotic past week (Happy Birthday to me); however, the love and support I have received has been incredible. Which has helped me understand this time in my life even more.
Despite the chaos, I have become more confident in myself, I know my worth and know I truly deserve the best. This has been a redirection in my life that I truly didn't expect or think I needed; however, I KNOW bigger and better things are on the way. I just know it.
I just want to send love, again, to all of my family, friends and coworkers. I am so grateful for your presence in my life - I don't know where I would be without you. Truly.
I hope you all listen to this episode because I truly feel the most vulnerable in this episode. But I feel it may be my strongest episode yet. When you know what you deserve and know your self worth, I truly believe it brings out the best in you. Which I am so grateful.
Love to you all, this week. I am so grateful for you.
New Year, Better Me - Episode 33
I truly can't believe it is New Year's Eve. I am so excited for what this New Year has to bring. It has been a truly incredible year - of course the annual highs and lows, but truly a great year. However, there is always room for improvement. I have been struggling to love myself for the past 27 years and I think it is time to break that curse in the new year. You always hear about the "New Year, New Me"; however, that requires you to change. I don't want to change who I am and I don't want you to change either. BUT how about being a Better Me? I think it has a nice ring to it. I think we all should strive to be a better version of ourselves.
In today's episode I dive into my goals for the new year and hope that inspires you and your journey.
Trigger Warning: I do discuss the loss of Stephen "Twitch" Boss. If you have suicidal thoughts, have lost from suicide, PLEASE contact 988 which is the Suicide Hotline. Please reach out for help. You are a light, we don't need another beautiful light lost.
Much love to you and your family in the New Year - I can't wait to see you and share with you in 2023.
B
Be A Lizzo, Be A People's Champ - Episode 32
I have never seen a celebrity do this at an event, but how incredible to share the stage with so many incredible powerhouses who are MAKING A DIFFERENCE. She calls them by name and discusses what they are doing for inclusivity, diversity, LGBTQIA, race, gender and more. Lizzo was amazingly selfless and became the people’s champ even more by supporting these women. I know during the current climate it is hard to have opinions without judgement and ridicule but we have to stand up and be the catalyst of change. If Lizzo can be the change, so can we. Be A Lizzo, Be A People’s Champ.
The Number On The Scale Doesn't Matter - Episode 31
This podcast episode I feel is going to be super relatable for many of you listeners. Tonight, after a great day, I decided to weigh myself. WHY do I do this to myself? Which led to negative thoughts and went into downward spiral. I (almost) postponed the episode due to feeling bad about myself. BUT INSTEAD - I recorded my thoughts on this topic. I have struggled with my weight since middle school and it has been like this ever since. I feel good some days but most days I am so negative about myself and it tears me a part. But - I am trying to better and more positive about my body. In the episode, I challenge you listeners to focus on your "pros" about your body and self. As well as, what could you do to may yourself feel better, not necessarily physically but just in general. I give you my thoughts and I hope this episode helps those that have suffered with weight issues, eating disorders, etc.
Please see the following websites for support if you suffer with eating disorders.
--- www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/help-support/contact-helpline
Love to all of you for almost 500 listens. This is just a small podcast but I am so grateful for the love.
Please leave a rating and review on this podcast on Apple, Spotify, etc.
Please share with your friends and family to listen.
Love,
B
"Heroin Chic" is NOT ok - Episode 30
TRIGGER WARNING: EATING DISORDERS EXPLICIT LANGUAGE In 2022, you'd think we would have control of our bodies, better self esteem, better influences, equal rights, and more, right? WRONG. The other day, I was scrolling Instagram when I across the New York Post whom published an article titled, "Bye Bye Booty: Heroin Chic is Back" by Adriana Diaz. I stopped in my tracks and the little 12 year old Brennae was looking in the mirror again. In middle school and high school, I always wanted to be skinnier, the double zero, flat stomach. I weighed myself all the time, developed unhealthy habits and did diets that wrecked my body. All to be skinny enough in my tween/teen years. That trauma came running back when the article practically punched me in the gut and made me ill. WHY, OH WHY are we still encouraging unhealthy lifestyle habits? And for what? To look better for society? I find it disgusting that this article was released. Why are we encouraging to be this skinny? Especially when social media is influencing us by the millisecond. Now in our society many kids have a cell phone by 8, 9, 10 years old. TikTok and Instagram are at it's peak, which leads to articles like this to be released and younger individuals read this. I discuss my feelings on this article, other celebrity and twitter reactions, as well as what can we do to feel better about ourselves and ENCOURAGE HEALTHY HABITS IN OUR YOUNGER GENERATION. WE are better than this. Our younger self is looking to us to help guide our younger individuals to remind them they are beautiful no matter what size, shape, gender, ethnicity they are. You are BEAUTIFUL.
