Soul Wide Open with Michelle Renee

If you've ever felt hijacked by your past… this one is for you. When confronted with a trauma response, one of the most effective strategies for regaining control and alleviating overwhelming emotions is to acknowledge and name your feelings. This process involves recognizing what is happening within you and articulating it, which can significantly diminish the emotional charge associated with those feelings. In this episode of Soul Wide Open, host Michelle Renee shares what really happens when something cracks open a wound from childhood and your nervous system gets hijacked. She speaks candidly about the inner tape that still plays sometimes… the voice that says, "You'll never be anything. You ruin everything. Maybe your father was right." This isn't theory. It's her lived experience. Drawing from a recent personal incident where a technical glitch affected her business, Michelle shares her emotional journey of confronting feelings of inadequacy and the instinctual responses that arise when things go wrong. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing these triggers and offers insights on how to navigate them, encouraging listeners to break free from self-doubt and cultivate resilience.  She walks through the five most important things to do when a trigger activates old trauma wiring — when your body floods, your mind spirals, and the "tape" from childhood starts playing on repeat. This is about nervous system repair. This is about interrupting inherited shame. This is about becoming the safe adult you never had. And the bonus? It may be the hardest one of all. 00:00:55 - A Glitch in the Metrix 00:02:09 - Emotional Impact and Childhood Trauma 00:03:48 - Immediate Response to Emotional Triggers 00:05:04 - Choosing Positive Actions Over Negative Spirals 00:06:10 - Finding Joy in Small Moments 00:07:02 - Engaging in Self-Care Activities 00:08:06 - Resisting Negative Self-Talk 00:09:00 - Overthinking and Self-Doubt 00:10:02 - Top Five Strategies to Combat Negative Self-Talk 00:11:10 - Strategy 1: Naming the Trauma Response 00:12:13 - Strategy 2: Regulating Your Body 00:13:39 - Strategy 3: Separating the Voices 00:15:15 - Strategy 4: Engaging with the Inner Child 00:17:03 - Strategy 5: Anchoring in Present Evidence 00:20:07 - Metaphor of Life as an Olympic Performance 00:21:00 - Self-Compassion and Reassurance 00:24:06 - Bonus Strategy: Calling a Friend 00:27:02 - The Importance of Supportive Friends 00:30:04 - Allowing Yourself to Feel and Process 00:31:07 - Recap of Strategies and Final Thoughts Quotes: "Here comes my dad's voice: you're a POS, you're never gonna be anything, or you can't do anything right." "A lot of times when this hits, we go straight into fatalistic thinking, like everything is ruined."  "That is not the voice of the person that you have become up to today until this moment of dysregulation." "Dad's not here. And his voice doesn't get to define us anymore." "You are not a piece of crap. You are not a nobody. You are not the person that's just gonna end up being nothing." "Just know that it's okay to call a friend and say, I'm not okay." "That's just a gift all the way around for both of us." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: My Website https://michelle-renee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee VERB Media Group https://verbmediagroup.com/ Useful Resources: Order my #1 Best -Selling Memoir Nine Days on Amazon https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open FB Group http://www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch our CBS/Paramount Plus Special https://www.cbs.com/shows/video/3I6R18rj_blqVVaBkwyyO901NuyQUKZ_/    

Unhiding is a deeply personal journey that involves revealing your true self, both to yourself and to others. It is not about making bold statements or being loud; rather, it is a subtle and often quiet process of self-discovery and acceptance. In this episode of the Soul Wide Open podcast, host Michelle Renee emphasizes that many people may not even realize they are hiding parts of themselves. This concealment can stem from various factors, including shame, fear of judgment, and past trauma. The act of unhiding involves confronting these hidden aspects and embracing them, which can be a daunting task. Michelle describes unhiding as a "quiet revealing" that is both personal and intimate. It requires a level of honesty with oneself that many may find challenging. This honesty is crucial because until we are truthful with ourselves, it becomes difficult to be authentic with others. The journey of unhiding is not about seeking external validation or approval; instead, it is about understanding and accepting who we are at our core. Join her for a heartfelt discussion filled with practical tools and encouragement to live openly and authentically. Talking Points: 00:02:00 - The Art of Unhiding 00:03:03 - Three Top Ways People Hide 00:05:02 - The Cost of Hiding 00:07:01 - Being Agreeable and People-Pleasing 00:10:00 - Putting Yourself First 00:13:05 - Saying No and Protecting Your Energy 00:15:05 - Emotional Loneliness and Resentment 00:16:10 - Hiding Behind Strength and Self-Sufficiency 00:18:10 - Asking for Help 00:20:07 - Vulnerability and Relationships 00:22:05 - Allowing Others to Help 00:23:10 - Replacing "I Don't Need Anyone" with "I Am Allowed to Need" 00:24:20 - Intellectualizing and Over-Spiritualizing Feelings 00:26:16 - Feeling Pain to Heal 00:28:05 - Emotional Numbness and Healing 00:30:03 - Physical Transformation and Feeling Emotions 00:32:02 - Raw Emotion Before Lessons 00:33:06 - The Messiness of Unhiding 00:34:09 - Using AI to Create Music 00:36:08 - The Joy of Unhiding 00:37:11 - Truth Sharing vs. Oversharing 00:38:14 - Encouragement to Unhide Quotes: "Sometimes the right thing for you is not the right thing for somebody else and that's okay." "Stop just being easy and agreeable. It doesn't matter if somebody doesn't like your choice that you're making for yourself, that's on them." "Instead of saying, I don't need anyone, replace that with, I am allowed to need." "I want to bleed. I want to, I want to tend to that wound. I want to feel that pain." "Unhiding is messy. That's how you know it's real." "The moment you stop hiding, you give everyone else permission to come out too." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: My Website https://michelle-renee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee VERB Media Group https://verbmediagroup.com/ Useful Resources: Order my #1 Best -Selling Memoir Nine Days on Amazon https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open FB Group http://www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch our CBS/Paramount Plus Special https://www.cbs.com/shows/video/3I6R18rj_blqVVaBkwyyO901NuyQUKZ_/  

In this Soul Wide Open podcast episode, host Michelle Renee explores the profound impact of open communication and vulnerability on healing relationships, particularly in the context of trauma and family dynamics. She is joined by one of her daughter's kidnappers, Robert Ortiz,  for this surprising, unfiltered look into accountability, amends, and a deep dive into uncommon compassion. Their discussions highlight several key aspects that underscore the necessity of these elements in fostering understanding and reconciliation. One of the most poignant moments in the episode occurs when Michelle reflects on their shared backgrounds and experiences of trauma. She emphasizes that, despite their different paths, they have more in common than initially perceived. This acknowledgment of shared experiences creates a foundation for empathy and understanding, which is crucial for healing relationships. By openly communicating their stories, they bridge the gap between their individual experiences and foster a sense of deep human connection. The part two of two series episode includes Robert's sister, Lorena, and underscores the theme of empathy and the profound impact on families on both sides of criminal violent behavior and incarceration.  They excavate similarities that exist among individuals, urging listeners to recognize the common threads that unite us all, which leads to greater healing and transformation. Tune in for a moving exploration of resilience, understanding, forgiveness, and the power of uncommon compassion. Conversation Highlights: 01:08 - Hostage Experience and Misunderstandings 03:07 - Family Dynamics and Emotional Struggles 04:46 - FBI Involvement and Family Reactions 06:32 - Struggles with Believing the Crime 07:08 - Courtroom Anger and Misjudgments 09:55 - Impact on Family and Personal Life 11:00 - Ripple Effects of Violent Crime on Families 12:03 - Victim Offender Dialogue Program 15:02 - Writing and Receiving the Letter 17:01 - Profound Impact of Mother's Words 18:59 - Humanity and Forgiveness 20:06 - Divine Inner Voice and Redemption 23:30 - Epic Amends and Vulnerability 26:56 - Family Healing and Reconciliation 32:01 - Life Lessons and Warnings 35:51 - Radical Forgiveness and Honesty 37:05 - Posture of Embrace and Openness 38:58 - Spiritual Groups and San Quentin 41:35 - Gratitude and Final Thoughts Quotes: "Did you ever feel, he abandoned you for the streets, for this other, now what had become his new family?" "When you do wrong, tough lady, you take accountability because all you have is your word." "We're rich in the way that matters is what I say. We're rich in every way that matters the most." "To see the guy who victimized someone's daughter and having my mom meet that mother, there's no word for that." "You could not make that moment up in a million years." "It was just sprinkled with divine dust from start to finish all the way up until right now." "Because we've chosen to focus on the light and not the dark, on love and not hate." "If you're going to keep picking that shovel up, you're going to be far underground, man." "If I don't help these kids in my lived experience, so they don't go through what I went through, then our future's gonna be doomed." "Don't give up on yourself. Don't give up on the dream. Don't give up on what you believe you are being called to do." "Don't give time to the people, places, and things that don't deserve it." "We hope this touches you in a way that makes you understand what it truly, truly means to live your life with your soul wide open, no matter what you have survived." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: My Website https://michelle-renee.com Instagram:   / _michellerenee_   TikTok   / themichellerenee   VERB Media Group https://verbmediagroup.com/ Connect with Robert: Freedom 4 Youth [email protected] Useful Resources: Order my #1 Best -Selling Memoir Nine Days on Amazon https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open FB Group   / soulwideopen        

