Unscripted Curiosity

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, it’s just Jenn and Scott catching up—wandering (intentionally) through protein drinks, teaching reflections, writing practices, and the strange brilliance of the human mind.Jenn shares the bittersweet close of a recent teaching experience and reflects on her shift toward more experiential, embodied ways of learning—both in the classroom and in her clinical work. Scott brings his steady curiosity to everything from smoothie logistics to journaling routines, offering a grounded perspective on writing, breathwork, and the value of doing things imperfectly but consistently.Together, they explore the unconscious mind, the ways we catastrophize, and how simple practices like writing, breathing, and paying attention can gently shift how we relate to ourselves. Along the way, there are detours into cooking shows, upcoming adventures, book recommendations, and a possible (unconfirmed) river otter sighting in Toronto.It’s thoughtful, a little rambling, and exactly what it sounds like when two curious humans give themselves space to think out loud.PSA: At points Jenn’s mic seems to briefly transcend this dimension—apologies to your ears (and nervous system) if it sounds like she’s yelling into the void. Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott sit down with Jill Gaumont, founder of Beyoutifully Aligned, for a grounded and quietly inspiring conversation about movement, aging, and evolving with intention.Jill shares her non-linear path—from nursing to accounting to yoga—and how her teaching has grown alongside her own body and life experience. What began as a traditional yoga practice has expanded into a more integrated approach that includes strength training, accessibility, and real-life functionality—especially for women navigating aging bodies and shifting capacities.Together, they explore what it means to listen to your body over time, adapt when something no longer serves, and build a movement practice that actually supports your life. Jill also offers a refreshingly simple take on nervous system regulation—not as something we force, but something we cultivate through the way we live, move, and structure our days.With reflections on retirement, grandparenthood, and the quiet power of consistency over perfection, this conversation is a gentle reminder that strength, resilience, and curiosity don’t have an age limit—they just keep evolving.Connect with Jill and her work:https://www.jillgaumont.com/https://www.instagram.com/beyoutifully_aligned/Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott sit down with Brea Johnson, founder of Heart + Bones Yoga, for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about movement, creativity, and trusting your own path.Brea shares her journey from early yoga teacher to building an online platform rooted in functional movement and anatomical integrity. What began as a personal curiosity evolved into a bold shift away from traditional yoga norms—one that invited both resistance and deep alignment with her values. Together, they explore what it means to take risks in your work and life, especially when those choices don’t follow the expected path. Brea reflects on the balance between intuition and practicality, how she’s learned to pace herself after seasons of overextension, and the importance of creating space for creativity beyond business—through painting, astrology, and retreat experiences.This conversation weaves together themes of authenticity, evolution, and staying grounded in what feels true, even when it means outgrowing what once fit. It’s an invitation to move—physically and metaphorically—in ways that support longevity, curiosity, and a life that feels like your own.Connect with Brea and her work:https://heartandbonesyoga.com/https://www.instagram.com/heartandbonesyogahttps://www.tiktok.com/@heartandbonesyogahttps://www.facebook.com/heartandbonesyogahttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnVaSAbA_YK2WLyqCgs7jwAConnect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott sit down with Kathryn Bruni-Young for a grounded and expansive conversation about strength, simplicity, and listening to your nervous system.Kathryn shares her transition from a decade of teaching yoga in Toronto to building a strength-focused studio in rural Ontario. What began as a curiosity about powerlifting evolved into a complete reimagining of her work—shifting from traditional yoga instruction to helping people build real, measurable strength. Along the way, she reflects on the surprising calm she found in small-town life, the importance of balancing energy (not just time), and how overbooking can quietly erode joy.Together, they explore what it means to challenge the body in ways that build resilience rather than depletion, especially for folks navigating aging, peri/menopause, and cultural narratives about limitation. Kathryn speaks candidly about the power of lifting heavy, the nervous system benefits of controlled stress, and why it’s never too late to start.This conversation is part personal evolution, part fitness philosophy, and entirely an invitation to rethink what strength—physical and otherwise—can look like at all seasons of life.Connect with Kathryn and her work:www.mindfulstrength.cahttps://www.instagram.com/mindfulstrength.ca/Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott catch up over a tightly scheduled, military-style timeline—reflecting on urgency, boundaries, and the very human tendency to overcommit. Jenn shares how she’s been saying yes to too many exciting opportunities, and Scott offers a simple task-calibrating tool (hint: no sevens allowed). Together, they explore what it means to prioritize well-being, resist hustle culture, and stay grounded amid tight timelines and shifting responsibilities.The conversation meanders, in true Unscripted fashion, into musings on social media boundaries, American grief, trauma-informed crisis work, and a delightful sidebar on the resilience of red squirrels (yes, really). From bridge negotiations to squirrel tunnels, this episode is a cozy blend of reflection, humour, and a new year busyness exhale.