Becoming In the Middle

You're Not a Tree: If You Don't Like Where You Are, Move Have you ever realized that you know what to do—but somewhere along the way, you stopped doing it? In this episode, I share a personal realization I've had over the past few months. I've been feeling more depressed and disconnected than usual, and as I reflected on what might be contributing to that, I recognized something important: I had slowly moved away from principles I had once learned and practiced. I've studied the laws and principles of creationfor the past several years—principles that helped me understand my agency, my ability to influence my life, and my role in consciously creating what comes next. And lately, I've realized I need to return to them. So rather than simply trying to push through how I've been feeling, I'm choosing to move. That becomes the principle at the heart of this episode: If you don't like where you are, move. You're not a tree. Sometimes we assume we're stuck because of our circumstances, our past, other people, or the season of life we're in. But we often have more agency than we realize. Moving doesn't necessarily mean making a huge, dramatic change. Sometimes it's as simple as recognizing what isn't working and doing something different. I share a funny example involving my husband and a pair of earplugs that perfectly illustrates this principle: if something isn't working, you don't have to simply tolerate it, or rely on external forces to change. You can move. This episode also marks a transition for the podcast. I'm wrapping up Season 2 and taking some time to revisit and practice these creation principles in my own life. When I return for Season 3, we'll dive deeper into what it means to consciously create a life that is aligned with who we are and who God is inviting us to become. Maybe you're feeling stuck somewhere in your own life right now. Maybe you've been tolerating something you don't actually have to tolerate. Or maybe you simply need permission to make a move. You're not a tree. If you don't like where you are, move. A question to consider: Where in your life are you unhappy with where you are—and what is one small move you could make? If you're facing a challenge, transition, difficult relationship, or uncomfortable emotion, I'd love to walk with you through it. Reach out to me and let's talk through it together. No strings, no offers, I just want to help.   [email protected] Instagram: aliciahowardbecoming

Principle: Change & Relief Start by Telling the Truth. What if the first step toward creating change in your life isn't figuring out what to do—but telling the truth? Sometimes we believe the truth about our lives comes from somewhere outside of us. We look to circumstances, other people's expectations, past experiences, cultural messages, or even the things we believe we should be doing to tell us what is true. But what if telling the truth doesn't take away your choices—it gives them back to you? In this episode, I explore the principle that change and relief begin by telling the truth. Through several real-life examples, we look at the ways we can confuse external circumstances with truth and how doing so can leave us feeling stuck, powerless, or trapped. When we are willing to honestly acknowledge what is happening, what we want, what we don't want, what we believe, and what is actually within our control, something changes. We return to agency. And agency is where change becomes possible. This isn't about forcing ourselves to change or finding the "right" answer. It's about getting honest enough to see the choices that are already available to us. If you've been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, resentful, or unsure how to move forward, this episode may give you a different place to begin: Tell the truth. Then notice where your agency returns.   If you're facing a challenge, transition, difficult relationship, or uncomfortable emotion, I'd love to hear about it. Share your struggle with me, and I'll create a future episode exploring a principle that may help you navigate what you're experiencing. My hope is that these conversations help us all become more aware of what life is inviting us to learn. And if you've listened to a previous episode and found yourself wondering, "But how do I actually apply that principle?" send me your question. In future Q&A episodes, I'll answer your questions and dive deeper into the practical side of living these principles—because understanding a principle is one thing, but learning to apply it in real life is where transformation begins. [email protected] Instagram: aliciahowardbecoming

