Patience in Progress

What happens when the person everyone depends on is struggling too? In Episode 30, we sit down with Andrew, a Salt Lake City Fire Department Captain and paramedic, for a powerful conversation about life as a first responder and the things that happen long after the emergency lights turn off. Andrew shares what drew him to firefighting, what years of responding to emergencies can do to the mind and body, and why some of the hardest parts of the job aren't always the major calls—but the constant accumulation of stress, lack of sleep, and trauma. We talk about PTSD, burnout, family relationships, therapy, journaling, resilience, parenting, social media, and learning to ask “What happened?” instead of “What’s wrong with you?” Andrew also introduces us to Red Line Rising, his work focused on giving first responders and their families practical tools to better understand trauma, mental health, and recovery. This conversation is honest, eye-opening, funny at times, heavy at others, and one we think applies to far more than just first responders. Because sometimes strength isn't pretending you're fine. It's learning what happened, finding the right tools, and continuing to rise.

Sometimes you just need to laugh! In this episode of Patience in Progress, we're taking a break from the heavy conversations and playing a hilarious game of Finish My Sentence. From guilty pleasures and irrational fears to pet peeves, reality shows, and the most random things in our purses, nothing is off-limits. Expect lots of laughs, unfiltered answers, and a few embarrassing confessions. So play along with us! Pause the episode, finish the sentence before we do, and see if your answers match ours. We promise you'll learn a little more about us, and maybe even about yourself.

In Part 2 of this deeply personal conversation, Mae courageously shares what life was really like growing up with a mentally and emotionally abusive parent. From manipulation and gaslighting to living in constant fear, she opens up about the invisible wounds that nearly cost her everything and how she ultimately found hope, healing, and her voice. This episode discusses the lasting effects of emotional abuse, the importance of safe relationships, therapy, and finding healthy outlets during life's darkest moments. Mae's story is one of incredible resilience and serves as a reminder that your past does not have to define your future. In this episode, we discuss: Recognizing gaslighting and emotional manipulation The hidden impact of growing up with a narcissistic parent Why children often blame themselves Mental health, self-harm, and the importance of asking for help The power of therapy and healthy support systems Healing, hope, and breaking the cycle of abuse If you grew up feeling unheard, constantly walking on eggshells, or questioning your own reality, this conversation is for you. We hope this episode reminds you that healing is possible, your story matters, and you are never alone. 💜 If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may need to hear this message.

What is it like to grow up feeling caught between two parents? In this deeply personal episode, we're joined by Mae, who courageously shares her experience growing up with a narcissistic parent. From being placed in the middle of adult conflicts to experiencing manipulation, isolation, and emotional control, Mae opens up about what life was really like behind closed doors. This conversation shines a light on the lasting effects of parental alienation and emotional abuse while offering hope to anyone who has questioned their own reality or felt alone in their experience. You're not alone. Your feelings are valid. And healing is possible. This is Part 1 of a 2-part conversation. **Trigger Warning: ** This episode contains discussions of emotional abuse, narcissistic parenting, parental alienation, childhood trauma, manipulation, gaslighting, and mental health. Some listeners may find these topics difficult or emotionally triggering. Please listen with care and take breaks if needed.

Not every red flag is obvious, and not every relationship starts out unhealthy. In this episode, we're talking about the warning signs that too many people ignore. From manipulation and gaslighting to controlling behaviors, lack of accountability, and emotional abuse, we discuss the red flags that can show up in romantic relationships, friendships, family dynamics, and even the workplace. We also talk about why people overlook these warning signs, how to trust your instincts, and what healthy relationships should actually look like. Whether you're currently in a relationship, healing from one, or simply want to protect your peace moving forward, this conversation is for you. Remember: recognizing red flags isn't about judging others, it's about valuing yourself enough to know when something isn't right.

Have you ever ignored a phone call after texting someone? Hidden snacks from your family? Left someone on read? Or pretended you just saw an email from three days ago? In this episode of Patience in Progress, Mel, Shel, and Karissa tackle hilarious "Am I the Jerk?" scenarios that every one of us has probably been guilty of. From social etiquette and family life to texting habits and awkward public encounters, we debate whether these moments make us terrible people, or simply human. Join us for plenty of laughs, honest confessions, and a reminder that sometimes we all need a little grace...

