Skip to main content
The F.E.E.L. Podcast - Finding Empowerment Embracing Layers

The F.E.E.L. Podcast - Finding Empowerment Embracing Layers

By The F.E.E.L Podcast

A podcast that helps women at any age prioritize self-care without feelings of guilt or selfishness, set healthy boundaries in jobs, activities, and relationships, and deal with all emotions and feelings fully and in a healthy way so they don't get stuck in their body and produce physical and emotional problems down the road.
Available on
Google Podcasts Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Each Other with Melissa & Brady Crook

The F.E.E.L. Podcast - Finding Empowerment Embracing LayersNov 04, 2021

00:00
01:23:44
Just Say “Know” Through “Voices From The Opioid Crisis’ with Harris Insler

Just Say “Know” Through “Voices From The Opioid Crisis’ with Harris Insler

Voices from the Opioid Crisis is driven by a community of survivors, advocates, and dedicated individuals who have been directly or indirectly affected by the opioid epidemic.

Founded by Harris Insler, a father who turned his personal tragedy into a crusade for change, our team is a mosaic of passionate volunteers, health professionals, and bereaved family members. Together, we are committed to breaking the stigma surrounding SUD/OUD and creating a future where addiction is met with empathy and support, not silence.

Website: ⁠https://voicesfromtheopioidcrisis.com/about/


Ways to Engage: Everyone has been affected by the opioid crisis or drug addiction in one way or another. We want to offer this platform as a safe space to share your thoughts, stories, or losses if this subject is a personal one. If you don’t want to post them, then we encourage writing down your emotions to at least acknowledge and express them, which can be pivotal in our F.E.E.L journey.


Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration: 1-800-662-4375 

Suicide & Crisis Lifelife: 988

Addiction Helpline: 844-561-0606


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 7:53 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 32:56 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 22:50 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 46:13 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 46:37 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 1:12:26 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 1:29:46 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 1:30:14 )


Original Music by Rio & Valencia Saint-Louis



May 07, 202401:32:37
Empowered Voices through Strategic Assertiveness with Cara Tuttle Bell

Empowered Voices through Strategic Assertiveness with Cara Tuttle Bell

Cara Tuttle is a speaker, author, and educator with twenty years' experience working in higher education, where she leads efforts to prevent and address sexual misconduct.. Cara is the author of Drowning in Timidity: Women, Politeness, and the Power of Assertive Living and has contributed chapters to various books and publications, including The Future Female Leader: Preparing Girls and Women to Lead the World, The Female Code: A Woman’s Book for Empowerment and Confidence, The Professional Woman: Pivoting to the New Normal, and Raising Daughters: Raising Healthy Children in an Unhealthy World.



Ways to Engage: Cara mentions how the societal systems we live in can affect other aspects of our lives, such as our careers, financial situations, and even personal relationships. Are there any examples you can think of in your personal life or what you may have seen others experience that relate to this subject? Even if it doesn’t seem like it at first, if we continue to dive deep into these subjects, we can gain new perspectives and understanding of those around us.


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:08 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 7:30 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 27:51 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 37:00 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 1:11:20 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 1:22:15 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 1:32:50 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 1:37:36 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 1:42:13 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 1:43:23 )


Original Music by Rio and Valencia Saint-Louis


Apr 30, 202401:45:34
Finding Her Value through the Infertility Journey with Lana Manikowski

Finding Her Value through the Infertility Journey with Lana Manikowski

After 7 years of fertility treatments and a lifetime dreaming of motherhood, Lana Manikowski was presented with the realization that she would not be a mom. The years that followed were full of loneliness, self judgment and confusion about living a  childless life.  Lana yearned to connect to a community of infertile women to grow past this together. When she couldn’t find one, she created one by courageously telling her story and creating connections weekly on The “So Now What?” Podcast.    

Lana is a Certified Life Coach, Infertility Activist, founder of The Other's Day Brunch and the creator of “The Thrive Method” - a 3 step process that helps women thrive and feel fulfilled even though they don’t have the children they always believed they would.  

Lana guides women in the rediscovery of their meaning and helps them build a future they truly love - even without children. 
Since launching her practice in 2021, Lana has amassed an audience of over 21,000 students. Through her teachings, Lana helps women discover their meaning and define a legacy they feel truly proud of.  Lana has been featured on national media outlets, sharing her message and serving as an example that infertile women can create the life of their dreams, even when it didn’t turn out as planned.

Ways to Engage: Infertility is more common than we think it is, with 1 in 5 women being unable to conceive in the U.S. according to the CDC. However, we don’t tend to hear a lot of conversations surrounding this topic. Why is that? Think about the pressure you have experienced as well as seen in others when it comes to having children. Feel free to share your thoughts and emotions on this multifaceted topic that I’m sure has touched each of our lives.


Prioritizing Self Care - ( 4:12 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 7:22 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 13:05 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 28:35 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 31:58 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 38:32 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 53:40 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 1:02:06 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 1:12:18 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 1:13:10 )

Original Music by Valencia & Rio Saint-Louis



Apr 23, 202401:17:26
Self-Care from the Inside Out with Michele Folan

Self-Care from the Inside Out with Michele Folan

Michele Folan is a 26-year veteran of the health industry, coach, mom, wife, and self-professed life-long learner, who wants you to feel encouraged to be all you were meant to be. How do you want the next 20+ years to look? What do you control? Aren't you worth it?

 

She is the Host of “Asking for a Friend”, a midlife podcast that gets your health, wellness, and fitness questions answered by experts in their fields and features women just like you, who are stepping out to make their lives and the lives of others more fulfilled. 

Follow it on Facebook at @Asking for a Friend Pod and on Instagram @askingforafriend_pod. 

https://www.youtube.com/@askingforafriend_pod/featured


Check out Michele’s new venture here:  Midlife Nutrition Coaching (new) https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=michelefolan


Ways to Engage: Michele mentions how she doesn’t want to feel left out at times, and that has caused conflict with her boundaries in the past. Is there a time when you’ve experienced this as well? How did that affect your body and mental health? Next time this comes up, try making a list of pros and cons—prioritize what feels right for you.


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 3:16 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 15:43 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 18:54 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 21:43 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 27:47 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 29:22 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 34:12 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 39:30 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 46:39 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 51:45 )


Original Music by Rio & Valencia Saint-Louis



Apr 16, 202454:53
Make Your Passion a Priority with Dana Shamas

Make Your Passion a Priority with Dana Shamas

Dana Shamas's engaging spirit and infectious laughter uplifts and inspires her clients. She helps leaders, healers, and change-makers discover their unique circuitry so they can hear their authentic voice and lead with intuition. Her in-depth knowledge of business and wellness allows her to introduce practical and strategic tools to improve emotional bandwidth and mental well being, while her experience in transitional economies and entrepreneurship has taught her to master walking forward into the unknown. She loves sharing the tools you need to maintain your connection to clarity and peace, even in a chaotic and volatile world.



Ways to Engage: As Dana mentions in this episode, everyone has their own idea of what success is. What does success mean to you? Have other people’s ideas of success altered the way you think of it? Think about what you want out of life, what would make you happy, and begin your journey towards success.


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:41 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 6:46 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 14:25 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 22:13 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 26:43 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 32:52 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 36:14 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 51:17 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 55:42 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 56:09 )


Original Music by Rio and Valencia Saint-Louis


Apr 09, 202458:18
Triumph over Trauma with Suzy Ryan

Triumph over Trauma with Suzy Ryan

Suzy Ryan is an author, educator, Ironman athlete, and SCAD (Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection)  survivor. After twenty-plus years of teaching bright-eyed, enthusiastic pupils and tired-eyed, apathetic ones, and everything in between, Suzy realized each and every student had a story to tell—some even as traumatic as her own. Her debut novel, Saving Summer, was born out of a desire to offer a bridge of hope for students, encouraging them to see themselves as victors rather than victims. Awarded Valley Middle School’s teacher of the year in 2020, Suzy now teaches middle and high school English at Carlsbad Seaside Academy. A Kansas native turned California girl, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three adult children.


Trigger Warning: Sexual Assault


Ways to Engage: Throughout the episode, Suzy says that she changed her mindset by becoming “unoffendable.” What did the word mean to you before listening to the episode, and what does it mean to you after listening? How can you implement this idea into your everyday life that can affect it for the better? Track your ideas and progress from this so you can look back and see how far you’ve come.



Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:49 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 11:34 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 19:26 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 33:43 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 38:09 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 49:33 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 1:03:24 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 1:06:47 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 1:09:32 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 1:11:14 )


Original Music by Rio & Valencia Saint-Louis



Apr 02, 202401:14:28
Learning to Care for & Love the Skin You're In with Natalie Bevans

Learning to Care for & Love the Skin You're In with Natalie Bevans

Natalie Bevans has been a Master Aesthetician for 20 years and has seen the struggle women go through with skin. She has worked with anything from acne to aging to rosacea and anything in-between. She loves educating women about their skin and teaching how they themselves can understand their skin and the issues they are having with it.  Getting them back to that healthy, beautiful glow!


Ways to Engage: Natalie describes the connection between the health of your skin and the health of your mind and body. Have you ever noticed changes in your skin when a stressful event is coming up, or you haven’t been taking care of yourself physically? If not, start to pay attention to your skin as it coincides with outside factors, and use this as a tool to indicate how you’re taking care of yourself. 


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:05 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 4:58 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 12:24 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 23:06 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 24:56)

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 26:52 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 31:19 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 34:00 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 35:21 )



Original Music by Rio and Valencia Saint Louis



Mar 26, 202441:28
Embracing the Body Healing Itself with Heather Dillard

Embracing the Body Healing Itself with Heather Dillard

Heather Dillard has spent the past 20+ years learning how to be a friend to her body through holistic wellness practices, and she loves working with women through one-on-one online coaching so that their bodies can heal themselves, too.

Heather is the owner and founder of Desert Bloom Bakery (specializing in gluten-free and dairy-free baked goods, mixes, and online baking classes) and Restored Holistic Coaching (helping women with autoimmune struggles and anxious nerves to regain inner calm and learn to heal themselves). She is also a licensed therapist and adjunct psychology instructor. She has over ten years of professional experience and training in mental health counseling and trauma-informed care.

To find out more about online holistic coaching sessions with Heather, click here.

Ways to Engage: Have you seen the effects that food has, not only on your body, but on your mental health as well? What are some patterns you see? Do you keep track of what you eat and the ingredients in the food? Why or why not? After listening to Heather’s episode, it might be helpful to reevaluate your diet to see what is working and what is not for all aspects of your health.



Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:22 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 16:31 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 20:56 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 32:02 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 35:28 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 39:18 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 41:51 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 47:41 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 54:17 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 54:45 )



Original Music by Valencia & Rio Saint-Louis



Mar 19, 202457:33
Learning to Love Your Layers with Jasmine Rice

Learning to Love Your Layers with Jasmine Rice

Trigger warning: suicide


Description/Bio: Jasmine Rice is a Transformational Life Coach, NLP Practitioner, Best-selling author, and the Founder of Good Things Are Gonna Come. With a passion for empowering others, she has dedicated her career to helping people navigate and thrive during life's complex transitions. Through her integrated coaching business and supportive community, she equips individuals with the tools they need to make lasting change, transform their lives and take control after periods of transition. Jasmine's unique approach combines the principles of neuro-linguistic programming, neuroscience, and positive psychology, creating a holistic path towards personal growth and self-realization.



Ways to Engage: Self-love can be a fleeting emotion, but ask yourself if you truly love who you are. What emotions does this bring up for you? Why do you think you feel that way? Even if it’s uncomfortable, you owe yourself the opportunity to begin a journey towards self-love and self-acceptance.


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 3:07 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 8:26 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 12:10 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 18:43 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 21:06 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 25:18 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 30:27 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 37:28 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 42:33 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 44:26 )


Original Music by Rio and Valencia Saint-Louis


Mar 12, 202454:42
Empowerment and Purpose with Pat Rullo

Empowerment and Purpose with Pat Rullo

Description/Bio: Patricia J. Rullo is the author of many healthcare books, including the recent Healthcare and Hospital Hazards. She is the author of two additional books: Highway to Heart, Humor, and Honesty in Healthcare, a patient safety/charity anthology, and Speak Up and Stay Alive, a hospital survival guide for patient advocates. She is a speaker and trainer on patient safety and hosts and produces three syndicated radio shows. (Speak Up and Stay Alive, Authors on Fire, and Eleven Cats Radio).

Pat is a seasoned audiobook narrator and producer and offers her radio experience to help others host their own podcasts.

She founded the Firebird Book Awards and the Positive Change Podcast Awards. The submission fees are tax-deductible donations that contribute to Pat's mission. This mission transforms homeless shelters for women and children by providing them with handmade pillowcases and bedtime books.

She recently released Firebird Inked, a self-publishing service for nonfiction authors that covers everything from editing to cover design, formatting and Amazon uploading, all while protecting your royalties.

Rescued by 13 cats, Pat is quite an accomplished litter box scooper.

For more information, visit http://www.speakuptalkradio.com

Ways to Engage: Pat mentions simple acts being part of her self-care routine, proving that it’s different for everyone and can be found in even the busiest parts of our day. What are some examples of simple self-care steps you can implement into your life, and how does completing these everyday make you feel? We love to hear people’s journeys with self-care, so please feel free to share any tips or tricks that have helped you along the way. 

Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 1:48 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 4:43 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 9:00 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 14:53 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 24:49 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 29:43 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 32:02 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 33:55 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 37:00 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 40:35 )

Original Music by Rio and Valencia Saint-Louis



Mar 11, 202444:52
Empowered through Self Care Tracking with Dr. Jennifer Harrison

Empowered through Self Care Tracking with Dr. Jennifer Harrison


Dr. Jen Harrison is a highly experienced dissertation coach. A PhD herself, she has coached and supervised first-generation, ESL, and non-traditional students in the UK and USA for more than 10 years. Many of them have achieved first-class degrees.

 

Dr. Harrison offers support in writing, research design, motivation, and research methods. She specializes in helping you achieve your dissertation and career goals quickly and easily, so you can feel confident and supported moving forward.

Ways to Engage: What are some techniques you use to track your self-care, if any at all? After listening to the episode, what are some techniques you’d like to implement or get rid of when tracking self-care? How is your practice affected by what Jennifer said, and or what are your thoughts on tracking your self-care?


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 1:32 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 15:55 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 23:14 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 25:53 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 30:53 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 33:10 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 48:35 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 55:52 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 1:00:34 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 1:02:00 )



Original Music by Rio and Valencia Saint-Louis



Feb 27, 202401:03:55
Finding Value in Your Purpose with Carenda Deonne

Finding Value in Your Purpose with Carenda Deonne

This Week's Guest kicking off Season 6 On The F.E.E.L Podcast

Carenda Deonne - Some call her sunshine, some call her diva, and others call her their #1 change agent. Carenda Deonne is Founder of Carenda Deonne LLC. Carenda is a HR professional, author, keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, consultant, and TV personality. Carenda is an expert in helping individuals and corporations alleviate stress through detoxing emotionally. Carenda has been encouraging individuals in their purpose for over eighteen years. Carenda has worked with local and federal government as well as seven plus years in Human Resources. In addition, Carenda received her BS Degree in Marketing from FIT, and her M.A. in Law Degree (Alternative Dispute Resolution) from Regent University.

One of Carenda's personal favorite quotes is, "If your shoes are untied you will trip, if they stay untied you will fall. Don't be your own stumbling block." Carenda has been helping individuals and working professionals thrive through life's most complex and difficult matters through her book, Perfect Patty Messed Up, coaching, workshops. self-development courses, and key-note speaking. 

In addition to being a licensed minister, member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., author of two books (Soul of a Poet and Perfect Patty Messed Up Devotional), contributing author for The Wait to Success, and contributing writer for Grace & Glory Magazine and Insight Magazine, she is a certified stress management coach. All of her programs, sessions, and techniques decrease emotional toxins, and increase emotional intelligence. Currently, Carenda is working on her next book, 12 Rounds- How to Detox Emotionally and WIN, which is scheduled to launch Fall 2024. Carenda Deonne is the recipient of A Lady of Influence Inc. Award of Excellence, does monthly TV appearances on WCCB- The CW (Charlotte, NC), and Co-Hosts Insight Talk on IG.

Carenda loves the arts, music, and sports. (Go Ravens!) She loves eating good food, watching wrestling, and spending time with family. In her free time, she also enjoys boxing, hosting two podcasts, (The Loveseat and Preacher Girls), and writing poetry.  In addition to the impact Carenda Deonne is making in the lives of others, community service and giving back is also an important initiative of Carenda Deonne LLC.

Ways to Engage: Carenda opened up about feelings of guilt that have caused bumps in her boundaries journey. What feelings, guilt included, have come up for you when discussing, establishing, and actively setting your boundaries? Sometimes the emotions we see come up through expressing boundaries for the first time can reveal a new layer to your character and how best to continue moving forward.

