Beautiful Shifts

We’re wrapping up season 4 with a little life update, sharing some of the transitions we’ve been navigating lately, reflecting on the amazing guests and conversations from this season, and talking about what’s ahead. We’re so grateful for this community and all of your support. Thanks for being here with us. We’re excited for what’s coming next!

Amber Abila joins us to share her experience with binge eating and the turning point that shifted her relationship with food. After years of trying different approaches without lasting change, she began to explore the patterns and beliefs underneath it all, and found a different way forward. In this conversation, we talk about what it can look like to feel more at peace with food, rebuild trust with yourself, and move away from the cycle of restriction and overeating. An interesting and encouraging conversation for anyone navigating their relationship with food and themselves.    Connect with Amber: Free gift: Stop a Binge Before it Starts (guided audio) https://www.theconfidenteater.org/urge-guest   Podcast: Become a Confident Eater https://www.theconfidenteater.org/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theconfidenteater_/

In Part 2 of our conversation, Audra Phelps shares more of her family story, from moving abroad with her children to navigating marriage and motherhood after a major faith transition.     As her beliefs shifted, so did the foundation of her life, leading her to reexamine long-held choices and what she wanted moving forward. Audra opens up about the uncertainty, growth, and honest conversations that come with redefining a relationship while raising a family and living in a completely new environment.     This is a thoughtful look at what it means to move forward when everything changes—and how to navigate what comes next. A conversation for anyone learning to trust themselves again.   Visit this link for access to a free Masterclass with Audra. Connect with Audra on Instagram @mamaaudraofficial where she supports moms leaving mormonism, and online at mamaaudra.com.   

In Part 1 of our conversation, Audra Phelps shares her journey of leaving the LDS church and the years of internal struggle that followed. After moving abroad with her family, she began to question long-held beliefs and navigate what it means to step away from a faith that shaped her identity, relationships, and sense of motherhood. She opens up about the loneliness, grief, and uncertainty that can come with a faith transition, and the challenge of rebuilding identity when everything once felt clearly defined. This is a thoughtful conversation about loss, deconstruction, and beginning to rediscover who you are. Part 2 continues Audra’s story as she reflects on marriage, motherhood in an empty nest season, and navigating decisions about her relationship after her faith transition. If you’re navigating a similar path, you can connect with Audra on Instagram @mamaaudraofficial, where she supports moms leaving Mormonism and other high-demand religions, and at mamaaudra.com.

Laura joins us to share her powerful story of struggle, loss, and ultimately, transformation. From early challenges and heartbreak to years of addiction that led to incarceration, Laura opens up about the moments that shaped her path and what finally led her to The Other Side Academy. In this conversation, Laura reflects on the turning points that helped her begin again, the work of rebuilding relationships, and how she found purpose on the other side of her hardest seasons. Now serving as a mentor at The Other Side Academy, she’s helping others walk their own path to healing. This is a raw, honest, and hopeful story about resilience, second chances, and the possibility of change.   Find Laura on Instagram @lauraleeostler   Learn more about The Other Side Academy here. 

Chantelle - a blended family coach, entrepreneur, and mom of 10 - joins us to share her unique journey through divorce, remarriage, and creating a deeply connected blended family. Chantelle opens up about what it really takes to navigate the complexities of a blended family life and build something strong and intentional.     We talk about her experience blending families, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and the framework she now uses to help other couples do the same. This is a fun, insightful, and honest conversation about love, second chances, and creating connections in unexpected ways.   Find Chantelle and her coaching info on Instagram @wifeofjustus

