The Nativist

Wow. What a seismic, profound, touching, life-affirming episode - one that captures what it means to be human. In this gorgeously open and honest conversation, my dear friend Bibi Garcia and I get into: feeling like square pegs in a round world addiction (our past/present struggles with it, how it's far more common than you may think, and how it can present in different ways) my recent mental health diagnosis the power of seeing ourselves and others and letting ourselves be seen daring to let yourself and others be different  healing while avoiding a victim/broken-self mentality  leading with love, curiosity, and compassion banishing shame by shining light on our darkness identifying and overcoming labels And so SO much more. Enjoy.  Thank you for listening. Listen to the podcast "Eight Years To Live," the podcast Bibi has with her sister on Apple Podcasts.  Find Bibi on Facebook/Instagram @bibig1 Connect with me on Facebook/Substack/Instagram @the_nativist   Potato Princess: https://potatoprincesses.com   Use code “TheNativist” for 10% off Clearstem:  Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!   

In this meaningful episode, I sit down with Tia Lloyd of The Connection Project to talk self growth, music, and, of course, connection.  We get into: the health scare that catalyzed her re-connection to herself and how she's channeled that to help others. how she applies her insights from therapy to her life: parenting, relationships, friendships, etc.  empowerment and agency response vs reaction the potency of vulnerability  the healing and connective power of music It's short but it's a heavy hitter, in the best way.  Find Tia on Instagram @the_connection_project_ Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist   Potato Princess: https://potatoprincesses.com   Use code “TheNativist” for 10% off Clearstem:  Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! 

In this episode, the man on the move, JD Hansen, joins me for an uplifting and invigorating conversation that left me on such a high. We discuss the following: saving my life through a cancer diagnosis transcending division + partisanship leading with reason + compassion recognizing humanity + commonality flowing + living a balanced life overcoming addiction protecting peace + preventing burnout changing the world by picking up trash This episode is for you if you: feel discouraged feel frustrated by politics/state of affairs feel apathetic feel powerless feel like you could use some good news/inspiration If this doesn't infuse you with hope and inspiration, I don't know what will. Find JD on Facebook and Instagram @j.d_handsome Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist   Potato Princess: https://potatoprincesses.com Use code “TheNativist” for 10% off Clearstem:  Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! 

Prepare to get blown away and fiercely inspired by Cartier Dior Eliasen. Barely in her 20s, she's already competed on Project Runway Junior, been accepted into (huge deal) and graduated from Institut Français de la Mode in Paris, and presented at New York Fashion Week. And she's just getting started.  In this episode, we discuss opening doors for yourself, finding your niche and people, nurturing uniqueness, embracing discomfort, receiving support, and honing your craft.  This episode is for you if you feel uninspired, isolated, stuck, powerless, like you don't belong...or simply like you want a reminder of how cool humans truly are. Happy listening. Follow Cartier on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram @cartierdioreliasen | @rhinestonerodeoart Shop her clothing and prints on Etsy under RhinestoneRodeoArt   Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist   Potato Princess: https://potatoprincesses.com Use code “TheNativist” for 10% off Clearstem:  Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!     

She's back! In this episode, my dynamic friend Brittney D'Anelli and I dive into some rich material:  opening yourself to life and its offerings (people, experiences, etc) recognizing and exercising your agency normalizing hard conversations and uncomfortable thoughts Peace Walking with Buddhists in DC  It's not about giving no effs - it's about selectively and intentionally giving the right ones. This convo is just what the soul needs. Find Brittany on Instagram @hexedbybritt Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Thank you for being here.    Potato Princess: https://potatoprincesses.com Use code “TheNativist” for 10% off Clearstem:  Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!   

In this episode, I interview Lilach Grimminger, the author of While We Wait: Selected Stories and Essays. We discuss Lilach's life in Israel before coming to the US, and her thoughts on military service, community, and global awareness. Lilach explains her desire to offer a moment of relief and healing in a fast-paced world by writing in a non-confrontational way to share thoughts and foster dialogue. We highlight insights from the book, including: how guiding youth to become better humans rather than just better consumers is key; how diluting language and removing nuance impacts us at various levels and encourages extremism; how resisting societal pressures is challenging; and how honoring both oneself and others is important.  She's a pure delight and I am thrilled for you to experience her brilliance.  You can purchase While We Wait on Amazon here  . Thank you for being here. Connect with me on Facebook/Instagram @the_nativist Potato Princess: https://potatoprincesses.com Use code “TheNativist” for 10% off Clearstem:  Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! 

