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PODCAST · health

Next Brave Thing Podcast

by Ella Hooper

Breakthrough lives on the other side of bravery. After working with hundreds of clients and walking through my own emotional health journey, I’ve learned that it’s the small, brave steps that lead to the life you truly desire. Join me, Ella, as I explore what it means to live a courageous life. Each episode is designed to inspire you to take your next brave step—whether it’s in relationships, the workplace, creativity, or personal growth. We’ll dive into topics like: Healthy risk vs. destructive risk Embracing feedback for growth while silencing the critics that keep you small How bravery transforms relationship dynamics Learning to trust and love yourself Shame-free creativity Cultivating deep self worth Subscribe, download, and share the journey—and don’t forget to leave a review to help others find the courage to take their next brave step!

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed May 29, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. 121. Cultivating calm and still; letting go of anxiety as a lifestyle

    In this episode, we explore what it truly means to let go of anxiety as a lifestyle. Through scripture, neuroscience, and practical prompts, we unpack how to move from fear to calm, from scarcity to intuition, and from the amygdala into the imaginative, faith-filled space where creativity…

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  2. 120. Letting go of exhaustion as a status symbol and productivity as self-worth.

    On today's solo episode I explore Brene Brown's guidepost number 7: Cultivating Play and Rest Letting go of exhaustion as a status symbol and productivity as self-worth. Get your free Wholehearted Living journal prompts. https://calm-sun-843.myflodesk.com/x5yo2oyoyu Book a free discovery coaching...

  3. 119. Cultivating meaningful work letting go of self-doubt & "supposed to"

    In today’s solo episode, we explore Guidepost #9: Cultivating Meaningful Work — and what it really takes to let go of self-doubt and the pressure of “supposed to.” If you’ve ever questioned your purpose, felt depleted in your work, or wondered what meaningful work actually looks like, this...

  4. 118. Life Lately

    I thought I would put out a little solo episode to catch up and check in!

  5. 117. Finding clarity in transition with James Burke

    In this episode, James Burke explores what it truly means to lead with intention, authenticity, and care. We talk about finding language for transition seasons—those in-between moments when most people crave certainty, but what they actually need is clarity. James shares how great leadership…

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  6. 116. Finding Yourself in Laughter, Song, and Dance with Christa Parodi

    I invited Christa Parodi on the podcast to talk about Brené Brown’s Guidepost #10: Cultivating Laughter, Song, and Dance—letting go of being cool and “always in control.” In this heartwarming episode, Christa and I explore the transformative power of joy, creativity, and self-trust. We talk about...

  7. 115. The Messy, Beautiful Work of Living Wholeheartedly with Kristen Pietsch

    In this episode, Kris and I dive into what it really means to live wholeheartedly. We talk about self-compassion, authenticity, and vulnerability — and how these shape the way we show up in life, especially when we’re in survival mode. We unpack the paradoxes of wholehearted living, the…

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  8. 114. Seen, Heard, Understood: How Validation Heals the Pain Cycle

    Have you ever felt dismissed, unseen, or misunderstood? In this episode, Ella unpacks the healing power of validation—the simple yet profound act of saying, “I see you. I hear you. You matter.” Through personal stories, spiritual insight, and psychology, we explore how validation stops the pain...

  9. 113. Understanding Triggers: The Key to Emotional Safety with Rachel Hughes

    This is a special episode because I’m joined by my life consultant, Rachel Hughes, for a rich conversation about the nervous system, trauma, and the journey of healing. Rachel has been a deeply influential voice in my own process—teaching me what it means to feel safe in my body and how to gently...

  10. 112. Cultivating Creativity: Letting Go of Comparison with Dr. Amy Leigh Wicks

    In this conversation, I connect with my dearest friend—actress, author, and poet Amy Leigh Wicks—to explore Brené Brown's guidepost on cultivating creativity and letting go of comparison. We dive into the messy, beautiful intersection of creativity, comparison, and self-compassion. We talk about...

  11. 111. Cultivating Intuition and Trusting Faith; Letting go of the need for certainty.

    Today I am exploring the guidepost Cultivating Intuition and Trusting Faith; Letting go of the need for certainty. Get your free Wholehearted Living journal prompts. https://calm-sun-843.myflodesk.com/x5yo2oyoyu Book a free discovery coaching call: www.ella-hooper.com Follow me on...

