Critical Conversations

This is one of those conversations that goes deeper than surface-level healing.In this episode, I sit down again with Grace L. Lamour, MS, LMHC, a licensed mental health counselor serving the New York, Florida, Virginia, Maryland- to talk about forgiveness—what it really is, why it matters, and how it impacts our physical, emotional, and mental well-being.Grace brings a grounded and compassionate perspective shaped by her work with individuals from all walks of life, including high-achieving women, first-generation Americans, and those navigating burnout and major life transitions. With a background in special education and leadership in therapeutic settings, she has spent years helping people ask the right questions that lead to deeper healing and self-awareness.Together, we explore:-What forgiveness actually means (and what it doesn’t)-Why holding on affects more than just your emotions-How forgiveness supports healing in the body and mindThis conversation is honest, thoughtful, and incredibly important—especially if there’s something you’ve been carrying that you’re not sure how to release.If you haven’t already, you can also go back and listen to our first conversation from April 2024 for more of Grace’s work and perspective.Connect with Grace:IG: Grace L. Lamour, MS, LMHCWebsite: theglamourmethod.comWelcome to the conversation.

This is a real conversation about entrepreneurship—but not in the way you might expect.Because business isn’t just about strategy… it’s about you.The way you think, the patterns you carry, the places you avoid—your business will reflect all of it back to you.In this episode, we talk about how life is always showing us where we’re being invited to grow—and how entrepreneurship accelerates that process.This is why business coaching can be so powerful. Not because it gives you more to do, but because it helps you see what’s actually in the way.If something’s been feeling off in your business… this is a conversation worth listening to.

This one is personal.I’m sharing where I’m at right now—navigating divorce, co-parenting, entrepreneurship, and the very real process of becoming who I say I am.This isn’t polished. It’s honest.A conversation about alignment, self-trust, and what it looks like to keep choosing yourself, even when life feels uncertain.If you’re in a season of change or feeling that internal pull… you’re not alone.

In this episode of Critical Conversations, we’re diving into something that can’t be curated, filtered, or perfected.Embodiment.There is a difference between practicing something and becoming it.Between performing authenticity and actually living it.Between doing the work and being the work.So what does it really mean to be embodied?To walk into a room and have your energy say what your mouth doesn’t have to?This conversation explores the tension between being and doing — and why so many of us default to “doing” because it feels safer. But building a life that reflects your essence requires something deeper.It begs the uncomfortable question:Who are you?What do you stand for?And when people experience you… is that what they feel?This episode challenges the idea that authenticity is a tactic. It isn’t something to turn on when it’s convenient.It’s a way of being that bleeds into every room you enter.If you’ve ever wondered whether your life reflects your truth — or if you’re just really good at practicing — this one isfor you.This isn’t about branding.It’s about congruence.It’s about essence.It’s about becoming authentically you.You Can’t Fake Essence!

Accountability isn’t about perfection—it’s about ownership.In today’s episode of Critical Conversations, I talk about accountability in action, why it matters, and why I believe it’s one of the biggest things missing in our society right now.Showing up. Claiming your role. Doing the work even when it’s uncomfortable.This conversation is necessary.Listen now.

