Stress Mess: A Stress Less Podcast

Send us Fan MailWhat if the thing you think is just stress… isn’t?In this episode of Stress Mess: A Stress Less Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Joseph Luftman, a board-certified physician with over 25 years of experience, who experienced a near-fatal “widowmaker” heart attack that completely changed how he understands stress, burnout, and healing.As a physician, he thought he understood the body. But when he became the patient, everything shifted.We talk about: The difference between panic attacks and heart attacks—and why it’s not always clear  How chronic stress and burnout can show up physically  The role of inflammation and long-term stress on the body  Why high achievers often ignore warning signs  Micro practices for stress relief that actually fit into real life  Mindfulness, sound, and practical ways to reset your nervous system Dr. Luftman is the author of The Widowmaker’s Gift: Balancing Science and Well-Being in Healthcare, a powerful blend of personal story and practical tools for healing burnout and reconnecting with yourself. If you’ve ever brushed something off as “just stress,” this episode might make you think twice.🔗 Connect with Dr. Joseph LuftmanWebsite: https://saturationofsound.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saturation_sound LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephluftmanmd/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@saturation_of_sound X: https://x.com/saturationsound📘 About the BookThe Widowmaker’s Gift shares Dr. Luftman’s journey from burnout and a life-threatening heart attack to a more balanced, intentional approach to health. It blends Western medicine with mindfulness, sound healing, and simple, time-efficient practices designed for real life—no retreats or rigid routines required.Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Stress Mess: A Stress Less Podcast, Samantha sits down with Jamilah Robinson, founder of a marketing consultancy and co-founder of Missing Pieces Support Group, a nonprofit created to support women and families experiencing pregnancy loss.Jamilah shares how her personal experiences with recurrent miscarriage led her to seek support, find community, and ultimately build an organization dedicated to helping others navigate grief, healing, and connection.Together, they explore the emotional, mental, and systemic challenges surrounding pregnancy loss, including the lack of compassionate care in healthcare settings, the isolation many women feel, and the importance of normalizing these conversations.Jamilah also walks through the evolution of Missing Pieces Support Group, from care packages created in living rooms to partnerships with hospitals, structured grief support programs, and growing community initiatives that serve women at every stage of healing.🔗 Resources & LinksLearn more about Missing Pieces Support Group, access resources, and explore upcoming events:https://missingpiecessupportgroup.org/Maternal Mental Health SymposiumMay 21, 2026Silent Auction (Stress Awareness Month)Launching April 12 and running through April 25, 2026Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a relationship ends and you’re left trying to figure out who you are again?In this episode, Samantha sits down with Amanda Warlick, a certified divorce coach, to talk about the reality of life after a relationship ends. While divorce is often talked about in terms of legal steps and logistics, this conversation focuses on the emotional, mental, and physical impact—and what it takes to rebuild from there.Amanda shares her perspective on why divorce is considered one of the most stressful life events, and how it affects your identity, your nervous system, and your sense of normalcy. Together, they explore what it means to feel “untethered,” how to create stability again, and why taking time to heal matters more than rushing into what’s next.This episode covers: • The emotional and physical impact of divorce • Identity loss and rediscovery • The importance of creating a safe environment • Setting boundaries during difficult transitions • How to handle outside opinions and protect your peace • Why healing yourself first changes everythingWhether you’re going through a divorce, navigating a breakup, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers a grounded and honest perspective on what it takes to move forward.Connect with Amanda Warlick: Website: https://resilientlm.comSamantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Stress Mess, Samantha sits down with AJ for a powerful and refreshingly honest conversation about growth, mindset, and the stories we tell ourselves.This episode is especially meaningful because it marks AJ’s very first time as a podcast guest, and Samantha is honored to be part of that milestone.Together, they explore the pressure of the “should” voice, the internal dialogue that tells us we’re behind, not doing enough, or not where we’re supposed to be. They unpack how that voice, while trying to protect us, often creates stress, shame, and self-doubt.AJ introduces the concept of AFGO, short for “Another Growth