Principle: Our stories are worth the effort to rewrite. The stories we tell ourselves don't just explain our experiences—they shape how we live them. The challenge is that changing those stories isn't easy. They often feel true because we've repeated them for so long. But when a story is creating resentment, exhaustion, fear, or limitation, it's worth asking whether it's the only story available. In this episode, I share the story of a former client who was deeply overwhelmed as a caregiver. The story she believed about her role and responsibilities left her emotionally drained, out of balance, and increasingly resentful. As we explored a different perspective, nothing about her circumstances changed overnight—but the story she lived by did. And that changed everything. I also share three reminders that have helped me whenever I'm working to rewrite a story: Changing the stories we live by isn't a quick fix. It requires honesty, courage, and a willingness to question beliefs that have become part of our identity. But as our stories become more aligned with truth, they create new possibilities for how we see ourselves, others, and God. Reflection Question: What story in your life might be worth the effort to rewrite? I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13 Invite Christ to Author Your Story   If you're facing a challenge, transition, difficult relationship, or uncomfortable emotion, I'd love to hear about it. Share your struggle with me, and I'll create a future episode exploring a principle that may help you navigate what you're experiencing. My hope is that these conversations help us all become more aware of what life is inviting us to learn. And if you've listened to a previous episode and found yourself wondering, "But how do I actually apply that principle?" send me your question. In future Q&A episodes, I'll answer your questions and dive deeper into the practical side of living these principles—because understanding a principle is one thing, but learning to apply it in real life is where transformation begins. [email protected] Instagram: aliciahowardbecoming

Principle: The stories we believe shape our reality. Every experience we have becomes an invitation to interpret and make meaning. But the meaning we assign to our experiences often becomes a story—and those stories influence the way we see ourselves, our circumstances, and what we believe is possible. In this episode, I explore how the stories we create from our past experiences can continue shaping our present reality. Sometimes those stories help us move forward with confidence and faith. Other times, they create limitations, fear, or beliefs that keep us from seeing ourselves and our lives clearly. I share a personal experience where I recognized that the story I had created about a past event was shaping how I viewed myself. As I examined that story and allowed myself to see the experience differently, I discovered a new perspective and a greater sense of freedom. We'll explore: How our experiences become stories that influence our beliefs and choices. Why the stories we tell ourselves often feel like truth, even when they may not be complete. How changing the story we attach to an experience can change the way we move forward. How the Spirit can guide us toward seeing things "as they really are" and help us replace limiting narratives with truth. The goal isn't to rewrite our past or ignore difficult experiences. It's to become more intentional about the meaning we carry forward from them. Reflection Question: What story have I created from my experiences, and is it helping me see things as they really are? As we become more aware of the stories shaping our reality, we create space to choose truth, receive guidance, and become more aligned with who we were created to be.   If you're facing a challenge, transition, difficult relationship, or uncomfortable emotion, I'd love to hear about it. Share your struggle with me, and I'll create a future episode exploring a principle that may help you navigate what you're experiencing. My hope is that these conversations help us all become more aware of what life is inviting us to learn. And if you've listened to a previous episode and found yourself wondering, "But how do I actually apply that principle?" send me your question. In future Q&A episodes, I'll answer your questions and dive deeper into the practical side of living these principles—because understanding a principle is one thing, but learning to apply it in real life is where transformation begins. [email protected] Instagram: aliciahowardbecoming

Principle: Clarity precedes action Have you ever had something sitting on your to-do list for days—or even weeks—without actually getting it done? I've been noticing this in my own life lately. I realized I often put a project on my list and then wonder why I keep procrastinating. There is a hidden gap between intention and action. In this episode, I explore the idea that sometimes procrastination isn't about a lack of motivation or discipline. Sometimes we simply haven't created enough clarity to know what our next action is. I'll share the difference between a project list and an action list, and how identifying the next specific step can remove the decision-making friction that keeps us stuck. If you've been struggling to start a project, keep putting something off, or wondering why your to-do list isn't helping you take action, this episode invites you to look at procrastination through a different lens—and consider whether what you really need isn't more motivation, but more clarity. Share your success stories about applying the principles I share or questions you'd like me to address in future episodes. Email me at [email protected]

In this first-ever Q&A episode of Becoming in the Middle, I'm answering a question that came in after last week's conversation about using curiosity to transform negative emotions into opportunities for growth. Talking about principles is one thing. Learning how to actually live them is another. In this episode, I unpack what it looks like to practice curiosity in everyday life, share the mistakes I made when I first began applying this principle, and offer practical ways you can begin using it the next time you feel frustrated, discouraged, anxious, angry, or overwhelmed. If you've ever wondered, "What do I actually do when I'm in the middle of a hard emotion?" this episode is for you. This is also the beginning of something new! From time to time, I'll be releasing Q&A episodes like this one to answer your questions and dive deeper into the practical application of the principles we explore together. If you're facing a challenge, transition, difficult relationship, or uncomfortable emotion, I'd love to hear about it. Share your struggle with me, and I'll create a future episode exploring a principle that may help you navigate what you're experiencing. My hope is that these conversations help us all become more aware of what life is inviting us to learn. And if you've listened to a previous episode and found yourself wondering, "But how do I actually apply that principle?" send me your question. In future Q&A episodes, I'll answer your questions and dive deeper into the practical side of living these principles—because understanding a principle is one thing, but learning to apply it in real life is where transformation begins. [email protected] Instagram: aliciahowardbecoming

