Operational Harmony: Balancing Business & Mental Wellbeing

Starting a business is not just about delivering a product or service. It is about learning systems, marketing, hiring, finances, and decision-making before mistakes become expensive. Tammy Johnston shares why new business owners often seek the wrong help, hire the wrong people, and focus on the wrong priorities. The conversation explores capacity, accountability, networking, mental health, and building a foundation strong enough to survive long term.ksabusines.cahttps://www.instagram.com/ksa.business/Fully Timestamped Show Notes00:00:00 Tammy Johnston introduces her work helping new businesses build strong foundations.00:01:00 Early-stage mistakes and why prevention is easier than repair.00:02:00 Nikki discusses systems, documentation, and getting knowledge out of the owner's head.00:03:00 Business owners often underestimate administration and operational responsibilities.00:03:45 Tammy explains the difference between "bunny rabbits" and "owls" in business.00:05:00 Strengths, weaknesses, and why self-awareness matters.00:06:00 Hiring people for fit instead of hiring bodies.00:07:00 Delegation, repetitive tasks, and finding people who enjoy different types of work.00:08:00 The danger of taking business advice from people without business experience.00:09:00 Learning through mistakes and surviving the startup years.00:10:00 Celebrating wins and accepting positive feedback.00:11:00 Internal criticism and confidence challenges for business owners.00:12:00 Why beginners need different coaching than established businesses.00:13:00 Specialized coaches versus foundational business support.00:14:00 Timing, sequencing, and building the right skills in the right order.00:15:00 Business growth compared to getting dressed in the correct sequence.00:16:00 Information overload and the problem with massive course libraries.00:17:00 Why self-paced training often goes unfinished.00:18:00 Accountability versus unlimited access learning.00:19:00 Mental health, productivity, and energy management.00:20:00 Balancing business responsibilities with personal realities.00:21:00 Entrepreneurship, parenting, and different life circumstances.00:22:00 Family roles, support systems, and evolving expectations.00:23:00 Relationships, support networks, and practical realities.00:24:00 Community support and the importance of helpful people.00:25:00 Mental health struggles and entrepreneurship.00:26:00 Matching coaches to specific business stages and needs.00:27:00 The family doctor versus specialist analogy.00:28:00 Expensive coaching programs and misleading expertise.00:29:00 Marketing skill versus actual business experience.00:30:00 Understanding what you do not know.00:31:00 Vetting courses and seeking trusted opinions.00:32:00 Building support networks and leveraging expertise.00:33:00 The value of entrepreneurial communities.00:34:00 Networking, consistency, and finding the right platform.00:35:00 Mental health awareness and capacity management.00:36:00 Technology, problem solving, and relying on trusted contacts.00:37:00 Career paths, changing directions, and personal fit.00:38:00 Community, relationships, and entrepreneurial loneliness.00:39:00 Reciprocity, networking, and business growth.00:40:00 Final thoughts on learning, growth, and entrepreneurship.

Glen Poulos shares how a failed business sale wiped out millions on paper, then forced him to rebuild through fear, trust, and better customer systems. Nikki and Glen talk about sales, decision-making, customer care, and why small details can shape loyalty. Guest links: GlennPoulos.com and LinkedIn.https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennpoulos/https://glennpoulos.com/https://amzn.to/3whwPh3Fully Timestamped Show Notes00:00 Glen introduces himself and the conversation begins. 00:30 Glen explains how he moved from government work into sales. 01:00 He starts his first company in 1991 after his employer rejects his startup idea. 01:40 Glen explains his Canadian business background and move to Orlando. 03:45 The conversation shifts to the sale of his first business. 04:20 Glen shares how the deal left him with locked shares that went to zero. 05:40 Nikki asks how he handled the emotional and financial fallout. 06:45 Glen explains that fear of poverty pushed him to act. 08:15 He uses retirement funds, calls suppliers, rebuilds trust, and starts again. 10:30 Glen reflects on focusing on what he got to keep. 11:30 Nikki shares how moving often shaped her relationship patterns. 15:00 Glen connects with the difficulty of forming long-term friendships after moving. 18:10 The conversation returns to Glen’s second Canadian company. 19:20 Glen explains how the second company became profitable quickly. 20:30 He names the core shift, becoming a pleasure to do business with. 21:30 Glen explains customer-first systems, including direct access to the owner. 23:20 He describes employee decision limits for solving customer problems. 24:30 Glen explains how accountability and trust worked together. 25:20 Nikki connects this to lost “mom and pop” customer service. 28:00 They discuss how being known by name changes the customer experience. 34:30 Glen gives small examples, candy jars, snacks, and treating visitors well. 36:15 Nikki shares a client gift story tied to relationship-building. 37:30 Glen closes with his book, Never Sit in the Lobby, and LinkedIn.

Alyssa Wolf shares how time pressure, not time itself, creates overwhelm in life and business. The conversation breaks down mental load, unrealistic expectations, and why chaos often comes from missing systems, not lack of effort. Nikki and Alyssa connect personal structure with business operations, showing how boundaries, prioritization, and simple processes reduce stress and improve clarity.Website: https://yourunbusylife.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unbusy-mom-time-management-for-work-at-home-moms/id1601873433 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-wolff-unbusyFully Timestamped Show Notes00:00 – Alyssa’s unexpected start Alyssa shares how having “too much time” with five kids led her into business and time management work.02:30 – Time vs pressure Discussion shifts to how overwhelm is not about workload, but internal pressure and expectations.04:00 – The mental load problem Alyssa explains the “I should” loop and how it creates constant stress regardless of circumstances.06:00 – Redefining roles at home Letting go of traditional expectations and training kids to take ownership of responsibilities.08:30 – Outsourcing and boundaries The emotional resistance behind asking for help and redefining what “good” looks like.11:00 – What is enough time with your kids Breaking unrealistic expectations around quality time and finding sustainable ways to connect.13:00 – Practical connection strategies Using simple activities like card games to maintain consistent engagement without burnout.16:00 – Sensory overload and environment control Conversation around sound sensitivity and how environment impacts mental state.19:00 – Scheduling as a mental health tool Reframing scheduling from restriction to intentional life design.21:00 – Protecting personal time Why self-care needs to be scheduled with the same priority as work.24:00 – Business chaos explained Shift into operations, why chaos is usually a structure problem, not a motivation issue.26:00 – SOPs and system thinking Importance of documenting processes before problems hit.30:00 – Crisis vs process thinking Why people fail to document systems because they are always in reactive mode.33:00 – Triage in business Understanding what actually needs attention now vs later.34:00 – Client boundaries Not every urgent request is your responsibility.36:00 – Prioritization and workload clarity Separating real urgency from perceived urgency.40:00 – Handling team gaps and absence How systems prevent collapse when a key person is unavailable.41:00 – When to hire help Recognizing when you are past capacity and need support.44:00 – SOPs before hiring Why documentation must exist before bringing on support roles.45:00 – Identifying the real bottleneck Is it time, resistance, or lack of knowledge.46:00 – Final takeaway Fix the most frustrating problem first to create immediate relief.