Opportunity,” a reframing that turns life’s challenges into moments of expansion instead of frustration. From career pivots to redefining success, this conversation dives into what it really means to evolve without abandoning who you’ve been.They also talk about: Letting go of timelines and expectations  The connection between gratitude and growth  Emotional dependency vs. emotional stability  Why your past experience is your greatest asset  How to stay grounded, even when life feels chaotic This episode is a reminder that growth isn’t always comfortable, but it is always available. And sometimes, the thing that feels like a setback is actually setting you up for something bigger.Contact A.J. Riedel: https://www.ajriedel.com/Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Stress Mess, Samantha sits down with Eric for a conversation about how our relationship with money, experiences, and productivity has changed across generations.What starts as a discussion about spending habits quickly turns into a deeper conversation about the “experience economy” and why so many people feel pressure to always be productive instead of simply enjoying life.Eric shares reflections on growing up with a frugal mindset, raising teenagers in a completely different economic environment, and realizing that some of life’s best moments come from experiences rather than possessions. From concerts and travel to museums, community events, and even Renaissance fairs, the conversation explores how stepping outside of routine can open the door to new perspectives.Along the way, Samantha and Eric wander through several classic Stress Mess rabbit holes, including retail jobs, messy stores, technology habits, voting processes, and how different life experiences shape the way we see the world.At the heart of the episode is a simple idea: life is short, and the experiences we choose to have shape the stories we tell about it.Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Stress Mess, Samantha sits down with Ariana Lum, a graphic designer and children’s book author who created her first illustrated book as a way to help children navigate anxiety, grief, and emotional overwhelm.After leaving her corporate job and moving to Europe, Ariana experienced a deep identity shift that led her back to childhood creativity, drawing, storytelling, and imagination. What began as sketches during the pandemic turned into a meaningful children’s book focused on helping kids find peace within themselves and understand that emotional connection does not disappear, even through loss.Together, Samantha and Ariana explore why mental health tools should be introduced early in life, how imagination supports emotional regulation, and why adults can benefit from reconnecting with their inner child. They also talk about movement as a stress outlet, emotional expression, and creating space for feelings instead of suppressing them.This episode is a thoughtful reminder that managing stress, grief, and anxiety is a skill we can learn, practice, and strengthen at any age.Learn more about Ariana and her work here:https://www.aristravelsphere.com/Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when you stop shrinking your goals and start trusting what’s actually possible?In this episode of Stress Mess, Samantha sits down with Lawrence, a youth empowerment speaker who began his speaking journey at fifteen and now works with teens and young adults on confidence, identity, and mental health.Lawrence shares the difference between talking and speaking, why journaling is one of the most powerful tools for self-awareness, and how many of our limitations come from beliefs we absorbed long before we ever questioned them.They explore emotional conviction, vision-setting, and why your mind doesn’t hear “don’t”—only what you focus on most. From learning how to “control the fire” to understanding why clarity matters more than wishful thinking, this conversation invites listeners to think bigger about who they are and what they want.If you’ve ever felt different, stuck, or unsure how to move forward without losing yourself, this episode offers powerful insight and reflection.Connect with Lawrence:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawrencec.empowers/Book a free coaching call: https://calendly.com/lawrencecharris/free-coaching-callSamantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailEvery January, we’re told to set goals, make resolutions, and completely reinvent ourselves.But what if there’s a quieter, more sustainable way to move through the year?In the first Stress Mess: A Stress Less Podcast episode of 2026, Samantha Elizabeth explores the idea of choosing a Word of the Year—a simple but powerful intention that helps guide decisions, energy, and mindset without pressure or perfection.This solo episode reflects on what happens when generosity turns into depletion, how easy it is to give without refilling yourself, and why clarity often comes from slowing down instead of pushing harder.