In Part 2 of our conversation, Amy Roy shares the next chapter of her story - navigating marriage, motherhood, and the reality of her husband being gay, which ultimately led to their divorce.   After the sudden loss of her mother, Amy enters a deep faith crisis, reexamining everything she once believed. She also faces addiction, recovery, and major life transitions. Through it all, she reflects on rebuilding her identity and finding new purpose.   Her journey ultimately leads her to become a therapist, supporting others through faith transitions, substance use issues, and healing. An honest and hopeful conversation about starting over and coming full circle.   If you haven’t listened yet, start with Part 1: From an Unconventional Childhood to Faith, Education & Marriage with Amy Roy.   Amy is an Intern Therapist at Symmetry Counseling, completing her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, graduating in May. Find her therapy info page here or reach her by email [email protected]

In Part 1 of our conversation, Amy Roy shares her unconventional upbringing - from growing up in poverty and constant transition to the resilience and empathy it shaped within her. She opens up about finding stability through education, her journey to BYU, and her deep involvement in her faith, including teaching Institute.   Amy’s path leads her across the country where new opportunities and relationships begin to take shape. This first chapter of her story is one of survival, strength, and becoming.    Part 2 continues Amy’s story as she navigates marriage, identity, and the unexpected turns that follow.   Find Amy's therapy info and page here or reach her by email [email protected].   

This week we’re revisiting a past conversation that resonated with many of you and felt important to share again. Mason Sawyer is a devoted father, public speaker, and host of the 10Ninety podcast. After losing his wife, children, brother, and nephew in a tragic accident, Mason has used his voice to connect with and support others through grief. In this episode, he opens up about his faith transition, leaving the LDS church, and navigating loss and belief without religion. It’s an honest, vulnerable, and deeply human conversation about rebuilding, connection, and finding your way forward. We’re so grateful for Mason and the purpose he’s found in sharing his story. Connect with Mason: Instagram: @masonsayer91 Podcast: @10ninetyrule

Ayana Lage - writer, blogger, and author of Missing Me - joins us for an honest and deeply important conversation about postpartum mental health. With bylines in The Washington Post, Cosmopolitan, and Glamour, Ayana brings both her voice as a writer and her lived experience to this powerful story. In this episode, Ayana opens up about her experience with postpartum psychosis after the birth of her daughter and the road back to healing. We explore a topic that is often misunderstood or left unspoken, creating space for awareness, compassion, and understanding. This conversation is tender and eye-opening, and offers hope for those navigating mental health challenges or supporting someone who is.   Connect with Ayana: Instagram: @ayanalage Website: ayanalage.com Book: Missing Me

Donna Pope, founder of Heart to Heart Adoptions, joins us to share her journey into the world of adoption—and the moments that shaped her passion for doing it differently. From adopting three boys as a single mom to advocating for more compassionate, respectful care for birth mothers, Donna offers a thoughtful look into the complexities and beauty of adoption. We talk about unexpected pregnancies, the courage of birth mothers, and how meaningful connections are created between families. This conversation invites a deeper understanding of adoption and the heart behind the work.   Connect with Donna:   Heart to Heart Adoptions   Choosing Adoption Podcast    

In this Women’s History Month episode, it’s just the two of us having a conversation about what we love about being women. We chat about Women’s History Month, reflect on how far women have come, and share some of the little things that make being a woman meaningful and fun. Happy Women's History Month to all of you! 

Marilyn Raichle—author of Don’t Walk Away and longtime community builder—joins us to share the unexpected life shift that came when both of her parents developed dementia. Growing up surrounded by Alzheimer’s, Marilyn was told by her mother to “walk away” if the disease ever came for them. Instead, her journey as a caregiver transformed the way she sees connection, creativity, and the lives of those living with dementia. In this conversation, Marilyn reflects on finding meaning in caregiving, the surprising joy that emerged along the way, and how community and the arts can bring dignity and beauty to life’s most difficult transitions.   Find Marilyn’s book Don’t Walk Away at dontwalkaway.net and on Amazon here. Learn more about Maude’s Awards, where Marilyn serves as Executive Director—an initiative honoring innovative care and support for people living with dementia and their care partners maudesawards.org. 