John Conley, founder of Rapid Resolution Therapy, challenges traditional mental health approaches that rely on reliving past trauma. This conversation explores why repetition can reinforce pain, how the mind actually drives experience, and what it looks like to create change without emotional re-exposure. Learn more at https://rapidresolutiontherapy.comFully Timestamped Show Notes00:00:00 – Introduction to John Conley and RRT Overview of why people seek help, improving or resolving internal struggles.00:01:00 – Why people feel stuck Clients want change but can’t move forward or away from patterns.00:02:00 – Perspective over truth Focus on usefulness of thinking, not defining absolute truth.00:03:00 – Traditional therapy limitations Structured intake vs real listening and connection.00:04:00 – Letting the client lead Following what matters to the individual, not practitioner curiosity.00:05:00 – Feeling truly understood Rare experience, key to progress.00:06:00 – Core RRT principle All experience originates in the mind, even extreme physical pain.00:08:00 – Behavior and survival Mind drives behavior to protect self or connected ideas.00:09:00 – Environment vs internal processing Limits of focusing only on external causes.00:10:00 – Early career in child protective services Focus on environment before shifting to internal work.00:12:00 – Nikki’s therapy experiences Talk therapy, EMDR, repetition based approaches.00:13:00 – EMDR discussion Respect for practitioners, but limitations noted.00:15:00 – Reliving experiences Why some therapies can retraumatize.00:17:00 – Emotional intensity in sessions Concern about distress during therapy.00:18:00 – Repetition increases impact Memory reinforcement rather than resolution.00:19:00 – Mental health training critique Reliving trauma as standard practice.00:21:00 – Real world exposure to trauma Work with abused children and runaway teens.00:22:00 – Shift away from traditional methods Recognition that old models weren’t improving outcomes.00:23:00 – Current vs past focus Present issues shaped by past data, but handled differently.00:24:00 – Releasing emotions myth Critique of emotional release model.00:25:00 – Why feeling worse doesn’t fix anything Patterns reinforce themselves.00:26:00 – Free global sessions Open meetings to help people worldwide.00:27:00 – Observational learning impact Even passive participation can shift outcomes.00:28:00 – Resources available Books, recordings, and sessions.00:29:00 – Mind-body connection Mental shifts impacting physical conditions.00:30:00 – Training others in RRT Opening access beyond licensed professionals.

Fully Timestamped Show Notes00:00:00 – Introduction and Background Bob introduces his background in physics, emergency medicine, and healing work. Early focus on helping others.00:02:00 – Medical Career and Turning Point Work in cancer treatment, discovery around heat and cancer cells, frustration with traditional systems.00:03:30 – Intuition and Emergency Work Experiences in emergency response and intuitive decision-making.00:04:00 – Business Struggles and Self-Sabotage Pattern of failed ventures leads to realization of internal conflict.00:05:00 – Fear of Success and Limiting Beliefs Psychological insight, lack of clear guidance, and self-led exploration.00:06:00 – Core Beliefs and Safety Mechanisms Childhood trauma shaping visibility and behavior.00:07:30 – Mental Health Framing from Nikki Lived experience vs academic understanding.00:08:00 – Conscious vs Subconscious Mind How beliefs are formed and reinforced over time.00:10:00 – Perception vs Reality in Healing Tools Example of misunderstanding product messaging and identity fear.00:12:00 – Trauma as Physical Response Electrical response in nervous system, introduction to tapping.00:13:00 – EFT Tapping Explained Mechanics, nerve points, and application.00:15:00 – Layered Trauma Example Case study showing how trauma reveals deeper layers.00:17:00 – PTSD and Triggers Instant reactions and survival mechanisms.00:20:00 – Physical Symptoms Linked to Trauma Example of abdominal pain tied to emotional event.00:21:30 – Broader Understanding of PTSD Clarifying misconceptions and different trauma types.00:23:00 – Chronic Conditions and Trauma Links Migraines example tied to past abuse.00:25:00 – Medical System Limitations Discussion on symptom treatment vs root cause.00:28:00 – Immune System and Stress Impact How unresolved trauma affects physical health.00:30:00 – Personal Diagnosis Experience Bob’s brain tumor and system frustration.00:31:30 – Tapping for Physical Relief Examples in pain, asthma, and heart rhythm.00:33:00 – Medication Tradeoffs and Reality Nikki shares lived experience with chronic conditions.00:35:00 – Pharmaceutical Industry Concerns System incentives and patient behavior.00:36:00 – Natural vs Synthetic Support Discussion on vitamins and absorption.00:39:00 – Phobia Resolution Example Fear of dogs traced to childhood event.00:42:00 – Placebo Effect and Faith Mechanism Belief activating internal healing systems.00:44:00 – Mind Control Over Physical State Extreme example of personality-linked illness.00:45:00 – Perception and Fear Responses Real-world comparison of belief-driven reactions.00:48:00 – Nocebo Effect Belief blocking healing outcomes.00:49:00 – Trauma and Organ-Specific Impact Patterns between emotional events and physical illness.00:52:00 – Allergy Connection to Trauma Triggers formed through association.00:56:00 – Subconscious Access Techniques Sleep state and memory retrieval.00:58:30 – Toxic Positivity vs Reality Nikki reframes mental health expectations.01:00:00 – Business Impact of Thought Patterns Self-talk influencing execution and reliability.01:01:30 – Physiology of Emotional States Body posture and emotional experience link.01:04:00 – Gradual Self-Acceptance Moving from survival to tolerance to self-worth.01:06:00 – Purpose and Meaning Closing reflections on helping others and long-term growth.

