Chiming In

Do the people we love ever send us signs — even when they’re not physically here? ✨In this episode, we share stories from a recent road trip that took us through six hotels in ten days — reconnecting with family, stepping out of our comfort zones, and finding unexpected moments of connection along the way 🚗As we moved from place to place, we began noticing something deeper: the feeling of being guided, seen, and supported — through people, timing, and small moments that felt like more than coincidence.We talk about what it means to feel “at home” even when you’re constantly moving, and how being fully yourself can open the door to the kind of connection that doesn’t fade with time.#spiritualgrowth #signsfromtheuniverse #personalgrowth #travelstories #connection #mindfulness #wellnesspodcast #chiminginpodcast #everettguitars #stauntonva

What does it actually feel like to experience the world differently? 🤍In Part 2 of the “Normal does not exist” conversation, we move beyond the idea of what’s normal and into the lived experience of being neurodivergent — including autism, masking, high sensitivity, and the unique ways people navigate everyday life.Elyse reflects on how her mind works — from extraordinary pattern recognition and emotional awareness to the ways some things have been extra challenging.We also explore:• Masking — what it is and why it can be exhausting• Sensory sensitivities (light, noise, environment)• Stimming and self-soothing behaviors• The gap between strengths and challenges• Why some abilities don’t feel “special” from the insideThe conversation expands into something bigger — the idea that neurodivergence is not a disorder to fix, but a different way of being. A different way of sensing, connecting, and moving through the world.We also touch on the emotional impact of seeing representation, the importance of safe and accepting environments, and how many people have spent years hiding parts of themselves just to fit in.This is a conversation about awareness, acceptance, and what becomes possible when we stop forcing ourselves into a definition of “normal.”Part 2 of 2.#neurodivergent #autismawareness #masking #highlysensitiveperson #mentalhealthawareness #personalgrowth #identity #chiminginpodcast

What does “normal” even mean — and who gets to define it? 🤍In this first part of a two-part conversation, we explore neurodivergence, late-diagnosed autism, and the idea that “normal” may not exist at all.Elyse shares her personal challenges and reflections, including what it feels like to move through the world with heightened awareness, sensitivity to energy, and a tendency to observe more than participate — until the right conversation opens everything up.We talk about:• The concept of “spoons” and how everyday tasks can feel draining 🥄• The highly sensitive person and emotional overwhelm• Why the spectrum is not a straight line — but more like a full circle• The gap between strengths and challenges• Late diagnosis and the experience of finally recognizing yourselfWe also reference the work of Katherine May and resources like Embrace-autism.com that helped bring clarity and insight.This is a conversation about identity, awareness, and rethinking how we understand ourselves and each other.Part 1 of 2.

Some labels help us feel seen.Some labels help us understand each other.And some… feel like a cage.In this episode, we talk about what happens when there’s no single word that fits who you are.When being labeled feels more like being reduced.We explore:✨ When labels are helpful vs. harmful✨ Why invisible differences can feel as hard as visible ones✨ Whether sharing your “differences” is important… or nobody’s business✨ How assumptions are made with or without labels anywayElyse shares her experience of being label-averse — not because nothing fits,but because no one word feels big enough.And maybe that’s true for more of us than we realize.What if instead of labeling each other…we stayed curious?🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts💬 We’d love to hear — what’s a label you’ve struggled with? Write us at: [email protected]#ChimingInPodcast #BehindTheLabel #Identity #StayCurious #HumanExperience #PodcastLife #RealConversations #Neurodiversity #SelfAwareness #Labels

How much of what we believe is actually true? 💭By popular request, we’re taking a deeper dive into self-talk, the inner critic, and the stories we tell ourselves every day.In this episode, we walk step by step through Byron Katie’s method known as The Work — a simple but powerful framework for questioning stressful thoughts and shifting perspective.We share real-life examples (both personal and everyday situations) and break down how noticing and naming your inner voice can change your experience and bring peace instead of stress.Along the way, we also find ourselves talking about Waze and whether anyone actually presses those buttons 😅