My luminescent friend Sheena Daniels re-joins me to share her new program, Soulphoria, which provides a blueprint for embodied living. I couldn't be more thrilled to promote this because it aligns so deeply with my own experience and message.  We discuss:  empowerment  redefining success  productive hard vs unproductive hard freedom  getting unstuck  embodiment  returning to yourself  thriving not surviving living the life you were meant to live This episode is for you if you:  feel stuck feel depleted  feel off  feel you were meant for more  feel lost feel overwhelmed  feel like you’re spinning your wheels  feel confused/ungrounded want more  This is your portal into the life you’re meant for. Find Sheena's program at Soul.Phoria™: Embodied Living (@SoulphoriaEmbodied) Connect with Sheena on Facebook and Instagram @sheen.daniels Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist   Potato Princess: https://potatoprincesses.com Use code “TheNativist” for 10% off Clearstem:  Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!     

In a time when "rawness," "vulnerability," and "authenticity" are leveraged, exploited and commodified, I am careful and discerning about what I share of my private life. My paramount objective is always to provide value - I will only share something if I think it could potentially do so.  That being said, in this episode I sit down with my sister Brooke Anderson to discuss something very personal: a recent and serious health reckoning and what led to it. I open up about a pivotal moment in my childhood driving my sense of unworthiness I highlight what happens when we betray ourselves and our bodies I talk about what happens when we outsource our validation and constantly seek to "prove" ourselves I cover ways we maladaptively self-soothe and emotionally regulate I advise on doing less to accomplish more I share what finally changed the game for me and offer resources and tips for achieving overall wellness by embracing natural rhythms and cycles  Whether your body is currently in crisis mode or not, I'm willing to bet this episode will resonate with you.  Thank you for listening.  Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist   Potato Princess: https://potatoprincesses.com Use code “TheNativist” for 10% off   Clearstem:  Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! 

Music influences mood, psychology, physiology, memory, style, fashion, and motivation. It transcends languages, cultures, and boundaries. In this feel-good ep, Chris Sherrod and I discuss all this, plus: using music as a tool to change a mood, set a tone, connect, self express, and communicate separating the art from the [problematic] artist reversing aging through your playlist  Rock on.  Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @thenativist Potato Princess: https://potatoprincesses.com Use code “TheNativist” for 10% off Clearstem:  Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! 

In this energizing and playful - yet profound - episode, I sit down with the ultra-talented and wise-beyond-her-years Hadlee Harris of HHCreative. We get into: Creating more than consuming Balancing perfectionism Allowing ebbs and flows Being vulnerable by sharing your art Infusing whimsy, romanticism, and play into daily life to offset and prevent burnout Commodifying art and making a business from a talent Snail mail club: Thank you, more please Cultivating grit and handling rejection We also highlight her exciting new offering: her “Thank you, More Please” snail mail club! If you want in (which trust me, it’s rad) sign up via her linktree on her Instagram page @hhcreativellc (where you can also link to her Etsy shop and studio portfolio). Whether you’re a “creative” or not, there’s wisdom in here that applies to everyone and to life in general. DISCOUNT CODES:   Potato Princess: https://potatoprincesses.com Use code “TheNativist” for 10% off Clearstem: Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!

You may have been told (scolded?) to watch your language. Turns out, that’s sound advice.  Because words really do matter - just ask science. Research repeatedly demonstrates the effect words have on our genes and on our bodies at a cellular level(!) , thereby impacting our physiology and health (mental and physical). HOW NEAT IS THAT (no question mark because it’s undeniably neat - not up for debate thankyouverymuch). In this episode: I get geeky, citing study after study showing how what we think and say to ourselves and others has a measurable impact and directly influences our experiences and perceptions (and relationships and and and…). I identify traps to avoid I offer tips on leveraging this power to manifest what you want and to create a happier, healthier, more harmonious life. Thank you for listening! Links shared: Potato Princess candles: https://potatoprincesses.com Use code “TheNativist” for 10% off these deluxe, clean-burning, non-toxic candles! Clearstem: Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!   Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist and on my website www.thenativist.net  

You may have noticed (and experienced!): We're more digitally connected than ever before, yet more socially disconnected than we've ever been. I explain why this is, and why former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared loneliness an epidemic, highlighting it as a major public health crisis comparable to smoking or obesity, significantly increasing risks for heart disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death. Gulp.  In this episode, I explore: what loneliness is and isn't how you can feel lonely even if you're surrounded by people or in a relationship.  how you may experience loneliness without recognizing it what to do about it References: Dr. Vivek Murthy's book, Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World Visit https://potatoprincesses.com/ and use “TheNativist” for 10% off    Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!    Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist   Thank you for listening!    

Get ready to feel inspired and heartened. In this moving episode, Adrian Smart shares his story for the first time. It’s an incredible story of hope, resilience, grit, love, determination, and humanity. Adrian tells us the personal challenges and tragedies he experienced growing up in Tanzania and South Africa, and how he made his way to the US (it’s a breathtaking story). If you know/follow Adrian, you see how he infuses positivity into every post/interaction. While his positivity is genuine and authentic, this episode shows a different dimension of Adrian, which makes me appreciate and admire him even more. This episode gives us what we need to empower ourselves and others. Among the powers we discuss are: controlling what we can listening to understand aligning your energy respecting yourself and others feeling seen and heard seeing and hearing others helping in direct and indirect ways living mindfully acknowledging your good fortune connecting to yourself and others The power of you. Don’t get me wrong, this is a feel-good episode, but it’s so much more than that. It’s life- and soul-affirming. You can find/support Adrian: through his DJ Facebook page: LP&H Entertainment and email [email protected] through his business, Synergy Efficiency, which specializes in upgrading attic and garage insulation: : synergyefficiencyidaho.com; [email protected] You can support the cause to create safe, long-term housing for abuse victims by purchasing a bear at https://babybearsclub.com/ Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

Tension can be uncomfortable, but it can also be valuable. In this episode, I offer ways to re-frame tension, points to consider, and tips for handling it. In addition to sharing examples from my own life, I also suggest questions to ask yourself to help you know when to speak up and when to stay silent. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!

In this timely and informative episode, Rhetoric Rob [Watkins] advises not on what to think, but how to think. We also cover: How to detect bias in information sources and hidden agendas How to avoid common fallacies How and why our brains are wired to reject certain truths (and how to override that) Why changing your mind is a source of intelligence and maturity How to avoid common fallacies How to prevent closed-mindedness How to equip your kids to be comfortable with divergent views, form and communicate their opinions, spot fake news, and identify argument gaps in a way that’s effective and fun Dr. Watkins is a professor of rhetoric and Idaho State University. Find more helpful insight and tips on his Instagram page, @rhetoric_rob Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!

Having majored in political science and minored in psychology, I am particularly interested in politics and human dynamics. I am also continuously committed to learning, growing, and connecting - as you likely are, too. In this solo episode, I approach politics through the lens of balance and nuance. I offer insight on: prioritizing truth over ideology avoiding common misconceptions recognizing politicians’ manipulative tactics identifying red flags finding common ground and discussing politics maturely and constructively evaluating political ideas and policies sourcing credible information maintaining perspective balancing between apathy and burnout doing your part to improve the world preserving hope I hope you finish feeling informed, grounded, discerning, and inspired. I hope this opens your eyes, mind, and heart. I hope you feel even more connected to yourself and to others. Thank you for listening. Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!

My vibrant friend Vera Marcinko is this episode’s guest of honor. As a doula, Vera is a birth and postpartum mentor who shares her own postpartum journey, and its effect on her health, her marriage, and her identity. There’s something in this episode for everyone, as we go wide and deep, covering: +Why community is crucial for humans, especially in pivotal life moments +What you can do if you feel unsupported as a partner, a parent, a friend - or just a human in general +How to connect with yourself and others +How to navigate intimacy as new parents +What constitutes true intimacy +What to do when you feel stuck/powerless/alone +How approaching partnership, parenthood, and life from a place of understanding changes everything +How to fill your own cup, especially as a caregiver +Why you should prioritize patterns over perfection   A very meaningful and helpful episode.   Find Vera on Instagram @thespanglishdoula or @dlnvera Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! Resources mentioned in the podcast: +We Can Do Hard Things Podcast: Find Healing In Your Partnership and Balance Inequality in Your Home with Kate Mangino +The Breathing Cure: Develop New Habits for a Healthier, Happier, and Longer Life +@theteachermomma on Instagram

In this hard-hitting yet cozy episode, I sit down with the SheEO herself: Sheena Daniels. Sheena is a podcast host, businesswoman, yoga instructor, and female empowerer. She shares tough lessons she’s learned upon getting a divorce and leaving the LDS church.  We also get into: how to connect with yourself and your kids how to empower yourself and your kids how to reduce shame and guilt how to learn to trust yourself how to use your body as a healing tool  the power of the pause and the necessity of stillness how your mistakes are your entry points for connection how to make your mess your message It’s good. Oh, so good.  Find Sheena on Instagram @shelyfe, and listen to her on Pivot and Pursue, the podcast she hosts with Britney Neibaur Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! 

I identify a certain blind spot you might have that’s interfering with your  friendships, relationships, and social interactions, and how to address it. I explain  why giving and taking are equally important.  I suggest what to do if you find yourself imbalanced on either side. I guide you on how to tell if you dominate conversations. I also share a tip for preserving your battery if you find yourself depleted during social interactions. It’s a short - but important - episode. Thanks for listening, w Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!

I start this free-flowing solo episode with no set topic or structure. In this age of personal branding, formulaic creating, and calculated sharing, I discuss prioritizing connection over commodification. I tell how after extensively researching and studying the best marketing practices, I opted for authenticity over algorithm. I note where I think social media is heading, and suggest what to do about it.    What comes forth ultimately coalesces into a theme of reclamation: of self, of creativity, of privacy, of time, of authenticity, of soul, of passion, of balance, of LIFE. Whether you have a personal brand or not, this episode touches on something we can all relate to: choosing how we show up in the world, and how we individually and collectively shape that world.    We’re all in it together.  Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist   Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! 

I somehow got my long-time friend Amanda Frost to agree to come on, and I think you’ll be glad I did. In this light-hearted - yet substantive - conversation, we cover quite a bit of ground. After revealing our real  reasons for posting outfits of the day on social media, we continue on to chat about the importance of: immunizing yourself against shifting trends and opinions by determining what works for you identifying what works for you and what doesn’t, from your personal aesthetic to your ideology to your lifestyle  allowing flexibility in your perspectives and routines investing continually in your self and your craft communicating directly discovering it’s less about looking good, and more about feeling good recognizing and appreciating beauty in everyone As Amanda framed it, this was simply a play date - and you’re invited. Follow Amanda on Instagram @amandafrostbeauty Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!   

It’s nice - even preferred - to feel special, right? To feel exceptional? However, to be special and exceptional requires being different. So why do we disparage weirdness? Why do we actively criticize/avoid it? I get into why. I also get into why we shouldn’t; why our oddities should be celebrated and even cultivated. I share some of my own weirdo tendencies, and offer a pretty strong argument on letting your freak flag fly (whatever that means to you). Be you. Be awesome. xx, w Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!

Wow - I did not expect this conversation to go as deep or as long, but man am I glad it did. If you want a comfortable, superficial, breezy listen, this isn’t it. If you want a meaningful, profound, and heart-opening listen, this is it. Do with that what you will.    In this episode, I sit down with Catlin Palmer, LMSW and published author. I initially asked Catlin, licensed therapist and Ute tribe member, to share his work incorporating Native American culture and spirituality in recovery (interesting, right?!).    While we did cover that, we also [un]covered so much more.    Catlin candidly relays how his personal experience with OCD and substance abuse inform and heighten his efficacy as a counselor.    As if that wasn’t deep enough, the conversation really intensifies (in a good way) when Catlin explains the role of Indigenous culture and history in understanding not only his specific clients, but the community as a whole. (Note: Catlin is careful to speak to his own knowledge and experience, and not for Indigenous people as a whole.)    He clarifies how and why Indigenous people are so often misunderstood, and how damaging and frustrating that can be. THIS MATTERS.    Catlin emphasizes rather than pity, retribution, or compensation, he simply seeks awareness: of what the Indigenous people experienced, of why the ripple effect is so extensive, and of how the history is still relevant.    We spotlight the importance of identity - personal, cultural, national - and how threatening/losing it can damage our lives, our health, and our connections (to ourselves and to others).   Thank you for listening. Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!    Find Catlin on Instagram @flomentum_movement Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist    

In this episode I sit down with my friend Mindy Cervantes, an experienced massage therapist and all-around radiant, COOL person. Not even halfway through, my jaw literally dropped (and stayed dropped) as she related what she feels and accomplishes during her massage sessions.  Mindy is a true healer, who offers insight on connecting to your body, recognizing its signals, and helping it thrive. She shares tools and framework for attuning to your body, including guidance you can perform on yourself, no professional necessary.  We discuss the importance of the lymphatic system and what everyone should do daily to optimize it (hint: it’s not dry brushing). This right here could be the game changer you seek, or didn’t even know you need. Trust me. We highlight the purpose of pain, and what you can do to understand and start to resolve yours (acute and chronic). We explain how physics and energy work are directly tied. And of course, sprinkled throughout are various (relevant!) tangents, like how water can actually dehydrate you (and how to avoid it). This episode clearly reflects the emerging integration of science and “woo woo” and it’s not only interesting, it’s applicable and actionable.  The person I reference a jillion times throughout is Perry Nickelston of Stop Chasing Pain. You can find him on YouTube and Instagram (@stopchasingpain on Instagram). He is an absolute goldmine of information. Try his Big 6 here and thank me later.  Find Mindy on Instagram @idaho_sport_massage Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! 

In this short solo episode, I tackle the timeless, universal question of how to live a balanced and fulfilled life. Easily done in 30 minutes, right? Despite the little time, I cover big ground and offer important distinctions that may seem minor, but actually make all the difference: when to push and when to pivot; how to integrate discipline and rest; and how to differentiate between self worth and self confidence. I also present a pretty convincing (if I do say so myself) re-frame for why you should shoot your shot, no matter how many similar products are on the market, no matter how many like thoughts are in the literature, and no matter how many fish are in the sea. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist The book I reference is Worthy: How to Believe You Are Enough and Transform Your Life by Jamie Kern Lima. Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! xo w

This is a special episode because it features a special person: my close friend Melissa Curtis, who shares her experience having a medically-complex child. She tells us the progression from first receiving the unexpected news, to adapting and navigating her new reality. She discusses how she maintains perspective, and suggests things for us all to remember, no matter our situation. Melissa has a way of navigating life with such poise, grace, awareness, and resolve. Get ready to be inspired. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off!

In this playful and inspiring episode, I sit down with competitive adult gymnast Peyton Kiggins. Daring to defy society’s age limits, Peyton shares why she re-entered competitive gymnastics, and how she’s a stronger competitor now than when she was younger. Peyton tells us how she stays fit mentally and physically, and what she does to minimize injury and maximize growth and FUN. She highlights the crucial role of playfulness, and offers a helpful and empowering re-frame for failure. She exemplifies how we can do far more than we think - and are often told - we can. Peyton’s approach to gymnastics - and life in general - is remarkably healthy, balanced, and motivating. Listen, and you’ll see what I mean.  Find  Peyton on Instagram @peytonamore Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist         Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! 

As we’ve hopefully come to recognize now, there are multiple ways to be and to live, and motherhood is no exception. To me, motherhood symbolizes nurturing, loving, and life-giving.  In this solo episode, I explore the various manifestations of motherhood, beyond the traditional sense. I outline ways one can be a mother, ie a life force, without children of one’s own (so to speak). I reveal my own experiences with pregnancy and motherhood (something I haven’t previously publicly shared), and my current thoughts on potentially being a parent myself. Thank you for listening. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Visit https://clearstem.com/?ref=eubxjtws and use code WHITNEYRICHARDS for 15% off! 

In this short solo episode, I share one of my top tenets in life. This approach helps you see more, experience more, learn more, contribute more, connect more, and thrive more. It improves your communication, enhances your understanding, revitalizes your relationships, and boosts your happiness. It opens doors, dissolves barriers, and illuminates opportunities. Okay okay, I know - those are some big claims. Basically, I talk about how to have a rich life that benefits you and the people around you, no matter your budget, your location, your history, or your social life. Thank you for being here. xx Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

My sister, Brooke [Richardson] Anderson is back on the pod, and I gotta say, we really hit our stride with this one. We discuss what she’s been teaching her daughter that’s possibly the single best predictor of future health and success, on every level: health, fitness, career, relationship, finances, etc. This launched us into sharing our thoughts on spending versus saving, our individual relationships with money, and our spending plans if (when?) we become billionaires. We reveal our tip for avoiding impulse purchases, and highlight the questions we should all ask ourselves (may not be what you think). We suggest how to have your avocado toast and eat it, too (you gotta listen to understand that!). It’s candid, fun, and (we hope) valuable. Find Brooke on Facebook and Instagram: @brookerichardsonphotography and @thehomebodybybrooke She’s a mama committed to helping other mamas create their dream life! Visit www.thehomebodybybrooke.com to watch her free masterclass. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

Do you ever feel unable to decode what your body is telling you? Unsure why you’re feeling a certain way, physically or emotionally? Are you caught in a loop of stress/anxiety? Have you experienced persistent, maybe even baffling, symptoms? Do you feel stuck and frustrated? Untethered? Lost? Does the past have a chokehold on you? Or maybe you feel okay but want to feel your best. In this episode, I explain embodiment, and why you need it for true, optimal health. I outline how and why you can become disconnected from your body, and how to restore that vital connection. This is an episode that may at first glance feel irrelevant to you, but may actually be your missing link - exactly what you need. It definitely was for me. This is an episode that may at first glance feel irrelevant to you, but may actually be your missing link - exactly what you need. It definitely was for me. Thanks for being here. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

Have you personally experienced the power of music? Of sound? Are you interested in optimizing your health? Feeling your best? Calming your mind and body? Is there anything you need to heal? Have you wanted to meditate but find it hard to achieve stillness? Is it hard for you to concentrate on the task at hand? Need help calming your kiddos before bed? Then this could be a game changer for you. Healing through sound frequencies is becoming more and more popular (sound bath, anyone?), and research suggests there’s really something to it. In this episode, I explain what sound frequencies are, and the profound benefits they can bring. I delve into the science behind it, and share my own cool experiences with it. It’s a fascinating subject. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

Feminism gets a bad rap, and is clouded by myths and misunderstandings. I’m here to [possibly] change your understanding, not your mind. This episode aims to clarify and illuminate something many may support without even knowing it: feminism. I debunk myths, I explain what feminism is and is not, and I share my thoughts and experiences being a woman in this world. If you’re a human, this episode is for Y O U. You decide what to believe and how to live your life. Happy National Women’s History Month. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

Are you sorry? Should you be sorry?Do you apologize excessively? Are you unsure of how to connect with someone during a disagreement/misunderstanding (personal or professional)?  In this episode I diverge from all the apology guidance I’ve seen, and specify where I differ. I reveal a hot take (you may agree, you may not) on what not to apologize for, and what actually weakens our apologies. I clarify what an apology is and is not, and outline 7 clear steps to apologize effectively. I identify our true objective with apologies, and advise on how to frame it so both sides feel fulfilled. I highlight common landmines to sidestep when apologizing, and uncomfortable truths that just may transform your approach, relationships - even life (big claim, I know!). I also share formulas for what to say when you don’t think you even did anything wrong, but you still care about the person/relationship - personal or professional. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist Thank you for being here. xx

Ever feel overwhelmed by world events? Ever feel dragged down by negativity? Ever feel frustrated by miscommunication? Ever feel compelled to elevate your interactions/environment? Ever wonder how much you actually matter? This episode is for you. Well, really, there’s something in here for all of us. In this episode, I differentiate between influence and manipulation. I explain how and WHY our thoughts and words are so powerful. I briefly nerd out on how energy and vibes aren’t “woo woo” and are actually grounded and measured in science and physics. And most helpfully, I offer you specific questions to ask and steps to take to influence yourself, and the people and world around you. Love you. As promised, if you’re interested in getting involved with the Goodwill Gang (as mentioned in the episode) as a gangster/donor/nominator/subscriber, please navigate there directly via www.thenativist.net/goodwill-gang and follow the instructions. Thank you! Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

It’s my absolute (and long-awaited) pleasure to introduce the podcast’s new monthly guest: Brooke Anderson - who so happens to be my sister and BFF. In this “soft opening” first episode with her, we talk about…talking. Direct communication, to be specific (and direct!): what this looks like, what it doesn’t look like, what it means, what it yields. Naturally, this leads us to touch on other topics relevant to all of us: boundaries, co-dependency, self-awareness, self-acceptance, self-accountability, relationships/friendships. Trust me, this is merely a nibble of the treat we have in store for you. Brooke is a mother and photographer committed to helping other parents break into the photography industry by creating their dream job without sacrificing their parenthood. She offers training on starting your own thriving photography business. She also just released iPhone Camera Academy, a mini photography course showing how to shoot and edit polished photos using only your phone. (She’s also my soulmate creative partner and forever business partner.) Follow her on Instagram/Facebook for more helpful tips and inspiration: (Instagram) @thehomebodybybrooke and @brookerichardsonphotography Connect with me on Facebook/Instragram @the_nativist

We’re constantly encouraged to have a growth mindset; to be disciplined; to always strive to improve and to evolve, in virtually every area of life. But can that ever be taken too far? How do you know when it’s become problematic? What can you do to prevent that? Is there ever a time when a growth mindset is not appropriate or beneficial? What is true growth? In this solo episode, I highlight red flags to be aware of and questions to consider when setting goals and seeking your highest self. I offer a re-definition of your actual highest self, and explore the importance of self-trust. I differentiate between discipline and dogmatism, and propose how to own your routine (rather than it owning you). I explain why rigid rules are common for those with conditions such as ADHD and eating disorders, and what that rigidity indicates. I reveal the reasoning of why I chose The Nativist brand name, and how I feel about it now. It’s all so simple, yet so complex. C’est la vie. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

Love. Communication. Discipline. Respect. Resilience. Adaptability. Empathy. Humility. Tenacity. Curiosity. Patience. Consideration. All key words for parenting and for life, and how you apply them matters.  In this episode Byron + Ashley Hunt share how they fostered healthy cohesion while nurturing individual empowerment  - for themselves + their kids. They reveal how they became a close family team that shows up for each other in every way.  They reveal what made the difference for them in cultivating a family that genuinely respects + supports each other.  Their approach contains heavy-hitting life lessons for ALL of us. Worth listening to even if you’re not a parent. Worth listening to if you’re a human who values connection.  Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist The books we reference in the show:  The Boy Crisis: Why Our Boys Are Struggling and What We Can Do About It by Warren Farrell and John Gray The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt Way of the Warrior Kid: From Wimpy to Warrior the Navy SEAL Way by Jocko Willink

Chasing youth seems to be society’s prescribed pastime. How does this obsession affect you? Your wallet? Your energy levels? Your outlook? We have all the anti-aging creams and regimens we could ask for (and those we don’t ask for). Are there pro-aging products? Opinions? Acceptances? Should there be? [How] Have our views on aging shifted? [How] Have your views on aging shifted? In this episode I offer points to ponder on how we personally and collectively see and experience aging. I question how we currently regard it, and suggest how we could re-frame it. I also share what pisses me right the hell off (slash bums me out). Insert smiley face. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram: @the_nativist

In this first episode back after my hiatus, I detail my experience having my breast implants removed. I share with you the health scare that compelled me to finally get them taken out, the explant surgery and recovery processes I went through, and the complications and emergency surgery I encountered. I open up about body image and how I feel about mine post-explant. I talk breast implant illness symptoms, and why this condition is receiving more awareness. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist  

Are you making life harder than it needs to be? Maybe you are and you're just not aware of it. If you’re like me, you make life 10x harder than necessary. Because you’re exhaustively overthinking, because you’re obsessively problem solving, because you’re overly complicating.  In this short episode, I share realizations I’ve made, and techniques I’ve used, to flow with life, not against it. I offer perspectives and identify possible energy and time sucks that are zapping you dry. You might be surprised. Love you. Whitney Connect with me on Facebook and instagram @the_nativist

Life on your own terms means first defining those terms, yeah? So how are you defining the words in those terms? Whose definitions are you using? If you ever catch yourself comparing yourself to others, and/or telling yourself you “should” do this or “shouldn’t” do that, do you ever stop and truly ask yourself why? Have you ever questioned what success means to you? Do you analyze what actually resonates with you (eg as “successful” or “acceptable” or “fun”) or do you just obediently accept others’ definitions? Whose yardstick are you using to measure your life? Yours or society’s? Yours or your parents’? Maybe upon closer inspection those yardsticks match, and maybe they don’t. But YOU get to decide. So that’s basically what I talk about in this episode. Happy you’re here. Connect with me on Facebook and/or Instagram @the_nativist The book I reference in the episode is The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again by Catherine Price

In a world of black and white, gray can be revolutionary, whether you’re accepting life’s nuances or your hair’s natural color. What if we leaned into the gray, instead of fighting or ignoring it? Meg Holmes shares her experience doing just that, by transitioning to her natural hair color and letting her silver shine through. She shares her steps, her thoughts, and her advice, including surprises she’s encountered along the way. We discuss how your beauty is for you to define, and how options empower us all. This episode is more applicable to you than you might think. There are some gold nuggets of wisdom in here, including the dynamic questions Meg suggests asking yourself when contemplating any life decision.  Beauty on YOUR terms.  You can connect with Meg on Instagram @megstoho and follow along on her journey. Her account is private, so shoot her a friend request and cross those fingers she accepts.  Thank you. Love you. Mean it. You can find me on Facebook or Instagram @the_nativist