SOURCE MATERIAL: If you would like to read the articles I mentioned in the episode refer to the content listed below.
- https://nypost.com/2022/11/02/heroin-chic-is-back-and-curvy-bodies-big-butts-are-out/
- https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2022/nov/20/heroin-chic-fashion-skinny-worship
- https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/23130020.return-heroin-chic-dangerous-say-experts/
- https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/jameela-jamil-new-york-post-heroin-chic-body-b2218126.html
If you are struggling or know someone struggling with eating disorder visit https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/help-support/contact-helpline or call (800) 931-2237
If you are struggling with drug or substance abuse/addiction visit https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline or call 1-800-662-HELP
Our Farmhouse Renovation - Episode 29
Some may or may not know that I have been renovating my grandma's 100 year old farmhouse since I was in college. It has been extremely challenging at times but rewarding. As we are working on more this weekend I wanted to talk about all the work we have put into our house that has truly made it out home. I get a little sentimental talking about our house, memories with my grandma in this home and now with my son and husband. It is a pretty incredible thing and I am so grateful.
Please be sure to leave a review on Apple podcasts. Like and share!
Be sure to listen to Hometown Hunnies Podcast by Macey Roth and Katie Shamel!
Milestones - Episode 27
Hey everyone - shout out to ALL of you beautiful people for listening. We are almost to 400 listens and I am so grateful for you all! I know this is just a tiny platform but I hope my content inspires you in some way. Today's episode is about milestones. What milestones in life are you working towards? How can you get there? What changes can you make? I am working towards some milestones of my own that I voice in this episode. I hope that today's episode inspires you to reach your goals/milestones even if they same difficult to reach. We can DO it!
Purging the Negativity - Episode 26
Bittersweet Feelings Involving Motherhood - Episode 25
Busy Season - Episode 24
The past few months and upcoming months is where my "busy" season begins. Of course, fall has started, brisk cool air, leaves falling, perfect "sweater weather". However, then comes the dark nights earlier, seasonal depression and ongoing busy, chaotic schedules. In today's episode, I discuss how to get through this busy season, how to hold onto positivity, joy and healing. The past few weeks, I have found myself getting frustrated but forgetting that it is just short term frustration. It isn't long term. So do something that makes you happy. Listen to a podcast, listen to music, dance it out, pray it out. Whatever works to get you through the busy season. Just remember the chaos is only short term.
Random Thoughts/Updates - Episode 23
Forgive me for this episode, everyone. I had no topic today other than discuss what is on my mind and heart. Sorry for the randomness, but my brain is on overdrive and it is most fitting with my life currently. Just want to send love to all who are stressing or going through trials in their life. It is one of those seasons and we will get through it together. Sending continued love to all of you beautiful people.
Much love,
B
How to Become Encouraged after Discouragement - Episode 22
Time to Put Your Personal Life as Your Priority - Episode 21
How many of you have put work first? Stayed late, putting in extra hours, becoming burnt out, taking over more tasks in office? THE LIST GOES ON. That is NO more. This episode dives into the importance of putting your personal life FIRST and work second. YES, you heard that right. You only have one life. Whatever your normal hours at work are supposed to be - KEEP IT THAT WAY. Stop staying late, taking over more assignments, etc. You have a life, a home, a family, a hobby - WHATEVER it may be. You deserve to put yourself first, your family first, your loved ones first. It has taken me many years to finally advocate for myself, but it is time we let work know that we are priority. Our personal life is priority to us. So enjoy the self care, enjoy your evenings or mornings home with family. Shut your work phones off when you aren't at work and remember that you are off the clock at work. When we learn to SET BOUNDARIES we will then have a more eventful life. Trust me, I know it is hard but boundaries are so very important for our mental and physical health. Knowing that I am putting myself, my husband, my son, my personal life first - makes me feel confident in knowing my worth, my boundaries and what is important in our life.