In this deeply moving episode of "Soul Wide Open," host Michelle Renee sits down with Robert Ortiz, the man who once broke into her home and held her and her daughter hostage. Together, they explore the profound journey of healing, focusing on the power of compassion and understanding in transforming their lives. The importance of compassion and understanding in the healing process, even after experiencing trauma and violence, is a central theme in the podcast episode featuring Michelle Renee and one of her and her daughters kidnappers, Robert Ortiz. Their conversation highlights how both individuals, despite their vastly different experiences, found a path toward healing through love, empathy, and forgiveness. After receiving a letter from Michelle and her daughter expressing their desire to let go of anger and resentment, he was profoundly impacted. The letter served as a catalyst for his transformation, prompting him to reevaluate his life choices and the man he wanted to become. This moment of compassion from his victims allowed him to step back from his past actions and commit to a path of healing and personal growth. Joining them in this part one of a two-part series is Michelle's brother, Dave, who played a crucial role in supporting her and her daughter throughout their healing process and during the trial. This episode delves into their collective stories, the complexities of forgiveness, and how they are sharing their message of hope and resilience with the world. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation that challenges the boundaries of healing and connection. Conversation Highlights: 00:10 - Introduction and significance of the interview. 02:37 - Robert Ortiz's childhood story. 05:44 - Childhood responsibilities and rebellion. 11:10 - Sense of belonging in crime. 17:23 - Navigating life after parole. 18:36 - Losing control and masculinity. 27:12 - Piece of humanity never left. 28:27 - Dave's Story: Shattered glass 33:51 - Trial and trauma experience. 36:34 - Witness protection and trauma. 42:34 - Healing through love and forgiveness. 51:02 - Redemption through personal struggles. 56:46 - Parenting and addiction recovery. 01:08 -  Restorative justice and personal growth. 1:11:52 - Self-improvement in prison. 1:15:29 - Ancestors and generational healing. 1:24:10 - Spiritual healing. 1:28:55 - Face-to-face meeting with family. Quotes: "This is what it looks like when we choose to heal our entire life and when we put love, compassion, and understanding at the absolute center of our lives" "One of my biggest triggers is losing control." "I can't reach out to call anybody and ask for help because I'm gonna feel like less of a man or I'm gonna feel like a loser." "That night broke me open in ways that I could never, ever, ever have imagined." "She was totally gone. There was no Michelle." "I was in a totally different kind of prison than what you were in." "It was a calling that I, I mean, I'm gonna say divine, creator, God, whatever you wanna call it, was absolutely calling me to do this." "If I don't, as a mother, right now, teach her that there's another way, I'm gonna cause her more harm than you could have ever caused her." "I made the decision to stay up for two days. I made the decision to drink and drive, and I got in that car." "I realized, sitting in that room of a bunch of men telling the truth, that I had been denying the truth my whole life, that I was damaging the people that I care about." "I had my own prison sentence going on that nobody knew about, that I was running from, that wasn't even real." "I no longer see myself as a monster. And actually, your words, you helped humanize me again." "Nothing has grounded me like this, where I just call on my ancestors for help." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: My Website https://michelle-renee.com Instagram:   / _michellerenee_   TikTok   / themichellerenee   VERB Media Group https://verbmediagroup.com/ Connect with Robert: Freedom 4 Youth [email protected] Useful Resources: Order my #1 Best -Selling Memoir Nine Days on Amazon https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open FB Group   / soulwideopen   Watch our CBS/Paramount Plus Special https://www.cbs.com/shows/video/3I6R1...

Join Michelle Renee in this inspiring episode of the Soul Wide Open podcast as she shares a transformative experience from a recent night out. Discover the power of listening to your inner voice and showing up for yourself and others, even when it feels like a whim. Michelle recounts a spontaneous decision to bring her camera to a local music event, which led to unexpected opportunities and meaningful connections. She emphasizes the importance of living life intentionally, embracing joy, and being open to the lessons that come from every interaction, no matter how fleeting. In this episode, you'll learn about: The significance of gratitude and self-love How to overcome the fear of showing up alone The value of serving others and connecting deeply Recognizing the teachers in our lives, even if they are not permanent fixtures Whether you're feeling stuck or simply seeking inspiration, this episode encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the beauty of life. Don't wait for permission—get out there and celebrate your journey! If you enjoy the episode, please like, share, and leave a comment! Connect with Michelle on Instagram at @_MichelleRenee_ Talking Points: 01:40 - Listening to Intuition 04:31 - Inspiring Young Minds 05:03 - Turning Passion into Business 05:57 - Showing Up to Serve 06:39 - Being Present and Observant 10:03 - Living Life on Your Terms 12:04 - Avoiding Expectations 16:03 - Healing and Moving Forward 19:02 - Embracing Brokenness 23:13 - Staying Young in Spirit 24:33 - Connect on Instagram  Quotes: "I'm gonna keep showing up. I'm gonna keep listening to the call in my soul.  "I show up to give. I show up to bless them. I don't show up for myself in a way that is selfish." "I'm no longer going to live my life according to anybody else. I'm going to live my life according to who I am, according to what I'm being called to do, according to what is going to promote joy in my life." "None of that would even be possible if I didn't keep showing up." "Grab a hold of the vision of you that you really, really, really desire to be and go for that." "Life is the best, best celebration." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: My Website https://michelle-renee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee VERB Media Group https://verbmediagroup.com/ Useful Resources: Order my #1 Best -Selling Memoir Nine Days on Amazon https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open FB Group http://www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch our CBS/Paramount Plus Special https://www.cbs.com/shows/video/3I6R18rj_blqVVaBkwyyO901NuyQUKZ_/  

Understanding and communicating your love language is essential for building meaningful relationships and ensuring that your emotional needs are met. In a recent podcast episode, Michelle Renee shares her personal journey of discovering the significance of love languages, particularly her own preference for words of affirmation. This exploration highlights several key points about the importance of love languages in fostering healthy connections with others. In this episode of the Soul Wide Open podcast, Michelle shares a heartfelt reflection on the importance of love languages, particularly focusing on her number one love language: words of affirmation. Recorded outdoors by the pool on a beautiful Texas day, Michelle discusses a recent text conversation that sparked her thoughts. She recounts how a friend expressed a need for all love languages, prompting Michelle to reveal her own struggles with self-acceptance and the impact of negative messaging during her childhood. Growing up with critical feedback, she emphasizes how receiving compliments and recognition has been a journey for her, only truly embraced in her 40s.  Join Michelle as she dives into the profound impact of love languages on our relationships and self-worth. Talking Points: 00:22 - The Five Love Languages 00:52 - Text Conversation on Love Languages 02:06 - Childhood Experiences and Family Dynamics 03:33 - Navigating Self-Worth and Fragmentation 06:01 - Impact of Books: The Five Love Languages and The Four Agreements 07:25 - Physical Touch and Childhood 09:20 - Work Ethic and Recognition 11:02 - Handling Compliments and Emotional Reactions 13:13 - Embracing Femininity and Traditional Roles 17:02 - Emotional Armor and Femininity 20:07 - Communicating Love Languages 24:01 - Showing Up with Confidence 26:50 - Living Unapologetically 27:12 - Conclusion and Teaser for Next Episode Quotes: "I grew up being called a piece of shit and told that I would never be anything." "I'm really proud of taking the fragmented pieces of not only my self-worth, but my past and my childhood and my life and turning it into something really meaningful and something that I'm really proud of." "It just reminded me of how important it is to be kind with our words." "I didn't even know how to receive a compliment until I was in my 40s." "I love a man that enjoys spoiling a woman and treating her like a lady and making her feel special." "This is what I need in my life to absolutely shine and glow, and I'm going to give that to myself first." "Start treating yourself that way first, and then make sure." "Swing that cage door open and get out there and go live your absolute best life." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: My Website https://michelle-renee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee VERB Media Group https://verbmediagroup.com/ Useful Resources: Order my #1 Best -Selling Memoir Nine Days on Amazon https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open FB Group http://www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch our CBS/Paramount Plus Special https://www.cbs.com/shows/video/3I6R18rj_blqVVaBkwyyO901NuyQUKZ_/    

Love bombing is a manipulative tactic often employed in romantic relationships, where one partner inundates the other with excessive affection and grand gestures early on. This behavior can be particularly confusing, as it may initially feel flattering and exciting. However, as discussed in the podcast episode, love bombing typically lacks a solid foundation or genuine connection, leading to a lack of emotional connectedness and confusion. In this episode of Soul Wide Open, host Michelle Renee dives into the intriguing concept of "love bombing." Familiar with the term yet not knowing what it entailed, Michelle shares a recent personal experience and insight on this phenomenon, revealing that it often goes beyond the obvious signs, such as excessive flattery right after the first date. She recounts this recent encounter with a charming man that sparked her curiosity about love bombing, explaining how the signs began to emerge.  Join Michelle as she unpacks the complexities of love bombing and encourages listeners to be aware of the subtle red flags that may arise in romantic relationships. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that blends personal anecdotes with valuable insights on love and connection. Talking Points: 00:44 - Recognizing Obvious Signs of Love Bombing 03:48 - Personal Growth and Core Values 07:03 - Social Media Poll and Feedback 09:43 - Increasing Intensity of Texts 12:05 - Realization and Research on Love Bombing 14:24 - Reflecting on Past Experiences and Self-Worth 17:01 - Genuine Compliments vs. Love Bombing 20:35 - Top Three Signs of Love Bombing 00:22:03 - Intensity Without Foundation 00:23:07 - Overwhelming Grand Gestures 00:24:22 - Future Forecasting 26:20 - Taking Action to Stop Love Bombing 27:57 - Genuine Connection and Affection 29:02 - Consistency Over Time 30:29 - Grounded Self-Worth and Recognizing Genuine Affection Quotes: "I have my soul wide open, but my heart's wide open too because I am honestly really ready for an incredible love in my life." "I am almost positive I confused the love bombing in the past and I confused survival in the past with love." "I am the Michelle that I am so proud of and that I'm so happy to be." "Manipulation happens quickly. Deeply connected love, not so much." "Be so in tune with your internal gut, with your intuition, with your radar, that you are not ignoring and excusing these kinds of behavior and you're not confusing them with genuine affection." "Just having enough confidence in yourself and love for yourself to recognize it and take action to stop it and make sure that that is not anybody you are ever going to allow to be in your life to manipulate you." "Become the love that you have been waiting for." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: My Website Instagram:  TikTok VERB Media Group Useful Resources: Order my #1 Best -Selling Memoir Nine Days on Amazon Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify Join the Soul Wide Open FB Group Watch our CBS/Paramount Plus Special   