In this tender episode, Heidi shares the story of her daughter Holly—her beautiful life, her lasting impact, and the three words she wrote during cancer treatment: “Love is Everywhere.” We talk about grief, legacy, and how Holly’s mantra continues to guide Heidi’s life and work, including her memoir Love Is Everywhere: You Will See. Heidi also opens up about her family’s faith shift away from the LDS church after Holly’s passing and the unexpected peace she’s found outside of religion and within the unknown. A heartfelt conversation about love that endures and the beauty that can still be found after profound loss. Visit love-is-everywhere.com to learn more of Holly’s story and her beautiful impact, and on Instagram @loveiseverywhere_youwillsee Find Heidi @heidirbruno and find her memoir Love is Everywhere: You will See on Amazon here

Autumn McAlpin and Vienna Boyes join us to share the story behind their powerful new film, Sanctuary—and the friendship that made it possible. From navigating the faith communities they grew up in to telling stories that center LGBTQ+ individuals often underrepresented in religious spaces, they open up about courage, collaboration, and creative conviction. This conversation explores how art can build bridges of understanding, invite deeper compassion, and spark meaningful change.   Learn more about Sanctuary and find screenings at sanctuarydoc.com.  Follow Sanctuary on Instragram @sanctuarydocfilm Find Autumn on Instagram @autumnmcalpin Find Vienna on Instagram @vienna.boyes

In this fun and inspiring episode, Judith Balis—interior designer, store owner, empath, and empty nester—shares her brave step into a new season of life. From buying an apartment in Spain and traveling solo for the first time to preparing to leave the familiar behind, Judith reflects on fear, freedom, and rediscovering herself. A conversation about choosing joy, embracing change, and stepping into a beautiful new chapter.

In this episode, Dr. Theresa Lyons, PhD from Yale and Founder and CEO of Navigating AWEtism, shares her journey through life’s unexpected transitions—from a career in chemistry to becoming a passionate autism advocate after her daughter’s diagnosis. She reflects on the question that changed everything: “Ok, so now what?” and how it led her to founding Navigating AWEtism, a company centered around supporting parents and grandparents as they seek trustworthy information and compassionate guidance for children with autism. Theresa offers insight, hope, and practical wisdom for navigating uncertainty and creating meaning and purpose through life’s unexpected turns.   Find Navigating AWEtism at awetism.net   Find Theresa on her YouTube Channel Navigating AWEtism with Theresa Lyons, PhD here -  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrnw5_DvQ4E7IRwa3zSJe7g   Find Theresa on Instgram here

In this moving conversation, Jennie Latham Johnson shares her journey through the transitions of stepping away from the LDS church, navigating an unexpected twin pregnancy, and enduring the devastating loss of her twin daughter, Isabelle. Jennie reflects on grief, identity, and the non-linear process of healing after infant loss.  With honesty, tenderness, and hope, Jennie also shares about navigating divorce while raising her children and honoring Isabelle’s legacy through The Isabelle Blanche Foundation. This episode is an honest conversation about navigating grief, resilience, and finding light and hope after loss.  Find Jennie on Instagram @jlathamjohnson

This conversation features Kami Banks, a triathlon and nutrition coach who shares how losing her mother to ALS reshaped her life and sense of purpose. Kami reflects on grief, healing, and the ways love and legacy continue after loss. Through endurance sport and coaching, she found a way to carry her mother’s voice forward while helping others push beyond their comfort zones. It’s an honest, grounding conversation about resilience, meaning, and moving forward without leaving love behind. Find Kami online http://linktr.ee/kamibanks On Instagram @kamibankscoaching Kelsey's chocolates www.kelsiskitchen.com

In this moving episode, Kylee Dart shares her experience of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer—the same diagnosis her mother once faced—while she was a young, healthy, and devoted mother. What began as a commitment to natural healing evolved into an integrative approach that honors both holistic, whole-body care and modern medicine. Kylee reflects on how this shift, along with her deep love for her family and faith, has transformed the way she lives, heals, and shows up for each day. Her story is a powerful reminder of courage, perspective, and choosing life in the midst of uncertainty.   Find Kylee on Instagram @kddart

In this episode, we talk about how identifying our values and realigning with them can help guide how we want to live our lives. We talk about how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) relates to values and why small, intentional shifts can be more meaningful than big New Year’s resolutions. Thanks for joining us, and we hope you all are having a great beginning to the New Year!