Most business owners think they have a marketing problem. This conversation shows why it is usually a clarity problem instead. Sophie Campi explains how deep connection, specific audiences, and strong foundations remove overwhelm and make growth sustainable.Links:https://www.ren-wellbeing.com/https://www.instagram.com/ren.wellbeing/https://www.youtube.com/@RenWellbeingFully Timestamped Show Notes00:00 Sophie introduces her work, helping practitioners build sustainable businesses through clarity, simplicity, and nervous system awareness01:00 The common mistake, thinking marketing is the problem when it is actually strategy02:00 What “radical clarity” means and why generalizing your audience weakens results03:00 How clarity removes resistance to selling and marketing04:00 The missing phase in business, the search and connection stage before growth05:00 Why skipping the early phase wastes time, money, and energy06:00 Deep connection explained, conversations without trying to fix or sell07:00 Letting patterns emerge naturally instead of forcing positioning08:00 Two outcomes from early conversations, wrong audience or strong alignment09:00 Why misalignment early is low risk and easy to correct10:00 Recognizing your real audience through repeated patterns11:00 The trap of choosing the wrong target audience and how to recover12:00 Letting go of a “romanticized” audience that does not exist13:00 A simple test, if you cannot find them for a casual conversation, they are not your people14:00 Nervous system alignment as a filter for who you should work with15:00 Balancing mission driven work with practical starting points16:00 Real world constraints shaping audience selection17:00 Trauma, comfort, and how personal experience affects business choices18:00 Confusion as a major stressor on mental and physical health19:00 Why mission driven businesses amplify emotional impact20:00 The cost of unclear business structure on wellbeing21:00 The three pillars, radical clarity, simplicity, deep connection22:00 Community as a core driver of long term wellbeing23:00 The overlap between business struggles and mental health24:00 Systems mistakes and how weak foundations create bigger problems later25:00 Fixing core problems vs chasing surface level fixes26:00 Sustainable growth vs short term wins27:00 Building trust in your business foundation28:00 The “dirty glasses” analogy for loss of clarity over time29:00 How external advice can pull you out of alignment30:00 Example of following advice that did not fit personal mission31:00 Accumulating misalignment through repeated changes32:00 Emotional impact, guilt, wasted time, and frustration33:00 Self forgiveness and moving forward34:00 Radical honesty vs being reactive or harsh35:00 Clear thinking as a business necessity36:00 Avoiding assumptions and letting people define their needs37:00 High stakes require precision, not generalization38:00 Medical analogy, why specificity matters in outcomes39:00 The risk of working with the wrong type of support40:00 Raising the standard for practitioners and coaches41:00 Why specialization leads to faster, better results42:00 The responsibility of service providers in a high need world43:00 Trying to serve everyone leads to serving no one44:00 The importance of matching specific problems with specific solutions45:00 Risks in unregulated coaching and healing spaces46:00 Final takeaway, clarity and specificity reduce harm and improve outcomes

Joshua J. Gragnani, an advisor with International Business Advisors and the author of The High Quality Team Leadership Handbook, discusses the gap between owning a business and leading a team. The conversation explores why most managers receive little training in people management and how that affects small business [email protected]://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuagragnani/https://www.instagram.com/ib.advisors/https://www.facebook.com/people/Joshua-J-Gragnani/100035254600616/https://theinternationalbusinessadvisors.com/https://popl.co/profile/4ghttps://4GpublishingCompany.comFully Timestamped Show Notes00:00 – Introduction to Joshua GragnaniJoshua introduces his background as a business advisor and author working with small businesses to improve profitability.01:00 – Why the leadership book took two years to writeJoshua explains the research and real-world testing required for meaningful business advice.03:00 – The real topic behind the bookDiscussion shifts from leadership theory to the practical problem of managing employees.06:00 – Why new managers strugglePromotion rarely comes with training in how to manage people.09:00 – Business owners and the people problemMany entrepreneurs build companies around skill or product knowledge, not leadership.12:00 – The disconnect between leadership advice and realityPopular leadership ideas often fail inside small businesses.16:00 – Why employees and employers misunderstand each otherExpectations, incentives, and communication break down quickly.20:00 – Small business leadership challengesOwners are forced to manage people without formal training.24:00 – Team structure and responsibilityManagers become accountable for results without being taught how to lead.28:00 – The role of operational clarityClear expectations and processes prevent many leadership conflicts.33:00 – Why culture alone is not enoughPositive language and motivation do not replace operational structure.38:00 – Leadership mistakes that cost businesses moneyPoor communication and unclear expectations create expensive problems.44:00 – Advice for business owners building teamsLeadership requires learning people management as a real skill.49:00 – Final thoughts on leadership developmentThe conversation closes around practical learning and experience as the path to better leadership.

Cam Knight discusses internal resistance, the mental barrier that prevents people from acting on goals they already understand. He explains how the brain separates desire from execution, why distraction and perfectionism often hide resistance, and how repeated self-talk can shift behavior. This conversation explores the gap between knowing and doing in business and life.Guest linkshttps://[email protected] Timestamped Show Notes00:00 – Cam Knight introduction, bestselling author and performance researcher 01:00 – The question that shaped his work, why people fail to act on goals 02:00 – Discovering the concept of internal resistance 03:00 – How the brain separates desire from action 04:00 – Resistance as the decision-making gatekeeper in the mind 05:00 – How resistance appears as procrastination, distraction, or avoidance 06:00 – Early career goals and repeated patterns of stalled progress 07:00 – The breakthrough insight during a Brendan Burchard seminar 08:00 – Identity conflict and the brain blocking action 09:00 – Why storytelling helps people understand complex ideas 10:00 – Cam’s experience as an author and learning the power of stories 11:00 – Marketing, speaking, and the role of narrative in influence 12:00 – Nikki and Cam discuss trust and relatability in storytelling 13:00 – Why audiences connect with personal journeys 14:00 – The importance of context in understanding people 15:00 – Communication misunderstandings in professional settings 16:00 – How context resolves conflict in conversations 17:00 – Direct communication styles and workplace expectations 18:00 – Challenges when people interpret directness as criticism 19:00 – Balancing honesty with empathy in client work 20:00 – The growing complexity of communication in modern culture 21:00 – Media saturation and differing communication norms 22:00 – Sensitivity and misinterpretation in business conversations 23:00 – Emotional triggers and responsibility for personal reactions 24:00 – Relationships, dopamine cycles, and attention spans 25:00 – Why modern relationships face increasing communication strain 26:00 – Emotional triggers and social expectations 27:00 – Freedom of speech and consequences in communication 28:00 – Personal responsibility for emotional reactions 29:00 – Everyday frustrations and social interactions 30:00 – Managing emotional reactions in daily life 31:00 – Recognizing emotional thinking patterns 32:00 – Why anger does not automatically mean wrongdoing 33:00 – Emotional awareness as a conflict prevention tool 34:00 – Returning to internal resistance and its role in business 35:00 – Resistance appearing in relationships and personal goals 36:00 – The brain’s endless creation of desires 37:00 – Why pursuing too many wants creates friction 38:00 – Causes of resistance including beliefs, authority, and identity 39:00 – The “tricks of resistance” that block action 40:00 – Planning and perfectionism as disguised resistance 41:00 – Recognizing patterns that stall progress 42:00 – Self-talk as a practical tool for overcoming resistance 43:00 – Difference between mindset and repeated behavioral prompts 44:00 – Free resources and deeper learning on internal resistance 45:00 – Where listeners can connect with Cam Knight