Love to you all! Always remember - you come first!
Opportunities - Episode 20
Ever feel like you've missed opportunities? Or you get an opportunity at the perfect time? Or, like me, it is not at the right time which requires an immense amount of patience. I know times like these are bound to happen, but with some rest, relaxation and patience we will get there.
Love to you all!
Thank for all of the listens - I am grateful for each and every one of you!
Positive Self Talk - Episode 19
Hello, everyone,
I am so proud of this episode. Positive self talk is a STRUGGLE for me. I have ALWAYS been hard on myself and have hated the way I look. However, I have been trying to be better and more intentional on how I talk about myself. It is an ongoing process but I am working on being better. In today's episode, I discuss some ideas of how to be better with positive self talk, more intentional on what to say to ourself and others, and give some affirmations at the end of the episode. The journey to self love has taken a LONG time and I am STILL on that journey. But it is getting better and better each day. I discuss bullying, social media, and how that can effect what we think of ourselves as well.
If you are struggling or having suicidal thoughts, please dial 988 for the 24/7 hotline. Or text/whats app to 741741 to get 24/7 counselor as well.
Love to you all.
Know Your Worth - Episode 18
The past few weeks I have really struggled to know my worth. I have been defeated at work multiple times and it has led to an immense amount of burnout. So - how do I get through it? Honestly, I am still trying to figure it out. However, mentally knowing I will get a vacation next week is getting me through. Knowing my worth has been a crazy experience over the years. It is hard for me to say "I am worth it, I matter"; however, I know I need to be more positive about myself. Why? Because I matter. YOU matter. Each and everyone matters, you deserve to be happy and no one gets to change that. I struggle with confrontation knowing I could disappoint someone with my decision. But sometimes, change is needed to feel happy again. Whether that be small or big changes. No matter what, trust your get because it is usually telling you the right thing to do.
Take the Mental Health Day, Take the Vacation - Episode 17
Anyone else burnt out, exhausted, or in a bad place mentally? SAMEEEE. Too many times in my life I would go to work miserable when I wanted to take the day off only because I didn't want it to disappoint my employer. But currently, I have come to realize that your mental health is FAR too important. If you are struggling and just need a break I suggest a day off. Obviously, be sure you have the PTO, sick day time, etc; however, I didn't know HOW BADLY I needed that day off until I took it. My son was sick which I planned to take off because of it, but I realized too that I needed that day for me too. There are so many times I went to work MISERABLE to make sure I didn't disappoint my coworkers, etc. But now I realize that if I show up to work in the mental headspace of "I don't want to be here", then I know I will not perform at best. By being at home for a day I could take some time for MYSELF, enjoy my son and get in a better headspace.
I talk about situations I have been through and how badly I needed time off. I discuss the importance of a vacation or staycation to re-energize yourself. I didn't realize how important my mental health was until the past few years. Now I am putting at the forefront.
& to all my listeners - I love you and THANK YOU. I can't believe we are almost to 300 listens! You all are incredible and I owe everything to you guys on listening to my little podcast. Can't wait for more episodes!
To talk or get in touch
Instagram: @beautifullybrennae
Email: beautifullybrennae@gmail.com
Erase the Stigma of Mental Health - Episode 16
For the longest time, I let the stigma around mental health prevent me from seeking help after having my son in February of 2021. But I realized quickly that if I didn't get help that I would continue to suffer from the trauma I went through. As soon as I talked with my provider, I got the resources and help I needed for my anxiety. I advocated for myself continuously, but previously I was terrified to even mention anxiety - afraid of what others might think. The stigma around mental health is still present to this day and it is incredibly frustrating. Many suffer from mental illness and many don't find the help they need and it is too late. Let's speak up about mental illness to END the stigma. It could save thousands of lives and help many get the help they need.
If you are having thoughts of suicide contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255 or dial 988.
Statistics on Mental Health and Suicide:
1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-34
Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death.
In 2020, 45,979 Americans died by suicide.