What you feed, grows. What you focus on becomes your reality. If you want to change your reality, you must first change your focus. What you focus on affects your life, your relationships, your environment, and the world. Sound dramatic? I’ll explain why it’s not. I’ll also offer different ways of evaluating how you’re spending your most valuable currency (your focus), and suggest various ways to upgrade this. Some of these may surprise you. The considerations are complex, but the solutions are simple. Come join me.   Find me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

Do you feel emotions intensely? Struggle thinking/speaking on the spot? Feel affected by loud sounds/smells/etc? Maybe you know someone who does/is. I am on a crusade. My cause? To rebrand sensitivity. I aim to spotlight how being sensitive benefits ourselves, others, and the whole wide world. Let's make "You're so sensitive" a compliment, not an insult. In this episode, I explain what it means to be a highly-sensitive person, and how that’s reflected in our physiology. I reference fascinating studies showing it’s not just nature vs. nature: we were born this way, baby! I share a short quiz to guide you in assessing if you/people you know could qualify as highly sensitive. I offer new ways of viewing highly-sensitive people, some [all?] of which may be a relief to you, if you’re sensitive. Love you. Mean it. Book referenced: Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain (HIGHLY RECOMMEND everyone read this - not just if you’re sensitive) Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

Do we need self criticism? Does it help us more than harm us? Is it essential to high performance, achievement, and fulfillment? What if we stopped? Would we become complacent? Come with me as we address these questions, and I ask you some more questions that may (will likely, hopefully!) stop you in your tracks and prompt you to think about things (particularly yourself) differently than you ever have before. Thanks for coming along. Find me on Facebook and Instagram: @the_nativist

From the minute I met her, I loved Maren Harris Watkins​ - and I’m confident you will too. You know those people who turbo charge your batteries just by proximity? She is one of those. Her titles (mother, group fitness instructor, UpBeat Barre co-founder, former college professor, meme master, fun crusader) inadequately capture her full awesomeness.  In this episode, we distinguish between body positivity and positive body image and highlight the risk of appearance-based compliments. We offer an alternative to body love, and suggest how to not hate your workout. Maren also shares her brilliant technique for framing body image with her kids. And of course, she humbly tells us what it’s like being a co-founder of a global workout sensation: UpBeat Barre (and why it’s so good for you).  We keep it fun, but we also keep it real. Because balance.  Listen via link below or on Spotify | iTunes | Apple Podcasts www.thenativist.net/podcast  Follow Maren on Instagram @marenwfitness (worth it just for her meme commentary) Find upbeat.barre​ on their site: www.upbeatbarre.com or on Instagram @upbeat.barre 

Want to work smarter not harder? Want to cultivate the life you want? This is your episode. I present to you two shining examples: Jess and Brandon Desfosses. Realtors, DIYers, property investors, house flippers, adoptive parents, birth parents, restaurant owners, social media content creators, community networkers, spouses…their titles are many. How do they manage it all? Listen as we chat about time management, motivation, ambition, productivity, work/life balance, organization, marketing, scarcity mindset, money management, and what they (and I!) think is the key to it all. Laughs, value, and inspiration: check, check, and check. And let’s just say their reach is about to get a lot wider (very pumped for them). Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @idahomerealestate and/or contact Brandon directly: 208-241-6205.

Here it is, another deeply personal episode that’s been a long time coming. Today’s topic is my journey with severe eating disorders. I share which eating disorders (yep, multiple) I experienced and what factors triggered them. I talk about my recovery process (including outpatient treatment in Utah), and where I am with it all currently. I highlight what has helped me, to hopefully help and illuminate an issue affecting so many of us, directly/indirectly. Thank you for listening.   Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram: @the_nativist

You know those conversations that leave you feeling connected and inspired? This is one of those. Dr. Nathan Richardson (no relation), Ph.D., Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies and Department Chair at the University of Texas at San Antonio, joins me to discuss some pretty key topics: the role of kindness and emotions in politics; the power of curiosity in relationships and critical thinking; and the futility of polarization. We address whether or not being centrist means you lack strong opinions, and if being open minded means you lack bravery or conviction. Humans first. Labels second. Kindness always. Find me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist www.thenativist.net