PODCAST · society
Taking Up Space with Shannon
by Shannon Kroger
A personal journal of healing, rediscovery, and soft rebirth. A personal transformation through self-love and the journey back to me. girliamnow.substack.com
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How Stepping Into Discomfort Unlocks True Freedom and Independence
In this episode of Taking Up Space, Shannon explores the concept of shifting from rigid perceptions of reality to embracing the gray areas of life, emotions, and relationships. She shares personal insights on how challenging beliefs and stepping into discomfort can lead to authentic freedom and growth.Key Topics:* The importance of questioning our perceived “truth” and opening to different perspectives* How living in the gray enhances emotional resilience and personal relationships* Attachment styles: anxious vs. avoidant, and their role in our perceptions* The significance of discomfort in growth—comparing workouts and life challenges* How stepping into the gray can free us from fears surrounding independence and self-worth* Practical ways to crack open the door to new possibilities and self-awareness* The connection between love, self-acceptance, and taking up spaceThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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From Fear to Freedom
Join Shannon on her personal journey of awareness, self-discovery, and mindful parenting. In this episode, she shares her insights on unlearning inherited beliefs, managing fears around parenting, and creating authentic connections with her kids.Key Topics:* Transitioning from a healing to an awareness journey* How childhood learned behaviors influence adult fears, especially around money* Recognizing and unlearning patterns passed from caregivers* The impact of shaming and how it shapes self-perception and parenting styles* Balancing independence and guidance for adult children* How awareness improves parent-child relationships* The importance of showing up for your kids authentically* Understanding that parents also learn as they go, with compassion* Practical tips for mindful parenting amid personal growth* The significance of self-awareness in breaking cycles and building healthier family dynamicsThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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Why Chasing Purpose Can Keep You Stuck — The Curiosity-Driven Path to Freedom
In this episode, Shannon explores the profound question of what it truly means to live authentically and fully. Through personal reflections on growth, curiosity, and the fear of stepping into one’s true self, she shares insights on how to shift mindset, embrace curiosity, and let life unfold naturally.Key Topics:* The significance of listening to intuitive messages, such as song lyrics, for guidance* The balance between growth and living in the present moment* How to recognize and release patterns that hold us back from authentic living* The importance of curiosity over purpose-driven pursuits* Shifting mindset from heavy pressure to joyful exploration* Navigating fears of losing oneself when embracing change* Practical ways to cultivate curiosity and allow life to flow* Personal stories of learning new activities like pickleball and exploring numerology* The role of intention behind our actions and pursuits* Embracing the idea that sometimes, doing less and simply being is enoughThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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Taking Up Space: Embracing Emotions and Discomfort to Grow
Title: Taking Up Space: Embracing Emotions and Discomfort to GrowAre you often holding back your true feelings or avoiding discomfort? In this episode of Taking Up Space, Shannon explores how leaning into emotions like frustration, loneliness, and anxiety can lead to personal growth, self-awareness, and a more authentic life.Key topics:* The importance of recognizing and sitting with uncomfortable emotions instead of distracting from them* How patterns like scrolling or numbing with alcohol mask feelings of loneliness or anxiety* The role of self-trust and internal safety in overcoming discomfort* Practical tips for acknowledging emotions and building a safe, compassionate relationship with yourself* The importance of awareness: identifying patterns that cause shrinking and learning to take up space* The concept that safety is developed from within, not external validation* How understanding your subconscious patterns facilitates meaningful change* The process of embracing your feelings to foster growth and confidenceThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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Stop Abandoning Yourself
In this first episode beyond the 30-day challenge, I’m stepping into a new way of showing up—one where I share what I’m learning in real time, as it’s happening.Today’s episode came from a simple moment… a workout class.What started as frustration—when plans didn’t go the way I expected—turned into a powerful realization about something I didn’t even realize I was still doing:I was abandoning myself.Instead of acknowledging what I was feeling, I was sitting in it… waiting for someone else to fix it.And that’s when it clicked.That discomfort?That tension in your body?That’s not something to ignore—it’s an invitation.In this episode, I talk about:* The connection between physical discomfort and emotional growth* How we unknowingly abandon ourselves in everyday moments* What it actually looks like to lean into discomfort* The habit of waiting for others to change how we feel* Taking responsibility for your emotions without judgmentThis is a reminder that your feelings deserve to be acknowledged—not pushed down, ignored, or outsourced to someone else.Because it’s not their job to fix it.It’s yours.And that’s where your power is.If this episode resonated with you, make sure to follow the podcast so you don’t miss future conversations about healing, awareness, and learning how to take up space in your own life.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 30!