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Why traditional New Year’s resolutions tend to fall apartHow a Word of the Year can create focus without burnoutThe emotional cost of always showing up for others firstWhat it means to feel untethered—and how intention can bring steadiness backHow to choose a guiding word that supports you all year longThe word itself is revealed in the episode—and the meaning behind it might surprise you.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by “New Year, New You” energy, this conversation offers a calmer, more human way forward.Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailNarcissism in leadership isn’t always what you think. In this episode, Erika Weed, certified executive coach and organizational consultant, joins me to unpack narcissism as a spectrum—not a stereotype. We explore the difference between clinical and subclinical narcissism, how it shows up at work, and what you can do when you’re working with (or for) someone with those traits.We also talk about:How narcissism develops and what prevents it in childhoodThe role of empathy and psychological safety in leadershipStrategies like “gray rocking” and documentation for protecting yourselfWhy awareness—not labeling—is the key to changeErika’s expertise comes from years of coaching executives across industries, from healthcare to professional sports, and her research in human and organizational development gives this conversation real depth and compassion.Connect with Erika: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/erikaweed Website: ascendry.comSamantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I chat with my friend and fellow business owner, Rebecca Burley, founder of Purple Page Marketing, about the art of doing less, and doing it better.They unpack how focusing on your core strengths, setting clear client boundaries, and embracing realistic goals can actually reduce stress and increase success.Key themes include:How to manage client expectations without overpromisingWhy outsourcing and collaboration protect both sanity and qualityThe power of Canva and Adobe Express for small-business efficiencyManaging brain fog, burnout, and the myth of perfectionLearning to give yourself grace — and take a real day offIt’s equal parts strategy, honesty, and friendship...the reminder every solopreneur needs that protecting your peace is good business.Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Stress Mess: A Stress Less Podcast, I sit down with Krista Hayes, founder of Zone Walk Solutions, to explore how a simple but powerful mindset—assuming good intentions—can transform workplace communication and trust.We cover:Why “assuming good intentions” is a game-changer for leaders and employeesHR’s evolving role and the challenges of trust, anonymity, and demographic data collectionHow perception shapes relationships, including Krista’s story of a misunderstood note-taking habitThe difference between the Golden Rule and the Platinum Rule in building stronger connectionsWhy organizations should hire for culture addition rather than assimilationHow linking employee, client, and partner experiences creates healthier ecosystemsThis episode will give you fresh perspectives on communication, culture, and trust that you can bring back to your own workplace.Connect with Krista Hayes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/engagekristahayes/Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailMy guest this week is my friend and bright shining star, Traci Shannon — aka Star Traci.In this conversation, we dive into the heart of Suicide Prevention Month and explore what it really means to show up for each other. From her show The Pebble, where she tosses positivity into the sea of negativity, to her candid take on toxic positivity, Traci brings warmth, wisdom, and the courage to tackle tough topics.We talk about:Why suicide is about mental illness, not selfishnessThe surprising truth about ‘attention-seeking’ behaviorWhy toxic positivity often does more harm than goodHow a simple, genuine question like ‘How can I help you?’ can make all the differenceThe lasting impact of words — and why emotional scars often cut the deepestThis episode is a powerful reminder that even the smallest actions — like a phone call, or a kind word — can save lives.✨ Connect with Traci on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StarTraciSamantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailWhat if “success” is less about you and more about the community you help thrive? In this episode, Wesam Samour shares a purpose-first mindset: your life’s job is to serve — and small, consistent contributions count. We explore emotional intelligence you can actually use, from reading real-time cues like a Sims status bar to the “100 excuses” strategy that stops stress spirals before they start.We also talk leadership: respecting people’s time, ditching micromanagement, hiring for ethics and purpose fit, and why the chain of command protects your focus and your team. Plus, a practical approach to work-life rhythm — intense, focused work time followed by fully present family time.In this episode:Purpose beyond self: contribution > individual achievementReframing success: happiness, safety, and community > fame/wealthThe