In this podcast episode, I interview a local entrepreneur Ryann Reinhofer, who owns Thoroughbred Real Estate Group and also leads a nonprofit organization. Today, we need your help.Please listen to the full episode so you fully understand what is at stake. But this is not the time to just listen — it’s time to take action.If you want your email to count toward the CPRD Board’s February 26th meeting, it must be sent before 2/18/26.If you are seeing this after 2/18/26 — email anyway and show up in person on 2/26. Presence matters.We need to overwhelm the board with respectful, firm communication so they understand they have a responsibility to stand with integrity and uphold the original vision for this [email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@cprdnewberg.orgBelow is a template you can copy, personalize, and send:Subject: Please Uphold the Original Vision for Crystal Rilee ParkDear CPRD Board Members,I am writing in strong support of keeping Crystal Rilee Park designated for equestrian and hiker use only, in accordance with the donor’s original intent and the previously approved Master Plan.This park is not just another recreational space — it is a sacred and carefully stewarded environment. The equestrian community has invested significant time, funding, and volunteer effort into building and maintaining the all-weather trail system. It is a rare and deeply valued space where horses and riders can safely coexist with hikers without the inherent risks that mountain bikes introduce.Beyond safety and infrastructure, this is also a matter of integrity. When a donor makes a clear and intentional gift to the community, honoring those wishes builds trust. If we begin to reverse or reinterpret donor intent after the fact, it risks discouraging future philanthropic investment. Those with the means to donate land and resources need to trust that their legacy and intentions will be respected.Equestrians have very limited safe riding options within the State. This park represents the one dedicated, bike-free space available to our community. Preserving that designation protects safety, honors the donor, and maintains the integrity of the partnership between CPRD and the equestrian community.I respectfully ask the Board to uphold the original designation and maintain Crystal Rilee Park as an equestrian and hiker-only park.Thank you for your time, consideration, and service to our community.Please don’t just listen.✔️ Email before 2/18/26✔️ Show up on 2/26✔️ Share this episode✔️ Invite others to take actionIntegrity matters. Legacy matters. Community voice matters.Let’s act now.

Divorce will test everything you think you know about yourself.On today’s episode of Critical Conversations, I break down the real do’s and don’ts of divorce—what I learned the hard way and what I wish someone had told me sooner.This isn’t just for those going through it. If you love someone who is, or want to be better informed, this episode is for you.Listen now.

Why do you still feel burned out—even when you’re “doing all the things”?In this episode, we go beneath surface-level solutions to explore what’s really keeping people stuck, exhausted, and disconnected. We unpack why quick fixes like time off, supplements, or pushing through rarely create lasting change—and what science tells us about the deeper root of burnout.This conversation dives into the powerful connection between the nervous system, hormones, mind, and physical body, and why addressing only one piece often leads to temporary relief instead of real healing. We talk about how chronic stress keeps the body in survival mode, why awareness requires regulation first, and why slowing down isn’t a luxury—it’s essential.This episode isn’t about adding more to your to-do list or committing to unrealistic routines. It’s about understanding why your body and mind respond the way they do, so you can stop blaming yourself and start connecting the dots.If you’ve ever thought, “Why isn’t this working?”—this episode will help you see the bigger picture and why going back to the root changes everything.Hosted by Carolyn Kruescamp, Holistic Hormone Dietitian, and Karissa Dean, ICF Certified Life Coach.Sign up for the Masterclass HereFollow Karissa on IG HereFollow Carolyn on IG Here

In today’s episode of Critical Conversation, I’m reintroducing myself and reflecting on what 2025 asked of me as I shed in the Year of the Snake—letting go of what no longer fit, even when it wasn’t easy.I share what I’m carrying forward into the Year of the Horse: movement with intention, purpose, and self-trust. Through the lens of horses (and how deeply they mirror us as humans), I explore what it means to stop forcing, start listening, and choose aligned forward motion.This is an empowering conversation—an invitation to remember that you don’t have to stay stuck in situations that no longer serve you. You’re allowed to move. You’re allowed to choose differently. And this year, we move with clarity, courage, and direction.

What if you gave yourself the space to truly ask: What do I want?This episode of Critical Conversations is an invitation to pause, get curious, and listen deeply—so you can move forward with clarity and take aligned action as you enter 2026.

Today I’m talking all about intention, accountability, and the truth hidden inside every YES we say.Because the real question isn’t “Do I want this?”It’s: “Can I be accountable to the work required to bring this to life?”It’s a powerful 30-minute chat that’s honest, grounded, and exactly what so many of us need as we step into a fresh season of clarity and aligned action.If you’re ready to choose your yes with intention — and actually follow through with confidence — this one’s for you.🎧 Listen now.Then come tell me what landed for you most.