Dr. Kathie Supiano joins us for a rich conversation about grief, meaning, and the human capacity for resilience. Drawing from her work in bereavement care, grief, suicide survivorship, and hospice, and as a clinical social worker and psychotherapist for over 45 years, Kathie offers thoughtful perspectives on how we navigate loss. She also shares personal reflections on retiring after a meaningful career and learning to embrace life differently in this season.   Kathie is a Professor Emeritus and the former director of Caring Connections: A Hope and Comfort in Grief Program at the University of Utah. You can find Caring Connections: nursing.utah.edu/caring-connections.   We’re so grateful to Kathie for taking the time to come on our podcast and loved this conversation with her! 

In this episode, Kari shares what it was like to fulfill a long-held dream of moving to Costa Rica with her husband in early 2024- the joys, surprises, lessons, and what led them to readjust their plans along the way. We talk about what following a dream actually looks like once you’re inside it, how to pivot as life unfolds, and what this experience taught them about culture, plans, and living a life that feels aligned. Find Kari and her salon at salonaries.org and on Instagram @kari.salon.aries

Carrie Romano, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), joins us to share how her breast cancer diagnosis reshaped her understanding of resilience, leadership, and the power of people to rise. She talks about the unexpected ways her team showed up during treatment, the intentional practices she relies on to bring light into hard days, and why choosing small sparks of joy can shift everything.   With more than 20 years of mission-driven nonprofit leadership, Carrie brings her energy, heart, and clarity to this conversation. She shares why she believes so deeply in the work of RMHC, what keeps her grounded in hope, and how service and working in the non-profit space has shaped her life. It’s a conversation about hope, community, and the beauty we can find even in seasons of uncertainty.   Learn more about Ronald McDonald House Charities and how you can get involved at ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org.

Ashley Parks shares the moving story of her son’s leukemia diagnosis and his passing, and how grief reshaped her life. She shares about her work with Ronald McDonald House Charities, where she now supports families navigating medical crises similar to her own. Through her powerful story, Ashley shows how love, loss, and service can come together to bring connection and a way forward.   Learn more about Ronald McDonald House Charities and how you can get involved and help at ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org.

This week we’re joined by our friends Susie and Alyson who recently started their own podcast - Meno Moms After the Pause! Join us for this honest (and fun!) conversation about menopause, perimenopause, and everything in between. We talk about how hormones can impact mood, grief, and even how we handle life’s biggest challenges. Plus, what they’ve learned about parenting, identity, faith and gender role deconstruction, and giving yourself grace through it all.    Find Susie & Alyson's podcast Meno Mom's After the Pause on Instagram here. Listen to their podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!  

This week we're continuing our tradition of having a gratitude episode leading up to Thanksgiving.   We talk about finding gratitude through life's seasons and how it can anchor us through change, uncertainty, and growth.   We share a few personal reflections, questions to reflect on, and thoughts on noticing beauty in the middle of it all.    Feeling grateful for this space and for all of you that tune in! 

In this powerful episode, Joel Haddock shares his journey from addiction and incarceration to finding purpose and healing through The Other Side Academy—a residential program that helps people rebuild their lives through accountability, hard work, and community. Joel opens up about choosing a new path, the lessons he’s learned, and his mission to help others do the same.    Visit https://www.theothersideacademy.com to learn more about the program and how to support its residents, including the annual Angel Tree at Christmas.    You can also connect with Joel on Instagram at @joel.haddock.94.  