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In the Season 2 opener of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott are joined by the thoughtful, funny, and deeply reflective Theodore Ambie‑Barango for a conversation about courage, curiosity, and the long road of questioning what we were taught to believe.Theodore shares his journey from growing up in a deeply religious home in Nigeria to moving to Canada for university, building a career in tech, and eventually writing his book Lost in Scripture—a vulnerable exploration of faith, doubt, and deconstruction. He speaks openly about the tension between honoring where we come from and having the courage to think for ourselves, especially when education, lived experience, and curiosity start asking new questions.Together, they talk about how doubt often begins quietly, how learning to hold multiple perspectives can deepen empathy, and why understanding the “why” behind our beliefs (and each other) matters so much—whether in families, relationships, or across cultures. Along the way, they touch on music, writing as a healing practice, therapy, and the teachers and mentors who shape us in lasting ways.This conversation is an invitation to stay curious, stay compassionate, and be brave enough to grow—even when it’s uncomfortable.You can buy Theo's book Lost In Scripture on Amazon: https://a.co/d/hqADnorConnect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this final episode of 2025, Jenn and Scott cozy up for a reflective (and squirrel-adjacent) conversation to close out Season One of Unscripted Curiosity. They look back on a year of podcasting—16 episodes filled with real talk, remarkable guests, and a growing comfort with doing things imperfectly. Jenn shares how the podcast helped her loosen the grip of perfectionism, while Scott reflects on finding freedom in unscripted dialogue and the joy of connecting with curious minds.They talk about what it’s meant to prioritize rest, set boundaries, and let authenticity lead the way—even when it means canceling an episode or mixing up the start time due to time zone differences. From wellness ruts to retirement pacing, journaling goals to gym routines, the conversation moves through work, identity, and what it means to choose a life that feels like your own.Also mentioned: red squirrels, paper calendars, and starting a journaling group in 2026—email us if your curious about joining the group (or want to know more about squirrels or how things were scheduled before Google calendar).Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott are joined by friend of the pod Chelsea Elmquist for a grounded, thoughtful, and often funny conversation about career pivots, parenting, and the power of presence. Chelsea shares her journey from policing and crisis negotiation to pursuing a Master’s in Counselling Psychology—while raising two kids and rethinking what self-care actually looks like.Together, the trio explore the transferable skills that come from high-stress jobs, including active listening, empathy, and learning how to set boundaries without burning out. They touch on the evolving nature of self-care, how strength training supports mental and physical health, and why walking mindfully (sometimes with snacks) might be more healing than sprinting through the hard stuff.This conversation is a mix of wisdom, humour, and real talk about navigating transitions with intention, whether you’re in a negotiation room or making dinner for toddlers.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this catch-up episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott reconnect over everything from pasta dough to nervous system lows. Scott shares stories from his recent trip to Italy—including yoga, food tears, unplanned adventures, and a surprise brush with the Pope—while also reflecting on a challenging experience with hypoarousal and how he found his way back through rest, movement, and gelato (among other things).Together, they explore how stress shows up in the body, why self-talk matters, and the surprising ways travel can reset the system. As always, the conversation weaves personal reflection with playful banter, curiosity, and care.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott are joined by friend and collaborator Kim Grykuliak for a wide-ranging conversation on work, wellness, and long walks—both literal and metaphorical.Together, they explore Kim’s journey from HR and event planning into nonprofit leadership, where she found meaning and purpose at the Zebra Centre and later, in addiction recovery work.  Along the way, Kim reflects on learning to care for her well-being in new ways, tuning into the signals of her body, and making space for rest and recovery. She also reflects on becoming a parent, returning to work, and finding healing through service and movement.From 12-hour silent walks to mountain summits and long-distance training, the trio talk about the physical and mental practices that have shaped their capacity to show up—for others and themselves. They explore what it means to plan for growth, to rest with intention, and to stay connected across seasons of change.This episode is both grounded and expansive, offering a glimpse into the quiet courage it takes to keep evolving—one step at a time.