For years, we've been told that strength means handling everything on our own. But what happens when being "the strong one" becomes the very thing that keeps us isolated? In this heartfelt episode, we dive into why strong, capable people often struggle the most when it comes to asking for help. We discuss the fear of being a burden, the pressure to keep it all together, trust issues, vulnerability, and the hidden emotional toll of carrying life's heaviest burdens alone. Through personal experiences with cancer, caregiving, grief, divorce, family struggles, and mental health challenges, we explore the difference between true strength and self-sufficiency. We also share lessons learned from watching loved ones carry more than anyone should have to bear and the importance of allowing others to show up for us. If you've ever said, "I'm fine" when you weren't, struggled to accept help, or felt like you couldn't afford to break down, this episode is for you. Because sometimes the bravest thing we can say is: "I can't do this alone."

We've all had them, the moments that make us want to disappear, laugh uncontrollably, or replay the event in our heads for years afterward. In this hilarious episode of Patience in Progress, Shel, Mel, and Karissa share some of their most embarrassing stories, from wardrobe malfunctions and public mishaps to awkward work moments, parenting fails, texting disasters, and Zoom call catastrophes. Join us as we laugh at ourselves, prove that nobody has it all together, and discover that some of life's most cringe-worthy moments eventually become our favorite stories. Whether you've accidentally hugged a stranger, sent a text to the wrong person, called someone by the wrong name for a year, or said something you definitely shouldn't have with your microphone on, you'll feel right at home. Grab a friend, settle in, and get ready to laugh with us as we embrace the awkward, celebrate our imperfections, and remember that sometimes the best memories come from the moments we'd rather forget.

Summer should be filled with adventure, fun, and memories—but it can also be one of the busiest seasons for pediatric trauma injuries. In this episode of Patience in Progress, Shel and Mel sit down for an eye-opening conversation about the real-life accidents and injuries that bring children to the trauma unit every summer. Drawing from years of experience as a pediatric neuro trauma nurse, Shel shares powerful stories, hard-earned lessons, and practical safety tips every parent should know. From helmets and e-bikes to ATV safety, drowning prevention, window falls, gun safety, and recognizing the signs of a serious head injury, this episode is packed with information that could help prevent a tragedy and protect the children you love most. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, caregiver, or simply someone who spends time around children, this conversation offers valuable insights into how quickly accidents can happen, and the simple steps that can make all the difference.

What happens when co-parenting isn’t cooperation but control? In this episode, we continue Darren’s story and unpack the reality of high-conflict co-parenting. From emotional manipulation to court system frustrations, this conversation exposes the unseen battles many parents face behind closed doors. We explore how children are affected, how narratives get twisted, and what it takes to keep fighting when it feels impossible. If you’ve ever questioned your sanity, your role, or your strength in a toxic co-parenting situation? Then this episode is for you.

In this episode of Patience in Progress, we take a deep dive into negative core beliefs, the hidden thoughts and stories we carry about ourselves that quietly shape our relationships, confidence, boundaries, and self-worth. We open up about personal experiences that planted beliefs like “I’m not good enough,” “People always leave,” and “If I rest, I’m lazy,” and discuss how childhood experiences, criticism, trauma, rejection, and unhealthy dynamics can follow us into adulthood without us even realizing it. This episode is raw, honest, emotional, and relatable as we unpack perfectionism, people-pleasing, burnout, abandonment fears, and the struggle to truly love ourselves. Most importantly, we talk about how healing often starts by recognizing the lies we’ve believed for years, and learning to replace them with truth. If you’ve ever questioned your worth, struggled with boundaries, over analyzed silence, or felt like you had to constantly prove yourself, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of Patience in Progress, we dive into the complicated world of confidence, what it is, where it comes from, and why it can disappear so quickly. From negative self-talk and perfectionism to body language, sports, parenting, relationships, and professional growth, we unpack the small things that shape how we see ourselves. We talk about surviving hard seasons, learning to trust yourself again, and why confidence isn’t about being perfect, it’s about continuing to show up anyway. Plus, we debate participation trophies, discuss the fine line between confidence and arrogance, and share plenty of real-life moments, laughs, and honest struggles along the way. If you’ve ever questioned your worth, doubted yourself, or needed a reminder that growth takes grace, this conversation is for you.

This week on Patience in Progress, the girls are diving into the ultimate controversial questions, the kind that somehow turn into full-blown debates. From the “correct” way to load a dishwasher to whether pineapple belongs on pizza, nothing is off limits. The conversation gets hilarious as they tackle hot dogs being sandwiches, milk-before-cereal people, clapping when planes land, checking your partner’s phone, and whether you should ever go to bed angry. Along the way, they share funny personal stories, marriage moments, parenting opinions, and the little everyday things people get surprisingly passionate about. It’s lighthearted, relatable, and full of laughs, because sometimes the best conversations come from the silliest questions. Be patient with yourself. Progress is happening even when you don’t see it.