Dr. Janelle Martin shares the reality of navigating her teenage daughter’s addiction, setting boundaries, and discovering brain-based recovery tools that changed both their lives. This conversation explores trauma, enabling, parent shame, and neurofeedback as a path to long-term healing.Guest Links:https://www.ourbeautifulrecovery.comhttps://www.tmcbrainhealthcenter.comhttps://www.facebook.com/ourbeautifulrecovery/https://www.facebook.com/YourBrainCanHeal/https://www.instagram.com/ourbeautifulrecovery/https://www.instagram.com/themindconnection/Fully Timestamped Show Notes00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Janelle Martin and holistic brain healing 02:00 – Nikki’s smoking addiction and relapse dreams 04:00 – Differences between smoking and substance addiction 07:00 – Enabling versus helping, delaying rock bottom 10:00 – Pain as the catalyst for change 12:00 – Secondary trauma and vulnerability in addiction 16:00 – Mental health roots of addiction 20:00 – Emotional maturity and long-term substance use 23:00 – Discovery of daughter’s drug use 25:00 – Failed counseling experience 29:00 – Escalation, relocation, and crisis 33:00 – Treatment center and turning point 35:00 – Neurofeedback and brain healing introduction 39:00 – Daughter joins the practice 42:00 – Harmful language from loved ones 46:00 – Parent anger and shame 53:00 – Support groups and normalization 59:00 – Closing reflections and book mention

Benjamin Speich, fractional COO, breaks down how founders stay stuck wearing every hat and why clarity in operations unlocks real growth. He shares how eliminating low-value work increased revenue, how defining success per role improves delegation, and why vulnerability matters in leadership. This conversation connects structure, discomfort, networking, and emotional regulation to practical business maturity.Connect with Benjamin Speich:[email protected]://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminspeich/00:00 – Ben introduces his role as a fractional COO and explains short-term operational engagements 03:00 – Building analogy for operations as scaffolding that repairs structural cracks 04:00 – Straddling process and people, where fractional operators sit 05:00 – Networking as practice, building the “conversation muscle” 07:00 – Balancing pushing yourself versus allowing discomfort 09:00 – Choosing services intentionally when building a business 10:00 – Networking extremes, authenticity versus performance 14:00 – When presence lacks consistency in networking 18:00 – Wearing multiple hats as a founder and defining success per role 21:00 – 80/20 application, eliminating low-margin work 23:00 – Increasing minimum engagements and raising revenue 24:00 – Identifying break points under 10x pressure 25:00 – Memory quirks and social awkwardness 27:00 – Health, trauma, and physical boundaries in professional settings 33:00 – Vulnerability in leadership, introversion and career growth 36:00 – Growth through discomfort in business and personal life 43:00 – Moving frequently and embracing new environments 55:00 – Emotional regulation, reaction versus response 58:00 – Clear objectives in games versus unclear social contexts 59:00 – Leadership in group dynamics through gaming examples 01:03:00 – Ben’s closing message, taking founders to CEO level

Bob Thompson shares his journey from chemist to real estate agent to growth coach, including surviving two heart attacks and rebuilding from financial collapse. We unpack toxic positivity, fortune-cookie coaching, sustainable mindset, and building business success without ego or hype. This episode challenges common guru advice and reframes resilience through real work, personal responsibility, and honest self-assessment.Find Bob Thompson Here:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551539390140whatbobthinks.comFully Timestamped Show Notes00:00 – Bob introduces himself, chemist background 00:01 – Epiphany moment in college classroom 00:02 – Three-year exit plan, debt reduction strategy 00:04 – “Work in the dark” philosophy 00:05 – Building momentum as a part-time agent 00:06 – Heart attacks, bypass surgery, financial collapse 00:07 – Coaching origin story 00:08 – Mindset myths and toxic positivity critique 00:10 – Hyperfocus and filtering negativity 00:12 – Privacy around goals and achievements 00:14 – Book: Want More, Take More and three self-checks 00:17 – Reframing discouragement in business 00:19 – Personal resilience strategies 00:23 – Emotional capital and boundaries 00:27 – Discomfort with self-promotion 00:28 – Critique of “fortune cookie” coaching 00:31 – Showing up to serve, not sell 00:33 – Community and authentic connection 00:38 – Failure as a teacher 00:39 – Strengths vs weaknesses in business 00:42 – No single formula for success 00:45 – Finding your own lane in real estate 00:49 – Final thoughts and contact info

In this episode of Operational Harmony, Nikki sits down with somatic experiencing practitioner Betsy Kudlinski to talk about trauma, nervous system regulation, and what happens when business owners ignore their bodies. They explore survival patterns, burnout, boundaries, and how regulation supports sustainable work and leadership without pushing past capacity.betsykudlinski.com@betsykudlinski on Facebook@RenaturingwithBetsyKudlinski on YouTube📝 FULL Timestamped Show Notes(Proper pacing, full coverage, no jumps)00:00–05:00 – Betsy’s background, animal work, and introduction to somatic practice 05:00–12:00 – What “somatic” means and why the body matters in trauma 12:00–20:00 – Chronic illness, collapse points, and accumulated stress 20:00–30:00 – Developmental trauma and not getting what you needed 30:00–40:00 – Survival strategies, dismissal, and self-minimization 40:00–50:00 – Hypervigilance, triggers, and familiar danger 50:00–60:00 – Neural pathways, wagon ruts, and choice points 60:00–70:00 – Therapy, abandonment trauma, and trust over time 70:00–80:00 – Regulation through relationship and co-regulation 80:00–90:00 – Burnout culture, productivity myths, and exhaustion 90:00–100:00 – Business pressure, ignoring the body, and consequences 100:00–110:00 – Capacity, limits, and sustainable growth 110:00–120:00 – Simple somatic grounding and regulation practices 120:00–130:00 – Boundaries, support systems, and healing in community 130:00–135:00 – Final reflections, self-trust, and closing thoughts

