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PODCAST · education

Realizations with Clarissa

by Clarissa Doonan

Most of us were taught that when life gets harder, the answer is to think harder. But many of my biggest breakthroughs did not come from thinking more. They came from understanding the mind and learning how to quiet it.If you are an entrepreneur, leader, or professional dealing with stress, uncertainty, and the challenges that come with growth, this podcast is for you.In Realizations with Clarissa, I share insights about life, work, and the mind. When the mind becomes quieter, we think more clearly, make better decisions, and take the right action.

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Episodes

  1. EP 61: Why Thinking Harder Doesn’t Solve Stress [FIL]

    Do you tend to overthink more when you’re stressed? You replay what happened, analyze what was said, and try to figure everything out. But the more you think, the more stressed you become. What if thinking harder is actually keeping the stress alive? If you can relate, this episode is for you. --...

  2. EP 60: Why Some People Grow From Challenges While Others Stay Stuck [FIL]

    Have you ever looked back on something painful and realized, “If that hadn’t happened, I wouldn’t be the person I am today”? Sometimes the hardest seasons teach us the lessons we couldn’t see while we were in them. What if growth is less about what happens to us and more about how we respond? If...

  3. EP 59: The Hidden Stress of Constant Multitasking [FIL]

    Do you find yourself multitasking all day? Checking messages during meetings, answering emails while listening to a podcast, or spending time with your child while your mind is still at work? It may feel productive, but constant multitasking can leave you scattered, distracted, and mentally...

  4. EP 58: The Listening Skill Most People Think They Have... But Don't [FIL]

    Have you ever been talking to someone who is listening, nodding, and responding, but somehow you still don’t feel truly heard? And then there are those people who barely need to say a word, yet somehow you feel completely understood. You feel seen, acknowledged, and safe to be yourself. Because...

  5. EP 57: The Cost of Being Too Hard on Yourself [FIL]

    Have you ever made a mistake, missed a deadline, or failed to do something you promised yourself you would? And almost immediately, that voice in your mind starts: “You should know better. Why did you do that? You should be doing better.” Being hard on yourself may feel like it keeps you...

  6. EP 56: When Other People Don’t Do Things Your Way [FIL]

    Do you get stressed when things aren’t done the way you think they should be? Maybe you feel the need to correct, direct, or simply do it yourself because you believe, “If I don’t step in, it’ll be wrong.” If this sounds like you, this episode will help you understand what’s really happening...

  7. EP 55: When Your Business Starts Taking Over Your Life [FIL]

    Have you ever wondered how the business you started for freedom slowly became something that owns you? You wake up thinking about work, check messages while eating, answer emails before bed, and feel guilty whenever you rest. If your business was meant to give you freedom but your mind never...

  8. EP 54: Why We Worry About What People Think [FIL]

    Do you ever hesitate because you're worried about how others will judge you? We often think it's a confidence problem, but the real reason goes much deeper. If you've ever held yourself back because of what people might think, this episode is for you. -- If you’re ready to start building a...

  9. EP 53: The Rejected Part of You That's Affecting Your Performance [FIL]

    Have you ever thought you had already moved on, only for old emotions to show up again? Instead of accepting them, we often judge or push them away. But what if growth begins by acknowledging what's still there? If this resonates with you, this episode is for you. -- If you are ready for stronger...

  10. EP 52: Why Difficult Conversations Feel So Hard to Start [FIL]

    Have you ever found yourself avoiding a difficult conversation? You know it's important, but you keep rehearsing it in your mind instead of saying it out loud. When the moment finally comes, you hold back or choose the safer words. And even after it's over, something still feels unresolved. If...

  11. EP 51: Servant Leadership: When It Helps, and When It Drains You [FIL]

    Do you always find yourself stepping in to help others? You care deeply, so you give more and adjust for everyone around you. But over time, it can leave you depleted and unintentionally stop others from learning to step up, take responsibility, and grow. If this sounds familiar, this episode is...

  12. EP 50: The Stress of Needing People to Agree With You [FIL]

    Have you ever felt uncomfortable when someone disagrees with you? The disagreement isn't always what causes the stress. Often, it's the meaning our mind attaches to it. We can quickly turn "They disagree with my opinion" into "They are rejecting me." If you've ever struggled with conflict…

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  13. EP 49: Why the Mind Loves Worst-Case Scenarios [FIL]

    Have you ever noticed how quickly your mind jumps to the worst-case scenario? A little uncertainty about your health, finances, business, or family can quickly turn into a spiral of "what if" thoughts. Before you know it, you're not just thinking about the worst. You're already feeling the fear,...