Why do so many of us feel like we’re running out of time? ⏳In this episode, we take a trip down memory lane — from childhood candy 🍬 and Little Debbie treats to the commercials and moments that shaped how we remember growing up.But what starts as nostalgia turns into something deeper: the idea of “phantom urgency” — that constant feeling that we need to hurry, do more, and somehow keep up before time runs out.We talk about where that feeling comes from, why it shows up so strongly, and how it might be shaping the way we live our lives today.We also touch on the work of Byron Katie and her powerful framework for questioning the thoughts that create stress and urgency — and how shifting those thoughts can change everything 💭✨#phantomurgency#byronkatie #thework #nostalgiccandy

What happens when travel completely falls apart? ✈️In this episode, we share a recent spring break travel experience that didn’t go as planned. Do they ever? As well as finding the beauty in cruising 🛳️. There’s something to be said for having your accommodations move with you wherever you go.But beyond the story, we reflect on how easy it is to lose our empathy and sense of calm when things feel out of our control.

What if your body is trying to tell you something?We talked about how physical pain can shift our mood and how the body often holds the emotional stories we haven’t fully processed.When we learn to listen — and share what’s really bothering us — healing can start to happen.

In this episode we reflect on growing up in the 70s and 80s and Elyse’s remarkable ability to recall vivid details from her early life. Those small moments — the sights, sounds, and feelings of childhood — have become the foundation of her memoir writing.As we explore how memory turns into story, another theme begins to surface: many girls of our generation Gen X weren’t taught to recognize red flags, set boundaries, or navigate complicated relationships.We talk about the independence and risk-taking of that era, the cultural silence around difficult conversations, and how many parents today are trying to raise their children differently — with more openness around relationships, safety, and self-trust.

Trigger Warning: We discuss the loss of a beloved pet.Not every friendship is forever. Most aren’t … But are they worth pouring your heart into anyway? 🤍In this episode, we reflect on what it means to share all the hard, sacred, and happy moments with close friends—knowing nothing is permanent.We talk about why some people don’t think they need or want deep friendships, and whether that’s true or if they just don’t want to experience the deep pain or loss that accompanies loving someone fully.This conversation is about fully showing up, vulnerability, and the rare relationships that change us for the better. Our pets and our people. #friendship#vulnerability#honesty

What happens when our children choose a life that looks different from the one we imagined for them?In this episode, we respond to a thoughtful listener question about raising older kids — especially when their success and  happiness looks entirely different than what we expected.Many of us were raised with strict ideas about achievement and independence.  How do we let go of those expectations while still guiding our children toward responsibility and self-sufficiency?We talk about:• Accepting our children as individuals 🤍• Normalizing uncertainty and slow starts• How to support motivation without controlling outcomes• Celebrating who our kids are — even when it doesn’t match our original visionParenting was never about control, but  learning to evolve alongside them at their slower than expected pace is so hard and so scary.If you’re navigating this stage of life, you are not alone.

What is love — really? 💭🤍In this episode, we talk about our first loves, the relationships that shaped us, and how those experiences informed the way we love each other today.We reflect on the ups and downs especially the hard years when the kids were so young…Of course, we couldn’t resist diving into the five love languages… and debating which ones we think we are.This conversation is about how love evolves, what lasts, and how understanding ourselves a little better helps us show up more fully for the people we care about 💞Don't forget to Subscribe, Follow, Like, Rate, and Share with friends! Write us at [email protected]!- Elyse and David

In this episode, we talk about childhood dreams, laser focus, and a belief that doesn’t bend— even when doors close, even when you’re told “you’re not good enough.”Elyse shares how she always knew she would become a dancer, even when the road was rough and the feedback was discouraging. That certainty — that deep, unshakeable knowing became the fuel that carried her forward.We explore whether success is only about talent… or if perseverance is the true difference between those who make it and those who stop just short.If you’ve ever had a dream that felt impossible, this conversation is about belief, resilience, and trusting the voice inside you that says, “I got this.” 💫

Why is it so hard for some people to say “I’m sorry” — even for the small stuff? 💭In this episode, we dig into the emotional layers behind apologizing and why it can feel so different from one person to the next.David shares how, for him, apologizing can feel like admitting failure or getting something fundamentally wrong — while Elyse talks about why saying sorry feels like a natural, everyday part of being human and staying connected 🤍If you’ve ever wondered why apologies feel easy for some and nearly impossible for others, this episode offers insight, compassion, and a deeper understanding of both sides ✨[email protected] like, share, follow, and rate!-Elyse and David