Unpacking the Need for Validation in Relationships In this podcast episode, Michelle Renee explores the profound impact that childhood experiences have on adult relationship behaviors, particularly the tendency to fight for love rather than simply receive it. This theme is essential for anyone seeking to understand their relationship dynamics and the underlying reasons for their behaviors. Michelle shares her personal journey of recognizing how her upbringing in a highly dysfunctional and toxic environment shaped her beliefs about love and relationships. She delves into the complex reasons why we often fight for relationships rather than simply embracing the love that is offered to us. Drawing from her personal experiences, Michelle shares a recent wake-up moment regarding a situation that has been ongoing for six months. She reflects on a connection with someone who, despite the fun, laughter, and chemistry they share, is emotionally wounded from a past relationship. This episode explores the dynamics of attraction, the comfort of familiar struggles, and the importance of recognizing when to fight for a relationship versus when to allow love to flow freely. Join Michelle as she navigates this deeply personal topic and encourages listeners to reflect on their own relationship patterns. Talking Points: 01:16 - Personal Story and Current Situation 02:30 - Realization and Emotional Lessons 04:08 - Childhood Reflections and Conditioning 07:00 - Five Ways Childhood Affects Adult Relationships 07:00 - Mistaking Intensity for Intimacy 08:41 - Choosing Emotionally Unavailable Partners 09:35 - Hyper-Independence and Over-Giving 11:00 - High Pain Tolerance 14:01 - Proving, Performing, and Pleasing 20:04 - Learning to Receive Love 22:04 - Inner Child Work and Healing 24:01 - Weight Loss and Vitality Journey 25:04 - Living Authentically and Openly Quotes:  "I ended up learning this huge, huge lesson from him, which is probably the reason why he was sent into my life in the first place." "I was totally conditioned to fight for love." "Calm love to me just feels boring to me, to be honest."  "I just realized lately that fighting for love, instead of just relaxing and understanding that I'm worthy to just receive love, means I don't have to prove anything." "I don't need to fight for love anymore. I'm not in survival mode anymore." "I am going to heal all this. I am going to figure this out. And I am going to celebrate every single step of the way of what has happened when I sort of let go of all of that." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: My Website Instagram:  TikTok VERB Media Group Useful Resources: Order my #1 Best -Selling Memoir Nine Days on Amazon Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify Join the Soul Wide Open FB Group Watch our CBS/Paramount Plus Special   

The Mirror of Our Experiences and The Meaning We Give Them A key theme in the episode is using painful experiences as a mirror for self-reflection. Michelle describes a recent encounter with a new friend that triggered memories of being objectified in her youth. This moment served as a catalyst for her to revisit and process those past feelings. Instead of avoiding the discomfort or avoidant behavior in general, she chose to sit with it, leading to a deeper understanding of herself. This process of reflection is vital for personal growth, as it encourages individuals to confront their past rather than suppress it. In this episode of the Soul Wide Open Podcast, host Michelle Renee reflects on the profound moments from her younger years that have significantly shaped her behaviors, self-image, and relationships. She shares her journey towards understanding the unhealthy patterns formed around sexuality and the need for validation through appearance. Michelle emphasizes the importance of brutal honesty with oneself as a means to peel back the layers and discover the authentic self. This episode encourages listeners to examine their own experiences, the meaning and labels we place on those eperiences that either hold us back or propel us forward,  and the motivations behind such behaviors, promoting self-awareness and personal growth. Join Michelle as she navigates the complexities of identity and self-discovery, inviting you to look deeply into your own life. Talking Points: 00:53 - Self-Reflection and Brutal Honesty 02:19 - Life Changes: Moving to Texas 05:10 - Avoiding Uncomfortable Feelings 07:11 - Sexual Comment and Its Impact 10:05 - Feeling Used for Sex 13:01 - Understanding and Self-Compassion 16:10 - Attaching Meaning to Experiences 18:02 - Living Unrestricted by Shame 19:08 - Embracing Boldness 20:02 - Redefining Past Decisions 22:03 - Importance of Looking Back 23:00 - Personal Meaning and Empowerment 24:04 - Understanding as the Captain 25:09 - Embracing Superpower of Authenticity 28:09 - Letting Go of Pain 30:28 - Intention and Resonance Quotes: "When we're brutally honest with ourselves, when we finally just rip every layer off and we are down to the bare bones of who we are and we are our raw, authentic self with ourselves first, that's when we really look deeply into these kinds of situations and understand more about who we are." "What do I need to understand more about myself?" "I felt the pain of every single time that has happened in my life." "I was a victim then, I am not a victim now." "I am going to take every single thing that's happened in my life to me, for me, with me, because of me, because of my decisions, because of other people's decisions, whatever it is, I am going to take all of that and make that the reason to be more bold." "The meaning that everything in my life has, every decision I've made, every experience that I've had, is up to me." "Our superpower is right there in that most beautiful place of, I want to understand and know me on the deepest, most personal, intimate level ever. It's like having a love affair with understanding myself." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: My Website Instagram:  TikTok VERB Media Group Useful Resources: Order my #1 Best -Selling Memoir Nine Days on Amazon Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify Join the Soul Wide Open FB Group Watch our CBS/Paramount Plus Special

In the journey of healing and personal growth, one of the most crucial steps is recognizing who has access to your life and evaluating whether they truly deserve that access. The concept of an "all-access pass" serves as a powerful metaphor for understanding the dynamics of our relationships and the boundaries we set. Do you feel drained after being around this person? Do you find yourself tiptoeing around them or over-explaining your feelings? Do you feel guilty when you say no to them? Do they manipulate you into changing your mind when you set boundaries? Do they take more from you than they give? If you find yourself answering "yes" to any of these questions, it may be time to reconsider the level of access this person has to your life. In this episode of Soul Wide Open, we dive deep into the concept of access and boundaries in our lives, especially after experiencing trauma and abuse. Host and Certified Trauma Healing Practitioner Michelle Renee discusses the importance of evaluating who has access to your time, energy, and emotions, emphasizing that not everyone deserves a place in your life. Using the metaphor of an "all access pass" commonly seen at concerts and conventions, the episode highlights the need to reclaim control over who gets to be part of your journey. Join us as we explore the significance of setting boundaries and taking back those access passes to foster healthier relationships and self-honesty. Insights: 00:21 - The Importance of Boundaries 01:05 - The Concept of All Access Passes 04:03 - Toxic Relationships and Friendships 05:20 - Real-Life Example of Setting Boundaries 08:01 - Revoking All Access Passes 11:15 - Reassessing Relationships 14:06 - Acknowledging the Shift 15:32 - The Power of Silence 18:58 - Filling the Void with Nourishment 23:05 - Protecting Your Energy 24:11 - You Are Not a Public Venue 25:26 - Conclusion and Call to Action Quotes:  "Some people are walking around with all access passes to your life when honestly they don't even deserve to be in the parking lot." "Just because you initially gave somebody an all access pass or even a VIP pass does not mean that that automatically gives them a lifetime membership to the behind the scenes and the deeper inner parts of your life." "You are allowed to change." "It is your responsibility and no one else's responsibility to protect your mental health, your emotional wellness, your nervous system, and to protect your own happiness and joy."  "Don't let the pain of the grief and the fear of letting go of somebody keep you in a situation that's hurting you." "I'm going to hop on this roller coaster and I'm going to hang on to that bar and I'm going to let it take off and I'm going to put my hands up in the air sometimes and let go sometimes and ride this roller coaster and enjoy the ride or it's going to take off without me." "You're not a public venue where everybody can just come in for free and have access to you and your life and your time and your emotions at YOUR expensee.   You're not a public library." Stay Connected: Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: My Website Instagram:  TikTok VERB Media Group Useful Resources: Order my #1 Best -selling memoir Nine Days on Amazon Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify Join the Soul Wide Open FB Group Watch our CBS/Paramount Plus Special   