Timestamps: Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:31 ) Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 15:43 ) Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 23:22 ) Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 36:07 ) Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 42:24 ) Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 47:14 ) Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 54:47 ) Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 1:01:27 ) 5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 1:05:12 ) 5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 1:07:03 ) Original Music by Valencia & Rio Saint-Louis


Feb 20, 202401:12:18
Protecting Your Peace with India Lott

Protecting Your Peace with India Lott

India is a 21-year-old college student who is the host of A Tall Girl’s Podcast. As a tall woman, India has experienced the various struggles that many other tall women face, including bullying, body shaming, name-calling, and more because of her height. She started A Tall Girl’s Podcast two and a half years ago first as a way to complain about her height, but after receiving much support and positive feedback from other tall women on how it has helped them through their insecurities, she turned it into a platform that gives tall women a voice. She now shares confidence tips, funny stories, snippets of her life, and more! 


Learn more about and tune in to A Tall Girl’s Podcast here:
https://atallgirlspodcast.com


Ways to Engage: How does India saying to speak kinder to yourself make you feel? Reflect upon the different ways you’ve spoken to yourself lately and analyze: am I being kind to myself? Am I being too harsh? Would I speak to my friend like this? Try to think of something more gentle you can say to yourself in a moment of stress or anxiety. 


Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:03 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 7:06 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 16:10 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 22:38 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 30:15 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 34:42 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 44:34 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 51:44 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 57:08 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Month - ( 58:54 )

Original Music by Valencia & Rio




Jan 16, 202401:04:35
Making Space for Women to Live Unapologetically with Shaquanda Reese

Making Space for Women to Live Unapologetically with Shaquanda Reese

As a coffee, lifestyle/wellness focused brand, Burst Beans Coffee donates a portion of sales to Mental Health America in support of their continued efforts to promote mental health for all. Learn more about MHA at www.mhanational.org Ways to Engage: Shaquanda emphasizes the idea of “intention” in this episode, which is not a new idea to the podcast. Have you tried doing your self-care with intention? If so, think about how it’s changed your perception of self-care. If not, see how adding this into your routine affects it. As always, we love to hear about your experiences and how ideas from The F.E.E.L Podcast have affected the way you embrace your layers. Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:54 ) Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 9:08 ) Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 16:42 ) Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 22:50 ) Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 26:11 ) Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 34:52 ) 5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 40:11 ) 5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 41:15 ) Original Music by Rio & Valencia
Jan 09, 202445:41
Empower Others As You Rise with Victoria Pelletier

Empower Others As You Rise with Victoria Pelletier

Trigger warnings: rape, abuse


"Unstoppable and Dynamic: Born to lead and not to be led."


Overcoming adversity and trauma at an early age built resilience. A trait that has remained with her throughout her life and has helped Victoria excel as a corporate executive, mentor and leader — for which she is often characterized as dynamic and unstoppable.


Victoria Pelletier, is an accomplished public speaker and author. She’s been presented with honors such as an HSBC Diversity & Inclusion Award, Mentor of the Year, and was listed in the Top 50 Most Influential Business Leaders in Tech in 2021. She has so much to share with us, not only about how she’s achieved these honors, but how she’s learned to embrace her layers along the way.


Ways to Engage: Victoria touched on a lot of sexist language throughout this episode, such as the difference between a man in business being “assertive” and a woman in business being a “bitch.” What have you experienced with this? How did you respond? What language was used? How did it make you feel? I know every woman has a similar story, and we’re here to listen, share, and grow.

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:04 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 5:18 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 8:02 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 13:13 ) Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 24:20 ) Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 29:41 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 35:09 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 40:39 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 45:38 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 46:59 )


Dec 19, 202349:58
Daily Unapologetic Living with Bridget Belden

Daily Unapologetic Living with Bridget Belden


Bridget Belden is Founder and CEO of Magenta Consulting, a coaching organization providing world class tools to empower women to discover who they are beyond being a mom. Bridget is an award-winning speaker has been featured on podcasts such as The Sweetest and Toughest Job and Interesting People I Know. 

Prior to her current venture, Bridget worked for more than15 years in retail and apparel manufacturing. After a very personal introspective journey in pursuit of finding her purpose, she left her job to explore her calling of making a difference. In 2006, she founded Ripple Kids, a nonprofit seeking to inspire and empower kids to take action in their communities. A Ripple Kid is a kid who has identified an issue and has taken action to resolve it. 

After 10 years running Ripple Kids full time, and her kids gone from the nest, she realized it was an opportune time for her next life evolution – starting venture based on her own journey of self-discovery.  Magenta Consulting supports moms through life-changing one on one coaching and free transformational workshops, reconnect with who they were before they had kids in pursuit of a life of passion and purpose. 

Bridget lives in Orange County with her husband of 28 years, Charlie and their dog Max. She loves travelling, spending time with friends and family, and will rarely pass up the opportunity for a good meal and a nice bottle of wine.


Ways to Engage: Something that really resonated with me during this episode was Bridget working towards “the vision,” but once she had it, she realized there was more to life than living for other people. What part of this episode resonated with you and why? Is there a certain “vision” you have or had for yourself in life? How does it compare to you now?


Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:50 ) Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health  - ( 6:30 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 15:22 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 20:16 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 27:00 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 35:36 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 39:40 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 44:30 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 48:37 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 49:15 ) Original Music by Rio and Valencia Saint-Louis

Dec 12, 202353:58
Living in Alignment with JJ DiGeronimo

Living in Alignment with JJ DiGeronimo

Award-winning author and former tech industry leader JJ DiGeronimo empowers women with tried-and-tested strategies, mindfulness, and energetic practices to increase their impact and influence. Her work has been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, and Thrive Global. Through her three books, keynotes, and popular podcasts, Career Strategies for Women that Work and Together WE Seek, JJ shares proven key findings that help women gain more seats at more tables. Discover her work at www.JJDiGeronimo.com or inside her community, TogetherWeSeek.Online

As an award-winning author for women in business and a former computer engineer, JJ is no stranger to navigating the twists and turns of striving for career advancement.

With the release of her third book, Seeking, JJ shares transformative strategies and advice for women seeking to align with more influence and impact.

 Her work reaches beyond the pages of her book with proven tools, mindfulness practices, and retreats to help you manage your energy, side-step self-doubt, and even unlock the next level of your life’s work. 

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:27 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 4:01 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 5:40 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 9:05 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 17:31 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 21:32 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 35:40 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 44:27 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 45:21 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 45:35 )

Original Music by Rio and Valencia Saint-Louis

Dec 05, 202348:25
Finding Your Foundation with Ursula Sharp

Finding Your Foundation with Ursula Sharp

From This Week's Guest Ursula Sharp: I believe my greatest strength is creating authentic, long-lasting relationships with my clients and business prospects. In doing so, I am able to develop business more effectively, increase my pipeline and close more deals. 

Because of a high emotional intelligence (EI) quotient, I develop products and services for what is best for the client. Listening to their goals and circumstances is the catalyst for me to innovate strategies and programs that meet their unique needs while solidifying my employer’s position as a strategic partner. It has also afforded me the ability to deliver consistent, goal-shattering revenue streams time and again.

Lastly, as a life-long learner, I remain at the forefront of industry trends and advancements. In addition to professional development, I am in the final stages of completing my Executive Doctorate in Business Administration at Goldey-Beacom College. Throughout this journey I have learned excellence in leadership, strategic management, and organizational change management are essential to develop effective teams and thriving organizations. Even more, while working full-time, it has crystalized for me that with passion, resilience, and tenacity anything is possible.

If you believe I can be an asset to your company, please reach out to me. I look forward to connecting with you and exploring mutually beneficial opportunities.


Ways to Engage: Are there any techniques or specific things you do when listening to someone in addition to what Ursula offers? What are they? How have the results been? Feel free to share with us so we can all discover ways to support others and better ourselves.

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:48 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 5:19 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 10:41 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 20:38 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 32:05 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 40:19 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 46:12 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 51:03 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 55:44 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 56:06 )


Nov 28, 202357:27
Menopause is Natural, Suffering is NOT with Alison Bladh

Menopause is Natural, Suffering is NOT with Alison Bladh

Alison is an esteemed figure in the field of health and wellness, boasting an impressive career spanning over three decades. As an award-winning registered Nutritional Therapist and Aesthetician, she has dedicated her expertise to the specialized area of women's menopausal health. With unwavering passion and commitment, Alison has become a driving force in empowering women worldwide to reclaim their well-being during the transformative midlife and menopause journey. Through her evidence-based approach, rooted in realistic nutrition, mindset, and lifestyle modifications, she has revolutionized the lives of countless women.

