#98. Unlearning Limiting Patterns: Valerie Friedlander on Emotional Intelligence and Personal Growth

In this episode of the Pockets of Knowledge podcast, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Valerie Friedlander, a professional certified coach with over 20 years of experience in leadership and personal development. Valerie shares her journey from studying sociology to founding her own coaching practice. Corporate leadership and personal healing work all converged to shape her unique coaching approach. The conversation dives deep into the intricacies of emotional intelligence, unlearning limiting patterns, and the societal conditioning that often hinders personal growth. Valerie discusses the importance of honoring one's emotions, the impact of growing up in an environment affected by alcoholism, and the critical distinction between fitting in and true belonging. She also challenges the conventional understanding of imposter syndrome, arguing that it is more a result of systemic issues than a personal problem. Throughout the episode, Valerie offers insightful analogies and practical advice on cultivating self-compassion, the complexities of motivation, and how conditioned values can often lead us to self-sabotage.  Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of how to navigate their personal and professional lives with greater self-awareness, intentionality, and grace. Whether you're struggling with imposter syndrome, looking to better understand your own motivations, or simply interested in personal development, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable insights. Tune in to discover how to release learned limitations and embrace a more empowered, authentic version of yourself. Bio: Valerie Friedlander is a Life Business Alignment Coach, and host of the podcast, Unlimited. She has over 20 years of leadership and personal development study, including coaching certifications, mediation and facilitation training, and business management experience. Spiritually and scientifically based, Valerie's work holistically supports her clients to develop a present and joyful life in harmony with their powerful work in the world. Her philosophy is rooted in individual empowerment with social system awareness. When she’s not working with clients, you’ll find her hanging with her husband and 2 sons, working on an art project, or nerding out over a sci-fi movie. Connect with Valerie Friedlander: Email: [email protected] Website: https://unlimited.buzzsprout.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnlimitedCoachVal/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unlimitedcoachval LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/unlimitedcoachval/ Resources: https://valeriefriedlander.com/resources/ Books mentioned: The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture by Gabor Maté - https://amzn.to/3X2iSC4 The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book) by Don Miguel Ruiz (Author), Janet Mills (Editor) - https://amzn.to/3WKYEvh The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman (Author) - https://amzn.to/3WKZfx1 Podcasts mentioned: Unlimited by Valerie Friedlander - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlimited/id1540317981 Positively Living Podcast with Lisa Zawrotney featuring Valerie Friedlander - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/positively-living-do-less-live-more-breathe-easier/id1514222327?i=1000660747432 ——— Enjoy this Podcast? If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your friends so that they can be educated, informed, inspired and empowered! Questions? Contact me through my website, www.PocketsofKnowledge.com, or find me on Instagram @desireedstanley. Thanks for listening! ——— This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and empower you on your personal journey. Please note that individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. This is not intended to treat any medical condition. I am not a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.