Here Comes the Sun

In this episode, Nadia and Brooke explore the freedom they’ve found in approaching their spiritual journeys with greater flexibility, embracing what resonates rather than seeking certainty at all costs. They discuss leaving behind a pressure-cooker spirituality that was both exhausting and unreliable for long, and how this shift has helped them become better listeners, think more critically about the messages they receive from spiritual communities and media, and show deeper respect for both their own paths and those of others. Through personal stories and reflection, they consider the importance of reverence, curiosity, and human connection in an age of division and extremism.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Voice and Expression02:45 Exploring Spirituality and Flexibility04:33 The Importance of Questioning Beliefs06:45 Navigating Personal Growth and Critical Thinking08:57 Finding Reverence in Different Spaces11:20 Respecting Individual Journeys13:15 The Challenge of Parenting and Empathy14:39 The Balance of Speaking Up and Listening16:31 Embracing Uncertainty and Flexibility18:33 The Role of Respect in Conversations21:20 The Impact of Media and Information23:10 Celebrating Individual Paths and GrowthSpeaker and Activist Mentioned Loretta J. RossPhoto Credit Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Brooke and Nadia take on the topic of habit change and explore their formative experiences when it comes to habits, citing the 80’s as a time when society taught them to power through and look for quick fixes and gimmicks, and how that transformed over time with failure and life impulses toward more meaning, grace, and connectedness in their pursuits. Book Mentioned: Mini Habits by Stephen GuisePhoto Credit Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Brooke and Nadia welcome back Heather Richard and Elena Cheah from Season 2, Episode 1: ‘The Gift of Grief’, for a lively panel discussion on the complex and nuanced relationship with beauty. They talk about their first exposure to physical beauty ideals, the different societal pressures that shaped their perceptions of beauty, and their personal journeys toward freedom of self-expression and self-acceptance, making room for ongoing discovery. Through personal stories, honest reflection, and curiosity, they paint a varied tableau of experiences and values related to beauty and share what they hope younger generations will carry forward, including that we have power as individuals to help others feel beautiful around us by celebrating many different forms of self-expression toward or away from societal ideals.Photo Credit: Brooke Meservy0:00 Introduction to Beauty Standards Discussion02:06 Personal Experiences with Beauty and Upbringing12:21 Navigating Beauty in Adolescence and Young Adulthood24:44 The Impact of Aging on Perceptions of Beauty30:59 The Duality of Beauty: Fun vs. Pressure33:53 Exploring Beauty and Aging38:32 Individuality in Style and Expression42:42 The Development of Self-Expression48:28Societal Pressures and Aging55:21 Redefining Beauty Standards01:01:45 Messages for the Next Generation Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

This episode is about the power of life coaching. Nadia and Brooke introduce life coaching, address the stigma attached to it, and share how neither of them took it very seriously when they first heard about it. They talk about what coaching is and isn’t in their version. They discuss the priority of meeting others where they are and allowing them to find their own answers. They note the keys we bring each other to unlock our paths when we give wide-open witnessing and ask powerful questions. They talk about their experience of being coached by each other, the magic of it, and what a gift it is to witness another human being in their process of unique discovery. They wonder what the world would be like if humans supported each other with reverent respect, deep listening, and trust to know their own path; supporting and coaxing out gifts and ways forward, and received this in return. What would we create next?The book mentioned is How to Know a Person by David Brooks. If you are interested in experiencing coaching with Brooke or Nadia, you can find more information here.For Brooke: click here for website For Nadia: click here for website Photo Credit00:00Introduction to Coaching and Stigma00:53Personal Experiences with Coaching03:11The Role of Space and Witnessing in Coaching07:21The Magic of Coaching and Intuition10:14Coaching vs. Therapy13:50Tailored Coaching: Personalization and Identity16:11Navigating Coaching Conversations16:11Exploring Coaching Styles17:17The Magic of Imagery in Coaching19:36The Role of Intuition in Coaching20:57Finding Your Coaching Style22:16The Importance of Client-Coach Compatibility24:07Creating a Safe Coaching Environment27:13The Power of Self-Discovery in Coaching29:11The Journey of Personal Growth30:45Envisioning a World Beyond Conflict Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Brooke and Nadia are excited to welcome special guest, Sarah Martin, a real estate agent, singer, and mother in greater Charlotte, N. Carolina. Sarah shares her birth story of her third child and the transformative experience it was for her, and how she came away with something more than her baby. Join us for a conversation about the power of women supporting women and how sometimes things happen exactly as needed for us to birth parts of