 As the visionary founder of the Menopause 5 Step Breakthrough Pathway, Alison has created a comprehensive framework that guides women through the stages of perimenopause, menopause, post-menopause, and beyond. Her extensive knowledge and credentials are further exemplified by her memberships in renowned professional associations such as the British Association of Nutritional Therapists and the Institute of Functional Medicine. Alison's tireless dedication and profound impact have solidified her position as a trusted advocate and beacon of hope for women navigating the complexities of menopause.


Ways to Engage: What do you think of the topic of menopause? Had you heard of perimenopause before this episode? Why do you think this is a topic of conversation that gets brushed under the rug? Feel free to share any thoughts, feelings, or emotions Alison talks about, and let us know in the comments.

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 3:05 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 8:37 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 13:55 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 24:45 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 28:58 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 34:40 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 39:04 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 43:48 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 46:11 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 46:50 )

Original Music by Valencia & Rio Saint-Louis


Nov 21, 202350:06
Financial Empowerment with Patti Handy

Financial Empowerment with Patti Handy


Description: Patti Handy helps women get comfortable with managing their money. Plain and simple. She’s a former Financial Advisor and Mortgage Advisor, turned Financial Coach for women. After having countless conversations with women around money, it became her passion to teach, coach and empower women with money smarts. 

Her website, www.PattiHandy.com has more info on what she does and why, and we can go into her story in the episode.


Ways to Engage: Money is a topic we’re often told not to talk about. How does the topic of finances make you feel? Nervous? Anxious? Angry? Feel free to share your thoughts on this topic we’re most often told to keep to ourselves, especially as women. There’s support out there for whatever emotion may make you feel, and let this be a reminder that there’s nothing to be ashamed of.


Prioritizing Self Care - ( 1:35 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 5:20 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 6:57 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 14:16 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 17:38 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 23:44 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 26:53 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 30:45 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 33:41 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 36:13 )

Original Music by Rio and Valencia Saint-Louis

Nov 14, 202341:02
Empowered by Joy and Intention with Tracy Weems

Empowered by Joy and Intention with Tracy Weems


Tracy Weems is an experienced administrator who has served in higher-education, and nonprofit and government entities  for over 25 years. She is currently pursuing her Ed.D in Interdisciplinary Leadership, with a concentration in Nonprofit and Social Entrepreneurship at Governors State University and will graduate in Spring 2024.

Tracy also serves as a board member and treasurer for the domestic violence organization, Anew: Beyond Violence and Abuse, and is also serving as a co-chair for the South Side Giving, where she has been a member since 2019.  

In September 2016, Tracy lost her husband Christopher, after he suffered from a lengthy illness. Together they share a daughter, Kira Pearl, and two stepchildren from his first wife, Michael and Taylor. After losing her husband, she started attending her church’s grief and loss ministry, where she found a safe space to have open dialogue about her sorrow and losses and become a support to others dealing with care-taking and loss. She was eventually asked to become a co-facilitator in the ministry and continues to share her stories and experiences.

Tracy is looking forward to becoming a Grandma in December, as well as pursuing some travel in the near future. She also wants to develop a path where she can use her past experiences of dealing with loss and trauma to provide mentoring, encouragement, and inspiration to others Black Girls who have struggled to find their resilience.


Ways to Engage: Do you find that you’re most honest with yourself in a private situation like Tracy is? Do you ever take the time to speak to yourself aloud or write things down freely? Think of a situation or layer you’d like to explore and see if you’re more honest with yourself in private. It might not be for everyone, but you may discover a more effective way to embrace your layers.


Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:59 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 6:55 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 10:05 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 15:22 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 21:15 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 27:07 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 31:31 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 35:35 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 41:42 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 43:49 )

Original Music by Rio and Valencia Saint-Louis


Nov 07, 202346:56
Healthy Boundaries Equals Healthy Bodies with Dr. Shalonna Battle

Healthy Boundaries Equals Healthy Bodies with Dr. Shalonna Battle

Dr Shalonna Battle is a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, She  is experienced in caring for women across the lifespan. She manages all women’s health concerns which include, but not limited to common gynecological concerns and disorders, family planning and reproductive care, caring for women who are survivors of abuse and sexual assault, recurrent and chronic vaginal infections, perinatal care, and postmenopausal concerns.

Ways to Engage: Think about a time when you had a negative or positive experience at the doctor’s office. What happened that made you feel that way? What are things you wish they would have done or would not have done to make you feel more comfortable? Or what did they do that you enjoyed? A negative experience with one doctor may not be the same for another, but it instills fear in us for future visits. Feel free to share what feels comfortable to you, and we hope Dr. Shalonna Battle’s episode can provide a bit of peace.

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 1:34 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 5:47 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 10:16 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 14:40 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 29:20 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 31:21 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 35:05 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 38:34 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 40:19 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 40:46 )

Original Music by Valencia & Rio Saint-Louis

Oct 31, 202348:16
Embracing Body Love with Rachel Lavin

Embracing Body Love with Rachel Lavin

Rachel Lavin is a Published author of The Doughnut Diaries, Professional Speaker, Body Love Educator, Certified Health Coach, Certified Personal Trainer. She grew up in Northern California and has lived in Hawaii, Vancouver Washington, Portland Oregon and New York City. She currently lives in Greenville, South Carolina with her Partner. 

 In 2000 Rachel began her career as an ACE certified group fitness instructor teaching a plethora of classes such as Aqua Aerobics, Bootcamp, Jazzercise, Dance Aerobics, Stretch and Chair classes. In 2007 she was certified as an ACE Personal Trainer working at big box gyms in NYC and becoming an independent trainer in 2012.  Rachel wanted to take her passion for helping people to the next level and became an ACE certified Health Coach in 2018. 

 In 2020 Rachel wrote her first book "The Doughnut Diaries" about her own struggles with her weight and restrictive diets which lasted for over thirty years. As Rachel turned forty the expression I got sick and tired of being sick and tired hit home and she made a decision to take her power back and heal from decades of negative thinking and self sabotage. Rachel began to do the work on my mind, body and soul. Writing her book was her way of sharing my message to women that you are not alone! Now using her book Rachel wants to help people who have had or a still experiencing negative body image. By using what she now refers to as my three pillars of fitness; Nourishment for both the mind and body, Movement & Rest. 

 "My mission is to create a safe space for all women to feel whole in their own body" – Rachel Lavin 

 WIFA Global Ambassador 

ACE Certified Health Coach

Ways to Engage: Food is an interesting but sensitive topic and has a strange dynamic in our lives. It’s fuel to our bodies, yet it comes with a lot of stipulations in our culture. Please feel free to share any thoughts, experiences, or insight you may have in the comments below.

Time Stamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 3:17 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 4:56 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 6:59 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 17:49 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 21:23 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 24:48 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 28:57 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 31:13 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 33:49 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 34:53 )

Original Music by Valencia & Rio Saint-Louis


Oct 24, 202337:30
Unafraid to Speak Truth with Christy Martinez Garcia
Oct 19, 202356:04
Moving Forward from Loss through Self Care with June K Collins

Moving Forward from Loss through Self Care with June K Collins

June K. Collins is a Master NLP Practitioner and Coach. In 2012, she lost her son, Kaleb, and found herself hitting rock bottom and not understanding how to rebuild her life without Kaleb in it. During this time, she found a passion with the mind and how individuals react to trauma. Through her own experience and education, she now helps other women rebuild and find purpose in their life, and learn to embrace all of their layers. June wrote a book detailing her experiences with child loss and the demons she faced, called "Momma, You Don't Heal" . Her hope is that it will help other women to realize they are not alone and to help them begin the initial steps to rebuild their own life with purpose, living unapologetically and in a way that is most healing and empowering for them. "Momma, You Don't Heal" was released on June 16, 2023, her 12th birthday after the loss of her son, Kaleb.  Ways to Engage: What emotions came up while reading the blog and listening to the episode? Taking a page from June, reflect upon those emotions. Break down where they’re really coming from, other than just the sadness of a child passing away. Let’s dig deep and feel our emotions together. Facebook: theserenitydreamer Group: @womensurvivingchildloss Instagram: @lifeafterchild www.theserenitydreamer.com Ways to Engage: What emotions came up while reading the blog and listening to the episode? Taking a page from June, reflect upon those emotions. Break down where they’re really coming from, other than just the sadness of a child passing away. Let’s dig deep and feel our emotions together.Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:12 ) Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 9:26 ) Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 13:57 ) Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 21:59 ) Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 29:59 ) Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 33:14 ) Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself  - ( 36:08 ) Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 49:20 ) 5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 50:51 ) 5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 55:53 ) Original Music by Valencia & Rio Saint-Louis
Oct 17, 202301:02:17
Unapologetically Embracing Discomfort with Cristina Ramirez

Unapologetically Embracing Discomfort with Cristina Ramirez


Cristina M. Ramirez is a serial entrepreneur bringing her empowerment curricula to audiences everywhere - from children to corporations. Her programs have been implemented across 40 states, and with over 10,000 individuals from children to corporate executives.