We’re re-releasing one of our most loved and listened-to episodes! In this heartfelt conversation, we sit down with one of Lindsay’s closest lifelong friends, Tamara Jacobs, as she shares her LDS faith transition journey—what led to it, how she’s reframed her values and spirituality, and how she’s navigated parenting and identity through such a major shift. Her honesty and insight offer comfort, clarity, and connection to anyone experiencing change or seeking to understand it.   Thank you again to Tamara for this impactful and meaningful conversation.   Find Tamara on Instagram @tammykae84, where she shares glimpses of her life, books, and creative inspiration.

Poet Hannah Rosenberg joins us to talk about finding beauty in everyday life through poetry and turning a personal passion into meaningful work. Through her upcoming debut book, Same, she captures love, friendship, marriage, and motherhood with honesty and grace—and even reads a few of her beautiful poems about the changing seasons of life. Listen to this heartfelt conversation about creativity, connection, and the magic found in ordinary moments.    Find Hannah at hannahrosenbergpoetry.com and on Instagram at @hannahrowrites (https://www.instagram.com/hannahrowrites).

Therapist Shannon Ricks shares about her journey through chronic illness, perfectionism, and faith transition—and how learning to listen to her body instead of fighting it became the foundation for healing. Drawing from her personal story and clinical experience in eating disorder recovery, Shannon shares insights on body neutrality, intuitive eating, and self-compassion. She also explores how beauty standards and perfectionism affect society, and how we can help the next generation develop a healthier relationship with food, body image, and self-worth.     This was such an interesting, insightful, and fun conversation, and we’re so grateful Shannon joined us on the podcast.    You can find her and her clinic, Modern Eve Therapy, on Instagram at @modern.eve.inc and @shannonricks. 

In this episode, Alyson Paul Deussen shares her remarkable journey through life’s transitions—embracing motherhood, becoming the parent of a newly out gay son, navigating shifts in faith, facing the heartbreaking loss of her son Stockton to suicide, and transforming grief into powerful advocacy. With over 30 years in nonprofit leadership, Alyson has worked with Mama Dragons, Affirmation, Love Loud, and the Utah LGBTQ Suicide Prevention Workgroup, while also sharing her family’s story in media outlets like Al Jazeera, CNN’s Great Big Story, and HBO’s Sundance documentary Believer. Today, she and her husband George continue to honor Stockton’s legacy through grief education, humanitarian service, and suicide prevention efforts that inspire hope and healing.   We're so grateful for Alyson's vulnerability and wisdom, and for sharing her story with us.    Learn more about Stockton's story and the Stockton Powers Memorial Scholarship at standingforstocktom.com. 

In this episode, we sit down with Erin Proctor, the voice behind @toddler.frat.house, who went from sharing the raw, funny truths of motherhood to surviving a Covid-induced stroke that changed the course of her life. Erin opens up about her subarachnoid hemorrhage, the challenges of living with a traumatic brain injury, and the hidden struggles of recovery while raising four kids. She also shares how her experience led her to advocacy work with the American Heart and Stroke Association, and how she continues to find purpose and joy through educating others, navigating motherhood, and celebrating her husband’s recent cancer recovery. Thank you, Erin, for sharing your story with us!    Find Erin on Instagram: @toddler.frat.house Learn more, get involved, and know the signs of a stroke with the American Heart and Stroke Association: www.stroke.org.

Welcome to Season Four! We’re starting off by sharing about our guest appreciation dinner this past weekend and what a wonderful night it was, chatting about finding beauty in life even during difficult times, and a few thoughts on the podcast and what’s ahead. Whether you’re new or have been here before, we’re so glad you’re here. We have so many great guest stories coming soon, and we can’t wait to share them with you!