Sims for EQ: reading plus/minus cues in conversationsThe “100 excuses” mental health hack for texts & delaysText tone traps & clarity tricks (exclamation system, emojis)Anti-micromanagement leadership & chain of commandRespecting time, paying through personal crises, hiring for valuesWork-life integration: concentrated work, fully present weekendsResources & Mentions:Key & Peele: Text Message Confusion — https://youtu.be/naleynXS7yo?si=V86ZaaHFwo9OX4mkSamantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to build a thriving community that lasts for more than a decade? In this episode, I sit down with my friend and mentor, Kami Huyse, co-founder of Social Media Breakfast Houston and CEO of Zoetica Media, to find out.We talk about:The grassroots origins of SMBHOU (and its first 30 attendees on a coffee shop patio)How the format evolved to interviews, livestreams, and virtual “Coffee” sessions during COVIDLaunching Smart Social Secrets and Smart Social Mastery to support small business ownersThe philosophy of building community through collaboration, not competitionWhat persistence and consistency look like over 16 years — and why they matterWhether you’re leading a business, a nonprofit, or just trying to grow your network, Kami’s wisdom about resilience and community-building will inspire you.Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailNetworking fails, true crime obsessions, and the universal fear of presenting in front of people — this episode has it all.My guest, Libby Magliolo, is a presentation coach, slide wizard, and self-proclaimed introvert who knows what it’s like to feel awkward… but also how to show up with confidence in front of an audience.We cover:Networking tips (spoiler: people won’t just come to you!)The psychology behind society’s obsession with true crimeWhat to do when you choke during a presentation (been there 🙋🏻‍♀️)Libby’s best tips for presenting without panic — from exposure therapy to wearing “one hat” at a timeWhether you’re a seasoned speaker or someone who’d rather hide under the table, you’ll walk away with practical advice and a few laughs.👉 Find Libby online at https://www.buildbetterslides.com/ — where she helps individuals and companies create presentations that actually work.Subscribe to Stress Mess:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoachSamanthaE Buzzsprout: https://stressmess.buzzsprout.comSamantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailEpisode 11 of Stress Mess is here! In this conversation with Nancy May, we dive into family, food, and the quirky traditions that tie generations together. From Chinese takeout on Christmas to the meals that carry our stories forward, it’s not just about what’s on the table — it’s about the memories, connections, and meaning that come with it.Nancy is a seasoned storyteller and podcast host whose work ranges from boardrooms to family kitchens. She shares insights from her own journey, her book Family Tree Foods & Stories, and the projects that continue to inspire her.✨ Resources mentioned in this episode:Family Tree Food & Stories: https://podcast.familytreefoodstories.com/Eldercare Success: https://www.eldercaresuccess.live/Boardrooms Best: https://shows.acast.com/boardroomsbest🎙️ Listen in, laugh a little, and reflect on the meals and memories that matter most.Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailToday’s episode is one you’re going to love. I’m joined by my friend, Mila Clarke — founder of Hangry Woman and a voice reshaping how we think about health and nutrition.We dive into her journey through a diabetes misdiagnosis, the mindset shifts that helped her move forward, and how she’s turning her story into support for others. You’ll also hear about her app, Glucose Guide — a resource designed for people living with diabetes and their caregivers. And yes, her cats made sure to chime in along the way. 🐾Check out Glucose Guide here: https://community.glucoseguide.app/👉 Subscribe so you never miss an episode: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoachSamanthaE Buzzsprout: https://stressmess.buzzsprout.comSamantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 9: Habit Magic!, I’m joined by my friend and Feng Shui Wizardess, Julie Britt, for a conversation that blends productivity tips with life’s little joys. We talk about energizing morning routines, the power of time blocking, turning errands into friend time, and why “always leave a place better than you found it” might just be the best life rule ever.We also dig into the magic of decluttering, the peace that comes from “a place for everything and everything in its place,” and how small, intentional habits can completely transform your day.Books we mention in this episode: 📚 Atomic Habits by James Clear — https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits 📚 The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg — https://charlesduhigg.com/the-power-of-habit/Whether you’re looking for a fresh start or just an excuse to buy new storage bins, this episode’s got the inspiration you need.Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailChange is hard. And fast. And usually happening at the worst time.In this episode of Stress Mess, I talk to my friend Pam — a dynamic, tell-it-like-it-is change leader — about how she got started in the world of change, why transitions come with emotional whiplash, and what managers are seriously missing when it comes to guiding people through disruption.We also talk about what it means to feel “not that exciting,” why serendipity brought us together, and the messy feelings that show up after the shock wears off.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by change or wished your manager had a clue… this episode gets it.Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Stress Mess, I chat with my friend Sean — a safety consultant who’s also a fellow professional tangent-taker. We start with entrepreneurship and OSHA compliance… and then spiral into ADHD rabbit holes, cleaning other people’s houses (because cleaning our own is just not it), a suspicious Uber ride that came with free Redbull, contact lenses vs. glasses, and the surprising power of decompressing through singing (and dancing).It’s part business talk, part chaos, and part “why is there hair everywhere?”So buckle up — or don’t. Sean would probably write you up for that.Looking for a safety consultant? You can reach Sean at: 📱 Call/Text: 832-757-8330 📧 Email: [email protected] Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Stress Mess, I'm joined by my friend and fellow deep thinker, Anh Nguyen. What started as a conversation about pandemic reflections and DEI quickly turned into a series of “Wait… is that true?” moments—followed by some impromptu Googling to find out.We explore how the pandemic reshaped how we show up in the world, the evolution of DEI in both personal and professional spaces, and the power of staying curious (even when the answers aren’t clear-cut).This one’s honest, a little chaotic, and full of curiosity—the exact kind of mess we embrace around here.🎧 Listen in, question everything, and maybe open a new tab or two.Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailWelcome (back) to Season 2 of Stress Mess: A Stress Less Podcast! I'm Samantha Elizabeth—the original Stress Mess—and we’re kicking off this new season with a solo episode that gets real, fast.✨ What’s new this season? Less formality. Shorter episodes. More guests. Occasional swearing (because, life). And a whole lot of unfiltered truth.In this episode, I share:Why I hit pause on the podcast and what brought me backMy journey into coaching and what I learned the hard waySigns you might be (or were) in a toxic relationshipWhat real help looks like after the breakupThe framework behind Empower and Rise CoachingWhy I created Your Post-Breakup PlanIf you’ve been stuck in the cycle of emotional manipulation, second-guessing yourself, or trying to “move on” with zero direction—this one’s for you.No judgment. Just truth, support, and tools that actually help.🖥️ Learn more: https://samanthaelizabeth.com 📧 Email me: [email protected] 🔁 Know someone who needs this? Forward this episode their way—they’re not crazy, and they’re not alone.Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 4, I talk to Gika Rector, a Feldenkrais practitioner, coach, and felt-maker. Gika provides timeless words of wisdom in moving your body for stress management.Learn more about Gika: https://www.gika.info/Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Stress Mess podcast, I talk to David Gilbert, my voiceover guy! David talks about his stress and stress management in his line of work and wait until you hear his funny story - it's hilarious!Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn episode 2, I talk to Donna Durbin. Donna is a Clear English Coach, she teaches others to speak clearer so people can understand them, which is her own business. As I know, having your own business can be stressful. You often don’t have a lot of help to navigate the technology, business taxes, your own procrastination and being a perfectionist, or detail-oriented, as Donna calls it. So, how do you deal with this kind of stress?Clear English Coach, Donna Durbin: https://www.clearenglishcoach.com/ Other Resources from the PodcastGetting Things Done Podcast: https://gettingthingsdone.com/category/podcast-2/Business Coach, James Wedmore: https://www.jameswedmoretraining.com/ Chop Wood, Carry Water: How to Fall in Love with the Process of Becoming Great: https://www.amazon.com/Chop-Wood-Carry-Water-Becoming/dp/153698440X Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com

Send us Fan MailIn this first episode of the Stress Mess Podcast, I talk about my career journey. When I started my career, I had every intention of retiring with a large technology company, but after company-wide layoffs, it left me feeling lost and worthless. The years that followed, I had been through some stuff, including a 6 month layoff, which left me feeling lost and worthless again, but it wasn't my first rodeo. Join me in this episode where I talk about my job search and what could be helpful for you, or someone else you know looking for a job.Samantha Elizabeth Coaching & Consulting LLCsamanthaelizabeth.com