A veteran of Wall Street and Silicon Valley, Cristina is skilled at challenging limitations and finding possibilities. No stranger to significant difficulties, Cristina has made it her personal mission to empower others to face their challenges with confidence.

Cristina is a widowed single mom to two teenage boys, and best selling author of her book Empowered by Discomfort. She lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico and in her free time you are likely to find her snowboarding with her sons, hiking with the dogs, or cleaning the cat litter.

www.cristinamramirez.com

www.instagram.com/empoweredbydiscomfort

https://www.linkedin.com/in/empoweredbydiscomfort/

Ways to Engage: A huge theme in this episode is embracing discomfort. We’ve had other guests speak to this matter as well. How do you feel about embracing discomfort? Does it scare you or make you nervous? Is it something you’ve ever thought about before? Tell us what you think about this week’s topic in the comments below! Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:51 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 7:37 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 9:20 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 19:45 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 21:23 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 22:10 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 31:34 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 45:17 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 48:42 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 49:10 )

Original song by Valencia & Rio Saint-Louis



Oct 10, 202352:45
Self Awareness & Somatic Healing with Susan Gold

Self Awareness & Somatic Healing with Susan Gold

Susan Gold is magical. 

Navigating a ferociously challenging upbringing, while bravely moving forward as an adult to face ingrained, outdated, and patriarchal programming head-on, Susan now shares a unique perspective in viewing life challenges as occasions for transformation. She’s excited to help others all over the globe transform their traumatic experiences into peace.

Through her book, Toxic Family: Transforming Childhood Trauma into Adult Freedom, Susan turns the standard paradigm on its head courageously leading others through her own journey of abuse, addiction, and surviving narcissism all while creating a distinctly empowering personal and professional life.

Ways to Engage: Susan’s self-reflection techniques helped her discover her authentic self, a journey that shows up in different ways for people. Name a situation where you lived out of someone else’s expectations rather than your own. How did it make you feel, and how would you handle things differently now? Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:52 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 7:38 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 9:33 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 15:24 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 18:58 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 21:24 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 29:18 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 35:21 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 36:48 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 38:33 )

Original Music by Valencia & Rio Saint-Louis

Oct 03, 202340:40
Embracing the Layers of a Sober-Powered Life with Gill Tietz

Embracing the Layers of a Sober-Powered Life with Gill Tietz

Gillian Tietz is an educator for people wanting to understand their experience with alcohol. She uses her biochemistry background and lived experience to help people understand why alcohol affects you the way that it does and why you can’t change the way you drink. Her work helps people "Embrace these Layers" in their life and gives them tools on how to work with this to be their best selves!

Ways to Engage: What are some examples in the media where alcohol or alcoholism is glorified? Did they make you view alcoholics, your friends, or even yourself in a different way? Feel free to share your thoughts and any other topics that need to be embraced. 

Resources: 

Gill Tietz’s website: https://www.soberpowered.com 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: 1-800-662-4357 or 1-800-487-4889

American Addiction Centers: 1-888-451-9142

Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 3:10 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 7:32 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 15:03 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 19:51 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 26:36 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 31:49 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 36:58 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 40:38 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 43:19 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 44:39 )

Original Music by Valencia & Rio Saint-Louis


Sep 26, 202346:30
The Multilayered Journey to Sexual Health with Fanny Leboulanger

The Multilayered Journey to Sexual Health with Fanny Leboulanger

Fanny is a French family doctor & Self-Love and Pleasure Coach. After many years practicing gynecology on a daily basis, she noticed something was missing...Turns out, a lot was missing, but most of all feminine empowerment & pleasure. She dedicates her life to help women reclaim the Thriving Sex and Fulfilling Life they deserve. With a mix of ancient tantric traditions to up-to-date scientific concepts and tools, she combines the best of with worlds to help you reconnect to a life that feels amazing and worth living. Using tools like breathwork, sex magic, yoni egg, pleasure and sexy knowledge, she helps you create the Thriving Sex, Feeling Whole and "Lifegasm" YOU deserve.

Ways to Engage: What were your first thoughts when you heard that Fanny is an intimacy/pleasure coach? What did you think after reading the blog and listening to the episode? Have your views on female intimacy and pleasure changed?

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 3:18 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 7:09 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 11:35 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 14:35 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 21:04 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 27:58 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 30:40 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 39:08 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 44:31 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 45:20 )

Original Music by Rio Saint-Louis & Valencia Saint-Louis


Sep 19, 202348:34
Seeking Freedom with Lis Thomas

Seeking Freedom with Lis Thomas

Ways to Engage: We encourage everyone to check out Lis’s blog on Womanhood Unwrapped. Which blogs stick out to you? Which one was your favorite? Take some time to share and reflect with intention. Lis Thomas is a women’s advocate, writer, and brand strategist. She’s been working as a writer, author, and branding consultant for the past 10+ years and believes deeply in the power of words and the importance and positive impact of women working together.

Lis founded Womanhood Unwrapped in 2015, a blog and community training platform for women in their lives, careers, and relationships. She also partners with brands and agencies that work to promote and grow women-owned businesses. Earlier this year, Lis launched the Stages of She podcast with two co-hosts, Kristina Godfrey and Sara Strasbaugh. The podcast focuses on the different stages of women’s lives and how we can support each other through a variety of experiences and changes that arise in life. Lis writes regularly for her own blog and has been featured in a variety of publications, including Tiny Beans and Fairy Goddboss.

The devoted mom of two, Lis, her husband, and her kiddos live in Central Oregon and spend their free time road-tripping and camping around the Pacific Northwest, California, and other areas in the US known for their outdoor adventures. She’s a yoga devotee, lover of hiking and biking, and will usually say “yes” to a glass of wine, or cup of coffee, depending on the hour. Most of all, Lis cherishes being a working mom, supporting her family, and helping women along the way.

Ways to Engage: If you had to name three layers that women tend to have, what would they be? Societal? Personal? Let us know about your perspective of a woman’s complex layers in the comments down below!

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 3:25 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 7:10 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 12:34 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 16:34 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 22:39 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 25:34 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 29:10 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 30:23 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 32:07 )


Original Song by Rio & Valencia Saint-Louis


Sep 12, 202336:33
Embracing Our Multifaceted Identities with Jenna Madden

Embracing Our Multifaceted Identities with Jenna Madden

We are so excited to share with you today our guest Jenna Madden. Jenna comes to us as a friend of our blog writer Jessica Garrison as Jenna and Jessica went to high school together. Jessica brought Jenna to Melissa as we were working to find the right guest for our Pride Episode, and you are not going to be disappointed.  They are so wise and insightful, another one of those really intuitive, emotionally intelligent, tuned in 20 somethings that just continue to impress and astound. Jenna identifies as they/them for their pronouns and Non-binary. Jenna defines themself as compassionate, empathetic and passionate, and really feels in their body and mind those things and that really informs where and how they spend their time and energy.  

The work they do and are an advocate for includes not only causes in the LGBTQIA+ community, but also other communities that are marginalized . Your struggle is their struggle and they want to walk side by side with you in that. Jenna is a learner, and grew up in a family of educators so understands that life is a process and there's fluidity to it. They have their core values that they live by that really come through in their character traits and work they do, but also understand that they’re always learning and growing and changing and that they must allow room for that with themselves as well as with other people. We are so impressed with Jenna's ability to know who they are and how they need to care for themselves.  This, in turn, gives them so much strength to care so well for others and you’ll get to learn about some of that work in this episode.



Prioritizing Self Care - ( 3:24 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 12:44 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 19:45 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 25:48 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 34:09 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 36:57 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 44:43 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 47:13 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 51:20 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 51:46 )

Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Jun 27, 202354:26
Clear Expectations with Chotsani Williams West

Clear Expectations with Chotsani Williams West

Chotsani Williams West serves as the Assistant Vice President of Diversity, Equity,Inclusion & Belonging for Adelphi University. She teaches as an Adjunct Professor within the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Education and Health Sciences.

