P.S. We Expire with Morgan Motsinger

If you've ever been called a nag — or swallowed what you really needed because you were afraid of being called one — this episode is for you.Laura Danger is the educator and domestic equity expert behind @thatdarnchat, the account that brought terms like "weaponized incompetence" and "the nag paradox" into everyday conversation. She's also the author of No More Mediocre and co-host of the Time to Lean podcast. And she is exactly as warm, sharp, and no-nonsense as you'd hope.We started where a lot of us are right now: in the thick of May-sember — that chaos spiral of spring schedules, summer childcare math, Spirit Week emails on Sunday night, and the dawning realization that someone has to figure all of this out. (Spoiler: you know who.)From there, we got into it:Weaponized incompetence — what it actually is.It's not just "men doing a bad job." It's a pattern. And the defining factor isn't the quality of the work — it's the accountability (or lack thereof) that follows. Laura breaks down what separates weaponized incompetence from plain old incompetence, ADHD, or just different standards.The nag paradox.One person manages everything. The other takes direction. And somehow, the person managing everything ends up as the villain of the story. Laura explains how this dynamic starts, why it snowballs, and why "just make me a list" is not the solution you think it is.Domestic equity vs. equality.50/50 is a setup to fail. What actually works is negotiation, flexibility, and both people being invested in the collective — not scorekeeping.Why we don't say what we really need.And what happens when we finally do. Laura shares the internal shift that changed everything in her own relationship — and it's not what you'd expect.The Gottman Four Horsemen.Criticism, defensiveness, contempt, stonewalling. How they show up in the mental load dynamic and what to do when you're already in it.What "emotional labor" actually means.Hint: it's not the same as the mental load. Laura points us to Rose Hackman's book Emotional Labor for the clearest definition she's found — and it's going to reframe some things for you.What makes her hopeful.Even in the sh*tstorm of 2026. (Her answer involves a neighborhood gardening club. I'm not kidding. It's perfect.)Books mentioned:No More Mediocre by Laura DangerFair Play by Eve RodskyEmotional Labor by Rose HackmanDrained by Leah RubinerHonest Motherhood by Libby WardMe, Myself, And Us by Brain LittleFind Laura:Instagram: @thatdarnchatNo More Mediocre — available wherever books are soldTime to Lean podcast

There's a difference between a hard life and an unsupported one. This episode is about that difference.Madeline Cheney is the founder of The Rare Life — a nonprofit podcast and online community for parents of medically complex kids — and she is exactly the kind of person you want in your corner when the weight of it all starts to feel like a personal failing. Spoiler: it's not. It's a systems problem. And she's got receipts.We started, somehow, with yard work. And weeds. And the sneaky way that the things we keep avoiding cost us way more energy than actually doing them — a truth that hits different when you're a parent whose to-do list includes therapy schedules, IEP meetings, feeding protocols, and approximately ten thousand things the professionals think you should be doing right now.From there we got into the real stuff:The mental load that never clocks out. Even when you're sleeping. Even when you're at work. Even when someone else is technically watching your child. The hypervigilance is always running in the background — and it takes a toll on your body in ways that science is only beginning to catch up to.Grief that doesn't look like grief. It's universal among parents in this community, and it doesn't mean you love your child any less. In fact, it usually means the opposite. Madeline talks about why naming it — without the shame — is the fastest path through it.Why partners process so differently. And why the parent doing the daily caregiving almost always gets to acceptance first. (Hint: you can't ignore reality when it's in your face every single day.)The foster care system plot twist. Madeline is in the middle of becoming a licensed foster family, and what she discovered about the support infrastructure built into that system — the mentor families, the care teams, the respite care, the training — will make you simultaneously inspired and furious on behalf of every disability parent who never got any of that.Acceptance isn't what you think it is. It's not peace. It's not "I wouldn't change a thing." It's just — this is my life, and I'm not fighting that anymore. That's it. That's enough.And we talked about meaning-making. Not the toxic positivity version where everything happens for a reason. The real version, where you go through something hard and you become someone different on the other side — and that matters, even if nobody ever sees it.Madeline is the founder of The Rare Life, a nonprofit online community and podcast for parents of medically complex individuals. She started The Rare Life in 2020 when her medically complex son Kimball was 2, inspired by the isolation she had experienced to that point. Madeline lives in SLC with her husband Juston, 10 year old daughter Wendy and now 7 year old son Kimball. She enjoys vegging out to old murder mystery tv shows, her current favorite being Murder She Wrote, and connecting with loved ones outside.Find Madeline online:https://therarelife.org/https://www.instagram.com/the_rare_life

I've been thinking a lot about religion lately — not in the way I was taught to as a kid, where there was one truth and you either had it or you didn't. More like... what if religion is actually one of the most human things we do? What if it's been a resource hiding in plain sight, and we've been too burned, too skeptical, or too cool to look at it clearly?That's exactly what I got to dig into with my guest, Liz Bucar — professor, prize-winning author, and one of the most genuinely interesting people I've talked to about this stuff. Liz has spent her career studying how religion actually works in real human lives, and she does it without the dogma or the defensiveness. She's not trying to convert you. She's trying to help you see clearly.We covered a lot of ground. We talked about what religion even is — and why that question is harder (and more interesting) than it sounds. We talked about religious literacy, and why not understanding the traditions around us leaves us less equipped to navigate the world. We talked about storytelling as one of the most powerful tools religion has ever had, and how the best stories are the ones that hold complexity without collapsing it into a tidy moral.And then we zoomed out. We talked about what's happening right now — this urgent, liminal, kind of terrifying moment in society — and why religion, for all its baggage, might actually be one of our best tools for collective change. Not because it has all the answers, but because it's been practicing community, ritual, and meaning-making longer than any other institution we have.Here's what I keep coming back to: individualism is exhausting. The antidote — the actual, research-backed, spiritually-ancient antidote — is community. Belonging to something bigger than yourself. Religion, whatever form that takes for you, has always known that.This one is worth a slow listen.Where you can find Liz:https://www.lizbucar.com/Preorder Liz's new book Beyond Wellness: https://www.lizbucar.com/booksFollow Liz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizbucarLiz's substack: https://lizbucar.substack.com/Where you can find Morgan:https://www.morganmotsinger.com/Follow Morgan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morgan_motsinger/Morgan's substack: https://morganmotsinger.substack.com/LIZ BUCAR is a religious ethicist and professor of religion atNortheastern University, as well as a certified intenSati and Kripalu yoga instructor. Her popular writing has appeared in The Atlantic, the Los Angeles Times, Teen Vogue, and The Wall Street Journal, and she is the author of four books, including the award-winning Stealing My Religion and Pious Fashion. She lives in Brookline, Massachusetts.

In this episode, Morgan converses with Dr. Brendan K. Hartman about the complex layers of masculinity, emotional regulation, and the societal messages shaping boys and men today. This discussion offers practical insights into emotional awareness, gender norms, and community involvement to foster healthier identities and relationships.Key Topics:The importance of talking openly with children about online risks and emotional challenges.The intersection of masculinity, femininity, biology, and social construction.The influence of media, ideology (red pill, black pill), and external narratives on boys' perceptions of themselves.Strategies for creating safe spaces for boys to express vulnerability and curiosity.The influence of community, family, and mentorship in shaping healthy masculinity.The significance of the window of tolerance, co-regulation, and emotional self-awareness.Reframing masculinity beyond dominance and control—toward connection and aliveness.Practical approaches for parents, educators, and mentors to support emotional resilience and authentic identity.engagementBio:Dr. Brendan K. Hartman is a sociologist and consultant specializing in the social-emotional development and wellbeing of boys and men—and how this connects to the wellbeing of all genders. He works with schools, organizations, and families across North America, equipping educators, parents, and leaders to more effectively support boys and young men and navigate gender-related challenges with confidence and care. Brendan holds a Ph.D. in Education from the University of Edinburgh and is a visiting scholar at the University of the Fraser Valley.Resources & Links:Morgan's Resource VaultDr. Brendan Hartman's work – connecting gender, wellness, and communityConnect with Dr. Brendan Hartman:InstagramTikTokLinkedIn

It's getting real up in here. Allison Evans is BACK, and this time, she's teaching us one of my favorite tools: "The Work" of Byron Katie. Allison is a life coach (and one of Martha Beck's Wayfinder coaches, nbd) who works primarily with women looking to reclaim their lives and be the heroines of their own journeys. She teaches us how The Work works, and I get to be the fortunate example in this lesson. One of the reasons I love the work is because it is very intuitive. I can easily get myself into thinking knots, so any tools that help me get into my body and really feel into patterns of thinking and behaving is extremely helpful. Allison is a Certified Wayfinder Master Coach with an MA in English literature from George Mason University and undergraduate degrees in English and French from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her work has been featured in elephant journal, Thrive Global, and Pathways magazine. She lives in Omaha with the people who inspire her work: her husband, daughter, and son.Links from the episode:Allison's website https://allisonevanscoaching.com/Website for The Work https://thework.com/Documentary "The Divided Brain" https://thedividedbrain.com/Dr. Iain McGilchrist interview on the podcast "Know Thyself" https://www.knowthyselfpodcast.com/podcast/dr-iain-mcgilchristYou can find Morgan on her website https://www.morganmotsinger.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mindfulness-Based Tools12:46 Understanding the Four Questions of The Work36:19 Exploring Turnarounds and Self-Approval54:12 The Power of Visualization and Slowing Down01:05:38 The Work as a Meditation01:19:19 The Neurological Basis of Change01:30:26 Forensic Examination of Suffering

This conversation with Jen Zorb was one of those episodes where I kept thinking "YES, THIS" over and over again. Jen is a therapist with 15+ years of experience, and she created The Pearl Project (I cannot wait to tell you about it). But first, we dove into something that I think so many of us struggle with: Are we actually living our lives on purpose, or are we just responding to everything that gets thrown at us? When was the last time you actually sat down and thought about what you value most and then had the courage to orient your whole life around that?Jen created The Pearl Project: mental health kits because she kept wishing she could send clients home with something tangible. The work people were doing in therapy was so powerful, but then they'd leave and have to wait another week or two for their next session.Each kit includes:A metaphor or storyScience-based therapeutic contentA tangible object you can touch and holdQuestion decks for reflectionThe whole approach is multisensory because neuroscience shows us we integrate things better when we can touch, smell, see—not just think about them cognitively.Some other great things we dug into together:💛 How to choose a therapistReal talk: Not every therapist is going to be a good fit, even if they're great at what they do. And it's OKAY to break up with your therapist. You heard it here—Jen said it!💛 What actually is a trigger?We talked about how "trigger" has become this catch-all word for "this person annoyed me." But in a therapeutic context, a trigger is an event or sensation that activates a specific nervous system response—usually tied to an old hurt or injury.💛 What to do when you're triggeredThis is where it gets practical. Jen shares 4 things you can do in the moment when you're activated (and the last one is huge). 💛 The corrective emotional experienceThis is when you try something new—like speaking up or setting a boundary—and you get positive reinforcement. It starts rewiring your brain. More about Jen and The Pearl ProjectJen is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience. She has helped individuals, couples, and families in a private practice setting and has also worked in a hospital setting, treating the most acute mental and behavioral health challenges. She is passionate about making high-quality, professional mental health support more accessible to the everyday person. The Pearl Project was born out of that passion in 2022! Jen loves a good iced latte and has a competitive streak that mostly comes out on the tennis and pickleball courts. She dreams of travel and the day that all of her kids put their shoes on without having to be asked.Website: www.thepearlproject.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jointhepearlproject Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jointhepearlproject   Find Morgan at:https://www.instagram.com/morgan_motsinger/https://www.morganmotsinger.com/[email protected] 

Check out my free resource vault at https://www.morganmotsinger.com/vault   Life can get pretty hairy, pretty quickly. When Rachel's mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and she was thrust into a caregiving role, something major shifted. She started to think about her own health, and not just from an aesthetic perspective, but from a neuroprotective standpoint. She dug deep into the research about Alzheimer's prevention, brain health, and microhabits that have long-term positive results.    Rachel was an absolute delight to talk to, and her online presence has grown tremendously because of her approachable demeanor, humor, smarts, and heartwarming vulnerability.    More about Rachel:   Rachel Daugherty is the daughter of a woman with Alzheimer’s and knows firsthand the grief, fear, and heartbreak of watching someone you love lose themselves. Her mission is to show people they are not doomed to repeat their family’s story. Through evidence-based tools and the practice of self-connection, Rachel teaches how to change habits from the inside out — seeing each choice as more than an act toward brain health, but also an act of self-love. By helping people reframe their relationship with food, fitness, and health, she empowers them to build self-trust and lasting strength that protects both body and brain. Rachel shows others how to shape their future selves while becoming the strongest, most alive version of themselves now — and she wants to show you how.   You can find Rachel and her amazing work at: Website www.bootyandbrains.co Instagram @bootyandbrains.co   You can find Morgan: Website https://www.morganmotsinger.com/ Instagram @morgan_motsinger        

What are the gaps in grief care in our culture? What types of supports need to be in place that we have outsourced to healthcare that need to be reestablished in community? This beautiful conversation with Elizabeth explores paths of grief, companionship in the face of death, the social nature of dying, and the importance of everyday acts in caregiving.  I hope this conversation impacts your perspectives on the need for humility and presence in these challenging moments as we reframe illness as a communal journey rather than a solitary medical event. Grief is not a problem to be solved, but an experience to feel and be transformed by.  About my guest:   Elizabeth Johnson is the co-founder and Executive Director of The Peaceful Presence Project, a community-based organization in Oregon dedicated to fostering compassionate end-of-life care. Holding a Master’s degree in Community and Urban Planning, Elizabeth has traveled extensively as an educator and facilitator, cultivating a deep interest in the cultural and social frameworks that shape human experiences of illness, grief, and death. She serves on the leadership council of Public Health Palliative Care International. Additionally, Elizabeth is a graduate and current faculty member of the Anamcara Project, where her work focuses on grief, loss, and resilience. Elizabeth is deeply committed to advancing death and grief literacy within local communities, promoting honest and transformative dialogue around the complexities of dying and bereavement.   Contact Elizabeth:   [email protected] https://thepeacefulpresenceproject.org/   https://www.instagram.com/peacefulpresencedoulas/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/peaceful-presence-project/ https://www.facebook.com/peacefulpresencedoulas   Contact Morgan: If you're interested in being a guest, visit my website at https://www.morganmotsinger.com/contact and fill out the contact form. You can find me at: https://www.instagram.com/morgan_motsinger/ https://www.youtube.com/@morganmotsinger https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-motsinger/ [email protected]

This body scan is wonderful for a short break during your day or getting your body and mind ready for sleep. This guided head to toe exercise is a great way to notice areas where you hold tension.    Enjoy!

https://www.morganmotsinger.com/shop/idea-action-30-day-challenge   This episode will lead you through how I think about turning ideas into action. This isn't just about goal setting (yes, I'm familiar with the SMART framework). It's really about becoming a person who doesn't sit on the sidelines of her own life.  There is a framework I use that I'll walk you through in this episode. Whether or not you join me for this 30-day challenge, I hope you start tackling some of those things you've been thinking about for a long time.     

On a scale from 1-5, how often do you feel like this? I feel I have to sacrifice meaningful conversation because of others' device use. I've given up expecting full attention from people during social interactions. I miss the deeper conversations I used to have before smartphones. I feel sad when I see someone I care about more engaged with their device than with me. I worry that real human connection is disappearing. I feel isolated even when surrounded by people on their devices. I don't know about you, but I can answer five a lot to a lot of those. And I imagine that probably most of us can.  I also know I'm part of the problem. Sometimes, I feel like we're all zombies. We're here, but we're not....here. We live in our own realities even as we are physically present with others.  In this episode, I explore the profound impact of technology on human connection, particularly focusing on how smartphones and social media contribute to feelings of loneliness and disconnection. There's an interesting/terrifying parallel between the experiences of caregivers for those with neurodegenerative conditions and the feelings of isolation that arise from being physically present but emotionally absent in social interactions.  I'm not going to leave you hanging. I share some practical strategies for reconnecting with others and how to manage unhealthy dynamics of distracted presence.  -- Get on my email list, where I periodically share helpful tools for better habits, mindfulness, and general well being: https://morganmotsinger.myflodesk.com/subscribe      

Talking about death isn't really everyone's favorite. One of the big problems with actively avoiding or maybe just never considering how things are going to go at the end is we miss out on some really important conversations that have a big impact. This conversation not only explores some of the practical medical implications of certain types of life saving interventions, it also boldly investigates some of the common misconceptions about death, the healthcare system, and what a good death means. ---Amy Hensley Master of Science in Nursing, Registered Nurse How I define myself: mama bear, supportive friend, oldest daughter and sister, compassionate hospice nurse, movie lover, former graphic designer, passionate human, social introvert Bio: I was a graphic designer for nearly twenty years before I went to nursing school. While I worked at a critical access hospital doing everything from birth to death, I got my MSN and then started teaching. During my teaching career, I found my voice and encouraged students to find their voice. Realizing that my passions include end-of-life guided me to become a hospice nurse and end-of-life educator. We all bring to the table our experiences, viewpoints, concerns, biases, and expectations. Giving grace to myself and those around me has helped me have uncomfortable conversations with humor, awareness and understanding. I'm becoming more comfortable with asking for what I want.Erin Putney Master of Science in Nursing, Registered Nurse How I define myself: energetic creative, passionate educator, honest conversationalist, proud mom, chill paddleboarder, artistic thinker, former ICU nurse, loving daughter Bio: I love the science behind nursing and even wanted to be a science teacher at one point. I’ve worked in different areas as a nurse, but realize the common thread is having the curiosity to solve problems with data and creativity. My master’s research focused on effective end-of-life education for nursing students, which has been adapted into a workshop for various audiences. My passion is giving everyone the tools needed to cope and be successful. Check out my website: www.teachingcourage.comYou can find their work at:https://beforethecasket.com/en-us/On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085625110676---You can find Morgan on her website https://www.morganmotsinger.com/Get on her email list here: https://morganmotsinger.myflodesk.com/subscribe 

I remember cobbling notes together on my phone, writing things on paper scattered here or there, until I finally gathered all the notes about Anni's care into one document.  This simple act made it possible to relax a bit. I recorded her medications, daily and weekly schedule, seizure protocols, and more. It was immensely helpful not to have that information rolling around in my head loosey goosey.  Putting all the info together can feel very overwhelming, especially for a caregiver who is already running on fumes, so when I heard about Mike's "Pink Book" and his company Soaring Families, I knew I needed to have him on the podcast. His work isn't just about creating an amazing tool, but his company teaches families how to find, train, and retain a robust support system when in a caregiving role, whether that's for a child with extra needs or an adult with aging considerations.  Mike shares his journey of caring for his son Ben, who has special needs. He emphasizes the importance of building a caregiving team, personalizing care, and the emotional challenges faced by caregivers. He also highlights the joy and fulfillment that can come from caregiving despite its challenges and shares Ben's remarkable journey towards communication and education. Mike helps families rewrite their caregiving story — from one of sacrifice and exhaustion to one of joy, strength, and resilience. A family caregiver himself for 3 decades, Mike brings an intimate understanding of the burdens faced by those supporting the primary care of a family member. This lived experience led him to create The Soaring Families WayTM — a 5-step method that blends empathy, empowerment, and practical solutions to equip families with the tools and skills they need to regain control, reduce stress, and find fulfillment on their caregiving journey. Mike coaches and guides families in this method to help them stabilize the chaos, gain the confidence to manage their home care effectively, and focus on long-term sustainability. He also developed The Pink Book for families that acts as their personal caregiving companion. It becomes a family’s caregiving guide that they create themselves, for the way they care. You can get your own copy of the Pink Book at newpinkbook.com and learn more about Soaring Families on their website https://soaringfamilies.com You can also connect with Mike here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeg-bmg/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soaringfamilynation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SoaringFamilies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikesf6363/    

In this relatively short, solo episode, I'm sharing one of the metaphors for the inner life that has really impacted me over the past several years, The Inner House.  Let me know if this resonates with you by sending me an email at [email protected], or sending me a DM on Instagram @morgan_motsinger If you find this podcast helpful, please make a moment to leave a rating and review.  

In this conversation, Dr. Gina Anderson and I discuss the intricacies of memory, learning, and the mind-body connection. She explains the differences between working, short-term, and long-term memory, emphasizing the importance of reinforcement and visualization in the learning process. We also touch on the role of belief in learning and how to unlearn habits by creating new neural maps. Practical techniques for enhancing memory retention and the significance of sleep are highlighted, along with the impact of negative and positive reinforcement on behavior change. We explore the intricate relationship between mental health, learning, and neuroplasticity. The conversation also delves into the impact of technology on mental health, particularly the addictive nature of scrolling on devices. Dr. Anderson emphasizes the need for authentic learning experiences tailored to individual preferences and the importance of rekindling passion for learning as a lifelong journey. --- Dr. Gina Anderson is the CEO of Luma Brighter Learning, an award-winning learning company and a 2024 and 2023 recipient of the prestigious Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies award. Dr. Anderson routinely publishes new, measurable, science-based techniques specifically focused on learning in logistics and transportation to help companies improve their safety scores and uphold compliance. Dr. Anderson is the author of Thrive: How Learning Can Ignite a New Way Forward and a contributing author to the best-selling book Perspectives on Invisible Illnesses. Recognized as a thought leader in learning and an Inc. contributing author, she is also the creator and host of the I Love Learning podcast, where leaders from around the world share what motivates them to learn. Dr. Anderson holds a Doctor of Education in instructional systems technology from Indiana University, where she also minored in learning science. She has a passion for helping people learn. You can find Gina at: https://lumabrighterlearning.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-anderson-luma/ [email protected]   Find Morgan at: https://www.morganmotsinger.com/ https://www.instagram.com/morgan_motsinger/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-motsinger/ https://www.youtube.com/@morganmotsinger  

If you're asked to think of someone emotional, whether in your friend group or family, someone immediately comes to mind. I would bet that your thoughts about being "emotional" conjure negative feelings. Why is that? In 1990, the term "emotional intelligence" was developed to bridge the gap between what is considered uncontrolled and irrational about emotions into the realm of thoughtful and measured. While people can certainly take this idea too far by intellectualizing emotion and feeling, the new term enabled people to talk about emotions in a new way. Yosi Amram, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist, a CEO leadership coach, a pioneering researcher in the field of spiritual intelligence, and a best-selling award-winning author. Previously the founder and CEO of two companies that he has led through successful IPOs, Yosi has coached over 100 CEOs many of whom have built companies with thousands of employees and revenues in the billions.In this conversation, Yosi shares his thoughts on spiritual intelligence, its relationship with emotional intelligence, and the importance of finding purpose in life. He emphasizes the need for both individual autonomy and community connection, exploring how cultural values shape our understanding of these concepts. The dialogue also touches on the significance of recognizing our contributions to the greater whole and the cyclical nature of connection and disconnection in our spiritual journeys. In this conversation, Yosi discusses the importance of embracing both joy and pain as essential components of a meaningful life. He emphasizes the concept of spiritual intelligence, particularly in leadership, and how it can enhance organizational culture and financial performance. The discussion also delves into the challenges of embodying qualities like humility and presence, and how contemplating mortality can clarify one's values. Ultimately, Amram highlights the interconnectedness of life and the self-renewing nature of love and joy.--Yosi has engineering degrees from MIT, an MBA from Harvard, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Sofia University, he is a pioneering researcher in the field of spiritual intelligence, whose research has received over 1000 citations. As the author of the Amazon Best-Seller and Nautilus Book Award Gold Medal-winning Spiritually Intelligent Leadership: How to Inspire by Being Inspired, Yosi is committed to awakening greater spiritual intelligence in himself and the world.Spiritual Intelligence (SI) is not a belief in a higher power or God, nor is it an experience of awakening, or a momentary realization of Oneness. Rather, SI is deepest and highest expression of our life force energy and sacred spark of life involving to the ability to draw on, embody, and express qualities and virtues hailed by all the world's spiritual traditions, such as purpose, service, trust, gratitude, compassion, presence, humility, integrity, and higher-self, to name just a few. These are the qualities that naturally arise when connecting to and rooting ourselves in our spirit essence, whereby we feel inner-, inter-, and ultra-connected, connected to ourselves, connected to others, and connected to the sacred and transcendent dimension of life.Yosi began his leadership journey in the Israeli military, where he received numerous awards and garnered the fastest promotion record in his regiment’s history. Despite these accomplishments, the military chafed at his soul, eventually inspiring Yosi’s lifelong quest for more humane approaches to leadership, which led him to start and build his own companies. Yosi is also the founder of several non-profits, including trueMASCULINITY.org, Engendering-Love.org, and AwakeningSI.org. For further information about Yosi and his work, please see www.yosiamram.net and/or subscribe to his YouTube channel @AwakeningSpirituaIntelligence.

In this conversation, Janet Ettele shares her journey of self-discovery, influenced by her love for music and the teachings of Buddhism. She discusses the importance of silence, mindfulness, and the role of storytelling in conveying spiritual teachings. Janet emphasizes the concept of joyous effort in personal growth and the significance of finding a teacher in life. The conversation explores themes of openness, acceptance, and the interconnectedness of all beings, while also addressing the challenges of compassion in a divided world. Finally, Janet reflects on how music serves as a spiritual practice and a means of expression. In this conversation, Janet Ettele shares her journey into writing and storytelling, discussing the process of creating characters and narratives that convey profound teachings on compassion and wisdom. She emphasizes the importance of practice in learning, particularly in meditation, and how it can help individuals overcome the noise of their minds. The discussion also touches on the significance of aligning one's life with core values to achieve inner peace and fulfillment. Janet introduces the concept of the six perfections in Buddhist teachings and how they can guide individuals toward a more compassionate life. The conversation concludes with insights on integrating mindfulness into daily life and the importance of being present in our relationships. Bio: Janet Kathleen Ettele is a musician and author who blends her background as a student of Buddhist dharma with her art, seamlessly bringing its teachings into contemporary practice through her writing and music. She has performed with Tencho Gyatso, the niece of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and Grammy Award nominee and Tibetan flutist Nawang Khechog. A graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, where Ettele studied music composition, becoming an author decades later was an unexpected but welcome opportunity. Ettele worked in the entertainment industry until becoming a mother. She lives in Connecticut, where she has raised two sons and has happily welcomed the addition of two grandchildren. Ettele has also recorded two CDs, Piano Mandalas and Piano Mandalas-Compassion, which are collections of her meditatively improvised music. Find Janet: https://janetettele.com/ https://www.instagram.com/janetettele/ https://www.facebook.com/janet.ettele https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063516554816 https://www.youtube.com/@janetettele8818  