Principle: Curiosity is the bridge between discomfort and growth. We spend a lot of energy trying to get rid of uncomfortable emotions. We distract ourselves, numb them, explain them away, or search for the fastest way to feel better. But what if those emotions aren't just problems to solve? What if they're clues pointing us toward our next opportunity for growth? In this episode, I explore how approaching discomfort with curiosity can transform frustration, fear, disappointment, envy, and other difficult emotions into opportunities for greater awareness. Rather than asking, "How do I make this feeling go away?" we can begin asking, "What might this emotion be inviting me to learn?" When we see life as a curriculum, even our hardest emotions can become teachers—helping us become more intentional, more self-aware, and more aligned with who we're created to be.

Principle: Where we put our attention determines the life we create. In this episode, I explore a simple but powerful idea: complaining isn't the problem—it's a signal. It reveals where your attention has been resting. Most of us don't realize how often we rehearse what's wrong, especially in quiet, internal ways. But where our attention goes, our experience of life follows. Complaining can feel relieving in the moment, but it doesn't create change. It keeps our attention fixed on what we can't control, which limits our ability to see solutions or possibilities. In this conversation, I explore the difference between noticing a problem and staying stuck in it, and how shifting our attention can completely change our experience of the same circumstances. This isn't about forcing positivity or ignoring what's hard. It's about learning to notice where your attention is going—and choosing to direct it more intentionally. Because when attention shifts, perception shifts. And when perception shifts, new possibilities begin to show up.

For a while I've wondered why I keep showing up to this podcast when I don't have a business to promote or offers to sell. In this episode, I share the realization that changed everything. I explore why I believe our greatest work is becoming who we were created to be, how ordinary experiences can teach us profound principles, and why learning to see our lives differently may be the beginning of real transformation. If you've ever questioned your purpose or wondered whether what you're creating really matters, I hope this conversation invites you to see your own journey with fresh eyes. Follow me over on Substack for more of my thoughts.

In this episode, I walk through three simple but powerful principles that helped me regain momentum when fear, doubt, and hesitation showed up. These principles are not about forcing change, but about learning how to move with greater awareness, trust, and intention when life is calling you forward. This episode is for anyone in a transition season—career change, identity shift, relationships, personal growth, or simply feeling the tension of "something needs to change, but I don't know how." Get more info on the group experience I talked about here: Return & Rise  

How does awareness restore agency? In this episode, I explore the connection between self-awareness, personal growth, intentional living, and creating meaningful change. When we become aware of the thoughts, beliefs, and patterns influencing our choices, we gain the power to respond intentionally rather than react automatically. Awareness isn't the destination—it's the doorway to greater agency, growth, and becoming.   For more of my thoughts, find me on Substack.   Scriptures I referenced: 1 Corinthians 13:12: looking through a glass darkly D&C 93: 23-24: things as they really are Alma 32: 27: awake and arouse your faculties   Info for the Personal Development Bootcamp hosted by my friend Angie  Episode with the backstory Register here

In this special birthday episode, I'm reflecting on what 52 years of life have taught me so far. I'm keeping it simple: 3 gifts, 3 lessons, and 3 questions I'm carrying into the year ahead. Join me as I look back with gratitude, inward with reflection, and forward with curiosity. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, navigating a season of change, or simply thinking about the person you're becoming, I hope this conversation inspires you to pause and consider your own gifts, lessons, and questions. In this episode: Three gifts that have shaped my journey Three lessons life continues to teach me Three questions guiding my next season of growth If this episode resonates with you, I'd love for you to share it with a friend and leave a review to help others discover the podcast. Join me over on Substack where I occasionally share my written thoughts.