In this episode of Soul Wide Open, I delve into a topic that has been a significant part of my life: self-doubt. This is especially relevant now as I am about to make a major life change by relocating from California to central Texas for a 3-4 month trial run and a self-imposed creative retreat. Self-doubt is something we've all faced, and it can be deeply rooted in our childhood experiences, past failures, traumas, and societal pressures. I discuss how self-doubt manifests in various ways, such as procrastination and imposter syndrome, and how it can make us question our capabilities and worth. However, I emphasize that self-doubt is not a life sentence but a mindset that can be changed. Key points covered in this episode include: Recognizing Self-Doubt: The importance of calling out self-doubt as soon as it appears and not letting it take over. Taking Action: How taking small steps towards your goals can help quiet the voice of self-doubt. Building Self-Trust: The significance of being impeccable with your word to yourself and keeping promises you make to yourself. Surrounding Yourself with Positivity: The impact of having a supportive network that encourages and believes in you. Remembering Your Wins: Reflecting on past achievements to reinforce your capability and worth. I share my personal journey of preparing for my move to Texas, including the self-doubt and guilt I've faced, and how I've managed to overcome these feelings by taking actionable steps and surrounding myself with supportive voices. I leave listeners with a challenge: Identify something that self-doubt has been holding you back from and take one small step towards it today. Remember, you are enough, you are capable, and I believe in you. Thank you for joining me on this episode of Soul Wide Open. If this episode resonates with you, please share it, like it, and subscribe. Stay open, stay brave, and remember, you are so much more powerful than your doubts. Talking Points: 00:00:11 - Personal Connection to Self-Doubt 00:00:33 - Defining Self-Doubt 00:00:59 - The Voice of Self-Doubt 00:01:52 - Self-Doubt is Not Permanent 00:03:30 - Trauma and Self-Doubt 00:04:01 - Manifestations of Self-Doubt 00:04:23 - Imposter Syndrome 00:09:01 - Self-Doubt and Guilt 00:13:17 - Questioning the Truth of Self-Doubt 00:16:23 - Building Self-Trust 00:17:05 - Being Impeccable with Your Word 00:20:10 - From Broken Glass to Disco Ball 00:23:26 - Self-Doubt as a Human Experience Quotes: "Self-doubt is a mindset, and like all other mindsets, it is something that can be changed." "Self-doubt is not the truth. It's actually a conditioned response that you're having." "The number one way to combat self-doubt is by taking action." "Ask yourself instead, what evidence do I have that proves that I am capable?" "The absolute trick is making sure that you believe in yourself and that you trust yourself, even when it does show up." "I kind of love that analogy. I am a freaking disco ball." "Self-doubt is not a sign that you're unworthy or incapable. It's just a sign that you're human." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: My Website Instagram:  TikTok VERB Media Group Useful Resources: Order my #1 Best -selling memoir Nine Days on Amazon Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify Join the Soul Wide Open FB Group Watch our CBS/Paramount Plus Special   

Mentally Detox for a New Year: A Path to Healing and Renewal Decluttering your mental space is essential for a successful mental detox, as it helps reduce distractions and promotes clarity.   In this eepisod eof Soul Wide Open with host Michelle Renne, she welcomes the new year with a focus on mental detoxification and emotional regulation. As 2025 approaches, she emphasizes the importance of starting the year with a quieter mind and spirit, laying the groundwork for healing and protecting one's nervous system. Michelle shares practical tools, tactics, and steps that listeners can implement immediately to declutter their minds, get rid of the negative noise, and navigate the challenges of the new year effectively. She also reflects on the tumultuous events of 2024, including her personal experiences with trauma, highlighting the emotional journey many face as they transition into a fresh start.  Join her as she guides you towards a quieter mind and a more peaceful spirit, setting the stage for a transformative healing journey in 2025. Talkingg Points: 00:00:00 - New Year Excitement 00:01:32 - Reflecting on 2024 00:04:03 - Decluttering Your Environment 00:06:13 - Setting Intentions vs. Resolutions 00:08:10 - Creating a Release List 00:17:05 - Digital Detox 00:23:01 - Mindful Practices 00:26:34 - Nourishing Your Body 00:31:41 - Creating Vision Boards 00:35:45 - Practicing Kindness and Compassion 00:37:10 - Choosing Positive Media 00:39:00 - Embracing the Present Moment 00:41:42 - Staying Curious and Engaged Quotes: "We end up hanging on to so much of the noise that literally drags us down and that also literally drowns out so many of the other things in our lives that we should be paying attention to." "When we're distracted by clutter in our environment, whether we know it or not, or whether we realize it or not on a conscious level, we are actually distracted mentally and emotionally as well." "I try to really set my intentions on what is meant to be." "I truly believe with everything in me that this is what I'm meant to be doing and this is why I've come through everything that I've come through." "Our digital footprint and our digital life is responsible for more of our mental clutter and our mental poisoning than probably anything else." "When the stress and the tension and all of that leaves the body, guess what? It frees up the mind." "Vision boards can be a very, very, very powerful thing and a powerful reminder for you to really be able to see what those intentions are." "One of the best ways you can mentally detox is to stay really tapped in to practicing kindness and compassion and love." "I savor all the moments, all the little moments, every little thing... understanding how sweet that really is." "Stay curious. Stay engaged in this grand thing we call life." Stay Connected: Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee  Useful Resources: Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.w  

Healing Through Celebration: How I Turned a Kidnapping into a New Beginning In this episode of the Soul Wide Open podcast, host Michelle Renee discusses the transformative power of turning traumatic experiences into moments of celebration and rebirth. Sharing her personal journey of overcoming a kidnapping and home invasion, Michelle emphasizes the importance of modeling resilience for her daughter to ensure she does not carry forward the weight of negative experiences.  With what she refers to as her 'second birthday' as a focal point, Michelle reflects on how the anniversary date of the traumatic event represents a significant turning point in her life, and not for the worse, but for growth, a renewed focus on values and prioritees, and an awakening.  Tune in as she reveals the top 10 strategies she employed to celebrate her rebirth and cultivate a positive future. Join Michelle in this inspiring conversation about healing, empowerment, and embracing life after trauma. Talking Points: 00:00 - Turning Trauma into Rebirth 02:07 - Unexpected Journey to Turks and Caicos 05:09 - Annual Tradition: Reframing the Memory 06:07 - Teaching Resilience to My Daughter 09:06 - Choosing to Celebrate the Anniversary 10:09 - Initial Trauma and Healing Journey 11:04 - Deciding to Move Forward 12:10 - Top 10 Ways to Reframe Trauma 12:51 - 1. Acknowledge and Accept the Trauma 14:07 - 2. Seek Support 15:11 - 3. Reframe the Narrative 17:00 - 4. Engage in Healing Practices 18:58 - 5. Create Meaning 20:02 - 6. Mark the Transition 22:00 - 7. Celebrate the Growth 24:00 - 8. Share Your Story 25:38 - 9. Commit to New Beginnings 28:10 - 10. Honor the Complexity 33:39 - Grief and Gratitude Coexist Quotes: "I actually call it my second birthday because it was such a rebirth in my life on so many levels in so many ways that I literally can't even put those all into words." "We were going to choose to remember the great times that we had at that house." "We can choose to reframe and transform that experience into something really, really powerful." "I acknowledge that this happened. I accept that this happened. What am I meant to learn? How can I grow?" "Choosing to shift the mindset from why did this happen to me to what can I create out of this is essential to healing." "One of the greatest gifts of all of this is that my priorities and my values and my life is filled with purpose like it's never been before." "I decided no one's ever going to be able to blindside me with my own past ever again." "There is so much beauty and value in people just being vulnerable and allowing themselves to connect on a deeper level." "But when you commit to transformation, that's real change. That's real healing." "I honor my path, all of it, because I'm still here." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee  Useful Resources: Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.w  

From Static to Clarity: Protecting Your Energy in a Content-Heavy Society What Are You Feeding Your Soul? In today's fast-paced world, the content we consume—whether through media, music, or conversations—plays a crucial role in shaping our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. As discussed in the podcast episode, it is essential to be mindful of what we engage with, as it can profoundly affect our overall health. The episode emphasizes that, much like tuning an old radio to find a clear signal, we must consciously choose the frequencies we tune into in our daily lives. This includes the information we absorb from social media, television, and even the conversations we have. Host Michelle Renee highlights that much of the content available today resembles static—overwhelming and often negative. With the overwhelming amount of information available through social media, television, and conversations, Michelle emphasizes the need to be mindful of the "static" that can negatively impact our mental health and overall well-being. Drawing an analogy to old-fashioned radios, she encourages listeners to consider how their choices affect their nervous system, mindset, and levels of anxiety. As she shares her reflections while listening to Fleetwood Mac, Michelle invites you to evaluate what you are digesting and how it feeds your soul, mind, and body. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on cultivating a positive environment for yourself. Talking Points: 00:00:12 - The Importance of Tuning In 00:00:23 - Impact of Media on Mental Health 00:01:05 - Tuning into Static and Its Effects 00:01:50 - Choosing What to Digest 00:02:22 - Feeding Your Soul Positively 00:03:21 - Trauma and Media Consumption 00:04:27 - Protecting Your Energy 00:04:49 - Recognizing Negative Impact 00:06:24 - Effects of Watching Violent Content 00:06:57 - Personal Triggers and Media Consumption 00:07:39 - Mike Tyson and Jake Paul Boxing Match 00:09:05 - Obsession with Violent Entertainment 00:09:59 - Political and Social Media Consumption 00:10:20 - Balancing Information Intake 00:11:23 - Poisonous Nature of Overconsumption 00:12:06 - Avoiding Rabbit Holes 00:13:32 - Consuming vs. Being Consumed 00:14:15 - Choosing Positive Content 00:16:04 - Desensitization to Violence 00:17:07 - Encouragement to Take Inventory 00:18:04 - Finding Positive Frequencies 00:19:07 - Healing and Positive Growth 00:22:01 - Unplugging and Changing the Dial 00:24:08 - Positive Alternatives to Negative Media Quotes:  "Whatever it is that you're tuned into, it is going to seep in." "By the end of episode one, I literally felt like I just had gotten blasted with shrapnel or something." "For me, violence and violent content in general is very much a negative for me." "You will literally begin to feel the joy, like leaving your body and exiting your life." "You cannot have all of this negative information and all of this violence and be feeding yourself all of this stuff and simultaneously be growing in a beautiful, healing, positive way." "What are you going to fill that time and that space with that isn't negative, that isn't drama, yelling, fighting, anger, violence?" Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee  Useful Resources: Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.w  