This week on Patience in Progress, we’re keeping it real… like really real. No scripts, no structure, just honest, slightly chaotic, very relatable “real talk.” We’re diving into anxiety, overstimulation, and those moments where one tiny thing (looking at you, messy house or whining dog) sends us completely over the edge. You know… the “how did I get here?” kind of moments. We laugh through the chaos as we talk about what helps (and what definitely doesn’t), why sometimes you need to put yourself in timeout, and how a girls’ trip might actually be considered therapy at this point. If you’ve ever overreacted, needed a reset, or just felt like life is a little too much sometimes, this episode is basically a conversation with friends who get it. Because let’s be honest… we’re all just figuring it out as we go. And some days, that’s more than enough.

What do you do when you’ve hit your limit… when you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, and feel like you have nothing left to give? In this episode of Patience in Progress, we talk about “juniper tree moments” those breaking points in life where everything feels too heavy, too hard, and too much. Inspired by the story of Elijah, we open up about burnout, mental exhaustion, and the quiet truth that even the strongest people have moments where they just can’t keep going. But here’s the part we don’t talk about enough: sometimes the answer isn’t to push harder, it’s to rest, to be taken care of., to sit in the hard and let yourself breathe again. If you’ve ever felt alone, defeated, or like you’re barely holding it together, this conversation is for you. You’re not broken.... you’re human. And you’re not alone.

This is the final chapter of Darren’s story and it’s one that so many parents will feel. We talk about the emotional, financial, and mental toll of battling through a system that doesn’t always feel fair. From repeated court appearances to the impossible balance of providing while still trying to be present, this episode dives into the reality many fathers face but few talk about. And in the middle of all of it… how do you keep going? This episode isn’t just about the fight, it’s about learning when to let go, how to protect your peace, and why continuing to show up still matters most. This is the raw truth behind the system… and the strength it takes to survive it.

In Part 2 of this series on Patience in Progress, we dive into what happens when a toxic marriage finally breaks, but the chaos doesn’t stop. From manipulation and control to high-conflict court battles and emotional exhaustion, this episode uncovers the reality of trying to separate from someone who refuses to let go of control. This episode also sheds light on something people don’t talk about enough.....the aftermath the loneliness, the mental toll, the identity shift, and how easy it is to fall into another unhealthy relationship when you haven’t had time to heal. If you’ve ever wondered why leaving a toxic relationship feels harder than staying… this conversation will help you understand why. If you’re in it right now, feeling defeated, overwhelmed, or questioning yourself, you are not alone.

Cancer changes everything.......not just for the person diagnosed, but for everyone who loves them. In this episode, we share our personal experiences with cancer, from the moment of diagnosis to the reality of treatment, fear, family, and resilience. We talk about the emotional highs and lows, the unexpected humor that sometimes gets you through, and the strength it takes to keep going. If you or someone you love is facing cancer, this conversation is a reminder that you’re not alone.

In this episode of Patience in Progress, we go beyond the surface and into the reality that so many people experience but don’t always have the words for. What starts as connection, chemistry, and excitement can slowly turn into confusion, control, and emotional exhaustion. We talk about the red flags that are easy to overlook in the beginning… the subtle shifts that make you question yourself… and how, over time, you can lose your voice, your confidence, and even your sense of reality. Whether you’ve lived this, are currently in it, or want to better understand someone who has been through it—this episode brings awareness, validation, and truth to a topic that often stays hidden. You’re not crazy. You’re not alone. And your experience matters.

Social media isn’t just part of our kids’ lives anymore, it’s their world. In this episode, we talk about the real impact social media is having on teenagers: comparison, cyberbullying, anxiety, and the pressure to chase likes and validation. We share personal experiences as parents trying to figure out how to protect our kids while still giving them room to grow. We also discuss monitoring phones, online predators, algorithms, and why teaching our kids their self-worth matters more than any number of followers. Parenting in the digital age isn’t easy, but conversations like this matter.