ourselves.This episode is about returning to something ancient and deeply rooted—the wisdom of the body, the power of feminine connection, and the sacredness of birth. It’s about slowing down, listening inward, and trusting. It is about learning to receive and to support.Baby feet and Daisy Photo credit00:00 The Power of Women’s Circles02:12 Intentionality in Supportive Relationships03:01 Embracing the Feminine Process05:20 The Journey of Pregnancy and Birth06:52 Cultural Perspectives on Femininity09:23 The Role of Doulas and Holistic Approaches11:23 Creating a Safe Space for Vulnerability13:36 Celebrating Differences in Women’s Groups16:05 The Birth Story of Noah24:30 Embracing Slowness Before Birth27:52 The Sacredness of Female Support29:45 The Journey to Labor Begins38:34 The Intensity of Labor and Birth41:47 The Intense Journey to the Hospital43:08 The Birth Experience44:38 The Golden Hour of Motherhood46:56 The Arrival of Jeff and Family Dynamics49:07 Empowerment Through Birth53:35 Support Systems in Postpartum Care/Postpartum Doula56:50 The Importance of Community Support Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this conversation, Nadia and Brooke take on the subject of marriage. They acknowledge marriage’s multifaceted nature and that they are only offering their slice of the pie from within a whole world of ideas, experiences, and perspectives surrounding marriage. They emphasize the importance to them of the values of growth, support, and safety, and explore the need for community in the marriage equation. They acknowledge that staying in the hard has the power to usher in growth and that this can be rewarding, but that only a participant in marriage can know for themselves if it is worth it to stay through the hard times or let go. They share personal stories, insights on self-love, and the importance of authentic connection in relationships. They respect that marriage may not be for everyone, but being relational beings, marriage has been a way they have appreciated growing and learning. The book mentioned by Richard Schwartz is called You Are the One.The homesteading show mentioned is called Back to the Frontier.There are many videos on YouTube discussing Agrihoods.Photo CreditChapters00:00 Introduction to Marriage Perspectives02:30 The Growth Journey in Marriage03:51 Cultural Narratives vs. Reality of Marriage06:13 Vulnerability and Self-Reflection in Relationships08:40 Safety and Emotional Support in Marriage11:03 The Dynamics of Control and Caregiving13:11 The Evolution of Roles in Marriage15:32 The Importance of Mutual Support17:25 Conclusion and Reflections on Marriage20:52 The Rise of Agri-hoods and Community Living24:25 The Pressure of Modern Life on Marriage26:47 The Importance of Community in Marriage28:50 Growth Through Challenges in Relationships31:58 The Reality of Marriage: Perfection vs. Growth36:58 Understanding the Basics of Relationships Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Nadia and Brooke return for a second season to discuss the themes of grief, loss, and healing. They introduce their special guests, Heather Richard and Elena Cheah, who share their profound stories of loss. The conversation delves into the emotional journey of grieving, the importance of community support, and the transformative power of storytelling and music in processing grief. The guests emphasize the need for open discussions about death and the significance of being present for one another during difficult times, cultivating a special awareness of how to hold space for those grieving and offer comfort without needing comfort from the grieving one.If you would like to find out more about Heather Richard, check out her Substack at Story Catching StudiosIf you would like to find out more about Elena Cheah, visit her website here or find her work at her Substack Musical Alchemy JournalPhoto CreditChapters00:00 Welcome Back and Reflections on the Holidays02:46 Introducing the Guests and the Podcast’s Intentions06:00 The Power of Connection and Community08:55 Grief and Loss: Personal Stories11:58 Navigating Sudden Loss and the Role of Hospice15:05 The Healing Power of Music in Grief18:10 Understanding Grief: Perspectives from Different Experiences36:16 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Loss37:58 The Importance of Sharing Death Stories39:58 The Complexity of Grief and Caregiving43:12 Support Systems During Grief44:49 The Role of Music in Processing Emotions48:36 The Power of Presence in Grief50:03 Curiosity and Comfort in Conversations about Death55:44 Transforming Grief into Creative Expression01:03:28 Finding Joy Amidst Grief01:05:57 The Importance of Witnessing in Grief Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