In this episode, I share a personal experience that taught me two powerful lessons about applying the principles of creation in everyday life. While my application wasn't perfect, the experience revealed something important: the principles still work. Even in imperfection, I still saw meaningful results, which deepened my understanding of how reliable and consistent these principles truly are. I don't go into depth explaining the principles themselves in this episode. Instead, I focus on how they show up in real life, especially when things don't go according to plan. This episode offers a glimpse into how creation works in practice, not just in theory, and why your results are often shaped more by alignment than perfection. If you've ever wondered how manifestation, creation, or intentional living actually works in real-world situations—or why you sometimes see results even when you feel like you "did it wrong"—this conversation will give you a new perspective. If you'd like to learn more of my thoughts, you can follow me on Substack. To register for the Personal Development Bootcamp I mentioned in the intro, get details and register here.

In this episodes, I share a simple but meaningful gift from my daughter that reminded me how deeply the ordinary moments of life shape us. As summer begins and excitement builds around vacations, celebrations, and big plans, I reflect on the quieter days in between — the everyday moments where connection, presence, and love are actually formed. This episode is an invitation to reconsider what really leaves a lasting impact and to see the beauty and power hidden inside ordinary days. If you want to read more of my thoughts, join me on Substack.  

  *]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:d81268b6-58b0-4b89-909e-35bd7a4c61ca-1" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:d81268b6-58b0-4b89-909e-35bd7a4c61ca-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> In this episode, I share an experience helping clean out my in-laws' home and the emotions that surfaced while deciding what to keep and what to let go of. What started as a practical task became a deeper reflection on attachment, memory, identity, and the meaning we assign to things.  As I processed the experience, I realized something deeper: so much of our emotional life is shaped not by the events or objects themselves, but by the meaning we make about them. We are constantly assigning value, symbolism, and identity to people, possessions, experiences, and seasons of life. And often, it's those interpretations—not the circumstances themselves—that create our suffering, sentimentality, fear, joy, or resistance. If you'd like to read more of my thoughts, join me on Substack.

Resharing a talk I gave in church a few months back. We are so good at being helpers. But when it comes to being on the recieving end...we could use some practice! Want to hear more of my thought, follow my writing on Substack.  

I had an experience where I didn't show up as I wanted to for my friend. In addition to feeling guilty, I'm trying to figure out how I can do better. Interesting in more of my thoughts? Follow my writing on Substack.

Why is obedience considered the first law of heaven? That is the question I recently sat with. The answer finally came and I'm so excited to share the insight I got. This episode is heavy on my spiritual beliefs, so here are some links if you want to learn or understand more of where I'm coming from: What is the Temple? What is the Endowment? What is the Plan of Salvation and Exhaltation? Obedience Guide to the Scriptures: JOY Doctrine & Covenants 130:20  

Obligation can be a good thing when it comes to a job, or respecting the law. But sometimes obligation can rob us of joy. Lately I've noticed where obligation feels more preformative then authentic. Obligation is driven from external forces. Agency comes from the inside first and is reflected outward. When obligation is unexamined and unquestioned, it tends to lead to resentment and in the end, robs us of joy. Follow my writing on Substack.

This episode was born because of a dream I recently had. The invitation I want to share is to be brave enough to evaluate the underlying motivations to our actions. Whether it's feeling disappointed in someones gratitude, or lack of; or whether it's taking an honest look of what's really going on when we are offended. I'm getting vulnerable on this episode. I'm not proud of the truth, but I can't do better until I can be honest...so here goes. Follow my writing journey over on Substack.  

Recently I've been feeling a little lost in my day to day. And I've started to wonder if 'surrendering' some of my titles/roles was a mistake. Did I make the wrong choice? This is a peek into what feels scary about this process of making space for something new. And I'm realizing, the real work I'm doing isn't what I thought it was. Join me on my Substack to follow my writing jourey.

I thought insecurities were only for the young and inexperienced. But putting myself in the job market has introduced insecurity on a new level. But I'm choosing to notice that insecurity means that I'm trying willing to get out of my comfort zone and try something new. Sure, it's uncomfortable, but that's the price to be paid for growth. Here is the article I mentioned, if you want the background. Join me on substack here.