In this episode, there is lots of laughter as David shares a realization about himself—that he doesn’t always fully listen. Not out of a lack of care, but because focus can slip and attention can wander.Elyse and David talk about how noticing a struggle is the first step toward changing it, while at the same time—working on it doesn’t mean it was broken—just that you’re paying attention.A conversation about discovering something new about yourself 🤍🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts.#ChimingInPodcast #Listening #SelfAwareness #PersonalGrowth #EmotionalIntelligence #Relationships #MindfulLiving #AwarenessLIke, share, and rate! And e-mail us at [email protected]!-Elyse and David

If our job isn’t who we are, then who are we?In this episode, we talk about identity and how deeply it’s tied to careers, productivity, and what we “do” in the world. We question the idea that not working outside the home means we’re failing, and we explore whether reinvention is possible after raising a family or stepping away from paid work.We also talk about passions, interests, and the things we love — and how they shape who we are whether or not they ever become a business or career.This conversation is about widening the definition of identity, asking better questions, and learning how to be genuinely curious about who people are beyond titles, degrees, or résumés.E-mail us at [email protected]!-Elyse and David

There’s so much heaviness out there right now — wars, crises, politics, social tension — and it can easily pull us out of the present and into overwhelm. In this episode, we talk about how we’re trying to stay sane and bring our best selves without getting completely swallowed by the news cycle and stress of the world. It’s an honest conversation about how we are dealing with the news around the world without letting it dominate our entire life.We go back and forth on how we each approach the news (sometimes off, sometimes on), how our emotions can get wrapped up in it, how there’s so much we won’t ever be able to fully understand, and what it looks like to send love, prayer, and positive energy into the world  and to our leaders anyway.Plus: a little Golden Globes discussion including Sarah Jessica Parker’s Carol Burnett Award acceptance speech which was gorgeous in every way.https://youtu.be/3iHjvKTwFNgE-mail us at [email protected]. Thank you for listening!-Elyse and David

What if getting older isn’t the problem — but how we think about aging is? 🧠✨In today’s episode, we talk about why mindset matters more than the number of candles on the cake… and yes, we also tell the story of the moment someone mistook David for Elyse’s father😅(Enter: Papa Dave.)A conversation about aging, perspective, and staying curious, alive, and connected — no matter the number.E-mail us at: [email protected] as always, please subscribe, follow, like, rate, and share! Thank you!-Elyse and David

New Year’s resolutions can feel motivating — or they can quietly suggest that something about us needs fixing.In this episode, we talk about the tension between growth and self-acceptance. David shares why traditional resolutions can feel like a necessary reset, while Elyse offers a different perspective — one rooted in positive affirmations and honoring who we already are.We explore how intentions, language, and mindset shape the way we move forward, and whether growth has to come from a place of dissatisfaction at all.This conversation is about choosing a way forward that feels supportive instead of critical — and finding progress without the pressure.If New Year’s resolutions have ever made you feel behind, off-track, or like you haven’t been doing enough, this episode offers a gentler alternative.Please follow, like, rate and share! You can e-mail us at: [email protected] New Year Everyone!- Elyse and David

Why is it so hard to let our inner truth match how we show up in the world?In this episode, we talk about what it means to give ourselves permission to be who we truly are — and why we often stay stuck repeating the same patterns.This conversation is about identity, expectation, and the easier-said-than-done work of aligning our inner soul with our outward personality.Please follow, share, and like! And of course, you can always reach us by e-mailing us at chimingin911.com!-Elyse and David#personalgrowth #selfacceptance #identity #mindbodyconnection #emotionalhealth #authenticliving #wellnesspodcast #chiminginpodcast

Pilates is often thought of as “new form exercise,” but it was designed many decades ago to condition the mind as much as the body 🧠✨In this episode, we talk about the truth behind mind-body conditioning — why Pilates works, how Joseph Pilates developed the method and it was originally called CONTROLOGY—as well as what makes it so powerful for all kinds of bodies, athletes and injured- it helps with the nervous system regulation, focus, and emotional grounding.We begin with a personal story: how Elyse first came to Pilates, after realizing she was in love with David and staying in Virginia Beach… including the story of their engagement! It was one of the biggest surprises of her life — the day David planned an elaborate proposal at the oceanfront, complete with a biplane flying overhead asking her to marry him ✈️💍This episode weaves together science, history, and story to explore why the power of the mind along with movement is the most effective and therapeutic workout.If you’re curious about Pilates, mind-body health, or why certain movement practices help us feel more grounded and clear, this conversation is for you 🤍