That’s a wrap for 2025! In this heartfelt conversation, Nadia and Brooke reflect on how they’ve been handling the bustling of the holiday season, sharing their different personal experiences. They express gratitude for their women's groups and the importance of supportive relationships among women. They discuss the balance between holiday chaos and finding peace, and the joy of connecting with others. As they wrap up their first season, they celebrate their courage to do and learn something new. They express excitement for future episodes in the new year and thank listeners.00:00 Holiday Prep Updates04:21 The Importance of Community and Connection12:11 Celebrating Women and Supportive Relationships16:31 Reflecting on the Journey and Future AspirationsPhoto Credit Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Nadia and Brooke share heartwarming holiday memories and discuss the balance between mundane work and magical moments, and how something is freed when we allow mundane tasks as part of our journey to creating the warmth and magic. They talk about the necessity of life containing both the mundane and the magic, and how the contrast gives magic and warmth their special quality. Join them as they continue their conversations toward more joy and less stress for the holidays.0:00 Holiday Reflections and Memories02:13 The Magic of Family Traditions04:09 Creating Warmth and Joy During the Holidays06:42 The Contrast of Mundane and Magical Moments08:44 Finding Aliveness in the Work11:10 Retiring the Holiday Magician12:45 Embracing the Mundane on the Journey to Joy14:40 Savoring the Season with Less StressPhoto Credit Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Nadia and Brooke delve into the theme of comparison, particularly during the holiday season. They share personal stories of vulnerability and inadequacy, exploring how feelings can arise when you least expect it and create a sense of not being able to see yourself and your experience clearly, as well as how it takes away the ability to celebrate others whose accomplishments or creativity you are comparing. Nadia and Brooke discuss meeting aspects of the self that are feeling inadequate with patience, kindness, and compassion, and discuss modalities like Internal Family Systems. They are curious about how meeting this part of self can bring clarity about what you might want to try or develop. They highlight celebrating the uniqueness of what they bring and letting go of having to do it all. TakeawaysComparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy.Celebrating uniqueness fosters community, connection and creativity.Letting go of comparison can lead to more joy in trying things.It’s okay to not excel in every area of life.Comparison can inform us what we value and what we might want to try.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates01:21 The Impact of Comparison During the Holidays05:20 Exploring Feelings of Inadequacy09:36 Understanding Internal Family Systems (IFS) Coaching16:00 Celebrating Uniqueness and Individual Values25:01 Focusing on What We Love and Not Doing It AllPhoto Credit Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this conversation, Brooke and Nadia ring in the holiday season early to discuss their desire to enjoy the holidays more fully this year, to feel more joy and warmth, and to feel less stress. They discuss the pressures and expectations that come with being the family’s magicians for holiday joy. They reflect on the roles they play in creating holiday magic, the importance of community and connection, collaborating for ideas, and the need to find meaning beyond the hustle and bustle. This is the first in a series of conversations intended to reimagine and reconnect with holidays in ways that foster joy and celebration rather than stress and perfectionism.takeaways* The holiday season can be overwhelming due to expectations.* Many people feel like they have to be the ‘magician’ of the holidays.* Perfectionism can detract from the joy of the season.* Community and connection are vital for a fulfilling holiday experience.* Embracing playfulness can help alleviate holiday stress.* Mindfulness, slowing down, and intentionality can transform holiday experiences.Chapters00:00Navigating Holiday Emotions09:54The Pressure of Holiday Perfection15:13Navigating the Pressure of Holiday Expectations15:58Rediscovering Joy and Playfulness18:18Creating Meaningful Connections20:44Invoking New Traditions and Magic25:53 Exploring Key ThemesSubscribe below to our Substack to not miss an episode and join us in the comments! Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this podcast, Brooke and Nadia continue their exploration of communication. After a discussion in which they realized they were both on different tracks and didn’t even know it, they realized how easy it is to lose the thread of communication. They talk about communication breakdowns when we don’t understand where the other is coming from, especially in terms of context and experience, and how, instead of asking questions for clarification, we often make assumptions, or push through a conversation not knowing what’s been missed. They wonder what it would be like on a global scale for people to care about each other more, to want to ask questions and listen, while extending the gifts of slowing down, patience, and curiosity. Takeaways:* Communication breakdowns can lead to breakthroughs* A communication breakdown is an opportunity to ask clarifying questions and to listen to the underlying needs of the conversation that might be unknown* Understanding different perspectives leads to a more nuanced understanding of each other and of differences that create misunderstandings* Personal experiences shape our reactions.