I thought I understood what identity was, until I took an ax to mine. As I've surrendered different roles over the last few months, I've had to go deeper to understand what identity truly is. I'd love to know your thoughts on identity. You can join the conversation over on Substack.

A recap of my pause and what identiy pieces I was surprised to surrender. Also a introduction of sorts for Season 2...how things will look a little different. Join me on Substack here to read more of my long-form thoughts. Reach out at [email protected] to share your own observations with me!

Welcome to Season 2! Some changes you may notice: Instead of speaking authoritatively, I'm speaking from my real-time lived experience. It won't be tidy, it won't be scripted, just me sharing what's true for me today. It may feel random because I'm sharing whatever I'm currently metabolizing. I'm letting go of time and order and structure--mostly. I'm sharing observations more than conclusions. I'm walking along side you, rather than in front of you. I'm trusting you to make the connections that are helpful for your life, gather insights for your situation, and find resonnance in our shared but unique paths. I'm also sharing over on Substack - you can check out what I'm thinking about here. In this episode I mention temples. If you'd like to know more about temples you can click here.

The final episode of Season 1! In this episode, I share how my life is lived in 7-year cycles. As I've felt the current cycle coming to a close, I've been pondering what comes next. Just as trees loose its leaves in the fall, letting go of past growth is an important process of resting and preparing for a new season of growth. With this observation of nature, I am taking a pause before I jump into Season 2. My pause is time to go inward and make space in my life for the next 7-year cycle. Embodying creation principles, I'll be doing the inner work to lay the foundation of what lies ahead. I'm so grateful to be wrapping up a expansive and incredible cycle of growth, and can't wait to create what comes next! Stay tuned... Be sure to follow me on Instagram @becominginthemiddle and get on my email list so you don't miss the beginning of Season 2!

What happens when the kids are mostly grown—but not quite gone? In this honest heart-to-heart conversation, Alicia sits down with two friends who are walking through the same season of life: launching some kids into adulthood while still raising the last few at home. Together, they share the honest ups and downs of this in-between phase—what's been surprisingly hard, unexpectedly beautiful, and what they're looking forward to as they create a new rhythm for themselves. You'll hear them talk about: The emotional shift of letting go and rediscovering who they are The surprise of adult children moving back home (and what that really feels like) Finding purpose and peace in this next chapter of motherhood If you've ever wondered what now? after your kids start leaving the nest, this conversation will remind you—you're not alone, and the best chapters are still ahead.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

In this conversation, I sit down with Gregory Jack, a coach for young adults, to explore the unique struggles facing today's emerging generation. From loneliness and dating challenges to friendship struggles and the pressure of feeling behind in life, Gregory shares insight into the emotional world of young adults—and how parents can show up in supportive, meaningful ways. Together, we discuss: Why so many young adults feel disconnected and unsure of themselves What parents can do (and avoid) to strengthen relationships with their grown children How to offer support without control How young adults can better understand the parent's perspective If you're navigating the delicate shift from parenting to partnering with your adult kids—or if you're a young adult longing for understanding—this conversation offers practical wisdom, empathy, and hope for building deeper connection across generations. Learn more about Gregory and his work: Gregory-Jack.com @gregory.d.jack Subscribe to my newsletter here.

Do you find yourself drawn to drama, overthinking, or trying to control everything around you? You're not alone — and your brain isn't broken. In this episode, we explore why the brain becomes addicted to negative emotions like drama, worry, and control, and how these patterns actually feel like safety to the nervous system. You'll learn: The neuroscience behind emotional addiction — why your brain seeks predictable over calm How drama, control, worry, and fixing can hijack your nervous system The real cost of these patterns on your relationships, energy, and peace of mind Practical, science-based steps to retrain your brain to find safety, calm, and clarity Whether you're noticing these patterns in yourself or someone you love, this episode gives you insight and actionable steps to break the cycle and begin becoming the calm, grounded, and empowered woman God designed you to be.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

If you've ever asked yourself, "What's next for me?" — you're not alone. In this episode, we explore the beautiful invitation that comes when one season of life ends and another begins: the chance to rediscover purpose. We'll talk about why having a purpose matters so deeply — how it gives direction, energy, and meaning to our days — and why it's especially vital in midlife, when roles and routines start to shift. You'll learn: How purpose enriches your life and connects you to something bigger Why identifying your gifts, talents, and curiosities can reveal what's next Simple ways to start uncovering purpose right where you are This conversation will leave you feeling hopeful, grounded, and ready to create a life that feels both meaningful and alive again.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

You thought this season would bring more space. But between grown kids who still need you, aging parents who rely on you, and a body that doesn't bounce back like it used to… you feel stretched thin. You love your people deeply. But if you're honest, exhaustion, disappointment, and guilt have crept in. It's not that you've lost your faith — you've just lost your footing. In this episode, we'll talk about: ✨ Why it's normal to feel this way when the "finish line" keeps moving. ✨ How permission, perspective, and presence can help you breathe again. ✨ Why making space for these emotions isn't weakness — it's the first step to recalibrating for the longer race. If you've been silently whispering "I can't keep this up", this conversation is for you.   Sign up for a Catch Your Breath call here   Subscribe to the newsletter here  

In this episode I explore the powerful principle: how it is anywhere is how it is everywhere. The patterns you notice in one part of your life often show up in other areas too. Maybe the way you speak to yourself about your body also mirrors how you approach your relationships. Or the habits you carry at home ripple into your work and faith. I'll share personal examples of where I've seen this principle at play and how reflecting on it has helped me uncover deeper truths about myself. More importantly, I'll guide you through a simple practice: asking "Where else is this showing up in my life?" When you begin to notice, you gain the power to change. Transformation doesn't always begin with huge leaps—it often starts with small shifts in awareness that unlock growth across your entire life. 👉 Listen in to learn how one insight in a single area can spark healing, peace, and progress everywhere.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

Have you ever wondered why certain challenges seem to come back around, even after you thought you had already overcome them? Maybe it's an old habit, a familiar frustration, or a repeating pattern in your relationships. It's easy to see these moments as failures or proof that you're "back at square one." But what if they're actually invitations to grow? In this episode, we'll explore the idea of the spiral of growth. When you revisit old patterns, you're not looping back to the same place—you're meeting them at a higher level, as a stronger and wiser version of yourself. We'll also talk about the principle of the container: how when you desire more of anything, you'll be invited to expand your capacity to hold more. These moments of "repeat challenges" aren't setbacks at all—they're signs you're being stretched for the next stage of your becoming. What you'll learn in this episode: Why repeating patterns don't mean you've failed How to use the spiral of growth to reframe challenges The principle of the container and how it applies to your capacity How to see repeating struggles as opportunities to grow at a higher level If you've ever felt discouraged by facing the "same old" struggles, this episode will help you see them as markers of progress and invitations to step into more of who God designed you to be.   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

Do you ever catch yourself thinking, "They should know what I need," or "They should treat me differently"? In this second part of the Rules Are Made to Be Broken series, we dig deeper into the rules we unconsciously create for other people—and how those rules can quietly drain our joy and connection. At the root of every rule is a feeling we're trying to reach. The problem? When we place that responsibility on someone else, we give away our power and place unnecessary pressure on the relationship. In this episode, you'll learn how to: Recognize the hidden "shoulds" you've placed on others Understand the feelings at the root of your expectations Take responsibility for meeting your own needs without waiting for someone else to do it Reclaim your personal agency so you can show up empowered, peaceful, and authentic in your relationships See why "should" thinking keeps us in victimhood—and how to break free When you stop outsourcing your needs and start using your agency, you step out of victimhood and into freedom. Your relationships lighten, your self-respect grows, and you begin to feel better—because your well-being is finally back in your own hands.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

Like you, I'm feeling the heaviness of the events this week. In this episode I'm sharing an experience I had about a month ago when I had to ask myself a hard question. It seems to have come full circle after this week, and I'm learning that the most important way I can help be the change I hope to see in the world is to go inward first.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

Do you ever catch yourself living by invisible rules you never really chose? Rules like "I should always keep the house perfect" or "They should know what I need without me asking." These kinds of self-imposed rules can quietly run the show, often creating stress, guilt, or frustration. In this episode, I invite you to look at the rules you've created for yourself—and for others. You'll learn how to: Recognize the hidden "rules" guiding your daily life Use a simple exercise to identify which rules are serving you and which are not Give yourself permission to rewrite or release the rules that keep you stuck Spot how "shoulds" sneak into your relationships (sometimes even disguised as questions) and how to shift them This is part one of a two-part series, where we'll begin by breaking down the personal and relational rules that may be weighing you down. It's time to loosen the grip of the "shoulds" and step into more freedom, ease, and authenticity.   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

In this episode, I share a conversation about building routines that nurture mind, body, and spirit. We explore how stillness strengthens the mind, grounding connects us to the body, and alignment brings us back to God and our values. Two big ideas that came out of this discussion were the benefits of getting outside in nature and the practice of prayer journaling—both powerful ways to create space for presence and spiritual connection. You'll also hear practical examples from women who are weaving these practices into their own lives. What you'll learn in this episode: Why routines that honor mind, body, and spirit feel more balanced How time in nature can restore clarity and peace The benefits of prayer journaling for spiritual connection Simple practices to bring grounding, stillness, and alignment into your day If you've been craving a routine that feels more life-giving and connected, this conversation will spark ideas and encouragement to try for yourself.   To listen to the full episode text me @ [email protected] and I'll send you the link. Subscribe to my newsletter here.   To hear more about Janine's journey of climbing the Timpanogos Cave Trail this summer, find her videos here.

Just like your browser has a default homepage it returns to, you have a default emotional state that you naturally settle into—your emotional ground zero. In this episode, I explore how these default emotions become our unconscious status quo and shape our entire life experience, and more importantly, how to change them. In This Episode: I break down the Law of Creation and show you how your thoughts create your emotions, your emotions drive your actions, and your actions create your results—plus why most people get stuck in this cycle without realizing it. You'll hear stories from three different phases of my life where I operated from completely different default emotions, and how I finally figured out that I could actually change these automatic responses. I walk you through my 3-step process for reprogramming any emotional default: getting aware of the stories you're telling yourself, choosing better narratives, and then practicing them until they stick. Subscribe to my newsletter here.

What do you do when you look back on your journey and feel like you have nothing to show for it? For years, I told myself the story that I had wasted time—that I should be farther along in my personal growth and becoming. But recently, I realized I've been deep in the inner work of transformation, and none of that time was wasted. In this episode, I share how the past 8 years have been a season of profound inner change—navigating kids leaving the nest, unexpected choices my children made, shifts in my faith practices, and the new physical realities of an aging body (hello, perimenopause). Using the metaphor of a butterfly's cocoon, I'll show you why unseen transformation is just as valuable as the kind you can point to on the outside. If you've ever felt behind in your becoming, this conversation will help you see your journey with new eyes—and maybe even embrace the cocoon you're in right now. You'll hear: How the story you tell about your transformation shapes your experience of it Why slow, unseen seasons of growth matter more than we think The butterfly cocoon metaphor that reframes your "hidden" becoming How to rewrite your own transformation story to see the beauty in it   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

How do you build meaningful adult friendships, parent without controlling your kids, and shift from a victim mindset to emotional freedom? In this insightful episode, I sit down with Eric to explore the mindset shifts and relationship strategies that lead to greater peace, connection, and personal power. We talk about what it means to step into emotional maturity, make intentional choices in parenting and friendship, and let go of the need to control outcomes. You'll hear us unpack: How to form and maintain intentional adult friendships—without chasing people who aren't invested Why parenting without control strengthens connection and increases long-term influence How expectations in relationships often lead to frustration—and what to focus on instead The powerful difference between agency vs. victim mentality—and how stepping into agency brings relief and emotional clarity Whether emotional growth can be measured—and how to notice your progress If you're ready to experience more freedom, connection, and grounded confidence in your relationships, this conversation is for you.   The reel that started it all   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