In this heartfelt episode, Shannon reflects on her 30-day personal challenge, sharing profound lessons about authenticity, self-trust, and embracing one’s true voice. Discover how stripping away perfectionism and fears can lead to genuine growth and confidence.Main Topics:* The importance of trusting your feelings over notes or scripts when creating content* How affirmations can reaffirm negative stories instead of rewriting them* The impact of childhood experiences on self-confidence and self-expression* Embracing vulnerability and owning your experiences to foster growth* The significance of listening to inspiration and taking space for creativityKey Insights:* Authenticity shines when speaking from the heart, not from notes or trying to get it perfect* Reframing affirmations involves identifying and working on the root stories that cause negative feelings* Childhood shaming can influence adult reluctance to repeat others’ words or ideas* Embracing imperfections and uncertainties enhances personal growth and creative expression* The journey of self-discovery is ongoing, and embracing space for creativity is vitalThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 29
In this reflective solo episode, Shannon shares her personal insights on the importance of self-awareness, patience, and honoring your true self during the healing process. She emphasizes that not every day needs to be profound and highlights the value of integrating experiences, paying attention to dreams, and rediscovering who you are beyond societal labels.Key Topics:* The significance of dreams and subconscious symbols in understanding oneself* The importance of allowing space for non-profound days during healing* Recognizing and releasing old beliefs and patterns that no longer serve* The process of reconnecting with the authentic self beyond roles and titles* The role of patience and self-compassion in creating meaningful change* Reflecting on personal identity: Who are you outside of your relationships and achievements?* The impact of seeking external validation through behaviors like drinking to cope* Encouragement for listeners to define themselves with three words from their own perspectiveThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 28
In this episode, Shannon shares her powerful journey of self-awareness, trusting her intuition, and making authentic decisions. Her candid reflections reveal how tuning into inner guidance can transform daily choices and foster self-love.Key Topics:* Celebrating 28 days of consistency and perseverance* The importance of self-awareness, self-trust, and setting personal standards* Recognizing and honoring your feelings instead of suppressing them* The significance of signs and synchronicities from the universe (like dimes and pennies)* Trusting your internal guidance system versus seeking external certainty* Aligning decisions with what feels good and meaningful* Navigating financial commitments while honoring personal values* The role of vulnerability in personal growth and healing* Making conscious choices: not from fear, but from alignment and love* The ongoing process of integration and trusting oneselfThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 27
In this episode, Shannon shares a deeply personal journey through emotional awareness, spiritual uncertainty, and the importance of living authentically. Her honest reflections encourage listeners to feel their emotions without shame and to pursue alignment in their lives, even when facing doubts.Key Topics:* The importance of understanding why we engage in certain behaviors, like drinking, as solutions to underlying problems* Recognizing when our words and actions are in or out of alignment with our true selves* Navigating spiritual and philosophical uncertainties about beliefs in God, the universe, and afterlife* The significance of feeling emotions fully rather than suppressing them, and how emotions can get trapped in the body* Practical tools for emotional processing, such as meditation and self-compassion exercises* Personal insights on repeated experiences of feeling out of alignment and finding reassurance through signs and intuition* The role of self-awareness in continuous growth and genuine connection with oneselfThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 26
Discover the profound lessons in surrender and perspective sharing in this reflective episode. From personal stories to insights on trusting the universe, this episode encourages embracing the unknown to foster growth and resilience.Key topics:* The importance of trusting oneself and surrendering control* How letting go can lead to guidance and unexpected opportunities* Personal story of surviving rainstorm with creative solutions* The impact of traumatic emotional experiences on perspective* Different perceptions of the same event and their truths* How perspectives shift across generations, shaping behavior and beliefs* Recognizing moments of guidance and angels in everyday life* Practical insights on letting go and trusting the processThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 25
In this episode, Shannon Kroger explores the concept of surrender — what it truly means to let go, release control, and show up authentically. She shares personal stories about navigating traffic, writing, and vulnerability to illustrate how surrendering can open opportunities and foster growth.Key Topics:* The importance of grounding through walks and being present* How surrendering control can lead to unexpected success (traffic story)* Recognizing when we’re gripping too tightly and how to relax into life* The courage required to show up as our messy, authentic selves* The difference between letting go and continuing to control unconsciously* Using surrender as a way to regulate the nervous system* How external validation influences control and perfectionism* The significance of trusting in a higher power or divine timing* Practical steps to identify where we are holding on too tightly* Embracing life’s messiness as part of the growth processThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 24