* Slowing down in conversations is hard, but it allows for more safety to explore* True communication takes courage* Allowing others to matter is a choiceChapters:00:00 Welcome Back and Seasonal Reflections 02:59 Communication Breakdowns and Breakthroughs 08:27 Expectations and Family Dynamics 17:43 Self-Validation and Empathy 25:23 Understanding Perspectives and Communication 33:26 Hope for More Careful Caring Communication Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this heartfelt conversation, Brooke & Nadia explore the sometimes overwhelming experience of loving our children and worrying for their safety and well-being, and the weight and vulnerability this carries. They share experiences and discuss the importance of normalizing the need for connection and community support to help with these feelings, as well as empathy and understanding from others in supporting us as we go through experiences with our children. They talk about the possibility of fostering a sense of resilience and strength by becoming less isolated and more supported.takeaways* Motherhood brings a unique emotional weight that can be overwhelming.* Sharing experiences can help alleviate feelings of isolation.* Creating a supportive environment can foster connection and healing.* It’s okay to seek help and share burdens with others.* Finding hope in shared stories can lessen stress and overwhelm.* We need to remind each other that we are not alone in our struggles.* Someone sitting with us in our difficult emotions is more powerful than advice or telling us we don’t need to worry.Chapters00:00Navigating Motherhood’s Emotional Landscape07:41The Importance of Community in Parenting15:13Building Connections and Vulnerability22:26Finding Support and Encouragement Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this conversation, Brooke and Nadia bump up against differences in their perspectives. They discuss their relationship with perfectionism and the inner critic, sharing personal stories and insights on how these elements impact their creative process and relationships, and how they may experience these aspects differently. They discuss the importance of understanding different perspectives, navigating triggers, and fostering open communication to strengthen connection and communication. They emphasize the value of self-reflection and curiosity in relationships, and agree that this is needed in the current US social climate. They are curious what relationships could create if so much time wasn’t spent on fighting and repair or just getting along and seeing eye to eye.Takeaways* Understanding different perspectives is crucial in relationships.* Triggers can reveal deeper emotional needs.* Open communication fosters connection and understanding.* Curiosity can lead to deeper connections with others.* Conflict can be an opportunity for growth.* Creating a safe space for expression is important.* Beyond just getting along is a creative, collaborative spaceChapters* 00:00:00 Introduction to Vulnerability* 00:03:00 Perfectionism and Inner Critics* 00:09:00 The Power of Open Communication* 00:15:00 Personal Growth and Understanding* 00:21:00 Conclusion and Reflections Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Brooke and Nadia delve into the essence of friendship, exploring themes of vulnerability, celebration, and the importance of emotional support. They discuss how true connections are built on deep listening and acceptance, allowing individuals to share their experiences without judgment. The conversation highlights the significance of celebrating each other’s wins and navigating feelings of jealousy. Ultimately, they emphasize the potential for growth and healing within meaningful friendships, encouraging listeners to foster supportive communities that nurture emotional well-being. They discuss how friendship can be medicine and actually unlock who we are and help us become more of who we are meant to be.Here are some of their talking points:* Friendship is about deep listening and curiosity.* True friends celebrate each other’s successes.* Vulnerability is key to authentic connections.* Jealousy can be transformed into inspiration.* Growth is a fundamental aspect of relationships.* Supportive communities enhance emotional well-being.* Sharing struggles can alleviate feelings of isolation.* Celebrating wins fosters a positive environment.* Friendships should be nourishing and nurturing.* We don’t have to suffer in silence.Chapters00:00 Exploring the Essence of Friendship09:02 The Power of Vulnerability in Connections17:53 Celebrating Wins and Shared Joys25:13 Breaking the Silence: The Need for Authenticity26:49 Exploring Key Themes Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome! We’re so glad you are here at the launch of our new podcast!In this first episode of Here Comes the Sun, Nadia and Brooke engage in a heartfelt conversation about authenticity, vulnerability, and the power of sharing one’s voice. They discuss the journey of overcoming self-doubt, the importance of meaningful connections, and the transformative impact of being true to oneself. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, they explore themes of hope, possibility, and the beauty of human connection.Keywordsvulnerability, connection, self-discovery, authenticity, personal stories, supportive relationships, growth, healing, true self, meaningful connections, friendshipChapters00:00:00 Introduction to Vulnerability and Connection00:00:00 The Power of Authenticity00:00:00 Sharing Personal Stories00:00:00 Supportive Relationships and Growth00:00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery00:00:00 Embracing True Self and Empowerment00:00:01 Meaningful Connections and Impact00:00:01 Creating Change Through Intention00:00:01 Fostering Hope and Community00:00:01 The Sun as a Symbol of Possibility Get full access to Here Comes the Sun at herecomesthesunpodcast.substack.com/subscribe