 

Chotsani obtained a master’s degree from Adelphi in Educational Leadership & Technology and holds certifications from Big Brothers Big Sisters of New York City Center for Training & Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service: Skills to Mentor Youth and Mentoring Supervision. She has a career spanning over 20 years in youth and professional development, mentoring leadership, school reform and social services through a diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism lens, with an emphasis on Implicit Bias and Microagressions.

 

Chotsani is a leader in mentoring, youth development and diversity spaces who uses a holistic and strength-based approach in her work. Chotsani is a doctoral candidate in the Educational Leadership for Diverse Learning Communities Program at Molloy University, which focuses on the importance of diverse curricula, antiracism, and social justice. Her research explores the impact of mentoring relationships, equity, and access within educational spaces.


Wife, Mama, Educator, Facilitator and Artist, Chotsani enjoys creative projects:
Exuberant Creations, LLC: About / Biography (exuberantcreationsllc.blogspot.com) and spending quality time with family.

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 4:46 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 9:30 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 14:11 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 18:20 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 23:20 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 30:32 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 38:53 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 45:23 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 51:10 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 52:47 ) Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Jun 13, 202354:27
How to Live Well With Bipolar featuring Paris Prynkiewicz

How to Live Well With Bipolar featuring Paris Prynkiewicz

Paris Prynkiewicz is podcast host of “Live Well Bipolar,” professional speaker for NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), Bipolar Wellness Coach and best-selling author of, “Crooked Illness: Lessons From Inside & Outside Hospital Walls.” Paris has made it her mission to use her story to teach others how to SHATTER stigma and OVERCOME their obstacles to begin to CRAFT the life they have always wanted to live! Paris has experienced life with bipolar from the most unique perspective. She went from struggling at 19 after receiving a diagnosis of bipolar 1 disorder while hospitalized.... to returning to work at that same place to help others and share what works. Paris received her BA in Psychology from the University of Arizona and her MBA in Healthcare Administration from Western Governors University. For more Paris, connect with her here.

Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 3:29 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 8:42 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 17:12 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 21:21 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 25:28 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 28:40 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 31:52 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 35:10 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 40:00 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 40:11 ) Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

May 30, 202341:52
Celebrate Yourself with Valerie from Inner Solace Therapy

Celebrate Yourself with Valerie from Inner Solace Therapy

At 4’11, this woman stands tall in her power to guide others through their healing journey.  Valerie is a childhood trauma and couples’ therapist that finds fulfillment through the therapeutic process leading to solace.  Valerie believes that connecting the mind and body alleviates hurt and pain, resulting in overall regulation and balance. Valerie has a master’s in science in Social Work and has been practicing since 2003. She dedicated seven years to working with adolescents at a non-profit organization, eventually becoming a supervisor there for six years. Valerie has also been an adjunct social work lecturer at the university in between semesters.  Valerie decided to transition jobs and worked at a hospital for a few months, in which she quickly realized was not her cup of tea; however, this helped her with her next venture of becoming the first and only clinical therapist for a medical school.  Today, Valerie is the owner and lead therapist at Inner Solace Therapy, a private practice that offers telehealth in Texas. Timestamps: Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:49 ) Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 5:23 ) Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 10:30 ) Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 15:37 ) Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 18:48 ) Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 23:40 ) Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 28:08 ) Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 31:40 ) 5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 37:35 ) 5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 38:18 ) Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars
May 16, 202340:51
Emotional Health & Physical Health Healing with Teresa Vesneske

Emotional Health & Physical Health Healing with Teresa Vesneske

Disclaimer: In this episode there are conversations about disordered eating that may be triggering for some audiences, listener discretion is advised.


Teresa is a middle school Science teacher in rural Eastern Washington.  For 25 years the focus of her life was raising her three daughters now 33, 30 and 25.  In 2015, her youngest daughter left the nest and she found it empty.  It took a couple of years to figure out what she wanted the remainder of her life to look like.   She decided it was time to “reinvent herself”.  Finishing her BA in 2017, a teacher certification in 2018, and now pursuing a Masters in Educational Leadership was her way of beginning her metamorphosis.

In 2019 she began her new career as a teacher (after many years as a paraeducator) and then March 13, 2020 the pandemic hit.  This ultimately led her to prioritize self care.  After maxing out her body at 374 pounds Teresa decided to have gastric bypass surgery.  On September 24, 2020 her physical self began to change.  Now after a 220 pound weight loss she has reinvented her mind and body.

Teresa believes in the power of positivity and letting her light shine bright everywhere.

In 2022 Teresa completed eleven 5K runs, snowshoed, skied, hiked, kayaked, traveled abroad, and most importantly had the energy to play with her grandkids.

In 2023 Teresa hopes to empower others to unapologetically reinvent themselves by achieving their wildest dreams and living life to its fullest.  Her motto “We can do HARD things”. 


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:53 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 9:48 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 11:59 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 27:05 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 30:39 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 36:50 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 42:32 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 49:51 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 55:24 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 1:00:23 ) Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

May 02, 202301:06:13
 Period Empowerment - How SAALT makes this possible with Taylor Christenson

Period Empowerment - How SAALT makes this possible with Taylor Christenson

Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only, and we know and respect that each woman needs to handle their period care in a way that feels most healthy for them.


We are talking about all things PERIODS, Period Cups, and Period Health on this episode with our friend Taylor Christenson (we introduced Taylor with her Mom and Sisters in this fabulous Season 1 Episode https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/h7s5XFAEZyb).

Taylor works in Sales for SAALT.  They provide Period products for girls and women in a environmentally friendly and sustainable way, and make these available around the world in a way that is so empowering and liberating, so we’re going to talk about that work in this episode and how what they do relates to and plays into each of our Talking Points.

Check out our Resources page on embracinglayers.com to learn more about Saalt’s impactful work and how you can purchase their products and support their mission.


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 19:37 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 21:08 ) **

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 25:34 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 28:13 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 32:46 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 36:58 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 44:21 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships ( 56:22 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 1:01:00 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 1:04:03 ) Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Apr 18, 202301:09:05
Embracing Discomfort As a Path to Peace with Meghan Locklair

Embracing Discomfort As a Path to Peace with Meghan Locklair

Choosing to embrace discomfort as an unlikely path towards a thriving life. This is Meghan Locklair’s current endeavor.

“Our world is wild at heart. Instead of being surprised when storms pop up in our life and behaving as victims to it, can we choose to embrace discomfort and grow our capacity to handle life’s storms with agency, and maybe even freedom?”

Meghan Locklair currently resides in Huntington Beach, California working with leaders and companies committed to growing thriving communities within their internal teams of employees and external customer base.

From c-level executives in healthcare to small businesses ready to take the first leap of growth within their team, the path towards healthy leadership always has a similar starting point: the ability to “lead self” well. By engaging with an uncomfortable sequence of committing to something challenging, releasing optionality and engaging wholeheartedly she and her team believe there is gold to find in the unlikely path of embracing discomfort.

Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 4:47 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 9:01 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 15:50 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 27:31 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 37:39 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 42:31 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 56:44 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 1:08:09 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 1:10:30 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 1:11:28 ) Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Apr 04, 202301:15:37
Becoming My Own Soulmate with Danielle Parks

Becoming My Own Soulmate with Danielle Parks

Danielle is a psychotherapist by trade, and is truly passionate about walking alongside people as they discover and connect with the truth of who they are…helping people get out of their heads and into their hearts! Her own journey is a reflection of this as she has walked through the shadows of self-doubt, fear and psychological self harm to discover her own truth and step into true self love and ultimately discover that her dream of ‘finding the one’ was in fact her reconnecting with her own true self!

Danielle is on a journey of heart centered living walking with the North Star of Truth and Unconditional Love. She seeks to live this in everyday of her life and hold up a light for others as they live theirs. There have been multiple chapters of Danielle’s life labeled as many different things; Ironman Finisher, Marathon Maniac, Wife, StepMom, Therapist, Christian, and more, but as she continues to walk her path she has realized the importance of coming back to yourself, slowing down and getting still! Her desire is to help others learn how they to can still their minds, and get into their hearts to truly walk a life of self love and truth!

Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 2:06 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 4:39 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 11:01 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 16:52 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 35:41 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 37:25 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 43:25 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 47:10 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 49:00 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 49:17 ) Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Mar 21, 202351:12
Living Her Authentic Truth with Lindsay Kerr

Living Her Authentic Truth with Lindsay Kerr

Disclaimer: We will be discussing modes of alternative healthcare in this episode that are not meant to be a recommnedation, but is simply here as a source for listeners to determine for themselves, through their own research and consultations with their healthcare professionals, if it's right, safe, and healthy for them.


Lindsay is a psychotherapist in private practice in Lubbock Texas working in partnership with DeNovo therapy utilizing ketamine assisted psychotherapy, EMDR, and therapeutic yoga to support clients in their mental health.

Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care (2:40)

Confidently Setting Boundaries (9:39)

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health (13:09)

Support self & other women unapologetically (16:55)

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES (23:25)

Living Out of Your Own Expectations (30:04)

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself (40:04)

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships (42:59)

5 Activities That Nourish You (45:11)

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months (46:05)


Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Mar 07, 202348:57
Happiness over Perfection with Stef Tousignant

Happiness over Perfection with Stef Tousignant

Stef Tousignant is a parenting expert and gratitude nerd. She is a former professional nanny of 20+ years and the author of the award-winning bedtime book The Middle of the Night Book. Burned-out parents everywhere rely on her mindfulness tools and honest blog posts found at ParentDifferently.com. She hopes to normalize imperfect parenting by sharing her journey and the gifts a committed gratitude practice can bring to modern family life.

Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - ( 4:37 )

Confidently Setting Boundaries - ( 7:22 )

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - ( 14:38 )

Support self & other women unapologetically - ( 21:56 )

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - ( 24:01 )

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - ( 27:18 )

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - ( 34:28 )

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - ( 38:27 )

5 Activities That Nourish You - ( 44:25 )

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - ( 46:00 )

Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Feb 21, 202348:60
Learning to Live Unapologetically with Paula Chirinos

Learning to Live Unapologetically with Paula Chirinos

Paula is a rising professional in the healthcare communications industry with a passion for helping clients authentically reach diverse communities and advocate for global issues. As an immigrant from Peru, she was inspired to enter this sector upon witnessing (first hand) some of the systematic disadvantages that healthcare systems have historically contributed to when it comes to access to potentially life-saving treatment for underserved communities (typically populations that are disproportionately at higher risk of developing serious diseases). These disparities are especially evident when it comes to mental health treatment for communities of color.

Paula hopes to use her platform as a communicator to provide resources to a wide range of patients and mentor aspiring young professionals that wish to enter this field.

As a petite Latina woman, one motto has helped her get through numerous instances of trauma, hardship and tests of character in her life so far: “Pequeña y poderosa” (small and powerful). Two traits she wants to be known by for the rest of her life.

In her off time, she practices self care in the form of music (performing for her guinea pigs, family and friends…for now), long sessions at the gym and constantly learning new cooking recipes.

Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care - 3:21

Confidently Setting Boundaries - 7:24

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health - 12:10

Support self & other women unapologetically - 18:55

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES - 25:00

Living Out of Your Own Expectations - 28:10

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself - 33:57

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships - 40:34

5 Activities That Nourish You - 45:30

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months - 48:15

Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Feb 07, 202352:54
Recognizing Seasonal Depression with Marissa Chabai from BLND Therapy and Jessica Garrison, writer for FEEL Podcast

Recognizing Seasonal Depression with Marissa Chabai from BLND Therapy and Jessica Garrison, writer for FEEL Podcast

Marissa

Marissa Chabai, Director of Integrative Health and Lead Therapist at BLND, a holistic mental health and wellness company. Marissa has been a registered nurse of over 13 years and a mental health counselor for almost 3 years. The foundation to her work is an integrative model in which she conceptualizes client needs from a holistic lens including psychological and emotional wellness, physical health, self-care, trauma, and nervous system/somatic work.

  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is known as Major Depressive Disorder with seasonal pattern in the DSM-5. Onset of depressive symptoms is directly correlated with a particular time of year and full remission occurs at a certain, separate time of year. No nonseasonal major depressive symptoms occur outside of that time.


Jessica Garrison

In May of 2021 I graduated from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor’s in English/professional writing and a minor in women’s, gender, and sexuality studies. I’ve had a passion for writing ever since middle school when my eighth grade teacher inspired me to get creative with my writing and encouraged me throughout my high school years. I currently write the blog posts for the F.E.E.L podcast and covering the topics we do on this podcast is one of my favorite things; I’m proud to do work that I actually believe in and am excited to create. In my free time I love to read, watch movies, paint, and spend time with friends and family.


Timestamps:

What is Seasonal Depression and its Symptoms? (4:38)

Tools for Seasonal Depression (8:25)

Prioritizing Self Care (17:42)

Confidently Setting Boundaries (22:03)

Support ourselves & other women unapologetically (25:41)

Living Out of Your Own Expectations (31:30)

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself (35:14)

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships (43:48)

5 Activities That Nourish You (46:12)

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months (51:00)

Chatting with Jessica (53:14)

Prioritizing Self Care (57:04)

Setting Boundaries (58:36)

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health (1:00:27)

Support ourselves & other women unapologetically (1:04:17)

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES (1:05:49)

Living Out of Your Own Expectations (1:08:28)

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself (1:10:14)

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships (1:12:50)

5 Activities That Nourish You (1:15:02)

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next 3 Months (1:15:58)


Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Dec 20, 202201:19:27
Loving Our Complex Layers with Dr. Bernadine Waller

Loving Our Complex Layers with Dr. Bernadine Waller

Dr. Bernadine Waller, PhD, MPhil, LMHC

1st Award winning NIMH-funded Researcher • Senior Adjunct Professor • TEDx Speaker • Therapist • Workshop Facilitator • Board Member • Change Agent

I am a National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) T32 Research Fellow at Columbia University Irving Medical Center/New York State Psychiatric Institute. My postdoctoral training is in implementation and intervention science, and contextual adaptations. My research examines the intersections of intimate partner violence, help-seeking and mental health, with a specific focus upon Black women. My trauma-informed clinical work inspires my research. I am a TEDx Talker who consults, regularly provides talks to national and international audiences, and whose work has been published in top academic journals and mainstream media.

LinkedIn / TEDx Talk / Twitter


*Content Warning: This episode contains brief mentions of domestic violence.*


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care (3:39)

Confidently Setting Boundaries (6:20)

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health (14:06)

Support self & other women unapologetically (23:01)

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES (42:05)

Living Out of Your Own Expectations (53:06)

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself (1:02:22)

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships (1:08:04)

5 Activities That Nourish You (1:12:42)

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months (1:13:08)


Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Dec 06, 202201:17:20
Beauty & Beauty Privilege - What is it, Who defines it, & How do We Find our Beauty in it?

Beauty & Beauty Privilege - What is it, Who defines it, & How do We Find our Beauty in it?

This week we dive into this very loaded topic, and see below for instructions on how you can comment on this because we want to hear from you!

We each have our own definition of what we think beauty is, partly shaped by our own experiences and party shaped by the culture, church/religious community, etc

Micaela - To me, beauty is the quality of a person's internal self (inner beauty). In other words, the hidden parts of ourselves that we can't see with our natural eyes but we get a glimpse of when assessing a person's words, actions, and deeds.

Charlotte - I believe that beauty has to do with our souls and who we are inside. A big part of beauty for me is kindness and how we treat other people.

Jessica - Beauty is in the eye of the beholder—what is beautiful to one is not always beautiful to someone else. I agree that a person’s actions and personality can make someone seem more or less attractive. Even people who are conventionally beautiful can be ugly on the inside, and that can affect how they’re seen.

The definition of Beauty Privilege or “Pretty” Privilege according to the site “My Imperfect Life” (https://www.myimperfectlife.com/features/pretty-privilege) “Pretty privilege works on the principle that people who are deemed more attractive—based on accepted societal beauty standards—have an upper hand in the world and are afforded many opportunities that us regular folks don't have.”

We’re going to dive into all of this today in a far reaching conversation, and we want your input as well, so please comment in our social media posts promoting and sharing this episode, DM us on Instagram @embracinglayers or email us at embracinglayers@gmail.com your thoughts and experiences with this subject matter.  We want to hear from you! 