This Thanksgiving, I’m learning to be grateful for the harder things — the moments where my voice shakes, but I choose to use it anyway. This episode is a vulnerable one. It’s about advocating for myself, honoring what I know I need, and finally saying the things I’ve been scared to speak. If you’ve ever struggled to ask for what you deserve or felt yourself shrinking to keep the peace… this one’s for us.

In this episode, I take you inside my second 10-day Vipassana retreat — ten full days of silence, stillness, and meeting myself in a way only that kind of pause can invite. I share what Vipassana actually is, why I felt called to return, and one of the powerful awakenings that cracked me open in the best way.This conversation is honest, grounding, and a reminder of what becomes possible when we get quiet enough to really hear ourselves.If you’re curious about Vipassana, craving a reset, or simply wanting to feel more connected to your inner world… this one’s for you.Listen now!

A tiny pocket of honesty for when you need a breath. I’m heading into my second 10-day silent Vipassana retreat, and before I go, I just want to share a little reminder: it’s okay to be imperfect, messy, and in progress. You still deserve space—to think, to be, to create. Here’s to showing up raw, real, and full of love.

This might just be one of the most important conversations I’ve had all year.In this episode, we dive deep into emotional intelligence — what it really means, why it matters, and how our willingness to be vulnerable can reshape the way future generations experience emotion.I share some of my favorite tools and a new mantra we’re using in our home to help build emotional awareness and connection.Because when we start learning to hold space for all of our emotions — the messy, the raw, and the real — we start breaking generational patterns and paving the way for emotionally healthy, empathetic humans.It’s time to lead by example and rewrite the narrative — one honest conversation at a time.

In this episode of Critical Conversations, Karissa dives into a word that carries deep emotional weight: victim. She shares her personal experience of how being labeled with that word early in her divorce was one of the most painful and damaging moments—and why it’s so important to be mindful of how we use it.Karissa explores the two very different types of victims that exist and offers a compassionate reminder that language has power. This episode invites us to look deeper, to listen more carefully, and to speak with greater awareness.A raw, human conversation about impact, empathy, and reclaiming your story.

This might be one of the most powerful episodes I’ve ever recorded. I went all in — talking about my divorce, the importance of confidence, and why change is necessary (even when it’s hard as hell).This one’s for anyone standing on the edge of a shift — ready or not. Because confidence is the foundation. Without it, we stay stuck. With it, we rise.The message? Pay attention. To yourself. To others. To the moments that are calling you forward.It’s time to do better. It’s time to take back your control.🎙️ Critical Conversations — where truth gets loud and change gets real.

In this episode of Critical Conversations, I share a real-time moment where I had the choice to react—or to pause. A stranger’s unhealed projection could have pulled me into chaos, but instead, I chose to anchor in my healing.This raw and unfiltered chat is about the power of showing up for ourselves, so we don’t pass unhealed wounds onto others. Imagine a world where healed people are walking around, leading with compassion instead of projection. That’s the world we can help create—one pause, one choice, one healing moment at a time.

Today I’m diving deep into a word that has been sitting heavy with me lately: deserve.In this raw and unfiltered conversation, I share a personal moment where I questioned what it really means to deserve—and how powerful we actually are as co-creators of our own lives.If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why you’re not living the life you know you’re worthy of, this episode is for you. You’ll walk away with perspective shifts, practical tips, and a reminder of just how much is possible when you claim what you truly deserve.Press play, take a deep breath, and let’s reimagine what’s waiting for you.

In this episode, I continue peeling back the layers of my own story—because my mess is my message. I share what it’s been like to move beyond survival mode and into a steadier, more grounded way of living. Along the way, I offer simple, practical tools to help you regulate your nervous system when you find yourself in conflict. These are the exact practices that have supported me, and I hope they offer you a little more calm, clarity, and strength too.

In this episode, Karissa recaps the soul-shifting magic of her recent Nicaragua retreat—from horseback rides and farm-to-table meals to quiet revelations and big releases under the stars.But this conversation goes deeper than the beauty of retreat life. It’s about what happens after. When the bags are unpacked and the normal world returns.✨ Why we need sacred space away from it all✨ How clarity is born in stillness, but transformation lives in action✨ What’s coming in 2026 (👀) and how to get on the waitlist✨ And the truth about post-retreat support, accountability, and the work of becomingThis is for the ones who are craving space to hear themselves again. And for those who have already had the breakthrough— but need support holding it.Your retreat glow deserves to last. And this episode will remind you how.🎧 Tune in now & get ready to feel it all over again.Email to join March 2026 Nicaragua Retreat Waitlist or learn more about working 1:1 with Karissa: [email protected] October 2025 Brasada Retreat Link: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/9xw2xya/lp/5d095fd7-0dac-4643-a50a-667d528df279?source_id=481497c2-64ac-4542-8f23-fd36bd543b80&source_type=em&c=I-HGUL2xckzDtE37EVNsVTqfhW4yZJkczJu80fTN2Gdjwa0SHL9X1w==

In this episode, Karissa pulls back the curtain on the last 7 months—the unraveling, the realignment, and what it actually looks like to navigate divorce while running a heart-led business.No sugarcoating. No fixing. Just truth.✨ The truth about being in the in-between✨ Why it’s not “good” or “bad”… it just is✨ Choosing the frequency of love (even when it's hard)✨ Real talk for anyone walking through chaos, change, or becomingIf you’re craving a life update, or just need to know you’re not alone in your own beautiful mess—this one’s for you.Raw. Real. Reflective.Karissa doesn’t just teach the work—she lives it.Email to join March 2026 Nicaragua Retreat Waitlist or learn more about working 1:1 with Karissa: [email protected] October 2025 Brasada Retreat Link: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/9xw2xya/lp/5d095fd7-0dac-4643-a50a-

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Kristal DeSantis—licensed marriage and family therapist, and author of the powerful book STRONG. Kristal’s work focuses on supporting men in their healing and growth journeys, and this conversation was truly epic. We dove into themes of emotional resilience, connection, and what it really means to be strong. I left feeling deeply inspired, and I can’t wait to dive into her book and put this work into practice.Connect with Kristal:📖⁠ Order her book Here⁠📸 ⁠Instagram⁠

Barbara Pike Gonzales is a personal branding, communications and PR expert known for her collaborative approach to strategic, innovative communications. Leveraging her 20+ year career in corporate marketing, Barbara founded BPG Communications, a boutique personal branding agency that specializes in empowering women to know, show and grow their worth.Barbara’s unique blend of creativity, strategic acumen, and business intuition has made her a go-to resource for female founders and leaders seeking clarity and confidence to articulate who they truly are and the value they bring to the table. Connect with Barbara via LinkedIn, and follow BPG on Instagram. You can also listen to her podcast, Know, Show and Grow Your Worth, available where you listen to your favorite podcasts.

In this raw and soul-baring episode, I open up about the messy, sacred journey of change—and what it feels like to be deeply misunderstood in the process. 2025 has brought me to my knees, into moments where I’ve had no idea what to do next… but I’ve kept showing up anyway.I share what it’s been like to navigate judgment, grief, and the unraveling of an old life, while slowly, tenderly stepping into a new one. This isn’t just a new chapter—it’s a whole new book. A new me.If you’re in a dark moment, feeling lost or unseen, I hope this episode reminds you that you’re not alone. That you can trust yourself. That the tools, the people, the clarity—they find you when you stay open.Here’s to change. To choosing differently. To becoming.

Gina's life story makes her a captivating and inspiring speaker for all audiences. Through raw vulnerability, she shares how she overcame immense adversity—enduring multiple surgeries from childhood, devastating loss, a crisis of faith leading her to join and later leave the convent, the grips of alcoholism, and the struggles of tumultuous relationships. Yet, Gina's unwavering resilience, strengthened by her profound spirituality, enabled her to reclaim her life's purpose. Gina's very presence is a testament to the power of the human spirit to persevere. Her story reminds us that hope can be discovered even in our darkest moments and will leave an audience inspired.Welcome to the conversation.Karissa DeanGina Economopoulos's Website: https://www.ginaecon.com/

Let’s talk triggers — not as something to avoid, but as powerful portals into deeper self-awareness. In this episode, I dive into how our triggers are actually beautiful invitations to take accountability, explore our inner landscape, and shift the way we respond to the world around us. This is where real change begins. 

In this episode, I dive into what it really means to take responsibility for our lives without falling into shame or self-blame. We explore the space where personal ownership and compassion coexist—and how duality plays a powerful role in our growth.You can be doing your best and still have room to grow. You can hold yourself accountable and extend grace to the version of you who didn’t know better.Let’s talk about how to stand in both. Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts.Welcome to the conversation.Karissa Deankarissadean.com

With a wealth of experience as a self-employed Medical Intuitive and Chiropractor, Dr. Mary is deeply committed to guiding individuals on their journey of personal transformation. She focuses on helping people cultivate thriving health, happiness, and purpose through the powerful tools of energy medicine, spiritual embodiment, and meditation.Dr. Mary hosts the internationally acclaimed podcast Energy Medicine, which discusses everything related to aligning the mind, body, and spirit.Dr. Mary earned her doctorate in Chiropractic from Logan College of Chiropractic in St. Louis, MO. She completed her Certificate in Positive Psychology from the Wholebeing Institute in Lennox, MA, and studied under Dr. Tal Ben Shahar. In addition, she completed her Master's in Intuition Medicine® from the Academy of Intuition Medicine® in Sausalito, CA, and studied under Dr. Francesca McCartney.  www.drmarysanders.comFB https://www.facebook.com/dr.maryesanders IG https://www.instagram.com/dr.maryesanders/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmaryesanders/ Website https://www.drmarysanders.com/ Energy Medicine Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/5ymiP83TP09OsTZI5cNXE3 

With a wealth of experience as a self-employed Medical Intuitive and Chiropractor, Dr. Mary is deeply committed to guiding individuals on their journey of personal transformation. She focuses on helping people cultivate thriving health, happiness, and purpose through the powerful tools of energy medicine, spiritual embodiment, and meditation.Dr. Mary hosts the internationally acclaimed podcast Energy Medicine, which discusses everything related to aligning the mind, body, and spirit.Dr. Mary earned her doctorate in Chiropractic from Logan College of Chiropractic in St. Louis, MO. She completed her Certificate in Positive Psychology from the Wholebeing Institute in Lennox, MA, and studied under Dr. Tal Ben Shahar. In addition, she completed her Master's in Intuition Medicine® from the Academy of Intuition Medicine® in Sausalito, CA, and studied under Dr. Francesca McCartney.  Welcome to the conversation.Karissa Deanwww.drmarysanders.com

Brie Sodano is a nationally recognized Personal Finance Expert, founder of Cash Confident™, and author of Cash Confident: Practical Money Management For The Modern Women.Brie teaches women how to build wealth and financial freedom. This inspires full life sovereignty and abundance. Her methods are holistic and fantastically effective because they address the root cause of common money problems.Welcome to the conversation.Karissa DeanYou can learn more by visiting her website: https://www.cashconfident.com or email: [email protected]

This one’s a spicy deep dive into the big three: drugs, sex, and alcohol.I unpack how these elements can influence our lives—whether they’re helping us grow or quietly holding us back. It’s not just about judgment; it’s about awareness, choices, and the impact these factors have on our personal and professional alignment.If you’re curious about redefining your relationship with these topics or just want to explore a fresh perspective, this episode is for you.