What if “starting over” isn’t the end… but the beginning of something better? In this episode of Patience in Progress, Mel and Karissa hold down the fort (sorry, Shel 😘) and dive into what it really means to start over. In this episode we have menopause brain moments, forgotten laptops… to pillow meltdowns and career pivots… to divorce, addiction, and rebuilding life in your 40'; nothing is off the table. We talk about: The fear that comes with starting over Why discomfort is often a sign of growth Reframing “failure” into fresh beginnings Career changes, divorce, and emotional maturity Letting go of the future you thought you’d have Gratitude as a tool to shift your mindset Through honest stories, humor, and hard-earned wisdom, we remind ourselves that starting over doesn’t mean you failed, it might mean you’re finally building something healthier, stronger, and more aligned. Because sometimes it’s not “starting over.” It’s starting fresh......

Remember when you thought adulthood meant freedom, money, and no curfew? Yeah… same. In this episode of Patience & Progress, we’re talking about what our teenage selves believed adult life would look like, and the reality check that followed. From paying registration every year (WHY?!) to learning insurance doesn’t cover everything, we’re unpacking the funny, frustrating, and humbling parts of growing up. We also dive into: Parenting adult kids The things we swore we’d never say (but now do) Breaking generational patterns Why no one prepares you for how much your heart can hurt as a parent And why maybe… ignorance is bliss when you’re young If you’ve ever looked at your life and thought, “This is not what I pictured,” you’re not alone. Let’s laugh about it together.........

In this Part 2, we pick up right where we left off going deeper into the aftermath of addiction and the choices that come when survival becomes the priority. Lisa opens up about boundaries, self-preservation, and the moment when empathy has to coexist with hard decisions. This part of the conversation explores what healing looks like when trust has been broken, and how choosing yourself doesn’t mean you failed, it means you survived. We talk about: When compassion turns into self-sacrifice The difference between supporting someone and losing yourself What healing looks like after addiction and betrayal If you’ve ever loved someone in active addiction or had to walk away to protect your own peace, this episode is for you.

In this first part of our special interview, we sit down for an honest, unfiltered conversation about what addiction leaves behind, not just for the person struggling, but for the people who love them. Lisa shares her story of loving someone through addiction, navigating betrayal, and surviving the emotional fallout that comes with broken trust, confusion, and hope that keeps getting tested. This isn’t a polished recovery story—it’s real life, told in real time. We talk about: What it’s actually like to live beside addiction How betrayal shows up in ways you don’t expect The emotional toll of staying, hoping, and trying to hold everything together This conversation was too important to rush; we decided to make it into two episodes. Make sure you don't miss out on this amazing interview!

In this deeply personal episode of Patience in Progress, Mel, Shel, and Karissa sit down to explore a question many people wrestle with quietly: Can grief and faith exist at the same time? Through honest conversation, raw stories, and faith-centered reflection, the hosts talk about what it feels like to pray, receive answers, and still feel unsettled. They discuss the reality of moving forward when peace comes in fragments, not all at once, and how faith isn’t the absence of doubt, fear, or grief, but the decision to keep walking anyway. This episode touches on: Prayers that are answered without emotional clarity Choosing obedience when peace feels delayed Navigating grief, loss, divorce, illness, and unanswered prayers The sacred space where anger, faith, and trust can coexist Finding peace in small moments when life feels overwhelming With vulnerability, humor, and compassion, this conversation reminds us that letting go can be holy and painful at the same time, and that God often honors effort over perfection. If you’ve ever wondered whether your faith is “enough” while you’re grieving or felt like you’re failing spiritually because peace hasn’t come yet this episode is for you. As always, be patient with yourself. Progress is still happening, even when you can’t see it.

In this episode of Patience in Progress, we talk about the mental load, the invisible, exhausting work of managing life that so many women carry every single day. From being the household “CEO” to emotional labor, constant anticipation, and the resentment that builds when the load isn’t shared, we break down why this weight is so hard to explain and even harder to put down. We discuss relationships, parenting, boundaries, control, and what it actually looks like to release some of that pressure without guilt. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, unseen, or mentally exhausted even when you “should be resting,” this episode is for you.

In this episode, we put Gen X and Gen Z side by side and ask the questions everyone’s thinking but not always saying out loud. From values and communication styles to expectations about work, relationships, and life, this conversation shows just how different and surprisingly similar these generations really are. No scripts, no filters, just honest perspectives and a few laughs along the way. Let’s see what they both have to say.

