Emotionally Unavailable

In this heartfelt episode of Emotionally Unavailable, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, welcomes back Ashana Kaiulani for an honest conversation about self-care, emotional overwhelm, and the healing power of self-compassion. Together, they explore what it means to care for yourself beyond surface-level routines, how vulnerability creates deeper connection, and why emotional resilience is built through presence rather than perfection. This episode offers grounded insights for anyone navigating burnout, grief, anxiety, or the pressure to hold it all together while learning to reconnect with themselves in a more compassionate way. When overwhelm rises, pause long enough to ask yourself: "What do I actually need right now?" Emotional resilience often begins by responding to yourself with curiosity and compassion instead of criticism.   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $5 - Early Ad free episodes + Occasional other goodies! $10 - Benefits listed above and access to growing voice library support for spiraling/overthinking (along with workbooks and practices) $30 - Deeper work and group spaces https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Ashana's links: Website, Insta, Youtube, Substack Ashana's Previous Episodes: Nov. 10, 2025: The Alchemy of Healing: Turning Pain into Purpose Spotify, Apple March 16, 2026: Embracing Imperfection: Letting Go of Burnout, Spiritual Perfectionism, and the Pressure to Be "Zen" Spotify, Apple

Host, Malisa Hepner reflects on her first Mother's Day after the loss of her son Jake while also exploring the complicated emotional history she carried into motherhood long before this grief. Malisa opens up about the layered pain of losing her grandmother and mother, the unresolved grief that shaped her relationship with Mother's Day, and how childhood wounds, insecurity, abandonment, and feelings of unworthiness quietly influenced her identity as a mom. She shares how grief can reactivate old narratives about love, value, belonging, and whether we are "enough," especially on emotionally charged days tied to family and attachment. This conversation is not just about loss. It's about the intersection of grief, identity, nervous system wounds, motherhood, and the lifelong process of learning to hold yourself with compassion instead of shame. Through raw storytelling and honest reflection, Malisa explores what it means to break cycles, navigate complex grief, and redefine self-worth in the aftermath of profound pain. Pay attention to the emotions that emotionally charged days bring to the surface. Often, the intensity is not only about the present moment, but also about older grief, unmet needs, or identity wounds asking to be acknowledged. Instead of judging your reaction, try asking yourself: What story about myself is this pain connected to? Awareness of the deeper wound is often where healing begins.   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $5 - Early Ad free episodes + Occasional other goodies! $10 - Benefits listed above and access to growing voice library support for spiraling/overthinking (along with workbooks and practices) $30 - Deeper work and group spaces https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits again with Kirsten OConnor, author of The Year After Kahlia and found of thisisgrief.nz, for a conversation among two friends, as they explore the realities of grief, emotional resilience, and learning how to care for yourself through loss. Together, they discuss the ways grief impacts daily life, the importance of rituals and self-compassion, and how healing often unfolds in messy, non-linear ways. This candid episode offers comfort, validation, and grounded insights for anyone navigating heartbreak, bereavement, emotional exhaustion, or major life transitions. Grief often makes people believe they must "push through" or return to normal quickly, but healing usually begins with smaller, gentler acts of care. Choose one grounding ritual this week — journaling, lighting a candle, taking a walk, listening to music, or checking in with your emotions without judgment — and allow it to become a moment of connection rather than performance. Small, repeated acts of self-compassion help rebuild safety and resilience over time.   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $5 - Early Ad free episodes + Occasional other goodies! $10 - Benefits listed above and access to growing voice library support for spiraling/overthinking (along with workbooks and practices) $30 - Deeper work and group spaces https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Kirsten's links: Website, Insta, Tiktok Kirsten's last convo on Emotionally Unavailable: Spotify, Apple

In this heartfelt conversation, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner,  sits down with Crystal  Woodward, spiritual coach, to explore the journey from trauma, denial, and self-abandonment into healing, spiritual awakening, and radical self-love. Crystal shares the emotional realities of facing fear, reconnecting with yourself, and learning to choose your own well-being every single day. Together, they discuss healing beyond survival mode, breaking old patterns, trusting intuition, and the small daily shifts that create lasting transformation. If you've ever struggled with self-worth, fear of change, or losing yourself while trying to survive, this episode offers grounded insight, hope, and practical tools for coming home to yourself. Healing often begins with small moments of honesty. Start paying attention to the places where you abandon your own needs, silence your intuition, or stay connected to fear out of familiarity. This week, practice one intentional act of self-trust each day, even if it's small. Choosing yourself consistently is how safety, self-love, and transformation are built over time.   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $5 - Early Ad free episodes + Occasional other goodies! $10 - Benefits listed above and access to growing voice library support for spiraling/overthinking (along with workbooks and practices) $30 - Deeper work and group spaces https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Crystal's website

In this deeply personal episode, Malisa Hepner shares her raw and unfiltered journey through grief after the loss of her son Jake to a synthetic opioid overdose. She opens up about the unpredictable waves of emotion, the tension between functioning and falling apart, and the quiet, daily choices that help her stay connected to herself. This conversation explores what it really looks like to live inside grief—without rushing it, fixing it, or performing it—and how small, aligned actions can become anchors in the midst of overwhelming pain. When everything feels too heavy, shift your focus from "getting through" the grief to simply staying connected to yourself in the moment. Choose one small, grounding action each day—whether it's naming what you feel, stepping outside for fresh air, or offering yourself a moment of compassion—and let that be enough. Over time, these small acts create a quiet stability that supports you without forcing you to move faster than your heart is ready for.   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $5 - Early Ad free episodes + Occasional other goodies! $10 - Benefits listed above and access to growing voice library support for spiraling/overthinking (along with workbooks and practices) $30 - Deeper work and group spaces https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Unquiet Soul: Spotify, Apple