00:00 – Introduction to Stephen Nawotniak and lived experience with bipolar disorder01:00 – Hospitalization, diagnosis, and the fear of leaving the hospital02:00 – Stephen’s pre-diagnosis journey and life adventure before depression03:00 – Severe depressive episode and bipolar diagnosis04:00 – Perspective one, coping with symptoms after diagnosis05:00 – Medication, therapy, and managing side effects06:00 – Introduction to occupational therapy and shifting focus to daily life07:00 – Moving from illness management to meaningful living08:00 – Entering the peer movement and shared lived experience09:00 – Wellness Recovery Action Plan and self-knowledge10:00 – Personal growth versus symptom focus11:00 – Finding purpose in pain12:00 – Nikki shares her mental health journey and hospitalization13:00 – Trauma, toxic environments, and relearning normal14:00 – Moving from survival to goal-setting15:00 – Decision to change and personal responsibility16:00 – Purpose of medication and distress tolerance17:00 – Separating feelings from meaning18:00 – Negative self-talk as opinion, not fact19:00 – Using gratitude and strengths to soften intensity20:00 – Self-compassion and internal dialogue tools21:00 – Lies of the darkness and distorted thinking22:00 – Normalizing negative self-talk23:00 – Two patterns of depression, stuck vs always busy24:00 – The danger of having no purpose or focus25:00 – Baby steps and redefining progress26:00 – Zero days and building momentum27:00 – Personal indicators of mental health28:00 – Importance of safe support29:00 – Difference between peer support and co-rumination30:00 – Business and mental health parallels31:00 – Managing highs and lows in entrepreneurship32:00 – Expectations, balance, and resilience33:00 – Acceptance, grace, and long-term growth34:00 – Closing reflections on support, skills, and sustainability

⏱️ Fully Timestamped Show Notes00:00 – Introductions and the blurred line between mental health and business 02:30 – Angela’s journey from trauma counseling to working with couples 06:00 – Why unexamined hardship becomes invisible trauma 09:00 – Awareness, responsibility, and breaking inherited patterns 13:00 – Deconstruction, reconstruction, and implementation explained 18:30 – Triggers, ownership, and emotional safety in relationships 23:00 – Curiosity as the starting point for healing 27:00 – Real client breakthroughs and relationship turning points 31:00 – Business success and emotional capacity 36:00 – Counseling vs coaching and when each matters 41:00 – Vision, systems, and sustainable change 47:00 – Why “fine” isn’t the goal 52:00 – Investing in relationships like a business 56:00 – Vulnerability, community, and not doing this alone 59:00 – Final reflections on intentional partnershipFind Angela & James here: https://www.skool.com/loveintentionally www.instagram.com/loveintentionally.co https://www.facebook.com/loveintentionally.co https://www.linkedin.com/company/loveintentionally https://www.tiktok.com/@loveintentionally.com

⏱️ Timestamped Show Notes00:00 – Introduction Jessica shares her background as a relationship coach and her work around connection, trauma, and mental health.01:00 – A Real-Life Trigger I share a personal experience with scent sensitivity, asthma, and what happened at church when boundaries were crossed unintentionally.03:00 – Speaking Up, Even When It’s Uncomfortable Why I chose to say something publicly, and the fear that came with advocating for myself.05:00 – Unexpected Advocacy Others spoke up after my message, and why becoming an accidental advocate felt overwhelming.07:00 – Childhood Conditioning and Silence How growing up taught me to stay quiet, and how that still affects self-advocacy today.09:00 – Corrective Experiences Explained Jessica introduces the concept of corrective experiences and how they rewire expectations around safety and voice.11:00 – Boundaries Are Not Linear Why learning boundaries is messy, uneven, and deeply personal.13:00 – Physical Boundaries and Health Reality Navigating touch, illness, immune suppression, and advocating for physical safety.16:00 – The Middle Ground Finding balance between over-accommodating others and shutting everyone out.18:00 – Mental Health and Business Expectations Why “self-care at all costs” can damage relationships and opportunities.20:00 – Gamifying Hard Things How I use rewards and limits to show up for networking and events without burnout.23:00 – Checking In Instead of Checking Out Why deciding in advance how long you’ll stay can backfire.25:00 – Planning for Aftercare How to structure rest before and after demanding events.29:00 – Authority Figures and Anxiety Talking to managers, bosses, and leadership when criticism triggers old wounds.31:00 – Writing It Out and Slowing Down Using journaling and verbal processing to de-escalate reactions.35:00 – Grounding Techniques That Actually Work Adapting grounding tools to fit real sensory limitations.39:00 – Replaying Without Re-Traumatizing How to revisit difficult conversations without spiraling.43:00 – Speaking Up for Others vs. Yourself Why protecting others can feel easier than advocating for your own needs.48:00 – Closing Reflections What self-advocacy really looks like in practice, not theory.

Timestamped Show Notes00:00 – Introduction Lee shares his background, consulting focus, and why people systems matter more than most leaders realize.02:00 – ADHD, Depression, and Early Self-Awareness How childhood mental health shaped Lee’s approach to leadership and learning.05:00 – Avoidant Attachment and Relationships We discuss avoidance, cutting people off, guilt, and mourning who people could have been.10:30 – Masking, Safety, and Emotional Trust Why people often show their worst behavior where they feel safest, and what that actually means.16:00 – Communication, Volume, and Misunderstood Intent How tone, volume, and delivery affect trust, especially for emotionally aware leaders.20:30 – Social Energy, Overstimulation, and Boundaries Why recovery time matters, and how ignoring it leads straight to burnout.25:00 – Learning to Set and Keep Boundaries What it really takes to stop people-pleasing without becoming rigid or closed off.30:00 – Awareness Is Not Enough Why awareness without action changes nothing, in life or leadership.34:00 – Free Labor, Consulting Burnout, and Scope Creep We unpack unpaid work, unclear agreements, and why leaders must protect their time.40:00 – Vulnerability in Leadership How leaders create psychological safety, or destroy it, through their responses.46:00 – Fear-Based Cultures and Hidden Mistakes Why punishing failure teaches people to hide problems instead of solving them.52:00 – Power, Money, and Losing Human Perspective How leaders lose touch, and why businesses need grounded voices in decision-making.58:00 – What Vulnerability Actually Is (and Isn’t) Clear communication, accountability, and emotional maturity, not emotional dumping.1:03:00 – Final Leadership Takeaways Lee shares his core principle for vulnerable leadership that actually works.