After sharing a raw, unfiltered moment of overwhelm in our last episode, we wanted to talk about what came next — what actually helped 🤍In this conversation, Elyse reflects on learning how to be intentional instead of reactive 🧠✨ when everything feels like too much, and how she prepared herself to tell the story of “the moment everything changed” 🎤 in front of nearly 200 people.We talk about pausing instead of pushing ⏸️, choosing intention over panic 🌿, and what it looks like to stay grounded when your nervous system wants to run 🏃‍♀️💭If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed and wondered how to move through it with more care and clarity, this episode is for you 🤍🎥 Elyse’s story video is on her Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17qToBGBPP/?mibextid=wwXIfr🕯️ Amazing hand-poured candles — ready to ship👉 www.prettypalmcandleco.com✨ PROMO CODE: CHIMINGIN15 for 15% off your candlesPlease follow, like, rate, and share our podcast. And as always, we'd love to hear from you! E-mail us at [email protected]!-Elyse and David

This episode wasn’t planned. And honestly, we weren’t sure we should air it. What you’ll hear is a completely unfiltered moment: Elyse in the middle of a real-time overwhelm spiral — breathless, anxious, fidgeting, and trying to hold it together -while everything in her mind seemed to collide at once.David gently suggested turning on the mic, not for content, but because maybe someone out there has felt this way too. Maybe someone needs to hear that they’re not the only one.It’s raw. It’s vulnerable. It’s not polished. But it’s real — and that’s why we decided to share it.If you’ve ever hit that point where the world feels too loud and your mind won’t slow down, this one might feel uncomfortably familiar… in the best way. 🤍If you identify with Elyse - please let her know at: [email protected]!-Elyse and David

Why do we take things so personally — especially with the people closest to us? In this episode of Chiming In, we explore rejection sensitivity, the stories we tell ourselves, and why small moments can trigger big feelings.We talk about the childhood patterns we carry into adulthood, the fear underneath rejection, and what actually helps when you feel dismissed, misunderstood, or overly sensitive. We share our own real experiences (the funny ones and the painful ones) and unpack the emotional wiring behind our reactions.If you’ve ever thought, “Why did that bother me so much?” this conversation will feel like a deep breath.Tell us your story about taking things personally or feeling rejected — email us at [email protected] if this episode resonates, please follow, rate, and share the show. It helps new listeners find us. 💛

Ghosting hurts — whether it comes from a friend, a date, or someone you thought would be in your life forever. 💔 In this episode, we begin to unpack why it feels so personal, the emotional ripple it creates, and how to make sense of that silence without blaming yourself. 🫠 If you’ve ever been left wondering what happened… you’re not alone. Along the way, we lighten things up with a few of our own “button-pushers” and mini pet-peeves 😬 — the small, funny quirks we surprised each other with that keep life relatable and human.It’s honest, warm, a little vulnerable, and (of course) sprinkled with some classic Elyse-and-David banter.Come for the insight. Stay for the laughs.Do you have a ghosting story? What about a pet peeve? DM/ Send it to [email protected] Have you FOLLOWED + SHARED our pod? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Please don't forget to follow, subscribe, like, review and share!The Thanksgiving week felt long, beautiful, hilarious, sweet, and completely exhausting in all the familiar ways — and today we’re debriefing it all. From all four kids under one roof 🏠❤️, to the Imposter game 🎲, unexpected meltdowns 😅, cheeseboards 🧀, and the moments that made us laugh, we’re talking about what really happened this year.And then we shift into something softer. ✨As the days get shorter and the sun seems to slip away earlier 🌅, we talk about the very human instinct to make our homes glow — not only as a holiday thing, but also as something ancient and universal. Maybe the darker season isn’t something to dread. Maybe the sun just needs a little extra rest this time of year… and while it sleeps, we get to be the keepers of the light 🕯️✨.A warm, real-time episode about family, returning to ourselves, and finding the good in the shortest days of the year. ❄️💛***We love hearing feedback, comments, and questions! Write us at [email protected]!-Elyse and David