In this powerful episode, Ashlee Boyson shares her journey through unimaginable loss after the infidelity and murder of her husband in 2011. Just months after welcoming her fifth child, Ashlee faced trauma that reshaped her life—and eventually led her to healing, advocacy, and helping others. She has shared her story on Dateline, Dr. Phil, True Crime Daily, and more, and continues her work through her blog The Moments We Stand, her books, and online courses. Ashlee’s story is one of resilience, hope, and finding light after darkness.   Find Ashlee at themomentswestand.com and on Instagram @themomentswestand.

In this moving and eye-opening conversation, Jorge Nunez shares how poetry became the lifeline that helped him escape gang life in L.A., endure prison and deportation, and ultimately build a new life as a father, teacher, and poet. From writing his first poem in a juvenile probation camp to teaching in the same prison where he once served time, Jorge’s story offers a powerful glimpse into resilience, transformation, and the healing power of words.   This interview has stood out to us as one of the most unique, eye-opening stories we’ve had the privilege to hear — offering a glimpse into a world so different from our own. We’re deeply grateful for Jorge’s openness, his inspiring journey, and the friendship we’ve developed along the way. Thank you again, Jorge!   Find Jorge on Instagram @sr.jnunez

In this re-released episode, Molly Bice Jackson—author of The Commodity of Connection, keynote speaker, actress, and child loss survivor—shares how grief, creativity, and connection have shaped her story. With warmth, humor, and honesty, Molly talks about growing through life’s hardest moments and how meaningful connection continues to guide her work and life. We loved this conversation and know it will leave you reflecting on the power of connection and the essential role it plays in all of our lives.   Find Molly on Instagram @smallyspice   Molly's book The Commodity of Connection was released earlier this year and can be found on Amazon here. 

In August 2022, our friend and neighbor Dan Wadsworth sustained a life-changing spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed from the waist down. In this inspiring conversation, Dan and his wife Michelle reflect on the journey they’ve been on since—navigating uncertainty, finding strength in each other, and learning to adapt to a new reality. Their story is one of courage, deep love, and discovering what you’re truly made of. We're so grateful they joined us to share their story.    Connect with Michelle on Instagram @michellehwadsworth or Facebook at Michelle Heaton Wadsworth.

As part of our summer series resharing some of our most popular episodes from Season 2, we’re bringing back this conversation with our dear friend Susie Augenstein. We thought it was the perfect episode to re-air this June, as Susie is a fierce and thoughtful advocate for LGBTQ+ individuals here in Utah.   In this heartfelt and wise conversation, Susie opens up about navigating major life transitions like the empty nest phase, and how she’s found peace through life’s storms. She also shares her evolving faith journey as a lifelong, devoted member of the LDS Church and former bishop’s wife. Susie’s honesty, warmth, and insight make this episode one that stays with you. We’re so grateful she joined us on Beautiful Shifts.   Find Susie on Facebook here. 

Today we’re wrapping up Season 3 highlighting favorite moments and themes from the second half of the season. We share plans for the podcast over the summer and look ahead to what’s coming in Season 4. We also talk about The Next Day by Melinda Gates—a book we both recently read—and how her insights on navigating life transitions connect with the stories shared on our show.   A huge thank you to all our amazing guests this season! We’re so grateful for your honesty, vulnerability, and the meaningful conversations we got to share with you.   And to our listeners—thank you for your continued support. We’re incredibly grateful for each of you and that you keep showing up to find beauty with us in these open, connecting conversations.   This summer, we’ll be re-releasing some of our top-listened episodes from Season 2, and we’ll be back with new interviews in late August. See you then!

In this episode, Nate Meikle—husband, father of four, author, leadership professor at the University of Kansas, Stanford Law graduate, former sideline reporter, and host of the Meikles and Dimes podcast—shares the story behind a series of unexpected decisions that shaped his life and career. From walking away from traditional job paths to pursuing a PhD in his mid-30s, Nate reflects on what it’s taken to follow his own intuition instead of conventional advice.   We talk about the risks and rewards of stepping off the expected track, how he decides when to listen to outside expectations (and when to ignore them), and what he’s learned along the way. It’s an honest look at what it means to carve out your own direction in a world full of well-meaning advice. We’re grateful to Nate for joining us and sharing such an enjoyable and insightful conversation.   Find Nate and his podcast Meikles & Dimes online at www.natemeikle.com and on Instagram @nate_meikle. Find Nate’s 250 favorite children’s book list (that we discuss in the episode) here.