Timestamped Show Notes00:00–02:00 Bronwyn shares her background as a therapist, her podcast on anger, and her personal mental health journey that led her into the field.02:00–05:30 How untreated, dissociated anger connects to depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, and physical symptoms like migraines, gut issues, and autoimmune conditions.05:30–08:30 Anger as a feedback system, not a flaw. Why anger signals unmet needs and boundary violations rather than something to suppress or control.08:30–11:30 Why “anger management” and forced calming techniques can be harmful when the root cause is relational or systemic harm.11:30–14:30 Childhood trauma, narcissistic behavior, DARVO, and how gaslighting keeps people trapped in self-doubt and shame.14:30–19:30 A guided inner-child and shame-release exercise, how the body stores trauma, and why shame lives in the gut.19:30–23:00 Why expressing anger through words heals more effectively than physical release like punching pillows or rage rooms.23:00–27:00 Writing letters you never send, safety considerations, and when documentation matters for clarity and self-trust.27:00–31:00 Workplace anger, power dynamics, and why documenting patterns protects mental health and credibility.31:00–36:00 Boundaries versus accountability, knowing when to speak up, document, disengage, or escalate.36:00–42:00 Real-life examples of anger handled with clarity, validation, humor, and grounded communication.42:00–End Reframing anger as self-respect, how healing your relationship with anger heals your relationship with yourself.

When strategy isn’t the problem, trauma often is. Brainspotting practitioner Jennie Hays explains why entrepreneurs get stuck even when they know exactly what to do, how the body stores unresolved trauma, and how removing emotional landmines creates real momentum. If willpower hasn’t worked, this conversation matters. Website: https://jenniehays.com/brainspotting Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennieshealthsolution LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniehays/ Alignable: https://www.alignable.com/moulton-tx/beyond-mindset-with-jennie-hays Email: [email protected]      

Jaymes Buckman, glam rock frontman of Hot Apollo, opens up about life with autism, OCD, and anxiety. He and Nikki share raw insights into how mental health challenges shape identity, purpose, and performance. From surviving the darkest days to managing procrastination and unexpected illnesses, this episode is a bold, honest look at resilience, reinvention, and the power of stubbornness.

Decluttering coach Julie Coraccio joins Nikki to talk about how clutter goes far beyond our closets. From emotional baggage to digital overload, Julie shares the real cost of clutter and how clearing space, both physically and mentally, creates peace, energy, and healing. https://reawakenyourbrilliance.com/ https://declutteryourlife.etsy.com https://www.facebook.com/ReawakenYourBrilliance https://www.instagram.com/reawakenyourbrilliance/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliescoraccio/ https://www.youtube.com/user/SeibertRadio?feature=watch      

Terry Tucker has faced 13 years of cancer, multiple amputations, and ongoing treatment—but his message is one of resilience, purpose, and control. In this raw and honest conversation, Nikki and Terry unpack the mental side of surviving hardship, why pain can be a teacher, and how the right mindset can turn any struggle into strength. Motivational Check Website: https://www.motivationalcheck.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-tucker-9b5605179/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/motivationalcheck X (Twitter): https://mobile.twitter.com/terrytucker2012 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sustainableexcellenceauthor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl2CUA6R1zP2ZcjzhzGKWkQ      

Kim Keane joins to unpack burnout, trauma, and the myth of “quick healing.” She and Nikki get real about invisible beliefs, emotional needs, and why self-work takes courage and consistency. Together, they bridge the space between mindset, energy, and real-world action. Website - www.kimkeane.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kimvkeane/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kimvkeane YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@kimvkeane Email - [email protected]      

Holistic healer Linda Dieffenbach joins Nikki to unpack real self-care — not the spa-day kind, the survival kind. Together they explore anger, resilience, and the hard truth about boundaries and burnout. Healing begins when you choose yourself, not when everything collapses. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindadieffenbach https://www.linkedin.com/company/wellness-in-harmony-llc/ BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lindadieffenbach.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/linda.dieffenbach.5 https://www.facebook.com/WellnessInHarmony https://www.facebook.com/groups/wellnessinharmony Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellnessinharmony/ https://www.instagram.com/theempoweredgoddesstribe/ The Wellness Universe: https://www.thewellnessuniverse.com/world-changers/lindadieffenbach/      

Karl Dakin, “The Capital Coach,” joins to unpack the matchmaking dance between innovators and investors—and why readiness is key to funding. Then Nikki dives into real talk about mental health access without insurance, from clinics to telehealth, and why having a therapist matters more than perfection. https://www.linkedin.com/in/karldakin/ https://www.facebook.com/karl.dakin/ https://www.youtube.com/@MotivatedMoneyPodcast        

A grounded talk with certified organizer Miriam Ortiz y Pino on creating systems that actually fit your life, not Pinterest. We walk through her five-step framework, the home-work-spirit Venn, and why routines protect your energy. Then we shift to recognizing and managing emotional triggers with honest, practical tools that build safety and self-trust. Listen for habits that hold you, not control you.   https://www.facebook.com/morethanorganized/ https://www.instagram.com/moypmto/ https://www.youtube.com/user/MorethanOrganized https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriamortizypino/ https://www.pinterest.com/moypmto      

Scientist and inventor Dr. Rob Yonover joins to talk about survival — in science, business, and love. From creating a military rescue device to caring for his paralyzed wife for 19 years, Rob’s story is one of resourcefulness, resilience, and heart. A grounded conversation about chaos, clarity, and how to keep going when life doesn’t play fair. SeeRescueStreamer.com Facebook, Instagram: RobYonover LinkedIn DrRobertYonover Amazon books: Caregiver’s Survival Guide, Hardcoe Health, Hardcore Inventing, Brainstorm Islands (children’s book)      

Burnout isn’t a badge. Career and stress coach Dr. Jaime Reza joins Nikki to talk boundaries that hold, why procrastination is a stress signal, and how to delegate so you can work on your business, not in it. We cover HR realities, on-call pay, weekly reset blocks, and Jaime’s Rule of Threes for movement and travel. Listen for practical ways to protect your energy and grow sustainably. Website: www.rainbowcareercoaching.com Podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/findingtheunicorninyou Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089604794211
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-gabriel-raygoza/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rainbowcareercoaching
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rainbowcareercoaching
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=4WVhQGkAAAAJ&hl=en&authuser=1&oi=ao      