Boundary statements play a crucial role in protecting one's emotional and mental well-being, particularly for individuals who have struggled with boundaries in the past.  In this episode of the Soul Wide Open podcast, host Michelle Renee dives into the crucial topic of boundary statements. Drawing from her personal experiences, including a home invasion that shattereed boundaries in her personal and professional life, Michelle discusses the challenges of learning to identify and verbalize healthy boundaries. She emphasizes the significance of setting new boundaries as a vital part of personal growth and self-awareness. Tune in as she reveals her top 10 boundary statements, offering insights and practical tips for fostering healthier relationships and self-care. Talking Points: 00:00 - What Are Boundary Statements 01:02 - Michelle Renee's Personal Journey 02:08 - The Challenge of Setting Boundaries 03:01 - The Importance of Self-Respect 04:05 - Self-Awareness and Growth 05:10 - Top 10 Boundary Statements Overview 06:05 - Boundary Statement #1: That Doesn't Work for Me 09:07 - Boundary Statement #2: Can You Please Explain What You Mean By That? 10:12 - Boundary Statement #3: Agree to Disagree 11:04 - Boundary Statement #4: Let's Take a Little Space 12:28 - Boundary Statement #5: Thank You, But I'm Okay Right Now 14:05 - Boundary Statement #6: I'm Not the Best Person to Talk to About This 16:27 - Boundary Statement #7: Let's Talk When We're Both Calm 18:08 - Boundary Statement #8: I Know I'm Putting Myself First 20:03 - Boundary Statement #9: Can We Talk About This Alone? 22:09 - Boundary Statement #10: The Power of Saying No 27:38 - Conclusion and Encouragement to Use Boundary Statements 31:49 - Final Thoughts and Invitation to Connect on Instagram  Quotes:  "What do I want my future to look like? Who do I want to become?" "The most important person that I care about liking me and loving me and not being angry with me or upset with me is me." "When you can say to somebody, I don't think I'm the best person to talk to about this. That is powerful." "It's okay to put your needs first and to express that." "If it doesn't work for you, it doesn't work for you, and that's okay." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee  Useful Resources: Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.w  

In this episode of the Soul Wide Open podcast, host Michelle Renee reflects on her upbringing and the programming that influences our behaviors and coping mechanisms. Broadcasting from her brother's house near Lake Tahoe, she discusses the importance of unlearning unhealthy patterns that were necessary for survival in a challenging environment. Michelle emphasizes the process of unraveling unhealthy coping mechanisms, comparing it to untangling a ball of yarn. She explores how many of us operate from outdated beliefs that no longer serve us and can even be harmful. To make the topic manageable, she outlines three key areas to focus on for unlearning and healing:  self shrinking, self abandonment and over explaining. These are important aspects to consider, especially when healing from emotional trauma or when building self-awareness.  Join Michelle as she guides listeners toward self-discovery and personal growth and be sure to take the free Soul Wide Open healing self assessment here: https://bit.ly/SWOHealingAssessment Talking Points: 00:00:45 - Unlearning for Healing and Growth 00:01:05 - The Process of Unlearning 00:02:00 - Top Three Things to Unlearn 00:03:25 - Unlearning Self-Shrinking 00:07:09 - Dave Joins the Conversation 00:09:06 - Self-Shrinking as a Survival Tactic 00:11:05 - Unlearning Self-Abandonment 00:14:02 - The Impact of Shame 00:18:11 - Unlearning Over-Explaining 00:24:06 - Shifting Mindset and Acceptance 00:25:31 - Conclusion and Self-Assessment Quotes: "Self-shrinking literally became something I felt like I needed to master that in order to avoid the pain and what came with being noticed." "In what ways do we abandon ourselves when we're running from the pain caused by traumatic events?" "Shame is like this cloak of darkness over you, where you just abandon yourself." "I really don't owe anybody an explanation at all about anything." "Living with my soul wide open has everything to do with unraveling all of those things that we learned growing up in environments that were really challenging."   Resources:  Take the Soul Wide Open Healing Self Assessment:    https://bit.ly/SWOHealingAssessment Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.w Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee  

In this Soul Wide Open podcast episode, Michelle Renee shares a heartwarming story about her experience caring for an 80-something-year-old blind man named Jack. Despite his blindness, Jack taught Michelle a valuable lesson about serving others with joy and intention. Michelle's act of preparing visually appealing meals for Jack, even though he couldn't see them, brought immense joy to both of them. Michelle reflects on how her caregiving journey, prompted by her daughter's health issues, led her to meet Jack and learn important life lessons from him. This story highlights the profound impact of serving others with joy and intention. When we approach our interactions with a genuine desire to bring happiness and positivity to others, we not only uplift their spirits but also create meaningful connections. Michelle reflects on her journey as a caregiver and how Jack's impact has stayed with her. Join her as she delves into the profound experience that changed her perspective on life. Talking Points: 00:00:12 - Introducing Jack 00:01:39 - Background: Becoming a Caregiver 00:02:02 - Daughter's MS Diagnosis 00:02:56 - Meeting Jack 00:04:09 - Cooking for Jack 00:05:03 - Describing Meals to Jack 00:07:03 - Life Lessons from Jack 00:08:07 - Preparation and Presentation in Life 00:09:00 - Personal Achievements and Book 00:09:50 - Visualizing Success 00:10:28 - Preparing for Success 00:11:01 - Joy in Cooking and Life 00:12:06 - Mindful Preparation 00:13:01 - Psychology of Color 00:13:45 - Gratitude and Hard Times 00:14:49 - Jack's Impact on Michelle and Her Daughter 00:15:51 - Living with Intention and Joy 00:17:18 - Final Thoughts and Takeaways Quotes: "And I ended up having the absolute honor of taking care of him." "What if I make this plate so beautiful, and I can explain to him the colors, the spices that I used, how the plate is arranged?" "How do we present ourselves?" "I love to watch people enjoy something that I enjoyed preparing for them so much." "It wasn't about me. It was about him. It was about being in total service to him and making sure that I was there to do a particular job 1000% to the best of my ability." "Do it with joy. Do it with total intention. And make sure that you are serving that up in a way that you're super, super proud of." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee  Useful Resources: Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.ws/3PGAu2n

"Am I just in the way?" This question plagued host Michelle Renee for years.  It wasn't until she wrote tthese words as a response tto a text tto heer brother thatt sparked her to llook deeply into the root of this response.   Seeking self-understanding and unraveling past coping mechanisms are crucial steps in personal growth and healing, as discussed in the podcast episode. Michelle Renee shared her personal experience of realizing how her childhood experiences had shaped her responses to overwhelming situations. By acknowledging the root cause of her reactions, she was able to gain insight into her behavior and make positive changes. Exploring the theme of feeling like you're "in the way," Michelle opens up about her own text exchange with her brother and uncovers how childhood experiences can shape our responses as adults. Reflecting on her role as a middle child in a large family, Michelle shares insights on how past dynamics can influence present-day interactions. Join Michelle on Soul Wide Open as she navigates through internal childhood issues and their impact on relationships. Talking Points: 00:00:00 - Text Message Incident 00:01:14 - Realization of Childhood Impact 00:02:10 - Middle Child Dynamics 00:02:33 - Hectic Household Environment 00:03:46 - Kicked Out and Feeling Displaced 00:05:01 - Identifying Triggers and Coping Mechanisms 00:08:15 - Meditation and Self-Awareness 00:09:11 - Recognizing Trauma Responses 00:11:09 - Hindrance in Social Situations 00:12:04 - Self-Understanding and Rewiring 00:13:09 - Creative Expression for Healing 00:15:25 - Identifying Root Causes 00:16:10 - Setting Small Goals 00:17:04 - Attending Family Event with Boundaries 00:20:05 - Self-Compassion and Growth Quotes: "Sometimes we have, you know, a little glitch in the wiring that we need to take a look at and that we need to begin to understand how can we rewire this" "Go back to when that all began, and begin to get into that root of where this is coming from that's driving certain behaviors now, today, that don't really need to be a part of your life." "Those responses come from a legitimate place, and past programming, past survival skills, techniques, and coping mechanisms that that served you bback then." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.ws/3PGAu2n  

From Trauma to Celebration: Navigating the Path to Sexual Healing Rebuilding a healthy sex life after surviving trauma is a challenging journey that requires effort and dedication. As discussed in the podcast episode, while this process is not easy, it is entirely possible. The host, Michelle Renee, emphasizes the importance of addressing the impact of trauma on one's sexuality and sensuality. The episode highlights the significance of celebrating one's sexuality and not allowing shame or fear to overshadow it. Dr. Ruth's quote about celebrating sexuality resonates with the idea that embracing one's sexual identity is essential for healing and moving forward after experiencing trauma. Michelle Renee shares her personal experience of abandoning her sexuality and sensuality after a violent trauma, illustrating the common struggle many individuals face in reconnecting with this aspect of themselves. Join Michelle as she provides guidance and support for those navigating this difficult journey towards healing and reclaiming their sexuality. Talking Points: [00:01:48] Rebuilding a healthy sex life. [00:07:24] The impact of societal expectations. [00:12:04] Sexual boundaries and triggers. [00:14:46] Rebuilding confidence after trauma. [00:18:42] Educate yourself on trauma. [00:21:47] Setting healthy boundaries for growth. [00:26:04] Embracing uniqueness and having fun. Quotes: "Being sexy and feeling vibrant and embracing that flirtatious, fun way of being, there's absolutely nothing wrong with that." "This is an area that can leave you feeling incredibly confident and incredibly beautiful." "So you've got to find a therapist that you feel enough of a deep connection with, and that you trust, to go in there and be completely raw, and be ready to listen to them, and be ready to not just listen, be ready to implement what it is that you're suggesting that you do." "This confident woman who's not shrunken by what has happened to her, but instead she's ready to blossom and open up and become this brand new version of herself." "Boundaries are one of the number one ways I have been able to rebuild my life from scratch." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.ws/3PGAu2n  