Can we want something more for our lives while still being fully present with what is? Absolutely—and it’s a game-changer.In this episode, I explore the balance between desire and presence, and why learning to be okay with what is can unlock a deeper sense of peace and fulfillment. When we stop fighting the present and start embracing it, everything begins to shift.If you’re ready to feel better by finding peace in the now, this one’s for you.

Carrie Lingenfelter is a former elementary educator, early childhood interventionist, speech therapist, and mother of two. She is passionate about living life fully, raising her children to be the best versions of themselves, and connecting to other parents going through this season of life. She mentors parents in how to connect with their children, how to raise conscious kids, parent from their hearts, and better support their gifted, spirited, and highly sensitive children.Welcome to the conversation.Karissa DeanCheck her out at:https://hearttoheartlife.comhttps://instagram.com/hearttoheartparentspodcast

Breakups are messy, painful, and anything but perfect—and that’s exactly what I’m diving into today.In this episode, I share my journey through two recent breakups and the lessons I’ve learned about confronting imperfection, softening the blow, and finding a way forward. It’s raw, real, and all about debunking the myth that we have to handle everything perfectly.If you’re navigating heartbreak or just want to hear how I’m embracing growth (messiness and all), tune in for this honest and heartfelt conversation. 

Ever wondered why clients choose coaching with me? In this episode, I spill all the tea about the incredible people I work with, what makes coaching so powerful (and how it differs from therapy), and why this journey lights me up! I also share some personal stories, drop a few book recommendations 📚, and give you a glimpse into what makes this work so transformative. Whether you're curious about coaching or just looking for a fun, insightful listen, this one's for you!

Michele DeFilippo has more than 50 years of experience in book publishing.  Her company, 1106 Design, makes it easy for authors to release a top-quality book, keep control of it, and earn more money every time they sell a copy. Michele is on a mission to help authors ask the right questions, avoid scams, and make informed decisions when they search for publishing service providers. Welcome to the conversation. Karissa Dean https://1106design.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2771108/  Facebook: https://facebook.com/1106design  Twitter: https://twitter.com/1106Design  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@micheledefilippo/videos

This one’s raw, real, and straight from the heart. I dive into how the universe works like an algorithm—reflecting back on what we focus on—and how I’ve come to see my past relationships and experiences in a new light.  This is my apology for the moments I judged too harshly, the people I misunderstood, and the opportunities I didn’t fully embrace. In this vulnerable share, I explore how my own judgments were blocking my growth, even in my business, and what shifted when I started paying attention to the energy I was putting out. If you’ve ever felt stuck or wondered how to align your life with what you truly want, this episode is for you.

A few years ago, her life took a turn that she never saw coming. Within three short years, she lost her mom, her little brother, and her husband. She felt like the world around her went dark. Grief hit her hard, and with it came a deep sense of loneliness that she struggled to shake. But through her journey, she realized something powerful: she wasn’t alone in this. Many other women were going through similar struggles.  With a PhD in human behavior and decades of experience in coaching, Lynn knew she had the tools to help others. That’s why she created Widows Rising Together - to help individuals like you overcome loneliness and rediscover joy and purpose in life. Welcome to the conversation. Karissa Dean Website app.widowsrisingtogether.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-banis-36987b2aa/

This week, I had the absolute joy of being interviewed by my dear friend Elton, a full-time coffee farmer in Nicaragua. Elton has an incredible story—he broke free from the hustle of American corporate life and embraced a slower, more intentional pace in Nicaragua with his partner. Along the way, he’s cultivated some of the best coffee you’ll ever taste.  In this episode, Elton and I dive into all things Nicaragua:🌴 The unparalleled natural beauty🌊 The peaceful lifestyle🤍 The magic behind The Escape—the retreat I’m hosting this March! The Escape | March 10-15, 2025Reconnect, recharge and relax in Nicaragua’s breathtaking landscape. From luxurious accommodations and daily yoga to horseback rides on the beach and a private boat trip, this retreat is designed to help you fully unwind. We answer questions about what makes Nicaragua the perfect destination and share insights on how this retreat could be your perfect reset. Oh, and if you're a coffee lover? You need to check out Elton’s coffee. Trust me—it’s next-level delicious. DM me for his details, and you’ll be sipping on the best brew in no time.  Welcome to the conversation. Karissa Dean https://www.instagram.com/emenselogic/ https://www.emensecoffee.com/ Let’s talk retreats, coffee, and crafting a life that feels truly aligned. 