Allison Steinke, a holistic nutritionist and health coach, shares her journey of starting over after leaving an abusive marriage while raising 11 children. She opens up about shifting from copywriting back to coaching, reframing mindset, and learning to embrace authenticity in business and health. We also discuss balancing energy vs. time management, social drains, and finding strength in healing and self-worth. hopeswhispers.ca https://www.instagram.com/hopeswhispers/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-steinke-/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564662899225      

Sam Morrison, founder of Safe Park Connections, shares her powerful healing story after leaving an abusive marriage and how she built a global community for women to create lives they love. She explains her “Overflow Effect” approach to self-love, daily gratitude practices, and the importance of authentic connection. We also dive into how she and Nikki use AI responsibly in business, from content creation to book writing. instagram.com/safeheartconnections https://www.youtube.com/@sammorrisonwilson skool.com/safeheartconnections SafeHeartConnections.com      

Jeremy Howell, business and lifestyle coach, reveals how small shifts can create massive change. From the 1% Rule and 3D Blueprint to building systems that free you from daily grind, Jeremy shares how to design the life you actually want. Discover why most networking fails, how to flip fixed mindsets, and why imperfect action beats perfection every time.   https://facebook.com/jeremy.howell.965      

Sales coach Andee Hart joins Nikki to tackle the myths of “Boss Babe” culture, share honest sales strategies, and explore the mental resilience needed to thrive in business. From calling out hustle hype to sharing personal therapy journeys, they dive into trust, boundaries, and the value of integrity in entrepreneurship. A candid talk blending business insight with real mental health conversations. Website: https://andeehart.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andeehart/ Hart Design Co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hartdesignco/ Andee’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andeehart/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shesellsdifferently/ Podcast: She Sells Differently https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/she-sells-differently-authentic-selling-business-growth/id1731402504      

Shane Laufman, creator of the FQ3C model, joins Nikki to challenge common motivational advice and explore what it really takes to make lasting progress. They discuss toxic relationships, behavioral tracking, and why SMART goals fall short. Shane shares how his achievement model helps individuals and professionals alike measure change, build clarity, and remove obstacles—especially emotional vampires.      

Author and coach Judy Wilkins Smith joins us to explore emotional DNA—how family patterns shape our thoughts, choices, and well-being. We discuss inherited beliefs, how to transform stuck systems, and the importance of kindness in mental health. Judy explains how understanding genealogy can lead to powerful healing and change. Plus, Nikki shares personal stories of rebuilding after mental health collapse. Website: https://judywilkins-smith.com/ Social Media Links: • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judywilkinssmith/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/judywilkinssmith • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judywilkinssmith/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2deofVCmw7Fxdq866SpJbQ      

Author Brownell Landrum joins Nikki to talk about her creative guide The Hero’s Playbook, a tool that blends storytelling with self-reflection. They discuss what makes someone a hero, how flawed characters reflect real growth, and the power of writing through trauma. This episode touches on mental health, trust, personal evolution, and even metaphysical guidance—all with humor, honesty, and heart. https://brownelllandrum.com/ https://www.facebook.com/brownell.landrum.author https://www.instagram.com/brownelllandrum/ https://www.tiktok.com/@brownell.landrum https://www.youtube.com/@brownell.landrum The Hero’s Playbook on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/1947102303 Brownell’s We Meet Again trilogy on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCL2NR6W/ Link to download “The End: A Love Story to the Universe” by Brownell Landrum for FREE https://dl.bookfunnel.com/a4s6x8lwk5      

What do worms and laughter have in common? For Cathy Nesbitt, they’re both part of a life-changing journey. Cathy shares how she built a business around vermicomposting despite resistance, and how laughter wellness became her way of healing burnout and helping others feel better too. This is an uplifting episode about purpose, persistence, and giving yourself permission to be different. We talk mental health, misunderstood missions, and the power of joy in business and life. https://www.cathyscomposters.com/ https://www.cathysclub.com/ https://www.cathyssprouters.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathynesbitt/ https://www.youtube.com/@CathyLaughter      

Jennifer Fidder joins Nikki to talk about how hypnosis helps entrepreneurs move past fear, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome. They unpack how the subconscious mind keeps us "safe" through procrastination, how trauma shapes mental patterns, and how mindset work is essential for business success. This powerful episode blends practical insight with deeply personal stories.   https://www.jenniferfidder.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-fidder-coaching https://www.instagram.com/jenniferfiddercoaching      

Fixing isn’t always helping. Nikki and Lindsay explore how emotional triggers like lateness, disorganization, and broken trust reveal deeper issues. From venting to file systems to business risks, this episode dives into what’s really going on beneath everyday frustrations—and what we can do about it.   IG: @onwardpsychservices www.onwardpsychservices.com          

Alan Kaplan shares his journey from burnout in a high-pressure law career to building an 8-figure e-commerce business—and the emotional and physical toll it took along the way. We discuss his flex-time staffing solution, the reality of middle management dysfunction, and how ignoring his health nearly cost him everything. This is a raw, honest episode about business growth, boundaries, and recovery. https://www.linkedin.com/in/allenkaplun/ https://www.facebook.com/allen.kaplun          

Author Ashwin Gulati joins Nikki to unpack the personal cost of startup culture. They discuss his book Soul Venture, the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, and the difference between solopreneurs and high-stakes founders. From restaurant failures to Silicon Valley pressure, Ashwin shares hard truths and helpful insights for business owners navigating their mental health and professional dreams. My book/ Website. www.soulventurebook.com  LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashwingulati/ https://www.facebook.com/ashwin.gulati.1 https://www.instagram.com/ashwin.gulati/      

Licensed psychotherapist Alisa Gracheva joins Nikki to talk about trauma, healing, and the power of building a safe space in therapy. They discuss life after abuse, how to find the right therapist, and the difference between surviving and evolving. The conversation also dives into building walls, using humor to heal, and why not all trauma support is created equal. my web: www.since.life IG: alisa_art Facebook: Alisa Gracheva Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisa-gracheva-61081670/ Psychology today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/alisa-gracheva-coral-springs-fl/1109186        

What do spiders, burnout, and websites have in common? In this episode, Nikki chats with Hillary Cisco of River Song Web Design about everything from avoiding crawlspaces to building emotionally intelligent websites. Hillary blends NLP, creativity, and tech strategy to help businesses connect better with their audience. They also explore burnout, boundaries, and finding your healing escape—whether it’s through gaming, gardening, or rage-pulling weeds. It’s equal parts honest, practical, and unexpectedly hilarious. Find Hillary here:  https://www.facebook.com/hiansc/ linkedin.com/in/hsciscoe/      