Ever been trapped in a car/plane/Airbnb with your whole family and thought, “This was supposed to be FUN…”? 😅In this week’s episode of Chiming In, we’re talking all things family travel + holiday break reality:🧳 Nostalgic road trip gamesSquiggle game, license plate game, and the low-tech stuff that actually gets everyone off their phones and laughing again.🎲 Our current favorite gamesA few board + party games we’re loving right now for all ages (linked in the show notes) — including one that will expose the true imposter in your family. 👀⏰ The “clock trick” for little kids on vacationHow we used a simple clock move to get small humans to sleep later in a new place. (No guarantees… but it did buy us a little sanity.)🏡 College kids coming homeHow to give them space, lower expectations, and still get some real connection in that short Thanksgiving break. We’re sharing a great Grown & Flown article we love, too.💭 Expectations vs. RealityFrom travel plans to family dynamics to surprise gifts (hi, Elyse’s mom 🥹) — we’re unpacking how to loosen our grip on “how it’s supposed to go” and actually enjoy what is.If you’re traveling, hosting, or just bracing for everyone to be under one roof again… this one’s for you. ❤️License Plate Game link: https://a.co/d/jldGsrSImposter - Party Word Game link: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/imposter-party-word-game/id6745120053Left Center Right link: https://a.co/d/csl5VvqTeenager Coming Home Blog Post: https://grownandflown.com/thanksgiving-break-to-do-list/Amazon links are affiliate links. When you use them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting our show!As always, we'd love your feedback! Write us at: [email protected]. We really mean it! :)

In this episode, we dive into Wicked (one of us may have Obsessive Wicked Disorder), talk about seeing the brand-new Wicked movie in theaters, and share the family memories this musical has woven into our lives. From Flora’s emotional Wicked moment in New York to Bella belting the “Defying Gravity” finale from the top of our staircase, Wicked has been part of our family story for years.Then we drift into fall nostalgia — leaf piles, childhood memories, the coziness of the season — and somehow end up with Elyse and her challenge unpacking. Are you an “unpack immediately” type or a “leave the suitcase for three weeks” type?A warm, funny, seasonal episode full of fun facts about Wicked, family stories, and relatable chaos. 🍂✨Please e-mail any comments or questions to [email protected] - we love hearing from you!

This week, we’re talking about the moments that stretch us — the ones we resist, fear, avoid… and then end up changing us in the best possible ways.Elyse makes a confession about something she never thought she’d do (and how saying “yes” surprised everyone, including herself).We talk about the tiny acts of bravery that expand us, the takeout-dinner debate that was supposed to be deleted, and one unforgettable travel tip.Plus: Elyse discovered a little piece of writing while recording and shares “Go Out & Come Back In” — a way to appreciate what’s right in front of you.Segments:​David’s and Elyse’s confession (and why it was a turning point)​The takeout story that was not a debate at all.​A travel moment that was a surprise to both of us​“Go Out & Come Back In” — short piece of writing that happened to match this episode perfectlyThis episode is warm, encouraging, and the perfect reminder that surprising yourself might be the most important part of growing.We would love to hear from you! Please email us at [email protected].

Feeling seen and feeling heard are two of the deepest human needs — but also the two we misunderstand the most.In this episode, we talk about the difference between listening and really hearing, why validation matters more than “fixing,” and how tiny shifts in communication can completely change the tone of a relationship.We share the moments where we got it wrong, the moments we got it right, and the hilarious dishwashing debate that teaches you everything you need to know about communication in a marriage.Whether you’re in a relationship, navigating family dynamics, or just want to feel more connected in your daily life — this one will make you laugh, nod, and maybe rethink the way you hear the people you love.Segments:​Why validation matters​How to reflect without competing​Common communication traps​The “being seen” moment everyone craves​Our Great Debate: Which dishwashing method is correct? We’d love to hear from you! E-mail us at [email protected].

We’re kicking off our very first episode with the story people always ask us to tell: how we met…again.It includes elementary school, a phone call that changed everything, and the moment Elyse recognized David’s voice almost before she even knew who was speaking. (Yes, really.)We also talk about our favorite Thanksgiving memories, the family gatherings, and the little things that still make us smile and laugh decades later.If you’re new here, and you are, because this is our first episode, this is the perfect snapshot of who we are: curious, honest, sentimental, and a little all over the place in the best way.Segments:​ The “you had me at hello” story​ What changed everything​ Thanksgiving: the memories and the fun​ Why trusting our gut in a relationship matters​ Great Debate: Canned cranberry sauce or…We’d love to hear from you! Please email us at [email protected].