In 2020, there were an estimated 1.20M suicide attempts.
Remember to Advocate for YOU - Episode 15
The Pursuit of Purpose After Pain - Episode 14
Grief and Its Many Stages - Episode 13
Unfortunately, grief is something we deal with at least once in our lifetime. Let's be real...it SUCKS. But when one experiences grief we learn how to become stronger even through the lowest of times. In today's episode, I discuss the grief my husband and I went through when his mom passed away a few years ago. I talk of moving on vs moving forward - as discussed in Nora McInerny's Ted Talk - link below if want to listen to her speak (highly recommend). And how to rediscover your faith whether that be as a Christian, non-religious person, etc. I hope that this podcast can help someone who has experienced grief, or reach someone so they can help someone grieving. When you grieve it is one of the worst seasons of your life - but know that their is light in your journey. No grieving is the same, it comes in waves and its okay to grieve longer than others. Sending love and warmth to those grieving in this season of your life.
I'M BACKKKKK - Episode 12
I would love some feedback on topics you would love to hear on the podcast. Possible nursing series on the podcast for those interested. AND possibly will be recording video of me recording and uploading to YouTube if you all are interested.
LOVE YOU ALL and SO HAPPY TO BE BACK!
XOXO
- B
How To Find Yourself Again - Episode 11
How to Keep Your Life in Balance - Episode 10
How To Not Care What Others Think - Episode 9
All About Brennae - Episode 8
This week's episode is All About Brennae - my life, my hobbies, etc. I wanted to do a more fun episode so you all can get to know me a little better on the podcast and why I started the podcast. I have been through a lot of ups and downs in life and this episode will give a little bit of detail on those times and how I got through them to get to my best season in life. We go through our rough seasons and best seasons. This episode highlights some of mine. Enjoy, loves!
How Is Social Media Influencing You? - Episode 7
Self Care is the Best Care - Episode 6
On this weeks episode we will be discussing self care and how important it is for you to do this to reach your best season. With the craziness of life we forget to take care of ourselves. Whether it be once a week, multiple times a week or daily, we should be practicing self care. I know it is hard to find the time but by taking care of yourself you are becoming a better and happier you. This weeks episode will help you find your best self so you can reach your best season throughout your life.
Igniting Your Creativity - Episode 5
End Of Life Care with Hospice Services - Episode 4
Hello, everyone. Today's topic is all things Hospice. I know, I know - this podcast is to be more upbeat, talking about our best seasons in life now and in the future. However, hospice is a big part of my life and was years ago as well. I open up about my own hospice experience with my grandma years ago, my current job as a hospice admissions nurse, and how to know when a loved one is need of hospice. Many think that hospice is a death sentence. Some may pass quickly on hospice, but that isn't always the case. In this episode I discuss what hospice is, common questions hospice nurses get asked, and what the process is getting hospice involved. If someone you know would benefit from hospice please research local hospice facilities wherever you are located and call them. If you know me personally and have questions, don't hesitate to reach out and I would be happy to help in anyway I can. I hope this episode educates you all on hospice philosophies and more.
Toxic Workplace, Burnout and Exhaustion - Episode 3
Today's episode focuses in on the toxins we may find in the workplace, and no I am NOT talking about what is in the cleaning closet. I am talking about toxic work environment, toxic people and just an overall stressful environment. This episode really hones in on what to do when you're experiencing toxic workplaces first hand, how to get through burnout and how to finally find yourself again. Mentally we have enough on our plate, work shouldn't make it ten times worse. But for some that's their norm, but for myself that is NOT what I want my life to be. This episode has you questioning your priorities and what you maybe need to put first and maybe how to get over the workplace burnout. I know - it is especially hard during a pandemic...but self care may be your ticket to becoming you again. Thanks for tuning in today, and be on the lookout for Episode 4 of the Best Season Podcast next Wednesday.
Let's Talk About Postpartum... - Episode 2
Welcome to the Best Season - Episode 1
This week's episode is to share with you all what the Best Season Podcast is all about, who it's for, and what topics we will discuss in the future. In this episode you get to know me and my life a little bit, get a glimpse of what's to come and hopefully get a feel for the podcast. I am so happy you are joining us and I hope you continue to listen every Wednesday!