So here's the thing about "time poverty" — it's just a fancy term for what most of us are doing: running around like our hair is on fire while responding to emails at stoplights and calling it "multitasking." Being busy is not a personality trait. It's not an achievement. It's not even productive half the time. We've all bought into this hustle culture garbage where we think answering Slack messages at 11pm somehow makes us better humans. Spoiler alert: it doesn't. It just makes us tired humans with eye strain who keep saying things like "I'm slammed" when friends ask to grab coffee. Here's what I learned from Peggy Sullivan, who sounds like she has her life together in ways I can only dream about: we need to identify all those low-value activities that are sucking up our time like a teenager's gaming console sucks up battery life. You know, the stuff we do that feels productive but is actually just busywork. And self-care? It's not selfish. It's necessary. It's oxygen mask territory — put yours on first before helping others. But not in that Instagram #selfcare way where you take pictures of your bath bombs while still answering work emails with your pruney fingers. The path forward isn't some dramatic life overhaul where you suddenly become a productivity guru with color-coded calendars and a perfect morning routine. It's micro steps. Little happiness rituals. It's saying "no" to things that don't align with your values, which is something many of us are still learning to do well into adulthood. --- Peggy Sullivan is a keynote speaker, author, and researcher whose viral TEDx talk, with millions of views, has inspired audiences worldwide to overcome busyness and achieve peak performance without sacrificing well-being. Through her signature Busy Busting Framework—trusted by Fortune 500 companies like Google, Bank of America, and BlueCross BlueShield…she reveals how packed schedules can reduce productivity and fulfillment. With humor, personal stories, and research-based strategies, Peggy empowers individuals and organizations to shift from hustle to purpose, unlocking greater engagement, resilience, and success. You can find Peggy on her website: www.peggysullivanspeaker.com. --- To learn more about the grief retreat in southern California in September, visit: Oaks Center: Navigating Grief and Loss Find Morgan on her website morganmotsinger.com  

I've been feeling very down but lately, I've felt a renewed sense of determination to pursue happiness. But...how? I'm sharing super practical ways I've been bringing happiness into my life. I also share why the pursuit of happiness is not selfish but an important part of well-being an longevity.   Find Morgan on her website https://www.morganmotsinger.com/ Download the free E-Book "Know Thyself" here https://morganmotsinger.myflodesk.com/lpeqn3ujro Chapters 00:00 The Pursuit of Happiness 06:27 Understanding Happiness: Hedonic vs. Eudaemonic 12:05 Practical Steps to Cultivate Happiness 19:00 Mindset Shifts for Happiness 24:11 The Importance of Joy in Life

Dr. Lisa Peña is a doctor of pharmacology, author, mental health advocate, and mother to beautiful children, one of whom has a rare disease. In this heartfelt conversation, Lisa shares her journey as a mother of a child with disabilities, detailing the challenges and triumphs she has faced over the years. From navigating the complexities of autism and a rare gene disorder to advocating for mental health and community support, Lisa emphasizes the importance of education, self-compassion, and radical acceptance. She discusses the impact of caregiving on mental health, the need for systemic change in support for caregivers, and the power of shared experiences in group therapy. Ultimately, Lisa's story is one of resilience, growth, and the ongoing journey of healing.   You can follow Lisa on Instagram, order her book Waiting for the Light Bulb, and watch this episode on YouTube. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Parenthood and Career Changes 02:56 The Journey of Advocacy and Community Building 05:41 Facing New Challenges: A Diagnosis Journey 08:58 Understanding Complex PTSD and Its Impact 11:46 The Role of Self-Compassion in Caregiving 14:42 Radical Acceptance and Ongoing Healing 17:38 Creating Support Systems for Caregivers 20:57 The Importance of Education in Handling Hardships 23:48 Finding Safety in Uncertainty 26:41 The Power of Self-Reflection and Learning 30:02 Building Resilience Through Connection 32:56 The Need for Preventative Care in Healthcare 35:42 Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Caregiving 51:11 Self-Awareness and Seeking Help 54:37 Confronting Taboo Topics 56:02 The Importance of Support Systems 01:01:05 Navigating Grief and Identity 01:07:19 The Power of Group Therapy 01:15:43 Witnessing Grief and Connection 01:26:51 Education as a Coping Mechanism    

Jessica and I delve into the profound themes of grief, loss, and hope. We share their personal experiences with the deaths of their children and explore how these experiences have shaped their perspectives on life, relationships, and resilience. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community, self-care, and finding joy amidst sorrow, while also addressing the complexities of navigating grief and the nature of hope. --- Jessica Fein is the author of Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken Genes and host of the "I Don't Know How You Do It” podcast, which features people whose lives seem unimaginable and who find themselves on the receiving end of that statement. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, Newsweek, Psychology Today, The Boston Globe, HuffPost, Scary Mommy, and more. Jessica is a relentless warrior in the memory of her dynamic daughter whom she lost to rare disease in 2022. Her work encompasses hope and humor, grit and grace -- the tools that make up her personal survival kit.   Watch Jessica's TEDx talk here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClaQkyLnAaw Learn more about her and grab a copy of her book on her website https://www.jessicafeinstories.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.fein.92/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feinjessica/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-fein-b643b09   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Grief and Loss 02:22 Personal Experiences with Grief 05:19 The Impact of Sudden vs. Anticipated Loss 08:28 The Puncture in the Bubble of Life 11:23 Understanding Different Types of Loss 14:20 Navigating Fear and Worry After Loss 17:26 Finding Hope After Grief 20:34 The Role of Positive Psychology 23:30 Exploring Purpose and Joy 26:32 The Search for Predictability in Life 29:19 The Feeling Behind Our Desires 32:23 Conclusion and Reflections on Life 38:25 Finding Joy Beyond Circumstances 39:32 The Purpose of Being Human 41:30 Embracing All Emotions 44:17 The Complexity of Joy 47:04 The Role of Hope 52:25 Redefining Hope 56:07 Self-Care and Identity 01:01:22 Connecting Through Shared Experiences 01:05:37 Navigating Conversations About Grief 01:10:50 The Power of Connection  

Anxiety is tough. It keeps you up at night, surprises you at the most inopportune times, and keeps you from pursuing important goals. One of the most difficult parts of anxiety is that you can't talk yourself out of it. Once that spiral starts it feels almost impossible to stop. What's a person to do? Dr. Russ Kennedy (aka the Anxiety MD) gives some insight into how to think differently about our anxiety and practical tools to manage it. He offers a sophisticated and compassionate exploration of anxiety, challenging traditional psychological frameworks by examining the complex interplay between emotional experience, bodily responses, and unresolved psychological patterns. Kennedy argues that anxiety isn't merely a cognitive phenomenon, but a sophisticated physiological response. Rather than viewing anxiety as purely mental, he positions it as a deeply embodied experience - an alarm mechanism stored within our physical systems that signals unprocessed emotional experiences. Drawing from his dual professional background as a physician and comedian, Kennedy brings both clinical expertise and empathetic storytelling to his work. He advocates for a nuanced understanding of anxiety - not as a weakness, but as a complex adaptive response requiring compassionate, strategic intervention. - Anxiety represents a sophisticated communication system from the body - Healing requires integrated, whole-person approaches - Personal struggles can be reframed as opportunities for growth and understanding A compelling, research-informed perspective on mental health that destigmatizes and demystifies anxiety's intricate landscape. -- You can find him on his website https://www.theanxietymd.com/home and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/theanxietymd/   Keywords loneliness, anxiety, trauma, neuroplasticity, healing, self-discovery, emotional wounding, interoception, touch, movement, anxiety, healing, meditation, emotional release, loneliness, self-connection, play, mental health, somatic experiencing, personal growth Chapters 00:00 Understanding Loneliness and Anxiety 06:37 Practical Strategies for Reconnecting with the Body 13:36 Trauma and Cellular Memory 18:45 Neuroplasticity and Healing 35:08 Psychedelics and Self-Discovery 45:11 Insights from the Temple Experience 51:58 Healing Through Connection and Curiosity 01:01:22 The Importance of Play and Emotional Release 01:07:00 Addressing Loneliness and Societal Anxiety