Laurie Parente is well-known in Mediumship, Angel Connections, and Meditative Healing Journeys. As the CEO and Founder of Parente Inner Harmony Academy, Laurie offers private 1:1 sessions and quarterly live ‘’Reclaim Your Light" Healing Courses. Her passion lies in fostering genuine connections for her clients with their inner wisdom and spiritual support teams. Welcome to the conversation. Karissa Dean IG @laurieparente https://www.laurieparente.com

In this episode, I share a deeply personal story about an incident that changed my life in ways I never expected. Together, we’ll explore the weight of judgment, why so many of us struggle to ask for or accept help, and how these challenges keep us from living fully. It’s a candid conversation about breaking down barriers, stepping up for one another, and the power of vulnerability in creating a community of support. Tune in to discover why it’s time to let go of self-reliance and embrace the strength we can find in connection. Welcome to the conversation. Karissa Dean karissadean.com

Ever had one of those days where you're just mad at the world—and maybe taking it out on the people closest to you? Same. In this episode, I get real about a moment when I was that person—angry, projecting, and full of blame (sorry, Nigel 😅). But here’s the thing: our feelings—yes, even anger—are powerful markers for our health and well-being, both personally and professionally. What if, instead of ignoring or resenting them, we learned to listen to what they’re telling us? Join me as I cuss, sing, and share a few hard-earned truths about the surprising wisdom hidden in our so-called "bad" emotions. Spoiler: Your inner bitch might just be your greatest teacher, guiding you toward alignment, purpose, and a life that actually feels like yours. It’s messy, it’s raw, and it might just be the secret sauce you’ve been waiting for.

Lauren Hayes is a relationship coach specializing in supporting ethically non-monogamous (ENM) couples, including swingers and the ENM-curious. Trained in both life and relationship coaching (Gottman), she helps couples navigate and engage the swinging and non-monogamous community in the healthiest of ways. She holds the perspective that non-monogamous relationships share the same foundations as any healthy relationship, however, they need to operate at a higher level of health to accommodate the additional complexities. Her approach aims to help couples build their ideal relationship, regardless of whether or how many others it includes. She also brings personal experience to her coaching having been married for 19+ years and ENM (swingers) for the last 6+ years. She offers coaching and practical advice grounded in her own life as well as professional training - she goes by Swinging Lifestyle Coach and her website is ⁠SwingingLifestyleCoach.com⁠ Welcome to the conversation. Karissa Dean Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/swinginglifestylecoach⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/SwingingLifestyleCoach⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVZR-9HggJ51NaJnXCnq0Ew⁠

In this episode, we explore the profound importance of being a safe, approachable, and informed adult for the children in your life. Whether you're a parent, mentor, or trusted figure, the role you play in creating a judgment-free zone for curiosity is invaluable.   Drawing from personal experiences and lessons from my childhood, I share how these insights shape my conversations with Ruby, my 10-year-old daughter. Together, we tackle the big questions kids often have about life, relationships, and growing up.   I also highlight one of my favorite resources, The Girls' Guide to Sex Education by Michelle Hope—a practical and empowering tool for navigating these important discussions with clarity and confidence.   Tune in for a heartfelt and empowering conversation about building trust, answering life's tricky questions, and preparing the next generation to face the world with confidence and knowledge.   Welcome to the conversation. Karissa Dean karissadean.com The Girls’ Guide to Sex Education by Michelle Hope Michelles Website: http://www.mhsexpert.com/ Link to buy on Amazon: https://a.co/d/aZxxy7g