When Aimee lost her husband in a tragic car accident just three days after their wedding, it marked the beginning of a life-altering transformation—one shaped not only by grief, but by a traumatic brain injury that changed how she experienced the world. Years later, while serving in a high-level leadership role in the LDS Church, Aimee made the life-altering decision to step away from her faith, leave her marriage, and confront the realities of infidelity and identity. In this deeply honest and hope-filled conversation, Aimee—a trauma-informed therapist and Certified Sex Therapist—shares her story of unraveling, rebuilding, and choosing to become more fully herself. With raw vulnerability, Aimee invites us into her story of loss, transformation, and the healing that comes from choosing to live authentically.   Find Aimee on Instagram @therapyaimee. Find Aimee’s therapy practice Worth It Counseling and Coaching at worth-it.com and on Instagram @worthitcounselingcoaching

In this episode, we sit down with Samantha to talk about how journaling became a powerful tool during her divorce and life as a single mom. She shares how writing helped her navigate difficult emotions and transitions, and how she now helps women tap into this same healing process through journaling. Samantha explains her approach and how it helps women reconnect with their inner voice, and how it can be a tool for healing.    We really enjoyed chatting with Samantha—she’s open and insightful and it was compelling to hear how journaling can help us work through emotions and be a valuable tool for self care. Whether you’re curious about journaling or already love it, this episode has some great takeaways.   Samantha is an Inner Voice and Self-Trust Coach and a mom. Find her website samantha-says.com. Find her on Instagram @samantha.s.says. Download her free Calm Mind Blueprint we discuss in the episode here. And find her podcast Journal Entries here. 

Andrea, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and Medical Director at LEVO, brings over 16 years of experience in mental health and addiction treatment. In this episode, she shares how her own journey with anxiety led her to a career in psychiatry, and how personal experiences with ADHD and anxiety in her family have shaped her compassionate, holistic approach. Andrea explains the importance of seeing the whole person—biologically, psychologically, and socially—in order to create understanding and healing.   We also dive into the stigma that still surrounds mental health and how we can work to dismantle it. Andrea offers simple, practical tips anyone can start to support their mental well-being. Whether you're navigating your own journey or supporting someone else, you'll walk away from this conversation with insight and hope.   Find Andrea on Instagram @help.just.one where she shares valuable mental health tips and insights, and her clinic Levo Mind, specializing in mental health, medication management, and mind care tools online at levomind.com and on Instagram @levomind.

In this heartfelt and candid conversation, Kellie Adams shares her journey through addiction and transformation to sobriety. From beginning to drink at a very young age to becoming completely dependent on alcohol, Kellie opens up about the turning point that led her to get sober in 2014—and how that decision changed everything. Her story is raw, relatable, and filled with both honesty and humor.   Much like her memoir Shit I Do Sober, this episode explores the real-life complexities of recovery—the struggles, the beauty, and the growth along the way. Kellie’s reflections on healing, identity, and embracing life without alcohol remind us that reclaiming your story is a radical act of self-love and strength.   We loved getting to know Kellie and are so grateful she came on the podcast to share her story and valuable perspective.    Find Kellie and her book on Instagram @shitidosoberbook where she posts helpful and fun videos and thoughts about sobriety, and find Shit I Do Sober on Amazon here. 