In this episode, Shannon dives deep into how recognizing when we’re in alignment can lead to seizing opportunities that propel us forward. She explores her personal journey of overcoming self-doubt, embracing discomfort, and learning that every challenge is a stepping stone for growth.Key Topics:* The importance of flexibility within routines and discipline* Recognizing alignment as a cue to take action immediately* Opportunities are invitations, not failures—learning lessons from rejection* The significance of taking up space to build confidence and voice* Personal stories of overcoming embarrassment and self-doubt in coaching* The role of life experiences as rehearsal for future success* Tools and mindset shifts for showing up more fully in life and work* The idea that missed opportunities are setups for future growth* Gratitude for shows and conversations that challenge and inspireThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 23
In this episode, Shannon shares a raw and honest reflection on her personal growth journey—how childhood experiences shape our beliefs, the importance of self-awareness, and why giving yourself permission to take up space can transform your life. Learn practical insights on how to break free from habits rooted in survival mode and embrace authenticity.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 22
(This is probably the most vulnerable episode yet and I really didn’t want to post it. If you are going to skip one, this is it!)Are you ready to explore vulnerability, the power of taking up space, and overcoming fears that hold you back? In this episode, Shannon shares her inspiring journey of self-discovery during a 30-day challenge, highlighting lessons on embracing discomfort and making aligned decisions.Main Topics:* The importance of taking up space without fear or shame* Practical ways to release energy and manage stress, like dancing or shaking it out* How fear, especially linked to the ego mind, influences decision-making and relationships* Recognizing the difference between fear and misalignment in life choices* The significance of vulnerability in personal growth and authenticity* Reflections on astrological cycles and new beginnings for 2026This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 21
In this episode, Shannon shares her personal journey through self-validation, embracing imperfections, and cultivating inner safety and worth. She explores the importance of accepting where you are and disconnecting external validation from your sense of self. A candid conversation about controlling narratives, letting others show up authentically, and recognizing the power of self-love offers valuable insights for anyone on personal growth paths.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 20
In this episode, Shannon shares a heartfelt journey of self-awareness, vulnerability, and the importance of meeting yourself where you are. She explores how validation influences our inner dialogue and why embracing uncertainty can be a powerful act of self-love.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 19
In this episode, Shannon shares a raw and honest recount of her experiences with self-consciousness, subconscious behaviors, and inner child work. She discusses how awareness of these patterns can lead to personal growth and authentic self-expression.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 18
In this episode, Shannon shares her personal journey of learning to sit with discomfort, embrace pauses, and let go of the need to always maintain momentum. Discover how slowing down can lead to greater self-awareness, authenticity, and inner peace.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 17
In this episode, Shannon shares a deeply personal journey exploring inner child work, emotional regulation, and the power of acknowledging and healing past wounds. She discusses practical tools, insights from her experience, and how recognizing our inner child's voice can transform our emotional landscape.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 16
In this episode, Shannon shares a personal journey of understanding the subtle differences between fear-based hypervigilance and true intuition. She discusses how tuning into your body and quieting mental chatter can help you make clearer, calmer decisions. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by racing thoughts or unsure of your gut feeling, this episode provides practical insights to reconnect with your inner guidance.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 15
In this episode, Shannon shares her personal journey of self-awareness, emotional healing, and the importance of listening to our bodies. She explores how emotions manifest physically and how recognizing this can lead to greater self-compassion and healing.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 14
In this episode, Shannon shares her personal journey navigating insecure attachment styles, especially the anxious-avoidant dynamic, and explores how understanding attachment theory can foster healthier relationships.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 13
Embrace your power of choice and learn to surrender control to live a more peaceful and authentic life. Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life's circumstances? In this honest solo episode, Shannon shares her journey of recognizing the power of choice, letting go of control, and aligning with her true self. This episode is a reminder that life happens for us, and we hold the keys to our happiness and growth. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 12
Discover how embracing flexibility, curiosity, and self-awareness can transform your approach to taking up space and navigating life's challenges. Join Shannon as she shares personal insights on control, self-sacrifice, and choosing oneself amid life's uncertainties.(This is another one I almost skipped posting. I felt really exposed with the content on this one) Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 11
In this episode, Shannon shares her personal journey through vulnerability, self-awareness, and understanding attachment styles. Join to explore how fears shape behaviors, the four main attachment types, and practical insights to foster healthier relationships.(This one felt like a filler episode. It made sense in my head before recording, but after recording and listening back to it, it’s not how I want my voice to be heard.) Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 10