Overcoming Trauma Through Solo Travel: My Costa Rica Adventure In this podcast episode, Michelle Renee shares her transformative experience of embarking on her first international solo adventure in Costa Rica. Despite past traumatic events, she emphasizes the importance of not letting fear hold you back from exploring the world. Here are 5 key takeaways on prioritizing safety and well-being when traveling solo: Stay Vigilant and Aware of Your Surroundings: Michelle underscores the importance of being hyper-aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling solo as a woman. Observing details like the behavior of people around you, the safety of transportation options, and the overall environment can significantly enhance your safety. Carry Essential Safety Items: Michelle highlights the significance of carrying essential safety items. This includes having a secure purse or bag on your person at all times, packing snacks and water for sustenance, and ensuring you have necessary items like a first aid kit, flashlight, and any medications you may need. Share Your Location with Trusted Individuals: Michelle recommends sharing your location with trusted individuals, such as family and friends, so they can keep track of your whereabouts. This simple step provides an added layer of security and peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. Ground Yourself and Maintain Calm: Taking time to ground yourself, especially in unfamiliar or potentially stressful situations, is crucial. Michelle emphasizes the importance of practices like meditation, journaling, and engaging in activities that help you feel centered and calm during your travels. Plan Ahead and Stay Prepared: Before embarking on your solo adventure, ensure you plan ahead. Research the area you'll be visiting, understand local customs and safety guidelines, and have a clear itinerary in place. Additionally, pack essential items that provide a sense of familiarity and comfort in new surroundings. Michelle explores how to navigate roadblocks that may arise when striving to live fully despite past experiences. Join her as she reflects on her decision to travel solo and embrace new opportunities for personal growth and exploration. Tune in to discover how to move past obstacles and continue moving forward on your own journey. Talking Points: 00:00:11 - Embracing Solo Travel 00:00:48 - Overcoming Trauma 00:01:11 - Facing Roadblocks 00:01:45 - Decision to Travel Solo 00:02:28 - Hypervigilance and Safety 00:03:10 - Arrival in Costa Rica 00:05:49 - Shuttle Ride Anxiety 00:07:05 - Bike Ride Challenges 00:08:09 - ATM Anxiety 00:09:22 - Navigating Wrong Turns 00:11:06 - Lessons from Day One 00:12:09 - Grounding and Relaxation 00:16:05 - Creating a Home Away from Home 00:17:08 - Planning Future Adventures 00:18:00 - Replacing Negative Memories 00:19:04 - Staying Connected 00:20:07 - Encouragement to Live Fully 00:20:51 - Conclusion and Safe Travels Quotes: "I decided to take my soul wide open life philosophy to the next level and go on my very first international solo adventure." "I'm going to rip off these chains of what happened and I'm going to go start exploring the world." "Riding a bike in an undeveloped area alone through the jungle on dirt roads. No, that's never happening again." "I ended up in this frustrated state, just sweating and miserable, and crashing" "Don't allow it to stop you from doing the things you really want to do and seeing the places you really want to see and experiencing life in such a wonderful way." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee Resources: Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.ws/3PGAu2n

Recognizing and addressing the father wound or daddy issues is crucial for healing and moving forward in life. In a podcast episode, the host, Michelle Renee, delves into the impact of unprocessed and unhealed daddy issues, which she refers to as a father wound. She shares personal experiences of growing up in a challenging and violent environment, highlighting the behaviors and patterns that can stem from such upbringing. This episode of the Soul Wide Open podcast delves into the concept of "father wounds" and how unprocessed daddy issues can manifest in our behaviors. Michelle shares her personal experience of living with a father who had unhealed trauma wounds, leading to volatile and unpredictable behavior. She explores the anxiety-provoking atmosphere created by trying to meet her father's ever-changing standards, highlighting the impact on her sense of self-worth and fear of rejection. Tune in to learn more about recognizing and healing from father wounds, the effects of father wounds, and how they can shape our relationships and self-perception. Talking Points: 00:00:00 - Understanding Daddy Issues 00:00:41 - Personal Story: Living with a Volatile Father 00:01:33 - Anxiety and Avoidance Behaviors 00:02:58 - Fear of Confrontation and Procrastination 00:04:02 - Emotional Unavailability of Parents 00:05:06 - Long-term Consequences of a Traumatic Upbringing 00:07:09 - The Importance of Addressing Father Wounds 00:07:21 - Boundaries and Toxic Work Environments 00:09:08 - Root Causes of Staying in Unhappy Situations 00:10:02 - Intellectual Understanding of Trauma 00:11:08 - Attachment Styles and Relationship Challenges 00:12:02 - Avoidance of Uncomfortable Conversations 00:13:06 - Taking Safety Outside Your Comfort Zone 00:14:01 - Standing Firm in Your Truth 00:14:56 - Recognizing and Healing Father Wounds 00:16:03 - Re-parenting Your Inner Child 00:17:32 - Prioritizing Relaxation and Mindfulness 00:19:08 - Avoiding the Spin Zone 00:20:13 - Letting Go of Anger Towards Your Father 00:25:08 - Permission to Heal and Move Forward Quotes: "How many of us have been told that we have daddy issues?" "Every little thing is just dissected and nothing is ever good enough." "Your joy is your most important currency." "You can take that safety with you outside of your comfort zone." "Stand firm in your truth, in using your voice." "It's the final one and it is letting go of being pissed off at your dad for that father wound." "This is the exact same way I feel about hanging on to anger and shame and regret or any of those other things that are taking up space in your life and in your heart, your soul, your mind." "Give yourself permission to heal that father wound." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle:   Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.ws/3PGAu2n

Importance of Regularly Resetting and Regulating the Nervous System In a podcast episode, Michelle Rene stresses the critical importance of regularly resetting and regulating the nervous system for overall well-being. She shares personal experiences and techniques that have aided her in this aspect, highlighting the significance of being in tune with one's nervous system and recognizing when it needs to be reset. 1. Cold Therapy: Michelle mentions how ending her showers with cold water or taking ice baths helps slow down the body's systems, and promotes a healthy nervous systtem, among other benefits for the body. This practice of exposing the body to cold sensations aids in calming the nervous system and promoting relaxation. 2. Recognizing Warning Signs: Michelle discusses how certain behaviors, like becoming hyper-organized to an unhealthy extent, can serve as warning signs that the nervous system is being triggered. By being aware of these signs, individuals can take proactive steps to remove themselves from reactive environments and reset their nervous system. 3. Establishing Routines: Michelle highlights the importance of routines in creating a sense of safety and stability, which positively impacts the nervous system. Engaging in activities like meditation, exercise, and other comforting routines can help regulate the nervous system and promote overall well-being. 4. Setting Boundaries in Relationships: Michelle shares how setting boundaries in relationships is crucial for protecting the nervous system. Recognizing when certain relationships or environments cause negative physical reactions and taking steps to remove oneself from such situations is essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system. 5. Pursuing Joyful Activities: Michelle encourages listeners to prioritize activities that bring joy and happiness, as these experiences can significantly impact nervous system regulation. Engaging in activities that bring joy, laughter, and fulfillment can help reset the nervous system and promote overall well-being. 6. Healthy Sleep Patterns: Michelle emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy sleep patterns by engaging in calming activities before bedtime. Watching or listening to positive content before sleep can contribute to a relaxed state and aid in regulating the nervous system during rest. 7. Evening Stretching Routine: Michelle suggests incorporating an evening stretching routine to release stress and tension from the body before bedtime. Stretching, accompanied by deep breathing and relaxation, can help prepare the body for rest and contribute to nervous system regulation. In conclusion, the episode underscores the significance of regularly resetting and regulating the nervous system through various practices and self-awareness. By prioritizing activities that promote relaxation, joy, and stability, individuals can enhance their overall well-being and maintain a healthy nervous system. Talking Points: [00:01:16] Cold water for nervous system. [00:04:26] Recognizing Warning Signs. [00:10:20] Routine exercise preferences. [00:13:21] Overcoming hiking challenges alone. [00:20:26] Do what you love. [00:21:52] Finding joy in childhood activities. [00:25:38] Ways to alleviate stress. Quotes: "It's really important to recognize when that nervous system chaos is being activated and come up with a plan immediately, like in 10 minutes, I'm going to go remove myself from this environment and I'm going to reset my nervous system." "Discover what does work for you because exercise and moving your body and remaining flexible and remaining in that state of sort of feeling vital, that vitality is really, really key." "Why am I going to keep Putting myself through trying to get out there and do this by myself like I have something to prove to anybody, which I don't." "Joy will help you regulate and reset your nervous system like nothing else will." "One of the best ways to kind of alleviate all of that stress is just put on some really nice music and just spend 15 minutes just stretching your body out and taking deep breaths." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.ws/3PGAu2n

Embracing all parts of oneself, including those considered shameful or embarrassing, is crucial for healing and living authentically. In this Soul Wide Open podcast episode, Michelle Renee shares her personal journey of concealing parts of herself due to trauma and shame. She explains how she used to hide behind her career, workaholism, and Michelle highlights the transformative power of acknowledging triggers and responding with compassion and understanding towards the wounded inner child. Join Michelle as she opens up about vulnerability and the power of addressing trauma on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Talking Points: 00:00:01 - Introduction to Personal Trauma 00:01:21 - Discussing Stigma Around Trauma 00:03:18 - Hiding Behind Professional Success 00:05:58 - Healing and Self-Discovery 00:06:10 - Road Trip to Alaska and Self-Realization 00:07:16 - Embracing Multidimensional Self 00:09:04 - Rejecting Stigma and Embracing All Parts of Self 00:11:01 - Liberating Experience at the Lake 00:12:15 - Continuous Self-Understanding and Healing 00:14:24 - Rejecting Labels and Embracing Past 00:16:04 - Importance of Vulnerability in Healing 00:18:03 - Addressing Internal Triggers 00:19:09 - Encouragement to Share Trauma 00:21:49 - Conclusion and Call to Action   Quotes: "I believe that my success was tied to my hiding behind my suit that I put on every day to go to work." "Hiding pieces of yourself, what you think is shameful and embarrassing, you also learn to hide the other parts of yourself that are really, really amazing." "I completely abandoned huge parts of myself because I was so embarrassed and in fear that I would be judged and that no one would be proud of me." "I am not going to allow this stigma of my trauma and the conditioning of my trauma and the behaviors that I adopted because of my childhood trauma and because of the violent crime that I survived, the kidnapping and hostage situation, to define me negatively the rest of my life." "You've got to be really honest and really vulnerable."   Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA   #trauma #traumahealing #selfimprovement