  14. EP 48: When Wanting Your Goals Too Much Starts Stressing You Out [FIL]

    Do you have big goals, want to make a difference, and genuinely care about helping others through your work? Sometimes, the more we focus on getting a specific result, the more pressure, frustration, and disappointment we create for ourselves. And ironically, that pressure can make it harder to...

  15. EP 47: When Your Mind Won’t Stop Thinking at Night [FIL]

    Have you ever been completely exhausted, only to lie down and find your mind suddenly wide awake? The day is over, your body is tired, but your thoughts keep running. You replay conversations, worry about tomorrow, and mentally rehearse every possible scenario. The problem isn’t that you’re...

  16. EP 46: Getting No’s in Business Without Taking It Personally [FIL]

    Have you ever shared an offer, followed up, and then heard "no" or received no response at all? Even when you know rejection is a normal part of business, it can still trigger self-doubt. You start wondering if you said something wrong, if your offer is good enough, or even if you're good enough....

  17. EP 45: Imposter Syndrome: Why You Still Feel Not Good Enough (Even When You’re Capable) [FIL]

    Have you ever wanted to share an idea, speak up, or put yourself out there, only to be stopped by thoughts like, “I’m not ready” or “There are people who are more qualified than me”? Even when you have experience, have put in the work, and have helped others, those thoughts can still show up. If...

  18. EP 44: Why Old Hurt Still Affects Your Focus, Decisions, and Performance [FIL]

    Have you ever been hurt by someone and noticed that, even years later, it still affects you? Maybe it shows up as tension, overthinking, low energy, or a feeling that something still hasn't fully settled. If this feels familiar, this episode will help you understand why that pattern stays active...

  19. EP 43: Why You Keep Saying Yes Even When You Want to Say No [FIL]

    Have you ever said yes to something even when, deep inside, you really wanted to say no? Maybe someone asked for a favor, gave you extra work, or needed help. And even though you were already tired, you still said yes. Then later, you felt drained, overcommitted, or even a little resentful. What...

  20. EP 42: When Caring Becomes Carrying: A Filipino Leader’s Struggle [FIL]

    If you’re a leader, you may have noticed this shift over time. Leadership used to feel more straightforward. You guide your team, support them, and focus on results. But eventually, you begin thinking not just about their work, but also about their struggles, their situation, and even what might…

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  21. EP 41: Why Procrastination Happens Even When You Care [FIL]

    You care about your goals. Your work matters to you. You know what needs to be done, but somehow, you still keep postponing it. You tell yourself, “I’ll do it later… tomorrow… when I feel more ready.” If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Because procrastination is often not about laziness....

  22. EP 40: How “What If” Thinking Is Draining Your Energy and Performance [FIL]

    Have you ever noticed how your mind can spiral right when you’re about to make a decision or think about your future? It starts with a simple thought. What if this doesn’t work? What if something goes wrong? What if I’m not prepared? What if I fail? And once it begins, it keeps going. One thought...

  23. EP 39: What If This Problem Is Trying to Help You? [FIL]

    Have you ever gone through something difficult and found yourself asking, “Why is this happening to me?” Whether it’s a challenge in your business, a difficult conversation, financial pressure, or something unexpected, it can leave you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or discouraged. But what if...

  24. EP 38: Why You Feel Overwhelmed in Your Business (And What Actually Helps) [FIL]

    Have you ever felt this in your business? There’s so much you want to do and so much you’re responsible for, from your business to your family, health, and personal life. On top of that, there’s pressure to earn, to make it work, and to prove that you can, especially when this is your full-time...

  25. EP 37: Why Your Confidence Disappears… and How It Comes Back [FIL]

    Have you ever noticed how your confidence shifts depending on who you’re talking to? When you’re speaking with someone you see as more successful, more experienced, or more accomplished, you suddenly feel nervous, unsure of what to say, and almost smaller. But when you’re talking to someone you…

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  26. EP 36: The Trap of Comparing Yourself to Others [FIL]

    Have you ever noticed how the moment you start comparing yourself to others, your confidence begins to shift? One moment, you feel behind and start questioning if you are good enough. Another moment, you feel ahead, but even that comes with pressure to maintain it. So whether you feel behind or...

  27. EP 35: Why a Quiet Mind Can Help You Feel Closer to God [FIL]

    Have you ever noticed this? You believe in God. You pray. You trust. But sometimes, your mind still feels noisy. Maybe you’re carrying something in your business, your finances, or your family. And even after you pray, the thoughts keep coming… What if this doesn’t work? What if I made the wrong...