Timestamps:

Our Own Definitions of Beauty (6:55)

Pretty Privilege in Media & Around Us (9:31)

What Society Tells Us About Beauty (24:55)

The Value of Inner Beauty (44:29.364)

How Beauty Standards Impact Our Emotional, Mental & Physical Health (54:19)

Patriarchy & Who Decides Beauty Standards (1:03:46)

Layers, Boundaries & Our Own Expectations (1:13:24)


 Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Nov 22, 202201:19:14
Learning & Evolving with Dawn

Learning & Evolving with Dawn

Dawn

Hello! My name is Dawn and I was born in Washington State and grew up in the small town of Castle Rock, WA. I am the oldest of 4 children and also have 4 children of my own. I am the mom of two boys and identical twin girls and my children are literally my favorite humans. I am an Army wife (retired) and have been married to my wonderful husband for almost 30 years. We have spent most of our marriage moving around wherever the Army has sent us and have enjoyed raising our kids in a multitude of different areas of the United States. While our Army experience has widened our eyes and experiences, it is also a very small and close-knit community that has always been like a family away from family. We finally have settled down in Maryland, so a long ways from family in distance, but not in our hearts. I also have been a Registered Nurse for almost 24 years and a Neonatal Intensive Care nurse for 14 of those years. Helping families navigate through the challenges of a NICU stay and helping them find the bright light and the little wins in a very scary atmosphere is one of my passions and caring for the tiniest of humans as if they were my own child or family member is my other passion. Watching these little beings grow and fight to gain strength is truly like witnessing a miracle every single day I work. I feel so lucky and blessed to be the wife, mom, and nurse I am today.


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care (2:16)

Confidently Setting Boundaries (5:31)

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health (8:38)

Support self & other women unapologetically (11:14)

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES (17:29)

Living Out of Your Own Expectations (27:38)

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself (33:51)

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships (38:24)

5 Activities That Nourish You (42:26)

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months (44:12)



Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Nov 08, 202247:21
Women's Health Empowerment with Sera from Clay Health

Women's Health Empowerment with Sera from Clay Health

“Hi! I'm Sera. I am dedicated to making healthcare more personal because I know that we are more than patients.

I spent most of my 20’s & 30’s recovering from a rare disease diagnosis and navigating a healthcare system that did not know what to do with me.  To recover, I built a comprehensive, physical and emotional well-being healthcare team to guide my journey.

As I began to heal, I used my financial services, healthcare administration, and nonprofit career experience to build better healthcare solutions. First, I started by forging solutions via patient advocacy and fundraising for scientific research and, ultimately, building my first businesses in the health and well-being space. I came to believe the most significant way I could impact the healthcare experience was to work directly with hospital systems and private practice physicians.  I built a consulting practice to guide providers through improving their business structures, patient experiences, and finances.  Through it all, I have seen the broken parts of our healthcare delivery for patients and providers and the deep desire to get it right.

Now, I am using the collective patient and provider experiences and incredible people I have met on my journey to build Clay Health.

I hope you'll join me.”

Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care (3:05)

Confidently Setting Boundaries (6:14)

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health (10:21)

Support self & other women unapologetically (18:55)

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES (24:00)

Living Out of Your Own Expectations (28:17)

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself (39:56)

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships (49:34)

5 Activities That Nourish You (57:15)

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months (58:01)



Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Oct 25, 202201:00:08
Hitting “Reset” with Amaris Garcia

Hitting “Reset” with Amaris Garcia

Amaris, pronounced like Glamorous, was born and raised in Lubbock, TX, a proud Lubbockite. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from Texas Tech University and completed a graduate research program in Salamanca, Spain at the Universidad de Pontificia de Salamanca before receiving her Master of Business Administration from Wayland Baptist University.

She currently serves as the national Director of Marketing & Public Relations for Quick Quack Car Wash and oversees a marketing team in five states leading the company's initiatives in promotions, charitable giving, events, fundraising, social media, public relations, and loyalty/retention programs to name a few. After four years in Amarillo, she has recently moved back to Lubbock and plans to continue her education by pursuing a Ph.D. She is actively involved in the nonprofit, Los Hermanos Familia and volunteers with the organization on major projects.

Her moments of self-care include spending time with her two dogs Phoebe and Oliver, drinking coffee, reading a book, watching her go to TV series, shopping, or visiting with family.


Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care (2:07)

Confidently Setting Boundaries (4:54)

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health (6:35)

Support self & other women unapologetically (9:02)

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES (12:20)

Living Out of Your Own Expectations (13:36)

How travel has helped shape how you see the world (16:54)

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself (18:47)

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships (20:32)

5 Activities That Nourish You (22:46)

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months (26:11)



Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Oct 11, 202232:16
Getting to Know Yourself with OUR OWN Micaela Shirley

Getting to Know Yourself with OUR OWN Micaela Shirley


Micaela Shirley

I was born and raised in the state of Maryland. In December 2020, I graduated from Salisbury University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications with a concentration in media production.

I have experience in a variety of creative fields, including content writing, social media content creation, social media marketing, and working behind the camera. Currently, I am working as the Social Media Assistant and Research Coordinator for The F.E.E.L Podcast, and looking to expand my creativity in photography, video editing, and video production.

When I am not busy working, I enjoy listening to worship music, watching faith-based content on YouTube, finding new places or activities to do, and spending time with my family and friends.



Timestamps:

Prioritizing Self Care (3:02)

Confidently Setting Boundaries (4:43)

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health as much as Your Physical Health (7:15)

Support self & other women unapologetically (11:29)

Coming Back to Your WHY and Your VALUES (13:59)

Living Out of Your Own Expectations (17:07)

Accepting the Layered Aspects of Yourself (21:09)

Living out FEEL, how does it affect your relationships (24:15)

5 Activities That Nourish You (29:09)

5 Words for How You Want to Feel in the Next Six Months (36:42)



Song Featured: Where’s My Jetpack?! - Computer Music All-Stars

Sep 27, 202246:51
WE’RE BAAAACK - Welcome to Season 3 of the F.E.E.L Podcast

WE’RE BAAAACK - Welcome to Season 3 of the F.E.E.L Podcast

Melissa Crook featuring Germaine, Charlotte Feehan, Jessica Garrison, and Micaela Shirley


Melissa Crook: I used this quote in the very first kickoff episode 14 months ago, and it again feels very true for where I am in my life entering this Fall of 2022 and approaching my 53rd year of life.

“She could never go back and make some of the details pretty. All she could do was move forward and make the whole beautiful.” - Terri St. Cloud (quote also used in Guidepost 3 of “Gifts of Imperfection” by Brene Brown).

As my husband Brady and I start our 4th year of living in Lubbock, TX I am grateful for what I’ve learned, healed from, and survived these last 3 years here, and look forward to what is to come in this next year.

Germaine: I’m feeling refreshed and relaxed moving through the summer season and into fall. I’m learning new things about myself and who I want to be. As I embrace F.E.E.L. and the lessons I'm learning, I’m enjoying the journey and staying open to change.

Charlotte Feehan was born and raised in Long Island, New York. This Spring, she graduated from Adelphi University with her Bachelor’s Degree in communications, with a concentration in digital production. She is currently attending graduate school at Adelphi, and working to receive her Masters Degree in Childhood Education!

Charlotte has experience in a variety of creative fields including filmmaking, photography, podcast editing, and graphic design. She specializes in content creation for social media. She is currently the social media specialist for the F.E.E.L. Podcast, as well as the social media specialist and associate editor of These Ghosts Must Be Heard, a podcast that sheds light on the opioid epidemic.

Some of her favorite things to do in her free time include watching movies, taking road trips, going to concerts, photography, and spending time with her friends, family, and twin sister (who also happens to be her best friend).

Micaela Shirley was born and raised in the state of Maryland. In December 2020, she graduated from Salisbury University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications with a concentration in media production.

Micaela has experience in a variety of creative fields, including content writing, social media content creation, social media marketing, and working behind the camera. Currently, she is working as the Social Media Assistant and Research Coordinator for The F.E.E.L Podcast and looking to expand her creativity in photography, video editing, and video production.

When she is not busy working, she enjoys listening to worship music, watching faith-based content on YouTube, finding new places or activities to do, and spending time with her family and friends.

Jessica Garrison: In May of 2021 I graduated from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor’s in English/professional writing and a minor in women’s, gender, and sexuality studies. I’ve had a passion for writing ever since middle school when my eighth grade teacher inspired me to get creative with my writing and encouraged me throughout my high school years. I currently write the blog posts for the F.E.E.L podcast and covering the topics we do on this podcast is one of my favorite things; I’m proud to do work that I actually believe in and am excited to create. In my free time I love to read, watch movies, paint, and spend time with friends and family.


Visit our website at EmbracingLayers.com


Music Credit: Where's My Jetpack?! - By Computer Music All-stars

Sep 13, 202238:16
Celebrating 1 Year Anniversary Of Being A Podcast!

Celebrating 1 Year Anniversary Of Being A Podcast!

See you all in season 3!


Song Featured: Scars to Your Beautiful by Alessia Cara

Jul 26, 202258:58