There's a difficult dynamic in many relationships: over-functioning people (usually women) are together with an under-functioning partner. Dr. Ashley Southard has been a family therapist for over two decades and in the past couple of years has given voice to many unhealthy dynamics couples find themselves in.  "Over-functioning really speaks to kind of the emotional and mental labor that somebody is carrying in the relationship to keep that relationship going...they are doing the bulk of the relationship work. And conversely, then the under-functioning partner is not carrying the load. They are not really focusing on the relationship. They're not putting the effort and the energy into keeping this relationship functional and healthy. The over-functioning partner is doing nearly all of that work on their own and trying to hold this relationship together with their own hands without the help of their under-functioning partner." (Dr. Ashley Southard) -- Dr. Ashley Southard is a psychotherapist in Scottsdale, AZ, specializing in The Overfunctioning Woman in Love who is struggling with the confusing, exhausting, and lonely dynamics of one-sided, unfulfilling love relationships. With over 20 years of clinical experience treating complex trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and relationship issues, coupled with her own personal journey out of Overfunctioning, Dr. Ashley loves nothing more than creating an emotionally safe space for women to discover that they are not ‘crazy’ or ‘broken’…and that they have the power to become the Self-Restored Woman they were always meant to be! Dr. Ashley is also very active on Instagram, offering life-changing information to “make sense out of the nonsense.” She has amassed a strong following of women who are remembering their power, learning how to come back home to themselves, and healing in community with other Self-Restoring women. You can find Dr. Ashley at https://www.instagram.com/drashleysouthard or her website at https://www.drashleysouthard.com/ --- Chapters 00:00 Understanding Over-Functioning and Under-Functioning 02:34 The Dynamics of Emotional Labor in Relationships 05:25 Identifying Practical Examples of Over-Functioning 08:27 Navigating Feelings of Discrepancy in Relationships 11:20 The Challenge of Making Partners Change 14:21 The Pain of the Liminal Space 17:20 Stepping Back vs. Quiet Quitting in Relationships 29:11 Navigating Communication in Relationships 31:19 The Challenge of Parenting with an Under-Functioning Partner 35:28 Understanding the Impact of Under-Functioning on Children 42:23 Roots of Under-Functioning: Childhood Dynamics 47:21 The Cycle of Over-Functioning and Under-Functioning 53:51 The Journey of Self-Restoration and What We Deserve 01:00:37 Navigating Relationship Dynamics 01:02:07 The Risks of Over-Functioning 01:04:20 Self-Restoration Journey 01:06:34 Facing the Fear of Self-Discovery 01:09:00 The Power of Awareness 01:11:29 Personal Journey of Transformation 01:15:30 Shifting Focus to Self-Change 01:18:59 The Importance of Self-Validation 01:21:51 Parting Thoughts on Kindness and Compassion

It's not often that I hear a metaphor that really sticks. When I heard my guest's approach to processing emotion and healing trauma I latched on immediately. Rachel talks about emotional movement through the metaphor of digestion. When we're kiddos we learn what bodily sensations mean (time to hit the loo!) when we're being potty trained. But who is teaching us about processing emotion? What do we do when we have normal emotional sensations in our bodies? We often learn from our caregivers to stuff them. Don't express them. That there are emotions that are bad or wrong. This results in backed-up emotional systems and it takes work to learn how to process our feelings. Rachel has dubbed her process "Emotional Potty Training" and she shares practical insight, tools, and personal stories on this week's episode.    ----   Rachel Kaplan, MA, MFT is a licensed psychotherapist, mental-health educator, and author of “Feel, Heal & Let that Sh*t Go: Your Guide to Emotional Resilience and Lasting Self-Love” (New World Library). She is the creator and host of the award-winning podcast, The Healing Feeling Sh*t Show. Her therapeutic and educational offerings can be found at thefeelingsmovment.com.   Find her on Instagram @healingfeelingshitshow @thefeelingsmovement on TikTok and YouTube   ---   Find Morgan at https://www.morganmotsinger.com/   Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Emotional Potty Training 06:39 Understanding Emotional Signals 13:45 Tools for Emotional Processing 24:44 Core Wounds and Their Impact 33:33 Healing Through Self-Compassion 40:25 Understanding Overwhelm and Emotional Check-ins 46:14 The Nature of Emotions: Finite vs. Infinite 52:05 Navigating Emotional Expression and Intellectualization 57:48 Parenting, Emotions, and the Balance of Needs 01:04:47 The Power of Anger: Understanding and Expressing It 01:12:34 Transformative Anger: Harnessing Its Energy

I recorded this episode the day I got a breast biopsy.  I'm a pretty private person, but sharing what this experience was like from first lump and concerning symptoms to biopsy results is important *spoiler alert: results came back all clear!  What were my first symptoms? What is it like to get a mammogram? How did I manage my fear and worry about big scary possibilities? What does it mean to have dense breasts? Why did I do further testing even though my mammogram didn't show anything? What is a breast ultrasound? What is a breast MRI like? How was the experience of getting a breast biopsy? In this episode, I tell you what the timeline and steps were to final results, how to deal with worry while waiting for testing (and the sleepless nights that inevitably show up), and explore why we don't share our hard things (or at least why I have a hard time with this). I also have a little rant about healthcare system issues in the US and what to do when you're worried about paying for testing and treatment.  If you find this episode helpful, please share with a friend, leave a rating and review on whatever platform you listen.   -- Find me on Instagram Book me to speak at your corporate or private event Send me an email at [email protected]

Kelly was in the healthcare space, working with families in the intensive care unit and oncology nursing. While she spent a good amount of time around grief and loss, nothing prepared her for what it was like to navigate losing her son 15 years ago.    She shares about the early days of shock, disbelief, and grief and how she dealt with anxiety, relationship changes, and still showing up for her other son. We discuss how grief has changed over the years and how she has used her experiences to connect on a deep level with other bereaved moms.    ---   Kelly Buckley is a gratitude practitioner, speaker, author, and the host of the Broken, Beautiful, Me podcast. With over 30 years of experience in healthcare leadership, Kelly turned her own journey through profound grief into a mission to inspire and support others. Her work focuses on using gratitude and storytelling to navigate life’s challenges, foster resilience, and create meaningful connections. Through her podcast and public speaking, Kelly provides a compassionate space for sharing stories of healing, hope, and personal growth, empowering others to embrace life’s beauty even in the face of adversity.   You can find Kelly at https://www.kellybuckley.com/   Chapters 00:00 Journey Through Grief: A Personal Story 02:51 The Impact of Loss on Family Dynamics 05:52 Navigating Anxiety and Grief 08:50 The Messiness of Grief and Self-Compassion 11:56 Relationships in the Wake of Loss 14:53 Finding Support and Understanding 17:51 The Role of Medication in Grief 21:04 Communicating Grief: What to Say and What Not to Say 23:58 The Unpredictability of Grief 26:46 Embracing Vulnerability in Grief 29:59 The Power of Sharing Your Story 40:02 Embracing Vulnerability in Grief 43:48 The Healing Power of Writing 46:08 Finding Flickers of Light in Darkness 50:41 The Evolution of Grief Over Time 54:41 Resilience Redefined 01:08:34 Final Thoughts on Healing and Connection  

Allison has a way with words.  Metaphors are sprinkled through her stories which bring visuals to my mind instantaneously. Our brains LOVE stories and visuals, which make her lessons and wisdom stick even more. I met Allison at a retreat and immediately connected with her and the more I got to know her, the more I knew she had life experience and coaching expertise I wanted to share with my podcast listeners.  I know that you will get a lot out of this episode.  --- Allison is a Certified Wayfinder Master Coach and Wayfinder Life Coach Training instructor with an MA in English literature from George Mason University and undergraduate degrees in English and French from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her work has been featured in Elephant Journal, Thrive Global, and Pathways magazine. She lives in Omaha with the people who inspire her work: her husband, daughter, and son.   You can find Allison at allisonevanscoaching.com and learn more about her upcoming program (enrollment opens Nov 25!)  and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allisonevanscoaching   Chapters 00:00 The Nature of Consciousness: Lantern vs. Spotlight 03:17 Widening Our Focus: The Impact of Technology 06:22 Mindfulness and Body Awareness: Tools for Wellness 09:01 Emotions: The 90-Second Rule 12:15 The Stories We Tell: Understanding Our Narratives 15:12 The Role of Anger and Fear in Motivation 18:13 Navigating Despair: A Coaching Moment 44:22 Exploring Emotions and Body Awareness 47:20 The Power of Storytelling in Overcoming Hopelessness 49:35 The Importance of Inner Change 52:21 The Magic of Authenticity in Relationships 56:57 Navigating Authenticity and Sincerity 01:00:31 The Long View of Personal Growth 01:02:54 The Role of Apologies in Growth 01:04:23 Defining Winning in Conversations 01:09:55 The Micro and Macro Connection in Our Stories 01:12:56 Amassing Evidence for Intentional Beliefs 01:15:22 Decomposing Limiting Stories 01:20:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

How do we navigate our relationships with people who believe and vote differently than we do? In this episode I'm sharing how to deal with disappointment about the election. How do we maintain our compassion and connection with people who are close to us that voted differently? If we want to keep our relationships healthy and not drown into a pool of despair, let's explore some skills to pay attention to what we have control over instead of obsessing over what we don't.   Although I share my perspective from a more liberal perspective, this insight into human behavior, relationships, and how our brains work when it comes to biases and beliefs, will be helpful for people on both sides of the aisle.