On Day 10, Shannon reflects on the journey of self-discovery and the importance of choosing oneself. Through her vulnerability and a candid recount of a coaching session, she explores the tension between setting boundaries and understanding multiple perspectives. Shannon shares her struggle with seeking external validation and the realization that self-love and intuition are key to personal growth. Join her as she navigates the complexities of emotions, decisions, and the power of trusting oneself.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 9
What if the key to true transformation isn’t about chasing the next breakthrough, but learning how to truly integrate it? Shannon shares a raw, relatable journey through breakthrough after breakthrough, revealing why rushing to the next achievement can block growth—and how stepping back might be the most powerful move you make.On this episode of Taking Up Space, Shannon opens up about her recent shift in mindset—moving from pressure and pursuit to patience and presence. She discusses her own healing journey, from battling the lure of certainty with tarot and affirmations to discovering the profound power of integration, shadow work, and trusting the process. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 8
Most of us carry emotional patterns rooted in childhood that silently shape our present — until we actively feel and release them. In this raw, vulnerable solo episode, Shannon bravely navigates her recent emotional breakthroughs, revealing how unspoken pain, shame, and limiting beliefs keep us stuck—and how feeling our bodies can set us free.You'll discover why understanding your feelings isn't enough and how somatic practices can help you truly release what no longer serves you. Shannon shares powerful stories about confronting her insecurities around perfection, the importance of making mistakes, and the profound moment she realized she was choosing herself—completely and unapologetically. She breaks down practical tools like EFT tapping and explains how your subconscious patterns from childhood are running your life, even when you're unaware. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 7
In this episode, Shannon shares her personal journey of self-awareness, exploring the importance of giving oneself permission to pause, reflect, and challenge ingrained thought patterns. She discusses her 30-day challenge of simply existing and taking up space, emphasizing the power of setting boundaries with our inner dialogue. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 6
In this episode, you'll discover how a simple crystal taught Shannon the real meaning of self-love and how her struggles with control, vulnerability, and worthiness mirror our own. She shares the pivotal moment when she realized that her deepest fears weren’t about others, but about her own relationship with herself. You’ll learn practical ways to cultivate trust and self-respect through everyday decisions—like choosing to let go instead of holding on, and setting boundaries that truly nourish your soul. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 5
In this deeply personal episode, Shannon shares her journey of healing her relationship with her inner child and confronting the anxiety that Fridays once brought her. She reveals why understanding the layers of trauma—like that specific fear of abandonment—can unlock lasting change. Expect honest reflections on how childhood experiences continue to influence adult emotions, and practical insights into how healing happens in stages, much like nurturing a plant. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 4
Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 3
Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 2
Most of us stay invisible out of fear—fear of being seen, judged, or rejected. But what if taking up space is the most powerful act of self-love? In this episode, Shannon shares her raw, vulnerable journey of breaking free from self-imposed silence and learning to stand her ground. She reveals how small acts of courage—setting boundaries at work, speaking up in high school, or simply sitting with uncomfortable emotions—can transform the way you see yourself and how others treat you.Discover the fascinating psychology behind self-abandonment and how it shows up in everyday moments, from workplace conflicts to childhood bullying. Shannon breaks down tangible strategies to reclaim your voice and prioritize your well-being, including the crucial distinction between venting and self-advocacy. She shares powerful insights on how standing up for yourself not only changes your internal narrative but also creates ripple effects that inspire others to do the same.You’ll delve into real-life stories of confrontation, vulnerability, and growth—highlighting that true safety is built through consistency and self-awareness. Whether you’re struggling to speak up at work, face intrusive inner critic, or want to feel more seen and heard, this episode is your guide to choosing self-respect over silence.Perfect for anyone ready to challenge their fears, redefine their boundaries, and step into their power—because the world needs your voice. When you take up space, you open the door for others to do the same. Tune in and start your journey to bold, authentic self-expression.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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30 Day Challenge - Day 1
In this episode, I share my deeply personal story of overcoming the fear of speaking, unlearning childhood patterns of shrinking, and learning to anchor myself in safety from within. You’ll discover how small shifts can lead to inner transformation.Why does this matter? Because the more you hide, the smaller your world becomes. But by choosing to show up, even imperfectly, you start rewiring your brain for confidence, authenticity, and connection. This episode is perfect for anyone battling self-doubt, feeling invisible, or longing to truly take up space—whether in your personal life, work, or relationships. Take this as your permission slip to show up exactly as you are—because your voice, your presence, and your space matter.Ready to start your own journey of boldly claiming your space? Tune in now to discover how tiny acts of vulnerability can unlock your greatest strength. Get full access to Girl I Am Now at girliamnow.substack.com/subscribe
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