How can we stay grounded, compassionate, and open when navigating conversations around politics, religion, or other high-stakes topics? In this episode, we’re joined again by Brandie Paterakis—licensed therapist and founder of Blue Bee Counseling—for a conversation about how to have meaningful, and sometimes messy, discussions with friends, loved ones, and even our children and spouses. We talk about how she approaches interpersonal tension as a therapist, and tools for communicating when we fundamentally disagree. Brandie offers tips and steps to help us move through tough conversations with care.    Thank you to Brandie for coming on our podcast and bringing her fun, lively, and practical perspective to this important topic! You can find Brandie's clinic online at bluebeecs.com On Instagram @bluebeecounseling Find Brandie's Podcast Therapist Table Talk here and on YouTube here.  

Becki Andrus shares the deeply personal story of how she came to the decision to end her marriage—despite doing everything “right.” With honesty and grace, she talks about what it was like to stay for years in a relationship that began strong but transitioned to one that looked great from the outside but left her feeling stuck, unseen, and spiritually conflicted on the inside.   In this conversation, Becki opens up about breaking free from perfectionism and finding clarity through emotional growth and spiritual realignment. She offers insightful reflections on conscious uncoupling and what it means to live a full, joyful life on your own terms—even when that means walking away from the life you thought you were supposed to live.   We’re so grateful Becki joined us on the podcast to share her story with such honesty and heart.   Becki recently began coaching, and you can find her on Instagram at @relationshipswithrebecca as well as  @beckiann13 (personal account). 

Kecia Cox is a mother of seven, including three incredible children with Down syndrome. In this heartfelt conversation, she shares her journey into special needs parenting, the unexpected paths that led to adoption, and the unique joys and challenges of raising twins. Kecia opens up about the mindset shifts she’s embraced along the way and the lessons she’s learned about inclusion, community, and love.   Her perspective on raising children with disabilities is both eye-opening and inspiring, and we couldn’t be more grateful for her willingness to share her story. We know you’ll walk away from this episode with a fresh appreciation for the beauty found in life’s unexpected turns.   Find Kecia and follow her family’s journey on Instagram: @lovemakesmiracles_    Watch the video they made in collaboration with @madewithlovethemovie on YouTube - Family adopts 2 kids with Down syndrome from Ukraine because of daughter with Down syndrome - watch here. The movie can also be watched as a 9 part series on @lovemakesmiracles. 

Dr. Nancy Saltzman’s life is a testament to resilience, love, and the power of embracing joy despite unimaginable loss. A lifelong educator and award-winning principal, Nancy faced profound tragedy when she lost her husband and two sons in a small plane crash—after already battling cancer. In this heartfelt conversation, she shares her journey of survival, healing, and finding beauty on the other side of life’s hardest moments, as chronicled in her memoir, Radical Survivor.   With honesty, humor, and wisdom, Nancy offers insights into navigating grief, how to show up for people experiencing loss, and choosing joy even in the face of deep pain. She also speaks about her work with Soaring Spirits International, supporting widowed individuals worldwide. Whether you’ve faced loss or simply seek inspiration and insight on resilience and gratitude, this conversation is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit.   Nancy is one of the most delightful and inspiring people we’ve had the honor of speaking with. We absolutely loved getting to know her and are so grateful she shared her family and story with us.   Find Nancy's book Radical Survivor here.  Find Nancy online at nancysaltzman.com and on Instagram @nancysaltzman

Raised in a small-town LDS community, Ashley moved away in 2008 and thought her faith transition was behind her, until opening her therapy practice in 2022 led her to an unexpected specialization: religious trauma, particularly within Mormonism. In this episode, Ashley shares her personal journey growing up in an inactive LDS family, leaving the church, and ultimately returning to Utah as a therapist now helping others navigating faith transitions and trauma. We also dive into what Brainspotting is, how it works to regulate the nervous system, and how somatic therapies are powerful tools for healing.    Whether interested in the intersection of trauma and religion, exploring therapy and brainspotting, or both, this conversation offers insights into the healing process. Thank you to Ashley for sharing her story and therapeutic expertise in this thoughtful conversation!   Find Ashley online at ashleybucknerlmft.com and on Instagram @ashleyb_therapy.