Here’s the deal—hate isn’t just a burden on others, it’s a weight that we carry, too. When we judge, when we let bitterness fester, we’re giving away our power, letting negativity take up precious real estate in our lives. What if we just stopped? Stopped being dicks, stopped the judgment, and instead chose freedom? Releasing judgment isn’t about ignoring what’s wrong, it’s about choosing to protect our peace, to feel better, and to reclaim the power we hand over every time we get lost in negativity. Because if we want true permission to be ourselves, we have to give that same permission to others. So let's let go of what doesn’t serve us, keep our power close, and make space for a bit more kindness. Welcome to the conversation. Karissa Dean karissadean.com

Warning: This episode is intended for audiences 18 years and older due to discussions of sex, sexual fantasy, and desire.  Get ready for a groundbreaking episode! Karissa meets with the incredible Artemisia, who’s set to revolutionize the way you think about your hidden desires. This conversation dives deep into the world of sexual fantasy and self-exploration, challenging societal norms and encouraging you to embrace your true self. For the first time ever, Karissa recorded this episode with nerves, making it a raw and authentic experience you won’t want to miss. Whether you're curious about your own desires or simply looking to expand your understanding of intimacy, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you inspired and empowered. Join us for an enlightening journey that dares you to explore your hidden desires and unlock the potential within. Tune in now! Artemisia de Vine is a Sexual Fantasy expert who teaches the world's leading sexperts the meaning of our sexual fantasies, and how to bring them out of our heads and into our beds! Author of upcoming book: The Spirituality of Smut: The surprising wisdom of sexual fantasies.  Certified somatic sexologist, BA in anthropology, and former sex worker and professional dominatrix.  Offering a groundbreaking new theory! Understand how stories work and you understand why we have sexual fantasies - and how to create powerful, real-life transformative sexperiences that satisfy the real desire behind the story symbolism. Welcome to the conversation. Karissa Dean artemisiadevine.com https://artemisiadevine.substack.com/  FB business page: https://www.facebook.com/ArtemisiadeVine  Insta:  https://www.instagram.com/artemisiadevine/  X/Twitter: https://x.com/ArtemisiadeVine  LinKedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/artemisia-de-vine-780847184/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@artemisiadevine7279?si=Dv0iQK-Sepx0fRlP

In this episode, I dive deep into resilience’s crucial role in achieving success as an entrepreneur and in other areas of life. Join me as I share vulnerable stories that highlight the challenges of navigating life today.  From overcoming setbacks to managing uncertainty, we discuss the realities of building the dream and the importance of resilience in this journey.  Tune in for tactical advice on cultivating resilience and practical strategies to help you survive and thrive in the face of adversity. Whether you're just starting or have been in the game for a while, this episode offers valuable insights to inspire and empower you on your path. Welcome to the conversation. Karissa Dean karissadean.com

Step into the magic with me on this powerful episode, recorded on 11/11 and released on the upcoming full moon, as we honor this unique energy. 🌕✨ Join me as we turn inward, set intentions, and let go of what no longer serves. This is a sacred moment to connect, so please—no driving or heavy machinery! Grab a pen, and some paper, and find a quiet space. Let’s howl to the full moon together and embrace the magic within and around us. 🌙🖊️ #FullMoonRitual #1111Portal #InnerMagic" Karissa Dean karissadean.com

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses trauma and limiting beliefs. In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the traumas we carry, how to name them, and what it takes to emerge stronger on the other side. We’re looking closely at the beliefs that hold us back and how, despite what we’ve been told or experienced, we can choose to heal, gain perspective, and move toward the life we dream of. This episode is raw, real, and all about confronting the things we often avoid, so we can finally break free and take action.