In this deeply reflective episode, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with Paul B. Miller to explore the layered journey of spiritual awakening, healing from religious trauma, and reclaiming emotional authenticity. Together, they unpack how societal and religious conditioning shape identity, relationships, and self-worth—and what it really takes to come back to yourself. This conversation offers grounded insight into self-love, perception shifts, and the courage it takes to question everything you were taught in order to live in alignment. Notice where your beliefs feel inherited rather than chosen. Take a few minutes to gently ask yourself: "What do I believe about myself, love, or safety—and where did that belief come from?"   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $5 - Early Ad free episodes + Occasional other goodies! $10 - Benefits listed above and access to growing voice library support for spiraling/overthinking (along with workbooks and practices) $30 - Deeper work and group spaces https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Paul's Links: Youtube, Skool, Tiktok

In this deeply honest conversation, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with Dr. Sarah Michaud, Clinical Psychologist, to explore the layered reality of codependency—how it quietly shapes our relationships, parenting, and sense of self. Together, they unpack the connection between codependency and addiction, the subtle ways control and caretaking can mask deeper wounds, and what it actually looks like to begin healing. This episode offers grounded insight and practical tools to help you build self-awareness, untangle relational patterns, and move toward healthier, more connected ways of living. When you notice the urge to fix, manage, or emotionally carry someone else—pause and gently turn your attention inward. Ask yourself: "What am I feeling right now that I'm trying to avoid?" Then name it without judgment. This simple shift—from focusing on them to reconnecting with yourself—is where the cycle of codependency begins to loosen and real healing starts to take root.   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $5 - Early Ad free episodes + Occasional other goodies! $10 - Benefits listed above and access to growing voice library support for spiraling/overthinking (along with workbooks and practices) $30 - Deeper work and group spaces https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Dr. Sarah's links: Website, Youtube

In this episode, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, explores the quiet intensity of overthinking and what it's really trying to protect. Through a blend of lived experience and practical tools, she walks you through how to interrupt spirals, reconnect to your body, and create space between you and your thoughts. This conversation isn't about controlling your mind—it's about understanding it, softening it, and learning how to come home to yourself when everything feels loud. The next time you notice yourself spiraling, pause and ask: "What am I actually feeling underneath this?" Then do three things in order: Name the feeling (not the story—just the emotion). Place a hand on your body where you feel it most and breathe into that space. Remind yourself: "I can feel this without solving it right now." This shifts you out of the loop of thinking and back into the experience of being—where regulation actually begins.   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $5 - Early Ad free episodes + Occasional other goodies! $10 - Benefits listed above and access to growing voice library support for spiraling/overthinking (along with workbooks and practices) $30 - Deeper work and group spaces https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

In this powerful episode, Annie Brook, a somatic psychologist, shares her journey through trauma, spiritual awakening, and deep healing. Together, we explore how early life experiences shape the nervous system, why the body holds what the mind tries to move past, and how true healing requires reconnection—not just understanding. Annie offers grounded, practical tools to help you regulate your nervous system, build emotional resilience, and gently return to your body as a place of safety. This conversation bridges science and spirituality in a way that feels both accessible and deeply transformative. The next time you feel overwhelmed, pause and place one hand on your body—your chest, your stomach, wherever feels natural—and simply notice. Not fix. Not analyze. Just notice what's there. Then ask yourself: What does my body need right now to feel even 1% safer? Let the answer be simple, and let that be enough.   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Annie's links: Free Anxiety Toolkit, Free Library, Website, Insta, Youtube Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

In this deeply moving conversation, Elizabeth Munoz shares her journey through trauma, burnout, and the quiet unraveling of "not enoughness" that so many carry beneath the surface. Together, we explore what it actually looks like to come back home to yourself—not through force or perfection, but through self-regulation, honesty, and learning to sit with what's real. Elizabeth offers grounded insights on rebuilding trust within your body, releasing the pressure to constantly prove your worth, and creating a life that feels aligned rather than performed. This episode is a gentle but powerful reminder that radiance isn't something you chase—it's something that emerges when you stop abandoning yourself. The next time you feel the pull to prove, fix, or overextend, pause and ask yourself: "What would it look like to respond from self-trust instead of self-doubt right now?" Then choose one small action that honors your capacity—whether that's slowing down, setting a boundary, or simply staying present with yourself without trying to change the moment.   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all. Elizabeth's Website, Insta, Other links Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

In this solo episode, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner explores how to actually embody the energy you're reaching for through daily rituals, nervous system work, and shadow work. She shares a grounded approach to moving out of overthinking and into real-life integration, along with a simple daily practice to help you feel safe being seen, receiving, and expanding. This episode also includes personal reflections on grief, presence, and self-compassion. One simple place to begin: pause once a day, notice what's happening in your body, soften even slightly, and gently ask yourself what it would feel like to safely hold even a small part of the version of you you're becoming.   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Archetypes/Rituals: Tarot, Other

In this expansive and grounding conversation, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with Lucy Baldwin to explore the deeper layers of astrology, shadow work, and spiritual ritual—not as trends, but as tools for real inner transformation. Together, they unpack how planetary archetypes can mirror our subconscious patterns, offering language for parts of ourselves we've struggled to understand or accept. Lucy shares how intentional rituals can gently reprogram the mind, creating new pathways rooted in safety rather than fear. The conversation moves beyond surface-level spirituality, emphasizing the importance of self-trust, nervous system regulation, and the courage to sit with the parts of ourselves we often avoid. This episode invites you to move from seeking external answers to cultivating a grounded, internal sense of knowing. Choose one simple, repeatable ritual this week—something small enough to feel safe (like lighting a candle while journaling or placing your hand on your heart each morning). As you practice, focus less on "doing it right" and more on what it feels like to stay present with yourself. Let the ritual become a place where trust is built, not forced. * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Lucy's links: Website, Insta, Facebook, Youtube Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

In this powerful and reflective conversation, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with Katharine Chestnut to explore her journey from early spiritual curiosity to navigating the deep wounds of narcissistic abuse. Katharine shares how mindfulness and intuitive awareness became anchors in her healing, helping her reconnect with her true self after losing her sense of identity in unhealthy relationships. Together, they unpack what it really looks like to rebuild self-trust, set boundaries without guilt, and listen to your inner voice in a world that often teaches you to abandon it. This episode offers grounded, practical tools for anyone seeking clarity, healing, and a more authentic way of living. Take a few moments today to pause and check in with yourself before making a decision or responding to someone. Ask: "Is this coming from fear or from truth?" Begin practicing small moments of self-trust by honoring your internal response—even if it feels unfamiliar. Over time, these small choices rebuild the connection to your intuition and strengthen your ability to set boundaries that align with who you truly are. * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Katharine's links: Website, Mindfulness Quiz, Youtube Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

In this deeply moving conversation, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with Sela Sproul, one of the magnificent hosts of Look In Through The Glass podcast, to explore her journey through childhood abuse, addiction, betrayal, and ultimately, healing. Sela opens up about the impact of generational trauma, the weight of her past, and the awakening that led her back to herself. Together, they unpack what it really looks like to navigate pain within relationships, rebuild after betrayal, and choose self-love in the midst of confusion and hurt. This episode offers a raw, honest look at forgiveness, emotional resilience, and the courage it takes to rewrite your story. Healing doesn't start with having all the answers—it starts with telling yourself the truth. Begin by gently acknowledging one pattern, wound, or belief you've been avoiding, and allow yourself to meet it with curiosity instead of judgment.   * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Look In Through The Glass : Facebook, Insta, Spotify, Apple Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, welcomes Laura Bratton back for a deeply honest conversation about the intersection of spirituality and emotional healing. Together, they unpack the ways spirituality can either support true healing or quietly become a way to avoid it. Through personal stories and grounded insight, they explore self-compassion, authentic emotional expression, and the subtle ways spiritual bypassing can keep us disconnected from ourselves. This episode offers a refreshing perspective on how to stay rooted in your humanity while still honoring your spiritual path. Healing isn't about rising above your emotions—it's about learning to stay with yourself inside them. True spirituality supports connection, not avoidance. * Emotionally Unavailable is produced 100% in-house. No team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to help it keep going strong. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook! I appreciate you all.  Laura's website Laura's other visits to the show: November, 2025 -  Uncertain Timelines, Unshakeable Truths: Healing Through the Unknown (Spotify, Apple) January, 2026 -  Holding yourself with kindness: Gratitude, Vulnerability and Healing (Spotify, Apple) Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

In this honest and empowering conversation, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with Kiana Joyner, LCSW and Co-Owner of Soul Journey Therapy and Coaching, to explore the journey from unhealthy relationships and unresolved trauma to deep self-awareness and healing. Kiana shares her personal experiences navigating toxic patterns, the role of trauma in shaping relationship choices, and how self-love becomes the foundation for lasting change. Together, they unpack what it really means to build healthier, more secure connections and the importance of authenticity—both in therapy and in everyday life. This episode offers grounded, real-life insight for anyone ready to understand their patterns and choose differently. Take time to identify one recurring pattern in your relationships and gently trace it back—ask yourself what belief or past experience may be driving it. Awareness is the first step toward choosing something different. * Emotionally Unavailable is done 100% in-house. No producer, no team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to give back. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook and help keep this show going. I appreciate you all.  Kiana's links: Website, Insta Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

In this conversation, therapist and host Malisa Hepner sits down with Hakeem Bourne McFarlane, Coach, Speaker and Storyteller, to talk about what it really looks like to move from survival into intentional living. They explore healing from trauma, the power of self-awareness, and the role of forgiveness in letting go of the past. Malisa and Hakeem unpack the reality of doing the inner work: learning to face your story without letting it define you, building routines that support your healing, and choosing to live with purpose even after deep pain. Hakeem shares how daily routines and small, consistent choices can become the foundation for real, lasting change. Choose one small daily practice that supports your healing—something simple you can stay consistent with. Real change isn't built in big moments, it's built in what you do every day. * Emotionally Unavailable is done 100% in-house. No producer, no team, just me and my love for yapping and helping others. If this show has ever helped you in any way, here is your chance to give back. Subscribe to the patreon, grab some merch or get a workbook and help keep this show going. I appreciate you all.  Hakeem's links: Website, Insta, Youtube, TikTok Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with Tawny Palm of the Radiant Resilience Podcast to gently unpack the layered grief of infertility and the unspoken expectation to be okay through it. They explore what it feels like to carry pain that isn't always visible, the harm of well-meaning but dismissive comments, and the deep need to be met with presence instead of platitudes. This conversation offers a softer space—where nothing needs to be fixed, and everything gets to be felt. Pay attention to where you're minimizing your own experience to make others comfortable—and practice honoring your truth, even if only in small, quiet ways. Tawny's links: Insta, Radient Resilience Podcast Apple, Radiant Resilience Podcast Spotify Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with bestselling author and manifestation expert Kelsey Aida to explore her journey from a Catholic upbringing and personal depression to becoming a powerful voice in spiritual growth and energetic alignment. Together, they unpack how psychology and metaphysics intersect, and how practical manifestation tools—paired with emotional resilience—can help you create a life that actually feels aligned. This episode offers grounded insight for anyone who feels stuck, disconnected, or ready to shift their mindset and step into something more intentional. Manifestation isn't just about thinking positively—it's about aligning your thoughts, emotions, and actions. Start by identifying one limiting belief you've been holding onto, gently challenge it, and replace it with a belief that feels both supportive and realistic. Then, take one small action today that reflects that new belief. Kelsey's links: Website, Insta, Youtube, TikTok, Substack, Pre-order Book, High Vibin' Podcast Apple, HVP Spotify  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with Jeselle Hinzmann, one of the hosts of the powerful podcast, Look In Through The Glass,  for a heartfelt conversation on postpartum experiences, trauma, and the journey back to self. Together, they explore how motherhood can activate unresolved wounds, the impact of trauma on the body, and the importance of rebuilding a safe and trusting relationship with yourself. This episode offers grounded, real-life insights into navigating postpartum emotions, understanding trauma responses, and learning how to reconnect with your body in a way that feels compassionate and empowering. When you feel overwhelmed or disconnected, gently bring your awareness back to your body. Place a hand on your chest or stomach, take a slow breath, and ask yourself, "What am I feeling right now, and what do I need?" Building a safe relationship with your body starts with small moments of noticing, listening, and responding with care. Look In Through The Glass: Spotify, Apple, Facebook Links to the episode with Jeselle and Sela : Spotify, Apple Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

Therapist and host Malisa Hepner welcomes Mike Elliott for a meaningful discussion on trauma, attachment, and the long-term impact of early life experiences. Mike shares his story of being adopted twice and how those experiences influenced his identity, relationships, and emotional development. This episode explores how unresolved trauma can shape adult relationship dynamics, the role of self-awareness in healing, and why emotional availability is more nuanced than we often assume—especially when it comes to men. Through honest reflection and storytelling, this conversation offers insight into breaking generational patterns and building healthier connections. Write down one belief you hold about yourself in relationships (e.g., "I'm hard to love"). Then ask: "Where did I learn this?" Challenging inherited beliefs is a key step in healing attachment wounds. Mike's links: Website, Insta, The Sacred We Podcast  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with Kirsten OConnor, Author of The Year After Kahlia and Founder of thisisgrief.nz, for a deeply honest conversation about grief, child loss, and the emotional realities no one prepares you for. Together, they explore what it truly means to live with grief—not as something to "get over," but as an ongoing experience that reshapes your identity, your nervous system, and your life. In this episode, they unpack the impact of traumatic loss, including PTSD symptoms, emotional waves, and the pressure to appear "okay" in a world that doesn't understand, as Kisrten shares the grief she experiences after losing her daughter, Kahilia by suicide. They share the importance of building a personal toolbox for coping—through writing, speaking, and allowing emotions to move instead of suppressing them. This conversation challenges common misconceptions about grief and offers a more compassionate, realistic perspective: that you can carry deep loss while still experiencing moments of peace, connection, and meaning. If you are navigating grief, supporting someone who is, or trying to understand the long-term impact of loss, this episode offers both validation and practical insight. Grief is not something you "move on" from—it's something you learn to carry. Instead of trying to fix or suppress what you feel, begin building your own emotional toolbox: Name what you're feeling without judgment (grief, anger, numbness, longing) Create one safe outlet (writing, talking, or even sitting with the feeling) Notice when societal expectations are pressuring you to "be okay" and gently release them You don't have to rush your healing. You can hold grief and still create moments of peace—and both can exist at the same time. Kirstens links: Website, Insta, TikTok Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner

After losing her son to a synthetic opioid, therapist and podcast host Malisa Hepner shares her lived experience of navigating grief and PTSD in real time. This episode explores the reality that grief is not just a feeling but an ongoing experience, how trauma responses show up after sudden loss, and the grounded practices helping her find moments of peace without abandoning her grief. Grief doesn't have to be something you "resolve"—it's something you learn to carry. When your nervous system becomes activated, focus on regulation before meaning-making. Try this: pause, name what's happening in your body (not just your thoughts), and choose one grounding action (breathwork, stepping outside, placing your hand on your chest). You can hold both—deep grief and moments of peace—without betraying your love.    Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Mentioned in this episode: 9 days after: Honoring Jake - Spotify, Apple

In this powerful episode, therapist and host Malisa Hepner sits down with intuitive reader Cassandra Vancuren, certified in Galactic Astrology and Human Design, to explore her journey from a high-control religious upbringing to a profound spiritual awakening. Cassandra shares how modalities like astrology, Galactic Astrology, and Human Design helped her reclaim her identity, trust her intuition, and live more authentically. Together, they unpack the emotional and psychological layers of deconstructing belief systems, healing from control-based environments, and finding personal truth. This conversation is for anyone navigating spiritual curiosity, identity shifts, or the courage to choose themselves. Notice where your beliefs came from. Ask yourself: "Did I choose this, or was this given to me?" Then take one small step toward alignment—whether that's exploring a new perspective, questioning an old narrative, or allowing yourself to be curious without judgment. Authenticity begins the moment you give yourself permission to think for yourself. Cassandra's links: Website, Youtube  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

Why do so many of us feel lonely even when we're constantly connected? In this thought-provoking episode, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with Dr. Anthony Silard, author of "Love and Suffering: Break the Emotional Chains that Prevent You from Experiencing Love", to explore the psychology of love, loneliness, and meaningful connection. Together, they unpack how modern life, social media, and surface-level interactions are quietly reshaping our emotional well-being—and what it actually takes to build relationships that feel safe, deep, and sustainable. You'll learn how to move through the love progression model (acceptance, forgiveness, gratitude, love), understand the neurochemical impact of connection, and recognize why independence without connection can leave us feeling empty. This conversation offers both psychological insight and practical tools to help you shift from shallow interactions to relationships rooted in authenticity, emotional safety, and real presence. The next time you feel disconnected, don't reach for more interaction—reach for deeper intention. Ask yourself: Am I showing up to be seen, or to be understood? Am I staying at the surface, or allowing myself to be known? Anthony's links: 2 Free Books, Website, Insta, Facebook  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, is back again with, Ashana Kaiulani, reclamation coach, author, podcast host and speaker, as they explore the exhaustion of trying to be perfect and the freedom that comes from embracing our humanity. In this honest conversation, they discuss burnout, emotional honesty, self-compassion, and why honoring your natural rhythms can lead to deeper connection, clarity, and healing. When you notice yourself pushing through exhaustion or judging your emotions, pause and ask: What would it look like to honor my humanity right now instead of fighting it? Give yourself permission to rest, feel, or slow down—because compassion for your imperfections is often the doorway to your deepest insight and connection. Ashana's links: Website, Insta, Youtube, Substack Links to Ashana's previous episode on Emotionally Unavailable: Spotify, Apple  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

Malisa Hepner sits down with entrepreneur and author Larry Kesslin to explore the deeper truth about happiness, identity, and spiritual awakening. From lessons learned during a life-changing trip to Africa to insights about purpose, connection, and the "Joy Molecule," this conversation challenges the idea that happiness comes from achievement. Discover how volunteering, travel, self-awareness, and even psychedelic-assisted insight can help you reconnect with your authentic self and live with greater meaning, presence, and joy. Instead of asking "What will make me happy?", start asking three deeper questions Larry describes as the foundation of the Joy Molecule: What genuinely energizes and excites you? Who do you want to impact or serve? Why does that contribution matter to you? Write down your answers and look for one small way this week to align your actions with them. True fulfillment often emerges not from chasing external success, but from reconnecting with your authentic self and intentionally contributing to something larger than you. Larry's links: Website, Insta, Joy Molecule Assessment  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

In this heartfelt conversation, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with mother and daughter, Sela Sproul and Jeselle Hinzman, hosts of Look In Through The Glass podcast, to explore recovery, relationships, and the journey of personal growth. Together they discuss navigating the challenges of recovery, the power of honest conversations, and the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. The episode highlights breaking generational patterns, embracing vulnerability in communication, and using humor and self-care as tools for healing. Listeners will gain insight into building stronger connections while learning to accept imperfection and find joy in everyday moments. Healing generational patterns begins with honest conversation. Start by creating space for one meaningful, vulnerable conversation with someone you trust—focus on listening, sharing your experience without blame, and allowing imperfection to be part of the process. Sela and Jeselle's links: Facebook, Tik Tok, Youtube, Spotify, Apple  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

In this powerful conversation, therapist and host Malisa Hepner, sits down with relationship coach and founder of Building with Bry (Thriving Solo + Intentional Connections) Brylye Collins, , to explore the transformative power of self-love and how it shapes the relationships we choose and the boundaries we set. Together they discuss recognizing unhealthy relationship patterns, the emotional challenges many stay-at-home moms face, and the importance of vulnerability, community, and emotional awareness in personal growth. Brylye shares her journey from toxic relationships to empowerment, offering insight into how understanding your patterns can lead to healthier connections and deeper self-trust. Start noticing your relationship patterns with curiosity rather than judgment. Ask yourself: "What feeling or belief about myself keeps showing up in my relationships?" Awareness of these patterns is the first step toward setting healthier boundaries, choosing supportive connections, and building a relationship with yourself rooted in self-respect. Brylye's website   Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

In this deeply personal solo episode, therapist and hos, Malisa Hepner, shares an honest update on her grief journey after the loss of her son, Jake. She reflects on the emotional fluctuations of grief, how the nervous system responds to profound loss, and the coping practices helping her move through the pain. Malisa also shares meaningful ways she plans to honor her son's birthday while learning to hold both sorrow and moments of joy. This conversation offers compassionate insight for anyone navigating grief, supporting someone who is grieving, or learning how to live alongside loss. Grief is not linear, and experiencing moments of peace or even joy does not mean you are forgetting your loved one. Allow yourself to honor both the pain and the life still moving through you. One simple practice is to create a small ritual that keeps your loved one present in your life—whether that's lighting a candle, speaking their name, writing to them, or engaging in something they loved. These intentional moments can transform grief from something you carry alone into a relationship you continue to hold.  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

Therapist and podcast host Malisa Hepner sits down with holistic transformation guide Christine Ruch to explore how grief and trauma impact the nervous system and emotional regulation. Together they discuss why dysregulation happens, how self-trust is rebuilt after loss, and how grief can become a powerful portal for personal growth. This conversation offers compassionate insights into healing, nervous system awareness, and developing a new relationship with your emotions. When grief or trauma overwhelms your nervous system, pause and ask yourself: "What does my body need to feel safe right now?" Instead of forcing yourself to "move on," practice small moments of regulation—slow breathing, grounding in your surroundings, or naming the emotion you're experiencing. Healing begins when you respond to your nervous system with compassion rather than pressure. Christine's links: Website, Insta, substack  Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner   Jen Taylor Books: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=letters+to+myself+jen+taylor&crid=1AXVYUSWBVNKS&sprefix=letters+to+myself%2Caps%2C394&ref=nb_sb_ss_saint-en-refocus-candidate_1_17 https://www.instagram.com/jentay1231/ [email protected]  

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down again with Cheryl Stelte,spiritual coach, master healer & author, explore the sacred connection between breath, spirit, and healing,  to explore chakra readings, intention setting, and the deep work of personal and collective healing. Together, they unpack how to release old patterns, navigate grief, and surrender to life's transitions with trust. This conversation weaves together spirituality, leadership, and emotional healing, offering insight into how vulnerability and authenticity create true transformation. Cheryl also shares a practical surrender practice to help you find peace and reconnect to yourself. Notice where you are gripping for control. Ask yourself: What am I afraid will happen if I let this go? Then practice a small act of surrender—release the need to fix, prove, or control, and instead allow yourself to be present with what is. Healing often begins when we stop resisting our experience. Cheryl's links: Meditations, website, Insta, Youtube Links for Cheryl's last visit on Emotionally Unavailable: Spotify, Apple Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Jen Taylor Books: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=letters+to+myself+jen+taylor&crid=1AXVYUSWBVNKS&sprefix=letters+to+myself%2Caps%2C394&ref=nb_sb_ss_saint-en-refocus-candidate_1_17 https://www.instagram.com/jentay1231/ [email protected]  

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with psychotherapist, yoga psychology and philosophy teacher, author, and mystic Catia Batalha to explore the journey from emotional disconnection to embodied love. Together, they unpack how early family dynamics shape emotional awareness, the role of love languages in relationships, and how intentional living can create deeper connection. Catia shares insights on chakra work, energy dynamics, and how understanding your internal landscape can lead to greater self-awareness, empowerment, and emotional healing. This conversation offers a grounded and expansive look at how to navigate relationships, reconnect to yourself, and move through life with more presence, clarity, and love. You don't have to fix your whole life to feel more connected — you just have to become aware of your energy. Today, notice: Where you feel open vs. guarded in your body What drains your energy vs. what restores it How you give and receive love in small moments Then ask yourself: "What would it look like to respond from awareness instead of habit?" Connection doesn't start with someone else. It starts with how gently you come back to yourself. Catia's links: Website (& Book), Insta, Youtube Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Contact Jen Taylor: [email protected] Jen Taylor Books, Insta

In this conversation, therapist and host Malisa Hepner, and Kamini Wood, mom, trauma informed coach, speaker and podcast host, explore the realities of modern parenting through the lens of emotional intelligence, communication, and self-awareness. They unpack how perfectionism, past experiences, and family dynamics shape the way we show up for our children, and why connection—not control—is the foundation of healthy parenting. Together, they discuss the importance of validating children's emotions while still holding clear, compassionate boundaries, and how parents can model emotional regulation rather than expect it. Kamini shares insights on building trust, navigating relationships with teachers and peers, and creating an environment where children feel safe to express themselves. This episode also highlights the power of repair—showing that parenting isn't about getting it right all the time, but about returning, reconnecting, and growing alongside your child. When your child is dysregulated, pause before correcting the behavior and focus on connection first. Validation doesn't mean you agree—it means your child feels seen. From there, you can set boundaries and guide behavior without losing connection. Parenting isn't about being perfect—it's about being present, repairing when needed, and modeling the emotional safety you want your child to learn. Kamini's links: Website, Insta, Podcast Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Contact Jen Taylor: [email protected] Jen Taylor Books, Insta

In this deeply reflective conversation, therapist and host Malisa Hepner sits down with Julie Cyvonne, a former attorney turned high-performance psychedelic coach, to explore the transformative intersections of grief, personal evolution, and plant medicine. Julie shares her journey of leaving a traditional career path to pursue deeper healing, offering insight into how psychedelics—particularly microdosing—can support emotional regulation, clarity, and sustainable growth. Together, they unpack the nuanced experience of grief, the longing to feel seen in our pain, and the courage it takes to become emotionally visible. This conversation moves beyond surface-level healing, emphasizing the importance of integration, self-awareness, and navigating relationships with honesty and intention. Through personal stories and grounded insight, this episode invites listeners into a deeper understanding of self-discovery, acceptance, and the ongoing process of becoming who we truly are—even in the aftermath of loss. Integration matters more than the experience. Whether using plant medicine or not, true healing happens in how you process, embody, and apply what you uncover. Emotional visibility is a practice. Being seen starts with allowing yourself to acknowledge what's true internally. Microdosing is not an escape—it's a tool. Sustainable growth comes from pairing insight with intentional daily practices. Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Julie's Links: Should I Microdose - Quiz, Website, Insta Contact Jen Taylor: [email protected] Jen Taylor Books Insta  

In this honest and emotionally grounded conversation, therapist and host Malisa Hepner sits down again with Holli Howard, trauma-informed life coach, gentle guide, and founder of Positive Living Coaching, to explore the layered experience of grief, anger, and personal growth. Together, they unpack the role of vulnerability, the weight of the labels we carry, and how our inner narratives shape our emotional reality. Malisa and Holli discuss the neuroscience behind habit formation, the impact of expectations on our well-being, and why self-compassion is essential when navigating grief and change. This conversation is a reminder that healing isn't about perfection—it's about awareness, softness, and learning how to meet yourself where you are. Pay attention to one label you've given yourself (e.g., "I'm too emotional," "I'm not strong enough"). Gently question it: "Is this a fact, or is this a story I learned?" Holli's Links: Website, Insta Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Spotify link for Holli's last visit on Emotionally Unavailable Apple link for Holli's last visit on Emotionally Unavailable Contact Jen Taylor: [email protected] Jen Taylor Books Jen Taylor Insta

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, and John Borden, Author, Ultramarathon runner, psychonaut, visionary,  explore the complex intersection of psychedelics, trauma healing, and personal transformation. In this deeply reflective conversation, they discuss the importance of intention and guidance when working with altered states, the role of shame in shaping our internal world, and the courage it takes to confront unresolved pain. Together, they examine how personal loss and grief can become catalysts for deeper self-awareness, and how mindset influences the way we experience both suffering and healing. This episode invites listeners to consider what it means to show up authentically in relationships, to release self-judgment, and to cultivate a deeper sense of self-love. Ultimately, it is a conversation about remembering who you are beneath the noise—and allowing that truth to guide your healing journey. Actionable Takeaway: Create a moment of intentional self-connection this week: Ask yourself, "What am I avoiding feeling right now?" Instead of trying to fix or analyze it, sit with the feeling for a few minutes. Place a hand on your body, breathe, and remind yourself: "I can be with this." Healing doesn't come from escaping discomfort—it comes from learning how to safely stay. John's Website, Insta, youtube Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Contact Jen Taylor: [email protected] Jen Taylor Books Jen Taylor Insta  

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, shares her lived experience of navigating grief after the loss of her son, Jake. She opens up about the waves of isolation, the disorienting nature of loss, and the quiet ways grief can reshape identity, connection, and daily life. Malisa explores the challenge of asking for support while grieving, the importance of being seen and held by others, and how community can become a lifeline in moments of profound pain. She reflects on her evolving spiritual beliefs, the complexity of finding meaning after loss, and the tension between carrying deep sorrow while still allowing moments of joy. This conversation offers an honest and compassionate look at grief—not as something to fix, but as something to be lived with—while gently guiding listeners toward connection, self-compassion, and intentional living. Grief can make it incredibly hard to know what you need—let alone ask for it. But you deserve support that actually meets you where you are. If you don't know what to say, you can borrow these: 1. Ask for practical help "I'm overwhelmed—could you help me with groceries / a meal / a small task?" 2. Ask to not be rushed "I'm not trying to 'move on'—I'm learning to live with this." 3. Ask for grounding connection "Can we do something normal together? I need a break from the heaviness." Ask even when it feels hard. You are not "too much." Your needs are not a burden. Asking is not weakness—it's how we stay connected when grief tries to isolate us. Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Jen Taylor Books:  Jen Taylor Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jentay1231/  Contact Jen Taylor [email protected]  

Therapist and host Malisa Hepner sits down with Keegan Read, host of the Retrieving Sanity podcast, for an honest conversation about trauma, health, and emotional recovery. Keegan shares his journey through childhood emotional abuse, family dynamics, autoimmune disease, substance use, and the long road toward self-discovery. Together, they explore how unresolved trauma impacts the body, how internalized beliefs shape identity, and why expressing emotion is essential for healing. This episode unpacks: The mind-body connection in trauma recovery How emotional suppression can manifest physically The impact of family systems and shame Breaking free from internalized narratives The role of authenticity and storytelling in healing Practical tools for emotional awareness and self-care If you've ever questioned how your past is affecting your body, your relationships, or your sense of self, this conversation offers grounded insight and hope. Healing begins when we stop hiding from what hurts — and start listening to what it's trying to teach us. Keegan's Links: Website, Spotify, Youtube Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Contact Jen Taylor: [email protected] Jen Taylor Insta Jen Taylor Books

In this powerful conversation, therapist and podcast host Malisa Hepner sits down with Angel Howard, Certified Somatic Therapist, Executive Coach, and inspirational speaker, to explore how somatic healing and movement can transform trauma. Angel shares her personal journey of resilience, uncovering family secrets, and using dance as a pathway to healing. Together, they discuss the role of the body in emotional expression, the importance of authenticity, and how movement supports nervous system regulation, communication, and personal growth. Choose one small way to let your body speak this week. Instead of processing everything through words, set a timer for five minutes and move however your body wants—stretching, swaying, shaking, or dancing. Notice what emotions surface without trying to interpret or fix them. Healing doesn't always begin in the mind; sometimes it starts by giving the body permission to lead. Angel's Website Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Contact Jen Taylor: [email protected] Jen Taylor Insta Jen Taylor Books    

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, sits down with Licensed Somatic Psychotherapist and author of "Shake Yourself Free", Melanie Smithson, to explore the power of somatic practices and authentic movement as tools for emotional healing. Melanie shares her journey from CPA to somatic practitioner and explains how practices like breathwork, shaking, and intuitive movement help release emotions stored in the body. Together, they discuss meeting yourself where you are emotionally, working with resistance, building self-trust, and allowing grief and big feelings to move through without falling apart. This conversation offers practical, accessible tools for managing stress, emotional overwhelm, and deepening body-based self-awareness. Choose one simple somatic practice—such as 2–3 minutes of gentle shaking, slow intentional breathing, or intuitive movement—and practice it daily with the intention of listening rather than fixing. Notice what sensations or emotions arise, allow them to move through without judgment, and reflect afterward on what your body communicated. This builds self-trust and creates emotional regulation through the body. Melanie's links: Website, Insta, Youtube Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Jen Taylor contact info: [email protected] Jen Taylor Insta, Books

Therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, and Cindy Woulfe,certified meditation teacher and wellness advocate and author of, "In the Weeds: A Guide to Saving Your Own Soul on This Crazy Journey Called Motherhood",  explore the realities of motherhood, from postpartum identity shifts to the pressure of unsolicited advice. They discuss the importance of self-validation, co-regulation in parenting, breaking generational patterns, and practical ways parents can nourish themselves while raising emotionally healthy children. Create a daily self-nourishment ritual—no matter how small—that reinforces your identity outside of parenting. Practice self-validation before seeking external reassurance, and model co-regulation by tending to your own nervous system first. When parents care for themselves with intention, they build the emotional capacity to parent with presence, clarity, and connection. Cindy's website Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Jen Taylor Books, Insta Contact Jen Taylor: [email protected]

In this thoughtful conversation, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, and Michelle Henderson, Author, speaker, mystic channeler, healer, explore the journey of spiritual awakening and the evolution of belief systems. They discuss intuition, healing, self-love, and compassion, examining how personal experiences shape spiritual understanding while emphasizing the balance between spiritual growth and our shared humanity. Identify one moment each day where you can respond from compassion instead of habit—toward yourself or someone else. Practice grounding that choice in your body and emotions, allowing spiritual insight to support your humanity rather than override it. Michelle's links: Website, Insta, Youtube Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Jen Taylor's Books, Insta Contact Jen Taylor: [email protected]  

In this solo episode, therapist and host Malisa Hepner unpacks why grief can feel so activating when someone says they "understand" your loss—especially when comparisons miss the mark. She explores how these moments often trigger deep neglect wounds and a fear that our pain isn't being seen or honored. Rather than staying in victimhood or demanding external validation, Malisa invites listeners into a more grounded truth: our pain does not need to be validated by others to be real. Through compassionate reflection, she shares how healing begins when we recognize our triggers, take responsibility for our inner safety, and learn to validate ourselves—without minimizing the depth of our grief, or others. Notice the trigger: when you feel invalidated, name the neglect wound being activated. Release victimhood by separating your pain from others' capacity to understand it. Practice self-validation: affirm the reality and depth of your grief without comparison. Create internal safety by meeting your pain with compassion before seeking it externally. Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Contact Jen Taylor: [email protected] Jen Taylor Insta, Jen Taylor Books

In this solo episode, therapist and host, Malisa Hepner, reflects on the subtle but profound ways grief continues to shape her inner world—especially in relationships. She shares why she chose to shift the format of her podcast, honoring authenticity, capacity, and self-care over expectation. She explores attachment patterns, independence, and the emotional responses that surface when grief meets intimacy. This conversation names the often-overlooked micro losses of grief—the small, daily moments that remind us of what's changed—and underscores the importance of community, self-honesty, and compassion as ongoing companions on the healing path. Notice where you are asking yourself to "push through" instead of listening in. Today, choose one small act of self-trust—whether that's changing a plan, naming a feeling out loud, or letting yourself need support—and remind yourself that healing isn't about doing more, but about being more honest with where you actually are. Where are you imposing expectations on yourself around a label you never needed to carry in the first place? Shed that shit. Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Jen Taylor's Book

In this uplifting conversation, therapist and host Malisa Hepner is joined by Laura Bratton, founder of Ubi Global, to explore gratitude as a practice of honoring the work we do on ourselves. Together, they reflect on the courage it takes to show up, do the inner work, and continue evolving—especially when growth feels slow, unseen, or exhausting. This conversation highlights the power of self-compassion, perseverance, and community in sustaining personal transformation, reminding listeners that gratitude doesn't have to be about outcomes—it can be about who we are becoming and the effort we choose to make, again and again. Instead of forcing positivity, choose one moment each day where you offer yourself compassion first—then notice what you're grateful for. Healing begins when we stop demanding strength from ourselves and start allowing tenderness. Laura's Website  Links to Laura's previous episode: Spotify, Apple Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner  

In this deeply moving conversation, therapist and host Malisa Hepner sits down with Hilary Momberger Powers—former child actress who voiced Sally in the Charlie Brown cartoons, now a recovery warrior, mentor, and author—to explore the lasting impact of trauma on personal development and healing. Together, they unpack how early wounds shape identity, the importance of inner child work, and what it truly means to break free from victimhood. Hilary shares her journey of reclaiming her power through empathy, self-reflection, and community support, emphasizing that real empowerment comes from within. This episode highlights the transformative power of self-love, acceptance, and consciously choosing to rewrite your story. Spend 10 minutes journaling a letter to your inner child, acknowledging one past wound that still shapes your reactions today. Then write a second letter from your adult self offering compassion, validation, and a new narrative rooted in worthiness and self-trust. Hilary's Website, Insta, Youtube Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Jen Taylor Books:

In this soulful and insightful conversation, therapist and host Malisa Hepner sits down with Ian, founder of PurposeU.ai, to explore the evolving journey of discovering one's purpose. Ian shares how purpose transformed from a vague concept into a powerful decision-making tool in his own life, helping him move from confusion to clarity in both personal and professional realms. Together, they unpack why defining your purpose matters, how recognizing your uniqueness creates deep inner alignment, and the profound shifts people experience when they begin living from their true calling. The conversation closes with a look at PurposeU, an AI-powered course designed to simplify the path to self-discovery and help individuals uncover what they're truly here to do. Instead of searching for a "perfect" purpose, start by noticing what consistently lights you up, what problems you feel drawn to solve, and where your lived experience meets service. Write a one-sentence purpose statement that feels true right now — not forever — and begin using it as a filter for decisions. If a choice moves you closer to alignment with that statement, it's a yes. If it pulls you further from it, it's a no. Purpose isn't found all at once — it's clarified through courageous, aligned action. Ian's Website Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Jen Taylor's Books

In this deeply moving conversation, therapist and host Malisa Hepner sits down with Justin LaPree, a Marine veteran, former Austin firefighter, entrepreneur, and suicide survivor who turned his darkest moment into a movement of healing, to explore the long arc of trauma, recovery, and the courageous journey back to self-love. Justin shares his story of childhood trauma, military service, and the inner battles that led to a suicide attempt — and how entheogenic medicines and spiritual practices opened a new path toward healing. Together, they discuss the role of community, intention, and storytelling in recovery, and how shared experiences can transform pain into connection, meaning, and compassion. Choose one intentional practice this week that helps you meet yourself with honesty instead of judgment. Whether it's journaling, meditation, breathwork, or therapy, create a small, sacred space where you can listen to what your pain is trying to teach you — and take one compassionate step toward yourself. Justin's links: Website, Insta, Facebook, Youtube Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner Jen Taylor's Books

In this episode of the Griefie Monday series, therapist and host Malisa Hepner offers a raw and tender look at what grief feels like in the middle of ordinary life. She reflects on fluctuating moods, the way grief lives in the body, and the emotional weight of her home environment. Malisa shares the challenges of managing grief alongside very real practical stressors, including a legal matter connected to Jake's past, and how these layered responsibilities can quietly intensify sorrow. Through a vulnerable story of a family grocery trip that ended with locking her keys in the car, she explores frustration, humor, resilience, and the courage it takes to ask for help. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes self-compassion, the non-linear nature of healing, and the shared human experience of loss, reminding us that there is no single way to grieve — only many honest ways to survive and keep going. Grief doesn't only live in the big moments — it lives in the parking lots, the errands, the mistakes, and the quiet overwhelm. This week, practice one gentle act of self-permission: notice where your body is holding grief, allow yourself to ask for help without shame, and remember that coping isn't about doing it perfectly — it's about doing it honestly. Jen Taylor Books Subscribe to Emotionally Unavailable's Patreon! $3-Become a friend of the show and support its mission $5-Ad free episodes $10-Benefits listed above and free access to monthly workbook $30- In addition to the above benefits, you can receive recurring ad space on episodes posted outside of Patreon. (Perfect for single owner/operator small business looking for low budget ad space) https://patreon.com/Emotionallyunavailablepodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Want to be a guest on Emotionally Unavailable? Send Malisa Hepner a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1739504718415772259d92bc1 https://linktr.ee/Mdhepner