In the podcast episode, Michelle Renee emphasizes the importance of letting go of old beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve us in a positive way. She shares her personal journey of identifying and releasing limiting beliefs that have held her back, such as feeling unworthy of success due to her past as a runaway and high school dropout. Michelle acknowledges that these beliefs were adopted from external influences and do not align with her true self. By recognizing and actively shedding these outdated beliefs, Michelle highlights the transformative power of embracing new mindsets and behaviors. She discusses the process of embracing a new belief system that focuses on worth and value beyond surface-level attributes like sexuality. This shift in perspective allows her to acknowledge her intrinsic value based on her intellectual capabilities, emotional intelligence, and resilience in overcoming challenges. Michelle's experience underscores the significance of letting go of old beliefs and behaviors to facilitate personal growth and authenticity. Through introspection, self-awareness, and a commitment to change, individuals can break free from self-imposed limitations and societal conditioning. By releasing these constraints, one can step into their true essence, live authentically, and manifest their full potential. Join her as she reflects on the significance of the celestial solar eclipse event and encourages listeners to be open and honest with themselves on their journey of personal growth. Talking Points: [00:01:34] Embracing change during the eclipse. [00:04:46] Overcoming Limiting Beliefs [00:10:25] Societal conditioning. [00:16:42] Perspecttive, self-worth and value. [00:17:36] Early experiences shaping self-worth. [00:24:55] Worth from external factors. [00:29:04] Letting go and embracing change. Quotes: "How can we be really open and live with our souls wide open if we're not being really honest with ourselves and we're not looking at the beliefs and behaviors that haven't been serving us that we adopted?" "Because of the way that I was raised and my past, that I am not deserving of success, that I am not somebody who is smart enough." "I literally feel like the Michelle in the hand-me-down clothes." "I am worthy. I do have value and I belong in those rooms as somebody who is intelligent and has amazing ideas,  and can execute on them." "My value and my worth is not attached to my sexuality or anything surface level that anybody can see at all. Zero." "My worth and my value are here. They come from the heart that I have, the spirit that I have, the intellectual woman" "You know, we're not all completely unstuck all the time." Stay Connected:   Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.ws/3PGAu2n  

In this episode of the Soul Wide Open podcast, host Michelle Renee sits down with Graham Nancarrow, a talented country music artist from Nashville. Graham shares his journey from growing up in San Diego with a famous father to finding healing and purpose through music. The conversation delves into the power of music, spirituality, and overcoming fear to follow one's true calling. Graham opens up about his struggles with guilt and shame, the loss of his father, and how music became his path to healing. Michelle and Graham discuss the importance of listening to the inner voice, trusting the divine path, and living a life free from fear. Join Graham Nancarrow and Michelle Renee as they explore the transformative power of music, spirituality, and following one's true calling in this inspiring and candid conversation.  Talking Points:  00:00:00 - Introduction and Technical Issues 00:04:44 - Diversity in Country Music 00:05:30 - Growing Up in San Diego 00:10:00 - Musical Influences and Inspiration 00:15:00 - Coping with Loss and Grief 00:17:30. - Coping with Feeling Misunderstood 00:20:00 - Finding Healing Through Music 00:25:00 - Spirituality and Personal Growth 00:30:00 - Overcoming Fear and Trusting the Divine Path 00:35:00 - Embracing Gratitude and Joy 00:40:00 - Taking Action and Following Inner Calling 00:45:00 - Music Career Updates and Future Plans  Quotes: "He was a humble man. He was the best dude I ever knew." "I mean, they're people they're singing about your past and your present and your future and your family and our country." "Well, the whole reason I found spirituality is because I was desperately seeking to live my life happily and not die." "If you don't believe in something bigger than yourself, then you're saying you're it." "I believe in something bigger. I believe that there is a soul and there is a calling of the soul." "I agree.For me, it's either fear or trust, man. I am going to trust and move forward and not let fear stop me." "How am I gonna make that count? How am I gonna make that matter? That's what this show is all about." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Graham Nancarrow: Website: Nancarrow Music Spotify: Graham Nancarrow iTunes: Graham Nancarrow Instagram: Graham Nancarrow TikTok: Graham Nancarrow Upcoming Events: Stay updated on upcoming shows at Nancarrow Music Connect with Michelle: Learn more about Michelle Renee here. Order Michelle Renee's Memoir, Nine Days, here. Instagram: Michelle Renee  TikTok: Michelle Renee Join The Soul Wide Open FB Community: Soul Wide Open Community

In this episode of Soul Wide Open, I shared a personal experience that led me to realize the importance of clearing space in our lives for magic to happen. I reflected on a past relationship that was no longer serving me and made the decision to delete and block the person from my life. This experience made me question who else in my life was taking up valuable space and emottional real estate without adding any positivity. I emphasize the need to be honest with ourselves about the people and things that may need to be removed from our lives in order to make room for new, positive experiences. By clearing this space, we can attract the love and joy we deserve. I encouraged listeners to reflect on their own relationships and make the necessary changes to create a more fulfilling life. Tune in to learn how creating space can lead to greater fulfillment and connection in your life. Talking Points: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Clearing Space 00:05:30 - Reflecting on Past Relationships 00:10:20 - Recognizing Negative Influences 00:14:10 - Realizing the Need for Healing 00:16:20 - Taking Action to Clear Space 00:19:03 - Freeing Up Emotional Real Estate Quotes: "Did you give your marriage 110%? Because if you did not give your marriage 110%, we have no chance of ever making it because you will always wonder whether or not if you went back and gave it 110%, if it would have worked."  "I never want to hear from this person, talk to this person, have this person creating this clog in the drain of my life and the flow."  "Those phone calls were nothing special, they were not a compliment.  As a matter of fact, they're kind of disturbing." "What was he getting out of this by texting me that he missed me, by texting me on my birthday? He's using me for something that he needed." "I thought they were compliments. I thought that made me special somehow." "I didn't tell this person I was deleting them and blocking them. I just did it. They don't need to know. I don't owe them any explanation. I don't owe them anything at all. I did this for me." Stay Connected: Stay  Connected: Learn more about Michelle Renee here. Order Michelle Renee's Memoir, Nine Days, here. Instagram: @_michellerenee_   and   @soul.wide.open Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen/  

Soul Wide Open host, Michelle Renee, welcomes Eva Payne, an expert in helping individuals navigate their pain and trauma using psilocybin. Eva shares insights on the positive impact of psilocybin on spiritual and emotional well-being. They discuss the stigma surrounding psychedelics and the importance of education in overcoming it. Eva shares her insights and experiences, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of plant medicine like psilocybin. Tune in to hear an enlightening conversation about healing and breaking through societal taboos in this deep-dive conversation into the world of plant medicine and healing. Talking Points:   [00:02:20] Psilocybin and breaking stigma. [00:04:49] Healing power of indigenous medicine. [00:11:36] Psilocybin and its benefits. [00:13:02] Neuroplasticity and healing. [00:20:25] Flow Life Retreat. [00:21:47] Creating intentions for life. [00:25:22] The medicine's lucid dream. [00:29:36] Healing in Small Groups [00:35:12] Taking the next loving steps. [00:39:21] Living with your soul open. [00:42:43] Self-awareness and self-healing. Quotes: "I grew up with Nancy Reagan saying, say no to drugs. This is your brain on drugs." "We have separated ourselves from it. And the earth is asking us to heal." "Trauma can become the crutches that you reach for every day." "You can heal yourself. It is possible." "The fact that you can go down and buy as much alcohol as you want. Tell me the medical benefits of alcohol. What is that? It's literally ethanol. It's poison." "It's really about letting your nervous system take a pause, take a break." "Just keep taking the next loving steps." "We're all called in so many different ways. It's up to us to be open and say yes to those callings." "Are you done reaching for the crutches? Are you done? Are you done self-sabotaging? Are you done hurting yourself?" Stay Connected:   Connect with Eva: Website: https://www.msevapayne.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/msevapayne/?hl=en   Connect with Michelle: Learn more about Michelle Renee here. Order Michelle Renee's Memoir, Nine Days, here. Instagram: @_michellerenee_   and   @soul.wide.open Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen/    

Embracing Change: Navigating Identity Shifts  In this heartfelt podcast episode, join Michelle Renee as she shares her personal journey of navigating through significant life changes, particularly her daughter's upcoming wedding. With honesty and vulnerability, Michelle reflects on the emotions of letting go and embracing a new identity as her daughter embarks on a new chapter in her life. Through personal anecdotes and introspective insights, she explores the challenges and opportunities that come with big changes, encouraging listeners to embrace new beginnings and craft a fresh identity. Join her on this emotional and empowering journey of self-discovery and growth. Don't miss out on this touching episode that delves into the complexities of change and the beauty of embracing new possibilities. Hit the like button, share your thoughts in the comments, and show your support for this podcast as Michelle opens up about her experiences and invites listeners to wish themselves the best Bon Voyage on their own journeys of transformation. Tune in now for a dose of inspiration and reflection. Talking Points: [00:00:47] Embracing big changes in life. [00:07:37] Redefine your identity [00:11:43] The gift in big changes [00:15:09] Do it for YOU [00:19:41] Self-empowerment Quotes: "There comes a lot of questions with that. It becomes a time of uncertainty." "It's those little shifts that sometimes end up being the biggest changes in our lives." "There's an amazing sense of calm that comes with realizing that you no longer need to be the standby person on high alert all the time." "Surprise people, surprise yourself, even." Stay  Connected: Learn more about Michelle Renee here. Order Michelle Renee's Memoir, Nine Days, here. Instagram: @_michellerenee_   and   @soul.wide.open Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen/