This quote from Carl Jung has been rolling around in my mind: "The first half of life is devoted to forming a healthy ego. The second half is going inward and letting go of it." What does it mean to operate from a deeper place, beneath the ego? Who were we before the world told us who we should be? This episode explores these ideas of deeper conscious awareness of the illusion of separateness, the delight in being nobody, and the self-compassion that is necessary to accept and love others.   If you want to check out the video for this episode (and all other episodes of this podcast) you can find them all on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@morganmotsinger and follow along on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/morgan_motsinger/   Jill Bolte Taylor's TED talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mYD7Y9CXeUw&t=2s Book: I Contain Multitudes by Ed Yong   

Anxiety about myself has been kicking my butt lately, which is frustrating because I'm DOING ALL THE RIGHT THINGS. So, what gives? And what has been helping? In this conversation, I discuss my struggles with health anxiety, exploring the complexities of mental health and the brain's predictive nature. I'm sharing personal experiences and insights on how to manage anxiety through mindfulness, decision-making (this is a BIG ONE), and acceptance of life's natural cycles. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the brain's role in emotional responses and the value of having a plan to reduce fear.   You can check out an earlier episode where I talk all about anxiety here (including more in depth about what works well for me)    You can find me on the black hole (that is sometimes a cheery, uplifting place) called Instagram here If you want your own set of Mindful Moment Cards, you can find them in my shop https://www.morganmotsinger.com/shop k, love you, bye.

When I was an interior designer, I worked with Michele for a year. She coached me through business growth, strategic thinking and planning, and general life challenges. She encouraged me to bring my full self to my businesses and see the through line through all the work I was doing.    Key Takeaways Owning and understanding the decisions made in the business is crucial for making necessary changes. Developing a strategic plan and managing finances effectively are vital for the long-term success and sustainability of the business. Have a strategy and plan in place when transitioning from a job to starting a business Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship requires open conversations and prioritization Iteration and feedback are crucial for refining the business and meeting customer needs Define your own journey as an entrepreneur and prioritize profitability and sustainability in your business.   Michele Williams is the dynamic owner of Scarlet Thread Consulting and Metrique Solutions, two companies focused on empowering creative professionals to own the financials of their business. With an eye for detail and a passion for innovation, Michele has carved a niche in providing strategic business coaching and financial analytics to help business owners navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. At Scarlet Thread Consulting, Michele utilizes her extensive experience in finance and business management to offer tailored coaching and mentoring services. She is dedicated to helping her clients achieve financial clarity and operational efficiency, enabling them to make informed decisions that drive their businesses forward. Through Metrique Solutions, Michele offers a unique blend of technology and consultancy, providing cutting-edge software solutions designed specifically for the owners of small business. Her expertise in financial metrics and data analysis empowers her clients to optimize their pricing strategies and enhance profitability. Michele's commitment to excellence and her unwavering support for her clients have established her as a trusted advisor and thought leader in the design community. Her work not only transforms businesses but also inspires creativity and growth, making her an invaluable asset to the industry.   You can find Michele at https://www.scarletthreadconsulting.com https://www.metriquesolutions.com   or on socials at @scarletthreadatl, @metriquesolutions Facebook : Scarlet Thread Consulting, Metrique Solutions   Chapters 00:00 From Corporate America to Entrepreneurship 05:37 The Pivotal Moment: Recognizing the Need for Change 11:27 Viewing Yourself and Your Business Differently 19:08 The Skills of Service and Being a Business Owner 20:18 Owning Your Decisions and Creating a Strategic Plan 27:00 Prioritizing Spending and Managing Finances 34:56 Transitioning from a Job to Starting a Business 36:48 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 38:11 Creating a Strategy for Life and Business 39:32 Starting a Business: Assessing Resources and Creating a Strategic Plan 52:30 Refining the Business: Iteration and Feedback 01:02:20 Staying Focused on the Why and Enjoying the Process 01:07:26 Knowing When to Iterate or Pivot 01:07:50 The Power of a 212-Degree Mindset 01:08:24 Addressing the Emotional Needs of Entrepreneurs 01:09:26 Seeking Feedback and Analyzing Data for Growth 01:11:38 Choosing the Right Marketing Platforms 01:13:27 Defining Your Own Journey as an Entrepreneur  

How do you navigate entrepreneurship what what you're familiar with is a corporate environment? How do you know when it's time to embark on your own journey and how do you decide what that will be? Join me as I talk with Monique about her experience leading entrepreneurs, coaching, and raising kids.  --- Monique Shields, Executive Coach, Founder of Seven Pines Leadership and Podcast Host of "Ambition Without Compromise", is committed to liberating the professional imaginations of WOC CEOs, Founders & Leaders. Monique was formerly on staff at the Stanford Graduate School of Business as a Facilitator for their Women in Management program as well as at UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business a Leadership Coach for current MBAs and alumni executives. Prior to launching Seven Pines, Monique was the Director of Coaching and then the Director of Partnerships at Joyable, a mental health technology start-up in San Francisco - employee #7. In her management roles, she built, led and scaled a client-facing team for a business that served nearly a half million users and managed relationships for the company's largest, most strategic global accounts. Personally, Monique is a wife, a mom of two and a fierce friend to amazing women. Find Monique on Instagram @moniquershields and her website www.moniquershields.com

This is part 1 of a series about entrepreneurship. Originally, the series was going to be very practical, sharing the nuts and bolts of how to start or grow a business (cue the commentary about deciding on a product/service, marketing, customer service). But then I remembered that AI exists and you can so easily get input tailored to what you want by paying attention to the prompts you're using.    Instead, how about we talk about how to know what NOT to pay attention to? How do you feel proud of what you're putting your name on? How do you navigate the feelings that come with entrepreneurship?    All that and more coming to you in this series. This solo episode is about how I got started, some of the advantages I had, and realistically how to create a business when you've got little ones you're in charge of.    You can find me on Instagram @morgan_motsinger, online at morganmotsinger.com, or email me at [email protected]   Find my latest download 6 Ways to Embrace Mortality (and live with more purpose!) HERE.   

Just A Moment (JAM) are bite-sized episodes with thoughts or practices that aren't quite tall enough to ride the full episode ride. The insights shared in these little JAMs are meant to bring more mindfulness and self-compassion to your life.    A podcast sparked this JAM. I was tuned in to how social media trends impact our subconscious processes. This got me thinking about what our phones in general do to our subconscious beliefs about attention, connection, and how we connect with others in our real life.    You can find more mindfulness tools on my website https://www.morganmotsinger.com/ or follow along on the only social platform I keep up with: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/morgan_motsinger/  

Just A Moment (JAM) are bite-sized episodes with thoughts or practices that aren't quite big enough to ride the full episode ride. The insights shared in these little JAMs are meant to bring more mindfulness and self-compassion to your life.    This JAM is all about worry. How do we treat that little (or big) part of ourself that clings to worry with all their might? Worry isn't just an abstract THING somewhere out there. It's a feeling experienced by a part of ourselves. We often want to kick those feelings to the curb, because who wants to feel worry (or anger or fear or anxiousness), but we don't realize that we are effectively telling part of our very self, "You're not welcome here." This JAM will help you exercise compassion toward that part of yourself with a simple visualization and an awareness of how we talk to those "unlovely" parts of ourselves. 

Tara LaFon Gooch offers insightful perspectives on the importance of confidence and the various ways we can cultivate it in our lives. She emphasizes that confidence is a choice, rooted in embracing gratitude, taking responsibility for our actions, and maintaining a clear vision. Importantly, she clarifies that true confidence is not about arrogance or seeking validation from others.Gooch also highlights the value of collaboration and the need to uplift those around us, which is essential for personal development. She discusses how negative thought patterns can hinder our growth, while positive self-talk can empower us. By taking ownership of our thoughts and actions, we can create a more positive external environment.Additionally, she stresses the significance of discovering one’s purpose and aligning it with the goal of helping others. Rather than fostering competition, she advocates for collaboration and mutual support. Finally, Gooch addresses the role of confidence in parenting, underscoring the importance of setting a positive example for future generations. Bio: Tara LaFon Gooch embodies a paradigm of modern leadership, serving as a TEDx speaker, CEO, branding and marketing expert, podcast host, and bestselling author of "How To GRASP Confidence & Own Your Power." Her journey underscores a dynamic approach to leadership, empowering individuals to thrive in today's rapidly evolving landscape. In recent years, Tara's influence has reached unprecedented heights, gracing the covers of leading publications like Forbes, MSN, LA Weekly, and Yahoo Finance. Her features in the United Business Journal, Fox News in New York, the Digital Journal, and TEDx in Nottingham, England, highlight her ability to resonate with diverse audiences, offering compelling insights into contemporary leadership and personal empowerment. Tara's academic credentials reflect a commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation and knowledge. With an MBA specializing in Business Analytics from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, she possesses a strategic mindset tailored for navigating the complexities of modern business environments. Complemented by certificates in Management from The University of Notre Dame and Financial Management from Cornell University, Tara exemplifies the fusion of traditional expertise with contemporary insights. Beyond individual accolades, Tara's role as the United States Country Chair for Start-Up Ecosystems at the G100 Mission Million underscores her dedication to fostering inclusive leadership ecosystems. Through her visionary stewardship, she champions the elevation and support of female entrepreneurs nationwide, catalyzing a new era of inclusive economic growth and opportunity. Engaging Tara LaFon Gooch as a speaker offers profound benefits rooted in modern leadership principles. Her unique blend of expertise, charisma, and real-world experience resonates deeply with audiences, inspiring them to embrace innovation, resilience, and adaptability in today's dynamic landscape. By sharing her transformative insights and strategies, Tara equips individuals and organizations alike to navigate complexity with confidence, fostering cultures of innovation, inclusion, and sustainable growth in an ever-changing world.   Contact Tara: www.TaraLaFonGooch.com www.BestBranding.Solutions https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-lafon-gooch https://www.facebook.com/tara.lafon https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTXN57YGfMOMJdkphzr2PoQ https://x.com/taralafongooch https://www.instagram.com/taralafongooch   Episode Chapters: Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:49 Tara's Journey to Confidence 04:57 Defining Authentic Confidence 10:15 The GRASP Framework: Gratitude 13:43 The GRASP Framework: Responsibility 21:15 The GRASP Framework: Action 24:35 The GRASP Framework: Sight 30:08 The GRASP Framework: Purpose 35:35 Finding Your Purpose 43:57 Navigating Self-Promotion 46:29 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt 54:09 Self-Exclusion: Why Women Hold Back 56:03 The Power of Collaboration and Abundance 58:42 Embracing Your Unique Purpose with Confidence 01:02:53 Conclusion  

Dr. Diana Londoño has an inspiring story about her path to becoming a doctor and her experiences with burnout. Her journey began when she watched her father suffer from illness and noticed how little dignity he received in healthcare. This motivated her to bring compassion and respect back into the medical field. She emphasizes that really listening to patients and addressing their fears and emotions is crucial. Dr. Londoño believes that leaders in healthcare should be empathetic and curious. She also highlights the importance of self-care to combat burnout. Stress can manifest physically, leading to issues like asthma and joint pain, as the body reacts with a fight or flight response, which can cause digestive problems too. Finding purpose and having a solid support system are key to managing stress. Establishing self-care routines and setting boundaries can help prevent burnout. She points out that emotional connections are vital for healthy relationships, and issues like porn-induced erectile dysfunction can stem from dopamine depletion. Dr. Londoño argues that society needs to embrace emotions to reduce suffering. She suggests practical changes like avoiding inflammatory media, engaging in creative activities, and fostering deeper connections with others. The themes of unity, love, surrender, and personal growth are central to her message. She encourages letting go of ego and fear while embracing our interconnectedness. Support, whether from higher sources or friends, is crucial during tough times. The conversation also touches on self-discovery, self-care, and choosing relationships that reflect our values. Ultimately, it’s about being curious, introspective, and willing to face discomfort to foster personal growth and build deeper connections with others.   Bio: Dr. Diana Londoño is a Board-Certified Urologist and one of the 10% of urologists in the US who is a woman and the 0.5% that are Latinx and a woman. Dr. Londoño is originally from Mexico City, and she received all her education in the Los Angeles Area, going to Claremont McKenna College for her undergraduate studies and then attending UCLA for her medical school training. She finished a 6-year residency in Urology at Kaiser Permanente, Los Angeles. She has experienced burnout twice, which led her to write and speak about it to raise awareness and help others. She has published multiple articles in Medscape, Doximity, Kevin MD, Men’s Health, Giddy.com, medmic.com, and others. She is also a contributor author to the books “Thriving After Burnout” and “Medic S.O.S.” Her burnout journey led her to become a certified life coach and founder of Physician Coach Support.com. This free and confidential 1:1 peer support platform for physicians, led by certified physician life coaches, is available seven days a week via Zoom. In 2022, she received the Los Angeles County Medical Association Physician Leadership Award for her work. She is an international speaker and guest on multiple podcasts discussing wellness, boundaries, ego, humanity in medicine, mindset, and mindfulness. She has also been featured on TV on Univision, Telemundo, Mundo Fox, CNN Latino, KCET, and ABC News as a health consultant discussing urological topics. She is also a Reiki Master and a Pranic Healing student, and the mother of two determined and joyful 6 and 8-year-old girls, Daniela and Paloma. Contact Dr. Londoño: https://dianalondonomd.com https://physiciancoachsupport.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianalondonomd/ https://www.instagram.com/dianalondonomd/ X: @dianalondonomd https://www.youtube.com/@dianalondonomd   Episode Chapters: 00:00 Becoming a Doctor and the Importance of Dignity in Medicine 05:58 The Role of Leadership in Medicine 13:11 Addressing Patients' Fears and Concerns 20:08 Preventing Burnout: Self-Care and Energy Management 30:27 The Impact of Stress on Physical Health 42:21 The Role of Emotional Connection in Sexual Dysfunction 50:23 The Importance of Vulnerability in In-Person Connections 55:44 Practical Changes for Managing Stress and Improving Well-being 59:30 Unity, Love, and Letting Go 01:01:27 The Beauty of Breaking and Healing 01:03:21 Overcoming Burnout and Finding Purpose 01:05:10 Self-Care and Meaningful Relationships

What is self-leadership? How does being a CEO a multi-billion dollar company translate to the habits and mindset needed for self-mastery? Marty Moore (Your CEO Mentor) has some hard earned advice for those wanting to excel in their companies and shares his personal story of leaving his corporate digs to create his own company to teach and inspire high performers to rapidly improve their leadership performance.  ____ Martin is a global thought leader, whose wisdom was forged in the cauldron of high-performance leadership. A university law school dropout, he worked his way up to become CEO of multi-billion dollar company, CS Energy. In 2018 he left the corporate world to establish Your CEO Mentor, the business he founded with his daughter, Emma Green. Since then, his direct, cut-through approach has made No Bullsh!t Leadership one of the top leadership podcasts globally, with over 5 million downloads in 150+ countries, and his book debuted at #2 on the Wall Street Journal bestseller list. His sole purpose is to improve the quality of leaders, globally.   Website: https://yourceomentor.com/ Podcast: https://yourceomentor.com/leadership-podcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourceomentor/ Book: "No Bullsh!t Leadership" https://yourceomentor.com/book/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourceomentor  

Rock bottom is a place nobody wants to be, but many who have been there attest to rock bottom being the place of deep transformation. Trish survived her traumatic childhood in the only way she could with escaping through drug use. She nearly ended her life when a chance phone call saved her and put her on a new path. The road out of poverty and to a thriving sales career which bloomed into an international keynote speaking career, enduring success expert, and a personal and team development coach.  What impresses me the most about Trish though isn't her admittedly amazing accomplishments, but her willingness to trudge into the deepest truth, knowing that's where we get to be honest about choosing love and connecting wholeheartedly.  ---- Trish Kendall is proof that we each have the power to create true success—enduring success—no matter our story, experiences, or circumstances. Trish climbed from the pit of despair and summited the peak of success, overcoming childhood sexual abuse, poverty, drug addiction and near suicide. Inspiring people around the world, and providing a pathway to enduring success, Trish helps organizations, teams and individuals create enduring success, together.  Connect with Trish on her website https://trishkendall.com/ on Instagram @trishkendallspeaks and LinkedIn @trish-kendall-speaks/

I'm not going to tell you how to get OUT, but how to be IN stuckness by changing the way you think about it.  Here are the 7 perspective shifts I'm exploring today: can you let yourself be stuck...for now? can you remember when you weren't stuck and believe it’s not forever? can you make a small change (even if it’s unrelated to the area you feel stuck in); are you actually paralyzed because you’re trying to change too much too fast can you actually do something but you’re afraid? is it not so much you that’s stuck as it is something you need to say that’s stuck? Where do you feel “stuck” in your body?  do you know how to get unstuck but you don’t feel like you can? Can you be okay with choosing to be stuck on purpose for now? do you feel stuck because you are comparing yourself to others?   My mantra when I'm stuck: "Please help me be present." Being stuck is not bad. Use it to clarify where you want to go, lean into gratitude, and claim your autonomy and ability to choose.    Sign up for emails at morganmotsinger.com/subscribe and find more about my speaking availability here    

What if you've got a dream for your life but it doesn't seem possible with your current circumstances? Stefanie and I are both part of the "Child Loss" club, which is just a nice way of saying we've both had our children die from Sanfilippo Syndrome. Today we're discussing the reality of having children with a debilitating and terminal disease, what to do when you've got a vision for your life that just doesn't match up, and what to do in the season of waiting.  ----more---- Stefanie Boyce, B.A, CSD, CET-1, R-YFT, MBC is the Oaks Retreat Director, creator of the Oaks Retreat signature framework and Founder and Therapeutic Coach at Inner Sanctuary Home, Inc. She received her degree in Psychology and Community Health and holds certifications as an Experiential Therapist, Spiritual Director, Yoga Instructor, Mind-Body Coach and Wellness Counselor. She has received additional training in Integrative Somatic Parts Work and Psychodrama modalities and has prior experience working with Domestic Violence, Pediatric Hospice, and Church Ministry. She also enjoys her collaborative relationship serving on the team as a Therapeutic Coach at Radical Wellness Co. in San Clemente, CA. Stefanie hosts workshops, retreats, yoga instruction, and therapeutic coaching for individuals and groups. Blending her creative passions, life experience, and training, she loves holding space for others to get curious, dig deep, and live well. Stefanie lives outside of San Diego, CA with her family.   @stefanieboycecoaching https://www.stefanieboyce.com/  