This week, Nikki sits down with romance author and mental health advocate Jyoti, who shares her raw experience navigating a toxic workplace while living with anxiety and PTSD. From being underpaid despite advanced degrees to receiving retaliatory write-ups, Jyoti opens up about the emotional and legal challenges she's facing—and why she’s documenting every step. They also explore what makes entrepreneurship rewarding, difficult, and totally worth it. Plus, how writing, boundaries, and dark humor can be part of your healing toolkit. Find Jyoti Here: Geetwrites.carrd.co        

In this episode of Operational Harmony, Nikki welcomes David Creel — known as The Blind Spot Coach — for a meaningful conversation about personal growth, insight, and what it really takes to move forward. David shares how coaching found him, the role conversations play in transformation, and why clarity always starts with knowing where you are, not just where you’re going. They also dive into: How to set goals that stretch without overwhelming What “insight” really looks like and why it matters Reframing language from “have to” into “get to” Mental health, resilience, and moving emotional mountains Why the smallest step can be the biggest breakthrough Get David's book Road Trip (and the audiobook!) free via the link in the show notes — and take the first step to seeing what you’ve been missing. Find David Here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedavidcreel/      

Jason Matthews is a behavior analyst and leadership coach who helps men break through outdated ideas of masculinity and step into authentic, servant leadership. In this conversation, Jason shares how his military background, psychology training, and real-world coaching experience led him to redefine what healthy masculinity really looks like—and how it impacts leadership, relationships, and self-worth. We unpack the masculine wound, explore the 4 archetypes of wounded masculinity, and dig into why solving problems (not chasing money) leads to stronger business foundations. Whether you’re a coach, business owner, or someone navigating leadership in your life, this episode offers a grounded take on what it means to lead with integrity and responsibility. Find Jason Matthews here:  Website: https://relatem.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jason.ian.matthews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason.ian.matthews/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jmatthews19      

Amelia Moore—speaker, consultant, and former Ruff Ryders executive—joins Nikki to share how women can step into leadership without losing themselves. From the music industry to mentorship, Amelia opens up about her journey from “She” to “CEO.” This episode is packed with actionable insights: the 4 steps to success, why boundaries matter, how to spot unhealthy collaborations, and how communication style impacts every relationship. They also explore how music shapes healing and why your passion should always lead your mission. Real talk, real growth—don’t miss it.   @ameliaismore IG Facebook: Amelia Ameliaismore Moore Youtube: Ameliaismore      

In this powerful episode, Nikki sits down with Victoria Gallagher—hypnotist, coach, and author of Practical Law of Attraction—to explore the real work behind manifesting your dream life. They cut through the fluff to discuss what truly brings change: aligned action, not just positive thinking. In the second half, Nikki and Victoria hold space for hard days—those anniversaries of trauma, grief, or loss—and share real-world strategies for staying grounded, supported, and whole when everything hurts. Whether you're stuck, seeking alignment, or surviving a bad day—you’re not alone. Website:http://www.VictoriaMGallagher.com Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/VictoriaMarieGallagher Instagram:http://www.Instagram.com/victoriamgallagher tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@victoriamgallagher        

Heidi Chance spent nearly 14 years undercover as a detective fighting sex trafficking. In this episode, she shares the hard truths behind how victims are lured, controlled, and misunderstood by the justice system. We also discuss the real role of tattoos, hotel keys, and phones in identifying trafficking — and why education is more powerful than judgment. Now retired, Heidi leads a dual mission: training officers and educating parents on prevention and recovery. Website: https://achanceforawareness.com Book: Talk to Them (on digital dangers & how to talk to kids)      

What makes a home truly safe? In this powerful episode, Nikki speaks with Sabrina Oso, founder of Oso Safe, about turning personal trauma into a mission for change. Discover how Oso Safe Certification redefines safety in homes by embedding respect, education, and therapy into real estate practices. Sabrina shares her journey as a survivor, the flaws in court systems, and how we can empower both children and adults to speak out. 👉 Learn more at: https://www.ososafe.com ⚠️ Trigger Warning: This conversation includes mentions of abuse, suicide, and pornography. Please listen with care.      

Lori Stein joins Nikki for a powerful conversation about emotional energy, feminine power, and breaking free from the rules that hold us back. As the founder of the Goodbye Good Girl Project, Lori helps women reclaim their voice, rewrite disempowering narratives, and build lives rooted in authenticity—not exhaustion. Together, they talk about mental health, storytelling as a breakthrough tool, and the subtle shift that changed Lori’s life after 38 years of depression. https://www.goodbyegoodgirl.com https://www.youtube.com/@Lori_Kirstein https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorikirstein SCHEDULE A FREE 30-MINUTE STRATEGY SESSION: https://tidycal.com/goodbyegoodgirlproject/strategysession BOOK A PAID PUBLIC SPEAKER/COMMUNICATION COACHING SESSION: https://tidycal.com/goodbyegoodgirlproject/public-speaker-coaching JOIN "THE CIRCLE" - Weekly Professional Meetings (free and paid) Join The Circle for professional women INwho want both networking and personal growth: ****SIGN UP FOR THE CIRCLE FOR DAILY POSTS, GIFT CARD GIVEAWAYS, WORKSHOP DISCOUNTS AND MORE:**** How to join: **STEP 1: SIGN UP FOR A FREE ACCOUNT** https://thegreatdiscovery.com/academy/course/do-the-impossible-from-emotional-chains-to-empowered-change?affiliate=lek **STEP 2: GO TO THE COMMUNITY, SCROLL DOWN, CLICK THE “MEMBERSHIP” TAB, AND SIGN UP FOR THE MEMBERSHIP LEVEL YOU PREFER!** [https://thegreatdiscovery.com/academy/channels/women-authenticity-and-leadership?affiliate=lek](https://thegreatdiscovery.com/academy/channels/women-authenticity-and-leadership?affiliate=lek)        

In this episode of Nikki’s Lounge, author and mental health advocate Gina Cavalier joins Nikki for a heartfelt conversation on surviving suicidal ideation, building self-love, and staying focused through personal and business growth. Gina shares her grounding techniques, the power of energetic release, and how writing her workbook with Dr. Amelia Kelly became a turning point in her healing. Then Nikki shifts gears into practical advice for entrepreneurs: how to stay mission-aligned, grounded, and ethical during periods of change. Whether you're navigating a personal storm or scaling your business, this episode reminds you—you’re not alone. IG: @gina_cavalier www.theliberatedhealer.com www.ginacavalier.com