  12. 110. Observe Don't Absorb

    Have you ever been on the receiving end of a guilt trip, or had someone unload all their drama onto you, leaving you unsure how to respond? If so, this episode is for you. Today’s conversation is inspired by a simple yet powerful quote: “Observe, don’t absorb.” It’s a real skill to witness…

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  13. 109. How I regulate my emotions

    Are you aware of when you’re triggered? Most of us aren’t—at least not until we begin paying closer attention to our emotional world. In this episode, I break down the signs of being triggered and share how I process, make sense of my emotions, and reframe my experiences to support healing. Join…

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  14. 108. Shamefree living: How to Stop Hiding and Start Living with Courtney Lancaster

    Shame tells us we’re unworthy of love and belonging—but what if learning to face it could set us free? In this episode of The Next Brave Thing, I invited a returning guest Courtney Lancaster, a trauma-informed life coach, to unpack the complexities of shame, creativity, and the courage to be…

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  15. 107. Cultivating Gratitude & Joy - Letting Go of Scarcity & Fear of the Dark

    (Guidepost 4) Gratitude and joy aren’t just feel-good emotions—they are spiritual practices and nervous system tools for living a wholehearted life. In this episode, we explore what it means to let go of scarcity and fear of the dark and instead lean into the beauty and presence of joy, even when...

  16. 106. Cultivating a Resilient Spirit: Letting Go of Numbing and Powerlessness

    “There are some very universal pieces of armor that we all wear: foreboding joy, perfectionism, and numbing.” — Brené Brown In this episode of The Wholehearted Series, we explore what it means to cultivate a resilient spirit—a key guidepost in living a wholehearted life. At the heart of this...

  17. 105. Live in your full capacity with Dr. Margaret Nagib

    In this transformative conversation, I’m joined by Dr. Margaret Nagib — clinical psychologist and spiritual development coach — to explore the vital role of the nervous system in both our emotional and spiritual health. Dr. Margaret unpacks how the nervous system forms the foundation for every…

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  18. 104: Finding your true identity with Donna Winship

    In this episode, I talk with Donna Winship about identity, belonging, and what it really means to hear God’s voice. Donna shares her journey from growing up in a Jewish community, to wrestling with big questions about God, to ultimately discovering a new identity through Jesus. We dive into her...

  19. 103. Cultivating Self-Compassion – Letting Go of Perfectionism

    In this episode of The Wholehearted Series, we explore the powerful shift from perfectionism to self-compassion. Perfectionism ties our worth to performance, fueling fear, shame, and disconnection. But self-compassion offers a new way—one rooted in kindness, common humanity, and mindful…

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  20. 102. Reframing Vulnerability with Jon Toms

    "Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity." – Brené Brown As part of The Wholehearted Series, I knew we had to talk about a key ingredient of wholehearted living—and that is vulnerability. Honestly, I don't think you can live a truly wholehearted...

  21. 101. Cultivating Authenticity: Letting Go of What People Think

    “Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.” — Brené Brown In this episode of The Wholehearted Series, we explore the foundational guidepost of living a brave, connected life: Cultivating Authenticity by letting go of what…

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  22. 100. The Wholehearted Series: Uncovering Your Worth & the True You

    The Wholehearted Series – Inspired by Brené Brown Welcome to The Wholehearted Series on The Next Brave Thing podcast. This special season is a deep dive into what it means to live from the inside out—with integrity, alignment, and courage. Inspired by the transformative work of Dr. Brené Brown,...

  23. 99. Introduction to understanding your emotions

    Today I’m wrapping up Season 5 with an episode all about understanding your emotions. Emotions can often feel abstract and ambiguous, so in this episode, I’m sharing some of the foundational things I’ve learned that can help make sense of them. I’ll be back in a few weeks with Season 6—and I’m...

  24. 98. The Intersection of Trauma and Spirituality with Hannah Wilson

    In this episode of The Next Brave Thing, I sit down with the insightful and compassionate Hannah Wilson, a licensed marriage and family therapist, to explore the deep and often tender intersections between trauma, emotional health, and spirituality. We talk about how trauma shows up in our...

  25. 97. Wholehearted Living vs. Perfectionism

    Is “doing your best” actually just fear in disguise? In this episode, I unpack the subtle but powerful difference between wholehearted living and perfectionism. We explore how striving to be perfect often stems from fear, shame, or a need to prove ourselves—and how living from love, grace, and...

  26. 96. Living a Creative Life: Visibility & Letting Go with Lara Pilcher

    In this episode of The Next Brave Thing podcast, I have a heartfelt conversation with Lara Pilcher, diving deep into creativity, vulnerability, and personal growth. Lara opens up about her artistic journey, the challenges she faced while building her career in London, and the transformative...