What does it look like to grow yourself and your family—at the same time? In this episode, I'm joined by Amber, a remarkable woman and mother of 11, who is intentionally prioritizing her own personal development while supporting a busy household. Together, we talk about the power of stillness, the importance of dreaming with God, and how to navigate major life shifts with trust and grace. We explore: Why awareness is the first step to discovering the right path for you The challenge of finding balance in a house full of people Amber's morning routine (it starts with movement, not meditation!) How she makes time for stillness and spiritual inspiration The surprising way her husband's career change opened doors for their kids to gain confidence and work ethic The idea of God-seeded desires and how to dream beyond our own limited expectations If you've ever felt stretched thin, unsure of how to chase your dreams while caring for others, or you're craving space to listen to the whisperings of your soul—this conversation will encourage and ground you. ✨ Share this with a friend who's navigating motherhood, transition, or a desire for deeper connection with God. 📲 Follow the show and leave a review to support the show and help more women find it! 📩Subscribe to the newsletter here

Midlife is full of change—kids grow up, roles shift, and the question of "What's next?" can feel both exciting and overwhelming. In today's episode, I talk with my friend Jill, a faith-based life coach who works with women navigating this very transition. We talk about: Why midlife goals require a clear why (and how to find yours) The gift of not putting pressure on yourself How to keep your goals light, fun, and meaningful Why mimicking others can be a useful place to begin The role of opposition in making joy deeper and more lasting This conversation is both tender and empowering. Whether you're deep in the trenches of change or just feeling a shift coming, you'll leave this episode reminded that joy isn't the reward for reaching the goal—it's something you can cultivate along the way.   Jill's website Jill's podcast Jill's freebies   Subscribe to my newsletter here

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Holly to talk about navigating the empty nest transition—and how this season can be a launchpad for midlife reinvention and purpose. Holly spent the last decade exploring different jobs to reconnect with herself after active mothering. Now, she's heading back to school and leaning into her next chapter with clarity and courage. We talk about: Finding your identity after motherhood How a personal why statement and core values serves as a guiding light through this transition Making time for your goals as an empty nester Building self-trust by keeping your word to yourself Living authentically in midlife and beyond Knowing how our brain works to understand our choices and behavior   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

Wellness isn't just physical. Carol explains how tending to emotional, spiritual, financial, and social wellness created lasting change--and helped to heal her physically. It's never too late, and you're never too old to prioritize your wellness and becoming.   Want more support in your own becoming journey? Subscribe to my newsletter here.

What if all it takes to change your life is one brave step? In this heartfelt episode, I talk with my friend and mentor, Angie, about what real growth looks like—from self-awareness and intentional living to the courage to try, even when you don't know how it will turn out. I f you're ready to stop waiting and start becoming, this conversation will meet you right where you are.   Mentioned in the episode: BootCamp 10-4 Good Buddy Angies Option GRM (if you're curious about the non-profit she started 22 years ago)   Subscribe to my newsletter here

Another conversation in the Summer of Conversations series. This delightful conversation with Janine was inspiring as she tells the story of a goal she wrote down 40 years ago, and then accomplished it decades later. She has spent a lifetime reinventing herself and has learned that it's okay if becoming takes time.   To learn more about Janinie's work follow these links: Website Facebook Group   Subscribe to my newsletter here

Another great conversation in the "Summer of Conversations" series. This conversation with Anthony was insightful as we talked about principles of becoming as he is navigating changes in his career. As a self-identified 'worrier' we talked about ways he can replace worry with other attributes that will align with his goals. So many great insights that can apply to many different situations!   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

The first in a series of conversations about becoming. This beautiful episode demonstrates how becoming happens even in devastating loss. Kelsie opens her heart and shares the reason she is learning to embrace the idea of becoming broken. Check out this beautiful video of the Art of Kintsugi Subscribe to my newsletter here

There's two ways to look at becoming, and neither is good or bad. But like a boat in the ocean, learning how to drop anchor or use the rutter will help you get to the desired destination. This episode is exploring two different lenses we can view 'becoming' through. Which one are you currently using?   Subscribe to my newsletter here. Want to connect? Email me @ [email protected] Follow me on Instagram @BecomingInTheMiddle     .

Rather than fear this new technology, let's learn how to use it for good! I'm sharing how I used AI to help my process of becoming. It gave me simple insights and suggestions that would have taken me hours to come to on my own. Now I can take what it offered and tweak it to fit me. How are you using AI?   Subscribe to my newsletter here.