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Soul Wide Open podcast, host Michelle Renee explores the "why me" trap and how it can keep individuals stuck in their trauma. She shares her personal journey of overcoming the "why me" mindset and offers insights on how to shift the focus towards growth and healing. By replacing the question "why me?" with "what now?", individuals can begin to ask themselves empowering questions that lead to self-awareness, gratitude, and personal growth. Michelle emphasizes the importance of turning negative self-talk into positive self-talk and encourages listeners to embrace their journey towards becoming their best selves.  Key Takeaways: The "why me" trap keeps individuals stuck in their trauma and prevents them from moving forward. By replacing the question "why me?" with "what now?", individuals can shift their mindset towards growth and healing. Asking empowering questions such as "What can I learn from this?" and "How can I move forward in a positive way?" can lead to self-awareness and personal growth. Focusing on gratitude for the little things in life and surrounding oneself with positive influences can help in overcoming the "why me" trap. It is important to prioritize self-love, self-care, and personal well-being when evolving and outgrowing toxic relationships and situations. Talking Points:  0:00:00  What is the "why me" trap? 0:01:52 Changing "why me" to "what now" for a shift in mindset 0:03:37 Asking "what now" to learn and move forward 0:05:01 Finding hidden gifts and treasures in traumatic experiences 0:07:42 Practicing gratitude and focusing on positive progress 0:09:57 Identifying and letting go of toxic relationships 0:11:24 Putting self-love and self-care first 0:12:42 Asking the right questions for self-awareness and healing Notable Quotes:  "Changing the question 'why me?' to 'what now?' was a complete shift for me, not only in my mindset but also in my body." - Michelle Renee "Asking 'what now?' can lead you to understand how you can avoid similar situations in the future and extract gifts from your experiences." - Michelle Renee "Living a healed life and getting unstuck from the 'why me' trap is possible. I know it's possible because I live that life." - Michelle Renee   About the Host: Michelle Renee is the host of the Soul Wide Open podcast and a certified trauma-informed coach. She is also an author and has a deep understanding of the impact of trauma on individuals. Michelle has personally experienced trauma in her life, including surviving a kidnapping, and has used her experiences to help others heal and find their purpose. Through her podcast and coaching, she aims to guide individuals towards self-awareness, self-love, and a fulfilled life.   Stay  Connected: Learn more about Michelle Renee here. Order Michelle Renee's Memoir, Nine Days, here. Instagram: @_michellerenee_   and   @soul.wide.open Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen/  

Episode Summary:  The message is clear: don't let the fear of judgment or the need for validation from others hold you back from doing the things that make you happy. Waiting for someone else to join you may mean missing out on experiences and opportunities. Instead, take control of your own life and make a commitment to yourself to do the things that bring you joy. Michelle Renee emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for our own happiness and not relying on others to provide it for us. She encourages listeners to create a list of the things they want to do and start taking action towards doing them, even if it means doing them alone. Whether it's going to the movies, trying a new restaurant, or going on a trip, the host emphasizes that waiting for others can hold us back from living a fulfilling life. Addressing the fear and self-consciousness that may arise when doing things alone, Michelle reassures listeners that people are generally focused on their own experiences and are unlikely to pay much attention to someone who is enjoying themselves solo. She shares a personal anecdote about going to a country music venue alone and receiving positive feedback from others who admired her confidence and enjoyment. By taking control of our own lives and not waiting for others, the host believes that we can cultivate a sense of independence, self-confidence, and joy. She encourages listeners to start small, perhaps by planning a solo activity for the upcoming weekend, and gradually expand their comfort zone. By giving ourselves permission to show up in our own lives and do the things that bring us joy, we not only inspire others but also cultivate a sense of independence and self-confidence. So, let go of the fear of judgment and start embracing your own happiness today. Talking Points:  [00:00:31] Going places alone [00:04:12] Overcoming fear and judgment. [00:08:34] Finding joy in social activities. [00:13:04] Go enjoy yourself. [00:16:38] Taking control of your life. Quotes: "How many of you sit around and think about the things that you want to do, whether it's just go to a movie or try a new restaurant or travel to someplace really cool, and you literally wait for someone else to go with you so that you can go do it." "I started to literally think about I don't have to wait for someone else to buy me flowers. I'm going to quote Miley Cyrus here. I can buy my own flowers." "Life is the special occasion." "Just give yourself permission to show up in your own life and go do the things that make you so happy, that you will enjoy." Stay  Connected: Learn more about Michelle Renee here. Order Michelle Renee's Memoir, Nine Days, here. Instagram:@_michellerenee_    and  @soul.wide.open Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen/

We become the thing we tell ourselves we are over and over again.  Sould Wide Open host Michelle Renee discusses the significance of being aware of our negative self-talk and its impact on our behavior and self-perception. She emphasizes how we often internalize negative beliefs and perceptions about ourselves, influenced by past experiences and the opinions of others. Michelle encourages listeners to reflect on their negative self-talk and identify its origins. She highlights the importance of practicing positive self-talk and being kinder to ourselves, especially during moments of frustration or self-doubt. To shift our self-sabotaging language, we must consciously choose to talk to ourselves in a compassionate and supportive way, rather than engaging in self-criticism and negative reinforcement. The episode also addresses the common themes of feeling "not enough" or "too much" and how these beliefs shape our self-perception and decisions that shaped our self-identity that were influenced by unique life challenges and traumas. By identifying and challenging these beliefs, practicing self-compassion, and embracing our individuality, we can cultivate a more positive self-perception and behavior. Episode talking points: [00:00:59] What we tell ourselves. [00:07:17] Body shaming and self-acceptance. [00:12:09] Changing negative self-talk. Quotes: "When we tell ourselves the same thing over and over and over, guess what we become? Guess what behavior we end up adopting? We end up adopting those behaviors." "That's a bunch of crap. That's not true. Someone is going to be so proud of me. This is how I flip the script." "I am larger than life. I am whole and I am light and I am love and I am divine and I am going to be an amazing blessing to somebody." Stay Connected:  Visit my website: https://www.Michelle-Renee.com Say hello on Instagram: @_michellerenee_ Buy Nine Days: https://www.amazon.com/NINE-DAYS-Living-Violent-Trauma/dp/B0C7FRDHXY Join the healing community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen/

 Happiness can seem so elusive when you are healing from any traumatic event. It's normal to feel this. It is, however, up to us to decide when it is time to choose happiness for ourselves. In this episode of Soul Wide Open, host Michelle Renee explores the art of creating happiness. She acknowledges the challenges and trauma that can hold us back from experiencing true joy and shares her own personal journey toward happiness. Michelle discusses the power of choosing our reactions and the labels we attach to situations. She offers insights and strategies for overcoming obstacles and finding happiness in our lives. Tune in to learn how to embrace the art of happiness and make choices that bring joy and fulfillment. What is covered in this episode:  00:00:00 - Choosing Your Reaction 00:00:35 - Introduction to Choosing Happiness 00:02:03 - The Art of Choosing Happiness 00:02:13 - Personal Struggles and Choosing Joy 00:03:08 - Daily Practices for Cultivating Happiness 00:04:03 - The Power of Choice 00:05:31 - Happiness as an Art Form 00:06:03 - Tools for Choosing Happiness 00:07:08 - Responding to Triggers 00:09:05 - Gratitude and Appreciation 00:10:30 - Maintaining a Positive Mindset 00:12:31 - Passion and Purpose in Life 00:14:25 - Nurturing Relationships 00:15:49 - The True Meaning of Self-Care Quotes: "There have been times in my life where happiness just seemed impossible." "I get to choose whether or not they have a seat at my table." "I mean, just think about the miracle that it is and all the hard work that went into the fact that you actually get running water." "Self-care is doing something you love every day. Self-care is making sure that you're not allowing other people to treat you poorly and put you down." "It is not who I 'want' to be. It's about who am I meant to be. What am I meant to do? Where am I meant to go? What is the message that I meant to deliver?" Stay connected: Interested in our small group coaching program and retreats?  Visit my website: https://www.Michelle-Renee.com Say hello on Instagram: @_michellerenee_ Buy Nine Days: https://www.amazon.com/NINE-DAYS-Living-Violent-Trauma/dp/B0C7FRDHXY Join the healing community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen/        

Soul Wide Open host and trauma-informed coach, Michelle Renee, discusses the detrimental effects of worry and shares seven strategies to overcome it and live a more fulfilling life. The first step is to identify the root cause of worry, which often stems from past experiences. By understanding and addressing these underlying issues, we can begin to unravel the patterns that keep us stuck in worry. Tune in to discover the remaining six strategies for reducing worry and embracing a happier, more present existence. Talking Points: [00:01:37] Identifying the source of worry. [00:04:29] Overcoming worry and anxiety. [00:08:55-00:09:16] Cultivating supportive relationships. [00:12:38] Embracing self-care and uncertainty. [00:16:15] Less worry, more happiness. Quotes: "The less I worry, the less anxiety I have. The less I worry, the better I sleep. The less I worry, the more I'm just somebody is a better person around others." "Understanding brings much more calm and less worry into your life." "Take action on your own behalf to do the things that lessen your worry and increase your level of joy." "Uncertainty can be kind of a really fun place to be. It can be a place where we're able to reinvent ourselves. It could be a place where we're able to just sort of have this blank canvas and take this uncertainty and turn it into something really, really magical." Stay  Connected: Learn more about Michelle Renee here. Order Michelle Renee's Memoir, Nine Days, here. Instagram: @_michellerenee_   and   @soul.wide.open Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen/