Growing 'n Musing Podcast

I’m so excited to share my new wellness toolkit, Rooted in the Rush: A Practical Guide to Balance in a Busy World—launched in celebration of the 2-year anniversary of Growing ’n Musing: This kit includes:- The Rooted in the Rush ebook on overcoming stress and burnout- The Meditate on Poetry album- A 3-Day Wellness Challenge- And even a free 1:1 Wellness coaching session with me💡 Here’s the best part: it’s available through a limited-time referral program (ending September 30). No purchase required—just invite your friends to join our community, and unlock access to these resources.👉 Start sharing and claim your rewards here:growingandmusing.substack.com/leaderboard This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In this episode, I sit down with my friend and Instrive Philosopher, Nate, to explore what it really means to find balance when you’re often “in your head.”We talk about:Grounding in the bodyCreating structure without rigidityListening inward to find what actually works for you—not anyone else✨ Don’t forget—my Rooted in the Rush wellness toolkit launches in just 10 days. Subscribe now to be the first to know when it’s released! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In this episode🌿 Coming September 3rd: Growing ‘n Musing’s Wellness ToolkitIt’s a digital guide to help you move through the real process of change emotionally, mentally, and practically.But before it launches, I’d love your voice in it. 👉 [Take this 3-question survey]—your responses will help shape the final version, and you’ll be the first to know when it’s ready. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In this episode, I share my journey to the 2016 Olympics despite a near career‑ending injury in 2015.What does it really mean to be resilient?What happens when the dream you’ve built your life around no longer fits?And how do you begin again after losing what once defined you? --P.S.-- I’m putting the finishing touches on something new—a Wellness Toolkit filled with the practices, reflections, and beginner workouts that have helped me rebuild after letting go of my Olympic dream.Before it launches, I’d love your input. Take 30 seconds to answer 3 quick questions, and you’ll get early access when it drops: Wellness Toolkit Survey This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

Today’s poem, titled 'Lovie Is,' is written by Kellion Knibb. Click to listen!I’m learning, in practice, that love is not just a feeling. It’s a rhythm. A choice. A pace I’m practicing every day. What has love looked like for you this year? How are you giving more love these days? New to Growing 'n Musing? Subscribe for free access to a free 30-day fitness starter kit.Stay tuned for a new wellness kit to help you with stress, anxiety, and overstimulation. Coming soon! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

Today’s PoemThe Present Moment by Kellion KnibbThere was a time I didn’t trust my body—Not to keep up, not to perform, not even to rest.In this episode, I share the story behind that disconnection and the slow, intentional rebuilding that followed. Through injury, recovery, and years of unlearning, I began to redefine movement not as punishment or performance, but as partnership.Whether you’re returning to movement after a break or learning how to love your body through the process, this one is for you.🎧 Listen above!📝 And if you want to move with me, check out my free 30-day fitness starter kit.Let’s rebuild trust and care, one movement at a time. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

If you’re in a season of too much, maybe you need less noise and fewer trendy productivity hacks —Click above to listen 🎧If you're in a season of starting over—with your body, your energy, or your trust in yourself—you're not alone. I created a free beginner workout plan to support gentle momentum, designed for folks who are ready to rebuild confidence without the pressure to "bounce back." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

Subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ for more reflections and poetry. >>>Today's Episode: A tribute to my mother, and to the quiet strength of women whose dreams are tested by life’s relentless demands. It’s a reflection on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the quiet ways people reinvent themselves when the world isn’t watching. Inspired by my mother’s journey during and after the 2008 recession, this piece honors the dignity of persistence and the brilliance found in redefinition. It’s personal, but it’s also for anyone who’s ever witnessed someone they love bend without breaking.Listen in. I hope it reminds you of someone you love, too. #happymotherdays #resilience This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeExploring the benefits and impact of therapy. Self-knowledge and personal growth give us the power to be more objective about who we are, how we came to be that way, how it affects who we want to be. Listen now 🎧 and subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more reflections and poetry: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

Last week, I shared the first offering in my Poetry on Love Challenge. With it, I opened a door — not just to the theme of love, but to a new layer of myself as a poet. This challenge is more than a creative exercise. It’s an act of commitment: to my craft, to vulnerability.This week, I’m returning to you with another poem.Listen now 🎧 and subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more reflections and poetry: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeExploring the benefits and impact of therapy. Self-knowledge and personal growth give us the power to be more objective about who we are, how we came to be that way, how it affects who we want to be. Listen now 🎧 and subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more reflections and poetry: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeExplores how leaning into a different experience can change the direction of your life.Listen now 🎧 and subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more reflections and poetry: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/#poetry #poems #reflection #wellness This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeJoin me in Growing n Musing as I explore love as a practice for reducing stress and creating more softness.Tune in for heartfelt insights and ideas for steps to create more space for love in your life.Listen now 🎧 and subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more reflections and poetry: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/#poetry #poems #reflection #wellness This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeTogether, we’ll set the tone for 2025—a year of loving better, leaning into softness, and creating space for transformation. Let’s press play on a new cycle and welcome the possibilities ahead. May it be this, or something better.Listen now 🎧 and subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more reflections and poetry: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/--> Connect with me on Instagram: @lioninpoetry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s Episode2024 has been everything it needed to be to show us all that we needed to see. What we leave here with is up to us. I don't know about you, but I know I'm leaving with something goddammit 😅✨✨Maybe our material dreams will not come to fruition this year, but we can shift in ways only we can control. We can change in ways that can make 2025 better. For me, that shift is to a loving I have captured in today's poem.Listen now 🎧 and subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more reflections and poetry: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/Connect with me on Instagram: @lioninpoetry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeReflecting on what it means to belong truly—especially when we're far from home, routines, and the people we love. It’s a conversation about separation, connection, and how we can root ourselves in self-love no matter where life takes us. I’ll also share my poem, I Belong, and invite you to think about where and how you find belonging.Listen now 🎧 and subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more reflections and poetry: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeThis episode explores the evolving meaning of empowerment—not just standing tall, but stepping back and choosing what aligns with your heart. Join me as I reflect on balancing creativity and commitment, embracing change, and reconnecting with poetry as a soulful practice. Featuring today’s poem by Kellion Knibb: Off These Streets.Click to listen 🎧! Subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeI share my journey of rediscovering the affirmations in gospel music and how self-help presents as the evolution of traditional religion. Click to listen 🎧! Subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeIs it me? Or is everything changing? Nothing stays the same. 😫😅This episode explores some complexities of personal growth—navigating the guilt of changing desires, reconciling who we were with who we're becoming, and embracing the discomfort that comes with evolving into new versions of ourselves.How do you reconcile the old and new versions of who you are? Click to listen 🎧! Subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeAs the seasons shift, so do we. Personally, it’s been a season of introspection. Among other things, I discovered the flip side of wanderlust—the unexpected longing for home, even while exploring new places. Balancing my love for travel with a newfound desire for stillness has been eye-opening. Click to listen 🎧! Subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeToday, September 6, 2024,**, marks one year since I launched Growing 'n Musing.My primary goals were:1. To have somewhere my poems and my love for poetry can live2. To inspire wellness, wholeness, and reflection3. To stick with Growing ‘n Musing for a whole yearI have learned a lot about myself as a person, as a poet and creative, as a woman, as a healing person, as a loving person, as a growing person. Thank you for coming along for the ride. Click to listen!Subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeThis season has served as a reminder that all change is in preparation for something new— what we pray and work for. While managing the joys and sadnesses of this summer, I noticed more closely, the things that kept me grounded and sane in what felt like both a crazy whirlwind and nothingness. In this episode, I share what tools work for me. What tools have worked for you? Click to listen!Subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeHeads up: This episode dives into culture, language, media, colorism, womanism, and self-love.In this episode, I share many thoughts and feelings I usually keep private for my emotional safety. However, I believe it's essential to address these interconnected topics authentically, as they significantly impact wellness and state of mind. Click to listen!Subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeReflecting on a recent trip to Norway and Italy, I share my journey of learning to hold different realities —joys and frustrations, adventures and responsibilities— and how this has transformed my perspective.To hold the tension of opposites is to hold the balance and imbalances with the same compassion and patience.This way, we can embrace the bad that comes with the good and the good that comes with the bad. We can hold uncertainty more confidently.Click to listen!Subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeTo surrender is to accept that our efforts alone do not dictate reality.When all your efforts leave you wanting and rejected, what is left to do but surrender?I am learning that surrender is not always willing —sometimes it finds us, and sometimes it comes from exhaustion.Click to listen!Subscribe to the Growing 'n Musing newsletter for more than this podcast: https://growingandmusing.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeA positive mindset precedes a positive attitude. We have to actively and persistently create thought patterns that support a positive attitude.Like coach, we can train our minds to have a positivity bias with time and growth. For Dorian, this means maintaining firm boundaries to protect his attitude and state of mind.We dive into the details of this mental training and attitude, click to listen! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodePerfectionism and exceptionalism can make it hard to slow down enough to give yourself credit.Many of us quickly scold and reprimand ourselves for what we do wrong. Why aren’t we just a quick to give ourselves credit and praise for what we do well? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeSometimes failure can feel like the ultimate end. Sometimes it is —the necessary end of a dream or goal. Regardless, failure is a great place for reflection and recalibration, but only for those open to pivoting and creating their own opportunities. A healthy relationship with failure can teach us to find silver linings and solutions. What’s your relationship with failure? How do you process and accept failing? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeI believe the search for God is merely the search for greater understanding, meaning, and connection. I also, arrogantly and comfortably, believe that a lot of us are traumatized after centuries of pain inflicted by the religious God. This leads us to call the God-like experience by another name: the universe, the great spirit, Allah, Jehovah, the great mystery, and magic. In these new names, we feel safe from the archaic ideas about who God is or isn’t. Consequently, I invited Michael —an atheist— to discuss God, faith, religion, and spirituality. Michael is a materialist, and I practice neo-spiritualism (relating to our material and immaterial experiences).  What does this mean for how we create meaning and connection?  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeMy therapist, and a few other people, called me brave. They made my day. All the time I spend battling and suppressing my fears, it often feels like I am losing. Now that people qualify me as brave, I am gaining clarity and perspective. In today’s episode, I share how I am learning to treat fear. How do you face your fears without trying to affirm them away? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeToday, we talk through some gems in Tuesdays With Morrie, a book centered on the meaning of life. Reading this book reminds me how valuable it is to ask questions of ourselves as much as others.There is a lot to learn and become, and sometimes it feels like there is not enough time for all of it.When things start to feel this way, it’s good to have some core questions to ground us, the kind of questions Morrie liked to ask.What are you going to give? Who are you going to give it to?Do you like how your life feels? When you look back, will you like what you see?Loading... This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeWho would you be if things turned out differently? “I’m not like my old self. I'm not in character anymore, I'm me.” - Damon AlbarnLately, my reflections center on who I could have been, who I have become, and the values that have guided me here. Love. Community. Peace. Sustainability. Freedom. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeHow do you build mental fortitude? How do you keep the faith? Affirmations. Friends. Family. Positive self-talk. Reframing. Journaling. Long walks. Early morning gym workouts. The dream of freedom and travel. Retreating. Reimagining. Nurturing. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeTalking through the myth that ‘creativity is limited’ with a special guest. Creativity is innate. It flows through us. At least, it should! Creative expression as a wellness practice saves my life every day. Maybe it can do the same for you? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

We often confuse activity with significance. Reminder: slow down and enjoy the now! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeI’ve been confronting the shadow side of my wellness and growth journey. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeHow I combat digital escapism. Too many of us are avoiding human interactions or hiding behind our devices. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeI’ve been confronting the shadow side of my wellness and growth journey. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

It’s Valentine’s Day! Shoutout to the lovers and the loving. ❣️Have you ever considered what your absolute requirements are in relationships? The what-you-can’t-do-withouts? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In Today’s EpisodeI am at that point in life where I am deciding what really matters to me and it has slowed my life down. Through it all, I am observing three things:* I am not who I thought I was* I am changing in a way that will soon make me unrecognizable to myself.* My singleness and childlessness are privileges. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com

In today’s episode I made a commitment to peace about a year ago, and people are noticing. To be at peace or war with oneself —that’s the choice in living, day in and day out.Today’s affirmationI choose to accept only those beliefs which empower my life.Retraced Stepswritten by Kellion KnibbI came back to the roots that bred me now I see I forgot the girl I used to be Once I had dreams of a circumstance I knew could be more than fantasies Here I am back at their inception looking at the traces of the places that first rendered me a daydreamer, thirsty and hopeful I see the faces of those who made me a pathfinder, shaping possibilities to realities finding direction I didn’t know to pray for These roots taught me to be faithful now, here I am, grateful for the childhood, the village that allowed me to imagine a life converging with my girlhood reveries the woman I wanted to be is supplanted, no longer a dreamt-up montage she is here in these words and out in the world, but always in touch with where her roots started. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit growingandmusing.substack.com