  28. EP 34: Overthinking Is Costing You More Than You Think [FIL]

    Most people believe that overthinking helps them solve problems. But in reality, it quietly drains the clarity we need to solve them. And the hidden cost is not just stress. It’s lost energy, delayed decisions, and a mind that never feels at rest. If your mind keeps going in circles, analyzing...

  29. EP 33: When the World Feels Uncertain: How to Stop Worry From Taking Over Your Mind [FIL]

    Have you noticed your mind feeling busier than usual lately? With so much uncertainty, it’s easy to fall into constant “what if” thinking that leaves you mentally exhausted. But the truth is, it’s not the future causing the stress—it’s the thoughts we create about it. And when you learn to pause...

  30. EP 32: Evolving as a Parent: What Level Are You On? [ENG]

    Have you ever noticed how easy it is to slip into comparison, expectations, or constant correction with your kids? I’ve been there. And I can tell you, when parenting becomes about fixing, correcting, or worrying, the joy gets drained right out of it. In this episode, we’ll uncover why that...

  31. EP 31: The Real Reason You Can’t Stick to Exercise (and How to Change It) [ENG]

    Have you ever said, “I should exercise,” and then… didn’t? You already know what to do, and you know it’s good for you. The real challenge is doing it consistently. If that frustrates you, you’re not alone. The truth is, exercise isn’t hard because we don’t know how. It’s hard because we haven’t...

  32. EP 30: Success or Happiness: Which Would You Choose First? [ENG]

    If you had to choose just one in life — success or happiness — which would it be? Most of us would say happiness. And yet, so often, we chase success at the expense of our well-being, relationships, and peace of mind. In this episode, we dive into why happiness is the true goal, how success can...

  33. EP 29: You Are Not Your Income: Finding Confidence Beyond Money [ENG]

    If a drop in income has ever made you question your value, this episode is for you. Here’s the surprising truth: when you stop letting your income define you, you can actually grow it faster. Tune in to discover why separating self-worth from net worth can restore your confidence, boost your...

  34. EP 28: The Success Addiction: When Achievements Define Your Worth [ENG]

    Do you feel like you have to achieve something to feel confident or worthy? Maybe your self-worth depends on being impressive, accomplished, or recognized. That pressure to prove you're enough is exhausting—and it’s more common than you think. When your identity is tied to achievement, even small...

  35. EP 27: From Resistance to Resilience: The Shift That Keeps You Moving [ENG]

    Are you constantly tense, frustrated, or low—because life isn’t going the way you hoped? You might think it’s the situation stressing you out… but often, it’s the voice in your head resisting what is. That’s the “judge of circumstance”—the inner voice that says, “I can’t be okay unless this...

  36. EP 26: The Perfectionism Trap: Why It’s Stressing You Out and Slowing You Down [ENG]

    Are you overediting, overpreparing, and overplanning? Maybe you're holding back from completing tasks until everything feels just right. You might even feel frustrated—with yourself and with others—for not meeting your high standards. If any of that sounds familiar, you're likely dealing with...

  37. EP 25: Rested and Ready: Mindset Shifts For Better Sleep [ENG]

    Everyone’s chasing time hacks for better focus and productivity… But the most underrated one might surprise you: sleep. You can skip a workout or miss a meal and still function. But after just one or two nights of poor sleep, everything shifts—your mood dips, focus scatters, decisions feel…

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  38. EP 24: Permission to Be Who You Are and Do What You Love: You’re Not Here to Hide [ENG]

    Have you ever felt like you’re too much for some people… so you hold back from sharing your gifts? Or maybe you’ve been playing it safe—suppressing your ideas, creativity, and voice—because you’re afraid of being judged or misunderstood? I get it. I used to do the same. But the truth is, hiding…

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  39. EP 23: Pay Yourself First (With Time): Time Blocking for What Truly Matters [ENG]

    Do you ever feel like there's never enough time for the things that really matter? What if the key to feeling more fulfilled isn't doing more — but protecting time for what matters most? In this episode, we’re flipping the script on productivity. Instead of paying yourself first with money —…

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  40. EP 22: Still Doing Everything? Why It’s Slowing You Down — and What to Delegate Now [ENG]

    Are you constantly juggling tasks and still feeling like you're not moving forward? What if doing everything yourself isn’t a sign of strength — but the very thing keeping you stuck? As a founder, leader, or solopreneur, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you have to do it all. But…

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  41. EP 21: Values First: Make Decisions That Feel Right (Not Just Look Right) [ENG]

    How do you feel about decision-making? Does it come naturally, or do you find it hard to know what to prioritize? And when you do make a decision, does it feel right… or just a little off? Sometimes, the stress doesn’t come from having too many choices—but from not being clear on what truly…

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  42. EP 20: Busy, Drained, and No Progress? It’s Not You – It’s Your Tasks [ENG]

    Do you ever feel like you’re doing a lot—but not really moving forward? Maybe it’s time to stop doing more and start doing what matters most. In this episode, we’ll discuss how you can refocus by viewing your tasks through a new lens: energy and impact. This might be just what you need so you can...