How did you get your views about sex and sexuality? What contributed to your sexual ethic? We learn about sex, shame, and sexuality from our parents (through what is said or not said), movies, pornography, friends, magazines, and more. But how often do we challenge our views and really dig into what we believe and why. This conversation with Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers is a great way to start asking those important questions.  We discuss some of the downstream affects of sexual shame, the outcomes of purity culture (and what purity culture actually is), and how to raise our children in sex-positive households.  Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers is a licensed sex and gender feminist psychotherapist, best-selling author, researcher, emeriti professor, and media personality whose expertise spans sex therapy, spiritual intimacy, parenting, and social justice. Her revolutionary perspectives have been expressed on platforms such as Spirituality & Health, Refinery 29, Vocal, Medium, and Bust Magazines, along with many podcast, radio, news, and TV interviews. Known for exposing the impact of sexual shame on our ability to securely attach to our partners, and instruct our children to attach to theirs, Dr. Sellers’ book Sex, God, & the Conservative Church – Erasing Shame from Sexual Intimacy has had a global impact. Her latest book, due out June 1, 2021, Shameless Parenting – Everything You Need to Raise Shame-free, Confident, Kids and Heal Your Shame Too! was a New Release Bestseller in five categories. She speaks throughout the world on how to heal, and how to raise shame-free relationally confident children. She can be followed on Instagram @DrTinaShameless   Dr. Tina's website Dr. Tina Shameless on Instagram  Resources for parenting with sex-positive intention Book: Shameless Parenting: Everything You Need to Raise Shame-free, Confident Kids and Heal Your Shame Too!  

I find myself rummaging in the cupboard when I'm particularly stressed out. But why do I do that? Why do we emotionally eat? I'm in an anatomy and physiology class right now, focusing on the nervous system. We started learning about the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems and my mind lit up about one thing in particular: how digestion relates to the stress state. These branches of the autonomic nervous system are in charge of the "fight or flight" and "rest or digest" states. So what does stress have to do with eating?  I think eating is like a cheat code. It helps us bump ourselves out of the fight or flight state by forcing our bodies to rest and digest. It's a brilliant strategy if you think about it! But what happens when we don't manage our stress in other ways?  This episode is about mindfulness, gratitude for the wisdom of our bodies, and practical tools to help reduce stress and introduce more mindfulness into how we eat, because eating isn't just for fuel, it's also for pleasure! --- In the beginning of the episode, I tell you about Brick. If you want to learn more and get your own handy tool, you can find it HERE.    You can find me on Instagram and YouTube, or visit my website for more info about speaking for your next event or retreat. 

We're all members of the cast in this big play called life. For the majority of our lives, we play along, delivering our lines, and embodying the character we were told to play.  But what happens when we realize we don't like how the script is written? What if this character that was written for me doesn't really fit? We can start to intentionally change the script. Write a different story. Say the lines that resonate with who we truly are.  Additionally, we like to hold other people to a script that we've written for them, not understanding the damage we're doing when we demand that others behave in a certain way according to our plans. When we can release people from our expectations, we give them the gift of being exactly who they are. Does that mean we allow any and all treatment? No way, but we can co-write the play. Enjoy this week's episode. If you want to hear more from me, you can come hang out with me on the socials (I'm on Instagram the most). Join me https://www.instagram.com/morgan_motsinger/  

I came across a poem that made me feel incredibly hopeful:   “In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer. And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger – something better, pushing right back.” -Albert Camus   I found a small snippet of this poem when I was cleaning out my office and found the book I purchased years ago as a guest book for Anni's funeral. When I needed it, I couldn't find it, but a year after her funeral--there it was. This poem was just what I needed in this moment, and it sparked this deeper thought about this big question: What do we do when we feel like giving up? I hope today this episode offers some hope amidst the hard things, gives you some practical advice on how to handle naysayers and dream-squashers (including that critical inner voice), and how to keep going when you can't quite make out the light ahead.    If this episode means something to you, please take a moment to give the show a rating and subscribe.  --- You can find me (Morgan) over on Instagram or on my website www.morganmotsinger.com

You've probably heard "attachment theory" (anxious attached, avoidant, etc), and the term "codependent", but what does that actually mean? And how does it practically show up in our relationships?   We get bogged down by terminology and we diagnose our relationship troubles, handing out labels left and right. Labels may not be very helpful, but what is helpful is understanding how we show up in our relationships, and how our perspective on our close relationships is formed by our first relationships with our parents and immediate family.  ___ Brooke Bergman is a relationship coach and licensed family and marriage therapist. She has a particular interest in entrepreneurial mental health, recovery from religious fundamentalism and trauma, divorce recovery, modern dating and modern marriage, women's body image and disordered eating, and supporting healthy romantic partnerships as a vehicle for creating a more stable and vibrant society.  In addition to working with her own clients, she provides consultation services through ZenFounder, an organization dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs’ mental health and relationship needs.   You can find her on her website https://www.brookebergman.com/  

Rita is a powerful force for good. The main topic of our conversation? How to be a more humane human.    What does it mean to be human? How do we exercise compassion when we are overwhelmed and feeling stuck ourselves? What can we do to fix some of the biggest problems humanity is currently facing? Rita teaches us about the importance of embodiment and somatic work, which involves listening to the cues and signals from our bodies. We discuss the importance of non-verbal communication and how it contributes to polarization and a sense of unease and unsafety. We also talked about the impact of trauma on our perception of danger and fear, and how it can affect our interactions with others. ----more---- Rita's Bio: Rita Bozi is a multidisciplinary Somatic Relational trauma-informed Facilitator and Psychedelic Therapist, author, educator, podcast co-host, playwright, and retired professional actor and dancer. In the past thirty-six years she has performed in Canada, the United States, Germany, Hungary and Iceland, and Estonia. With twenty-nine years experience in the healing arts, she is the director of Brilliant Healing Inc. She works with individuals and groups, leading unique, experiential, and creative healing retreats. She trains, mentors, and supervises individuals in her 3 module program: Somatic Relational Trauma-informed Practices for Medicine-Assisted Facilitation. In 2023, she was guest faculty at The Synthesis Institute and is a co-founding member of Communitas Collective in the Netherlands, a psychedelic think-tank for best practices in psychedelic care.   Rita is a colleague of Dr. Gabor Maté, was mentored by the late visionary Carol-Anne Bickerstaff, and is currently in a Practicum with Sharon Stanley PhD. Rita is a former instructor at Mount Royal College in Calgary and Langara College in Vancouver. Rita has deep respect for and experience with both non-traditional and Indigenous medicines and practices a non-pathologizing, body-centered, attachment-based, mindfulness, and bio-psycho-social approach to healing.   Though she is now a retired dancer and actor she will always be a creator and performer. Her first novel, When I Was Better, released in 2022 is a winner of the Firebird Book Award, and is a finalist for the 2022 Goethe International Literary Award for Late-Historical Fiction. She is currently writing PUNK Therapy, drawing on her clinical work with psychedelic medicine in combination with somatic relational practices. Her podcast PUNK THERAPY: Psychedelic Underground Neural Kindness launched on Feb 16th, 2022, and has over 10,000 downloads.   Born to Hungarian refugees who fled during the 1956 Revolution, Rita honors and remembers the long line of serfs and peasants who are her ancestors. She is devoted to the work it takes to become a kind and wise human, decolonizing the body and cultivating cherished and cooperative communities. brillianthealingsystems.com Find all of Rita's links in one place on Linktree Listen to the Punk Therapy Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

We all want happier lives, right? But sometimes happier feels out of reach, and maybe it feels more like if life could just suck LESS, that would be great.  What beliefs can we adopt to create a happier life? Sharing three beliefs you can take on to have a happier life right now.  ___ Find Morgan on Instagram @morgan_motsinger or her website https://www.morganmotsinger.com/  where you can find her services like speaking, and how to book her for your podcast.   

This past year has felt like a dream. A bit fuzzy, foggy, and scattered. Passing the one-year milestone is a bit bizarre and I have lots of feelings about it.    This week I'm sharing the past year's ups and downs and what has helped me navigate grief.  ____ Find Morgan on Instagram: @morgan_motsinger and her website: morganmotsinger.com  

Our creativity is a hallmark of our species. We have a unique ability to tap into meaning and something deeper than our basic needs.    So, what exactly is creativity? Why should we care about expressing it (especially if no one else ever sees it)? How does creativity feel? And the golden question, how do we cultivate even more creativity in our lives?   The books I recommend on this episode are: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert The Creative Act, A Way of Being by Rick Rubin Resonate by Alex Wolf ___ You can find Morgan on Instagram and her website.