  27. 95. What is yours will find you

    In this episode, I unpack a quote I stumbled across: “What is yours will find you.” It hit me in a tender, grounding way—like a deep breath I didn’t know I needed. It brought up some honest questions about control, striving, and self-preservation. Am I holding on too tightly? Trying to force…

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  28. 94. Starting Over & Reinvention with Chris Cruz

    In this episode of The Next Brave Thing, I talk with Chris Cruz—creative director and former pastor—about identity, reinvention, and the courage it takes to start over. Chris shares his journey of leaving ministry to pursue his creative passions, the challenges of navigating societal pressures…

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  29. 93. How to ACTUALLY surrender

    This week, I had to let go of something—doubt. Not because I didn’t know the answer, but because I didn’t like the one I knew deep down was true. That tension pulled me into the tender terrain of surrender—a word we throw around often but rarely sit with long enough to understand. Surrender isn’t...

  30. 92. Navigating Transition Seasons Part 2 - The In Between

    Are you waiting for something? Many of us can relate to the in-between season—the space where what we’re hoping for hasn’t arrived yet, while everything else seems to be falling apart, crumbling, or being pulled away. But this in-between isn’t a punishment; it’s a refinement. You are being…

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  31. 91. Overcoming Perfectionism: A Hollywood Exec’s Journey to Authenticity & Faith

    In this episode of the Next Brave Thing podcast, I sit down with Katherine Warnock, Vice President of Content for the acclaimed TV series The Chosen. Katherine shares her inspiring journey from high school teacher to Hollywood executive, discussing the success of The Chosen and the crucial role…

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  32. 90. How to Navigate Change & Transition Seasons Part 1

    Many people find themselves in a season of transition, full of uncertainty and questions. So, I asked you what’s on your mind! In today’s episode, I dive into the questions you submitted—how to endure a prolonged transition, what to do when you don’t know what you’re transitioning into, how to...

  33. 89. Boundaries: Creating Peace with Jenna Zint

    Jenna Zint is back, everyone! And today, we're diving into the topic of boundaries. If you're anything like me, you might feel a little unsure—or even carry some fears —when it comes to setting healthy boundaries. That’s why I love this episode! Jenna brings incredible insights, practical...

  34. 88. Getting your needs met with Laura Duncan

    In this deep and insightful conversation, Ella Hooper and Laura Duncan explore the power of self-compassion, emotional needs, and the neuroscience of healing. Laura shares her journey in developing the Compassion Method, shedding light on the ten emotional gifts essential for healthy development....

  35. 87. What is a life coach?

    In this solo episode, I break down what it means to be a life coach and how courage plays a key role in transforming your life—whether it’s quitting a job, setting boundaries, or launching that dream business. My job is to help you identify your next brave step and guide you in building the tools...

  36. 86. Healing from our past with Chantelle Nelson

    In a world where parent shaming and blame are all too common, I wanted to sit down with my good friend Chantelle Nelson for an honest conversation about moving beyond blaming our parents for what we did or didn’t receive in childhood. Together, we explore the concept of reparenting—what it means…

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  37. 85. Nourish your soul with self compassion

    Research shows that when we feel good about ourselves, we make better decisions. But let’s be real—how often do we reach for comfort in food, alcohol, or shopping to escape pain? Spoiler: it leaves us feeling numb, stuck, and yep, the hangover is real. Enter self-compassion—a life-changing…

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  38. 84. 2025 - The year of embodiment!

    I don’t know about you, but this year, I don’t just want to talk about transformation—I want to live it. I want to lead a life where my body, soul, and spirit are fully aligned. We live in a time where we are inundated with information, yet we struggle to embody it. Transformation isn’t about…

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  39. 83. 2024 Review, reflection and staying present

    In this solo episode, I reflect on the lessons and growth from 2024 as the year comes to a close. Join me as I take time to pause, process, and prepare for the year ahead—letting go of the past while carrying forward valuable insights for the future. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas! Set…

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  40. 82. Finding Fulfillment with Lloyd Roberts

    Lloyd Roberts, co-founder of the billion-dollar company LoanPro, author of Gcubed: The Only Formula You Will Ever Need to Become Personally Fulfilled, and founder of the charity Becoming More, joins us for a powerful conversation. It’s always a privilege to host someone who not only achieves...

  41. 81. Overcoming Insecurity with Alley Vallotton

    In this episode of the Next Brave Thing podcast, Ella Hooper interviews Alley Vallotton about her journey of self-discovery, insecurity, and the importance of cultivating security in one's life. They discuss the impact of social media on self-perception, the significance of community and...

  42. 80. Desire, uncertainty & silence that speaks volumes with Strahan Coleman

    This episode was such a joy for me to create! Strahan Coleman's work has profoundly impacted my life, so when he agreed to come on my podcast, I was thrilled. In our conversation, I asked him to expand on some of his poetry that has deeply resonated with me. We discuss the power of silence and...

  43. 79. How to process pain in 5 steps with Jason Vallotton

    In this conversation, Jason Vallotton shares his journey through pain, forgiveness, and healing after experiencing a difficult divorce and becoming a single parent. He discusses the importance of processing pain, understanding needs, and setting boundaries in relationships. Jason emphasizes the...

  44. 78. Life Update - I moved back to Australia!

    In today's episode I share a BIG life update. After 10 years of living in California, I have moved back to Australia. Listen to the episode to hear about my process. For more information on life coaching book in a free 20 minute discovery call here: https://www.ella-hooper.com/schedule Follow me…

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  45. 77. How to tell your story with Dr. Amy Leigh Wicks

    In this episode, I'm thrilled to welcome back the wonderful Dr. Amy Leigh Wicks. Together, we dive deep into the art and craft of writing a book. We explore essential topics like finding your writing rhythm, nurturing a consistent writing practice, and embracing a holistic perspective on...

  46. 76. Your Ego vs. Your Authentic Self: A Journey to Self-Acceptance with Chantelle Nelson

    In this thought-provoking episode, I’m joined again by my friend Chantelle Nelson. We dive deep into the intricate dance between our ego and our authentic selves. What does it truly mean to be yourself in a world that often pressures us to conform? Join us as we explore the concept of…

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  47. 75. Pioneering Dreams: Resilience and Transformation with Lisa Broere

    Join me today as I sit down with my dear friend Lisa Broere, who serves as the Head of Dance at Bethel Conservatory of the Arts. In this episode, we delve into our shared journey of helping pioneer a University. Lisa shares her passion for training dancers in a unique way, and we discuss the...

  48. 74. Dream, I dare you with Julia Gentry

    Today I am joined by author, life coach, pastor, speaker, wife, mother Julia Gentry! I recently completed her dream group coaching program and walked away feeling to aligned! In this episode we talk about breaking free from control, healing disappointment to dream again! We talk about abundance,...

  49. 73. Knowing Who You Are: Finding Passion, Vision, and Conviction with the Noroña's

    Join us today as I chat with David and Lisa Noroña, two remarkable artists whose journey has taken them from the bustling streets of New York to a little Mountain town in California. In this episode, we delve into a wide range of topics: The Search for Significance: Exploring the deeper meaning...

  50. 72. Heal, dream, create with Courtney Lancaster

    Today I am joined by life consultant, singer/songwriter, speaker and podcaster Courtney Lancaster. In this episode we delve into the connection between dreaming and healing. In this podcast, we explore how our deepest desires often intersect with our anxieties, and how tending to our nervous…

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Breakthrough lives on the other side of bravery.

After working with hundreds of clients and walking through my own emotional health journey, I’ve learned that it’s the small, brave steps that lead to the life you truly desire.

Join me, Ella, as I explore what it means to live a courageous life. Each episode is designed to inspire you to take your next brave step—whether it’s in relationships, the workplace, creativity, or personal growth.

We’ll dive into topics like:

Healthy risk vs. destructive risk

Embracing feedback for growth while silencing the critics that keep you small

How bravery transforms relationship dynamics

Learning to trust and love yourself

Shame-free creativity

Cultivating deep self worth

Subscribe, download, and share the journey—and don’t forget to leave a review to help others find the courage to take their next brave step!

HOSTED BY

Ella Hooper

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Next Brave Thing Podcast have?

Next Brave Thing Podcast currently has 122 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Next Brave Thing Podcast about?

Breakthrough lives on the other side of bravery. After working with hundreds of clients and walking through my own emotional health journey, I’ve learned that it’s the small, brave steps that lead to the life you truly desire. Join me, Ella, as I explore what it means to live a courageous life....

How often does Next Brave Thing Podcast release new episodes?

Next Brave Thing Podcast publishes regularly with 122 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.

Where can I listen to Next Brave Thing Podcast?

You can listen to Next Brave Thing Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Next Brave Thing Podcast?

Next Brave Thing Podcast is created and hosted by Ella Hooper.
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