  43. EP 19: Embracing Imperfection: How Self-Compassion Leads to Sustainable Success [ENG]

    Do you struggle with an inner critic that never seems to give you a break? The one that’s quick to judge, doubt, or tear you down? What if the best way to deal with it isn’t to fight harder, but to treat yourself with kindness? In this episode, we’ll discuss how self-compassion helps you build...

  44. EP 18: Taking Feedback Like a Pro: How to Use Criticism for Growth [ENG]

    Have you ever received feedback that stung? It made you doubt yourself, stressed you out, and stuck with you longer than it should have. But what if feedback is actually your fastest path to growth? In this episode, we’ll explore how to take feedback like a pro—so you can turn even the toughest...

  45. EP 17: How I Faced My Greatest Fear (And How You Can Do It, Too) [ENG]

    What’s your biggest fear? Is it change, failure, or stepping out of your comfort zone? What if your fear isn’t just an obstacle, but a guide—helping you grow and discover your true potential? In this episode, I share my fears—and how this podcast is proof that they can be faced. Tune in for...

  46. EP 16: “Let Go to Let In”: Shifting from “I Have to Do Everything” to “I Make Time for What Truly Matters” [FIL]

    Do you ever feel overwhelmed by an endless to-do list and the constant pressure to do it all? What if you could free up your time and energy by letting go of what doesn’t truly matter—so you can focus on what does? In this episode, we’ll explore how to shift your mindset and create space for what...

  47. EP 15: Stop Relying on Willpower—Use Habit Stacking for Consistency [FIL]

    Have you ever felt frustrated because you can’t stay consistent with a habit? You start strong, but after a few days, your motivation fades, and you quit. The problem? You’re relying on willpower—and that’s not the key to lasting change. In this episode, we’ll uncover simple yet effective ways to...

  48. EP 14: Jennifer Nuñez on Love, Growth & Purpose: Discovering True Happiness Within [FIL]

    Do you ever wonder where true happiness comes from? Is it found in success, love, or something deeper within us? In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Nuñez to explore the power of relationships, spirituality, and personal growth in creating a fulfilling life. If you're searching for deeper...

  49. EP 13: Coaching On-Air with Jhermy Esperanzate: Mind Hacks to Find Your Focus & Beat Procrastination [FIL]

    How many times have you put off a task, even though you know you need to do it? If procrastination keeps getting in the way of your goals, this episode is for you. In Episode 13 of Realizations with Clarissa, we explore how to beat procrastination through a coaching session with Jhermy…

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  50. EP 12: Why Rest Is Productive: Lessons for the Overworked Filipino [FIL]

    Do you avoid rest because you think it makes you lazy? Do you believe you can only take a break once every task on your to-do list is done, or once you've achieved your big goals? For many Filipinos, overworking is the norm. We’ve been taught that rest is a luxury, not a necessity. But what if…

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Most of us were taught that when life gets harder, the answer is to think harder. But many of my biggest breakthroughs did not come from thinking more. They came from understanding the mind and learning how to quiet it.If you are an entrepreneur, leader, or professional dealing with stress, uncertainty, and the challenges that come with growth, this podcast is for you.In Realizations with Clarissa, I share insights about life, work, and the mind. When the mind becomes quieter, we think more clearly, make better decisions, and take the right action.

HOSTED BY

Clarissa Doonan

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Realizations with Clarissa have?

Realizations with Clarissa currently has 61 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Realizations with Clarissa about?

Most of us were taught that when life gets harder, the answer is to think harder. But many of my biggest breakthroughs did not come from thinking more. They came from understanding the mind and learning how to quiet it.If you are an entrepreneur, leader, or professional dealing with stress,...

How often does Realizations with Clarissa release new episodes?

Realizations with Clarissa has 61 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Realizations with Clarissa?

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

Who hosts Realizations with Clarissa?

Realizations with Clarissa is created and hosted by Clarissa Doonan.
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