Have you ever said yes when you wanted to say no, then felt resentful and didn’t quite know why? Or worried that setting boundaries makes you difficult, selfish, or unkind? This episode is for you. In Episode 7 of Patience in Progress, Mel, Shel, and Karissa dive deep into what boundaries really are, and what they’re not. We break down why boundaries feel so uncomfortable, especially for people pleasers, parents, and anyone who was taught to put others first at all costs. Spoiler alert: boundaries aren’t about controlling other people they’re about protecting your peace. We talk about: Why lack of boundaries leads to resentment, burnout, and silent anger How to recognize the emotional and physical signals that tell you a boundary is needed A simple three-step boundary-setting framework Why over-explaining is often a trauma response How to communicate boundaries clearly (without guilt or long explanations) Boundaries with family, work, dating, parenting, and friendships Why holding boundaries (especially with consequences) is the hardest but most important part This conversation is honest, relatable, and practical, with real-life examples and reminders that boundaries aren’t mean they’re necessary. Because peace doesn’t come from being easy. It comes from being honest. As always, be patient with yourself. Progress is happening even when setting boundaries feels uncomfortable.

The new year is supposed to feel fresh and motivating… so why does January often feel so heavy? In this episode of Patience & Progress, Mel, Shel, and Karissa sit down for an honest conversation about what real growth actually looks like as we step into 2026. We talk about what we’re leaving behind from last year, habits, mindsets, and survival patterns that once protected us but may now be holding us back. From the pressure of New Year’s resolutions and the myth of instant transformation, to learning how to reflect on the past without drowning in regret, this episode is a reminder that progress doesn’t happen all at once. We explore why change feels uncomfortable, why small steps matter more than perfect plans, and how grace, especially toward ourselves, is often the missing piece. If you’re feeling behind, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward without burning out, this conversation is for you. You don’t have to rush. You don’t have to reinvent yourself overnight. Sometimes progress looks like slowing down, letting go, and choosing just 1% better.

This is the final chapter of our three-part “Getting to Know Your Hosts” series, we get to know Mel and her stories that have helped shape who she is. In this episode, Mel shares how the twists, losses, hard choices, and seasons of survival didn’t break her… they shaped her. Life doesn’t move in straight lines, and neither do we. Every struggle, pause, and unexpected detour is part of what brought us here to this space, this podcast, this season of becoming. As Patience in Progress continues to unfold, our hope is simple: that as you get to know each of us and the stories that formed us, you’ll start hearing pieces of your own story too. The conversations ahead will come from real life, messy, meaningful, unfinished, and we hope they create connection, understanding, and a reminder that growth doesn’t require perfection… just patience. Thanks for walking this part of the journey with us. This isn’t the end—it’s the foundation.

In this episode of Patience in Progress, we finally turn the mic toward Shelly. Episode 4 gives you listeners the chance to truly get to know Shelly, her background, her family life, and the experiences that shaped her into the woman behind the voice. Shelly shares her story with honesty and heart, opening up about the roles she’s carried, the challenges she’s faced, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. This conversation lays the foundation for why Patience in Progress exists. Shel talks about navigating hard seasons, the importance of showing up for the people you love, and how patience, growth, and even humor play a role in moving forward when life doesn’t go as planned. If you’ve been listening and wondering who Shelly really is, this episode gives you that deeper look. It’s real, relatable, and full of the kind of conversation that reminds you progress doesn’t happen overnight — and that patience matters.

In this episode, we sit down with Karissa and get to know her on a deeper, more personal level. She opens up about her life struggles, the experiences that have shaped her, and the moments that have defined her journey. You’ll hear what makes her tick, what motivates her, and how she continues to push forward with grace and humor. We also lighten things up with some fun facts and stories that remind us why we adore her so much. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt, and inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, Melanie, Shel, and Karissa take a deep breath (or try to) and dive into the hilarious and emotional chaos of learning patience in real time. From life throwing curveballs that no one asked for to moments that make you question whether the universe is personally trolling you, the trio opens up about what it’s really like to evolve while still being human and very much overwhelmed. They share the messy parts — the stress, the overthinking, the “why is this happening?” breakdowns — right alongside the humor that somehow keeps them sane. With Karissa chiming in with her own perspective, the conversation gets even more real, reminding listeners that growth doesn’t look graceful… it looks like laughing so you don’t ugly-cry. If you’ve ever tried to be patient and immediately failed or felt like your progress bar is permanently stuck at 37%, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone — and you’re probably doing better than you think.

We wanted to introduce our new podcast.....Welcome to Patience in Progress! In this new podcast we are learning to embrace the ups, downs, and everything-in-between. This is where real stories are told, lessons are shared, and meaning is found in moments we often overlook. Together, we learn to trust the process, give ourselves grace, and celebrate the growth we don’t always notice.