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this expansive and energizing conversation, Jenn and Scott sit down with David Bidler, co-founder of Physiology First, an organization on a mission to bring physiology-based education into the mainstream to support mental and physical health across the lifespan.David shares his powerful personal journey—from early struggles with substance use to discovering purpose through Brazilian jiu-jitsu and ultramarathon running. His story weaves together themes of resilience, curiosity, and the role of movement in transforming lives. What began as a training center for endurance athletes has since grown into a global initiative to reimagine how we understand and support youth mental health.Together, the trio explore the limits of the current mental health model, the value of building physical and social infrastructure, and why foundational habits—like sleep, hydration, sunlight, and movement—are more radical than they seem. David introduces the idea of focusing on one’s personal "hammer" (your zone of genius), and how developing that single tool deeply may be more impactful than chasing versatility.They also discuss the promises and perils of artificial intelligence, including the emotional ties people—especially youth—are forming with AI companions. David invites deeper inquiry into how we can build purpose in an increasingly digital world and announces an upcoming 200-mile run to raise awareness and funding for Physiology First’s youth programs.From frozen feet and lost toenails to existential purpose and the future of AI, this conversation offers both practical insights and philosophical reflection on what it means to be a human in training—for life.Connect with David:Website: https://physiologyfirst.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/physiologyfirst/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bidler-765aa745/Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott return to their roots with an unscripted conversation that moves through themes of trauma, nervous system regulation, and the evolving nature of boundaries. They begin with a reflection on the Netflix film Night Always Comes, touching on housing insecurity, personal privilege, and the complexity of the language we use to describe lived experiences.The conversation opens into a wider exploration of somatic therapy, mindfulness, and the ongoing work of self-regulation. Jenn shares insights from her clinical practice, including how she tailors her approach to each client’s needs, while Scott reflects on the importance of boundaries in high-stress work environments, drawing from his background in law enforcement.Together, they consider the practices that keep them grounded—meditation, movement, time in nature—and the ways they’ve each learned to hold space for others without losing themselves in the process. What emerges is an honest and thoughtful dialogue about aging, capacity, and staying connected to what matters most.You can access the Waking Up Meditation App: https://www.wakingup.com/My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies by Reesma Menakem: https://a.co/d/iXWM1CdNight Always Comes | Official Trailer | Netflix: https://youtu.be/Gd44vTsTUhs?si=WE50LoDPKzujIoqlConnect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

On this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, we sit down with Clare Gallant for a brave and deeply personal conversation that leans into the messiness of parenting, identity, and letting go—proof that curiosity paired with courage can open doors to healing we didn’t know we needed.Clare shares her powerful story of adopting a child with reactive attachment disorder and the unspoken toll it took on her family, her sense of self, and her nervous system. With honesty and heart, she reflects on the grief of making the impossible decision to let go—and the long journey of self-forgiveness and healing that followed. We talk about parenting through trauma, the complex emotions of retirement, and the unexpected sense of purpose Clare discovered in her new job at Costco.The conversation opens up questions about legacy, aging, and how we find meaning when the roles we’ve lived in begin to shift. We explore what it means to be “adventure ready” at any age, the surprising comfort of physical work, and why creativity and curiosity remain essential companions in later chapters of life.This one is rich with hard-won insight, laughter, and gentle reminders that personal transformation often begins with telling the truth—first to ourselves, and then to others.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott are joined by Cecily Milne, founder of Yoga Detour, for a wide-ranging and beautifully human conversation about growth, movement, motherhood, and redefining ambition.Cecily shares how discomfort has been a catalyst for both personal and professional evolution—from launching Yoga Detour after her own injuries, to navigating a major life move from Toronto to Squamish, BC. She opens up about postpartum anxiety, the hidden challenges of parenting, and the surprising shifts in identity that come with living in a slower-paced, mountain-town culture.Together, the trio explores the messiness of “enoughness,” the unlearning required to embrace interdependence, and how authenticity—not perfection—is the most magnetic force in both business and relationships. Cecily also speaks candidly about balancing online teaching with real-life connection, and how movement remains a powerful tool for her mental health.Expect honest reflections, a few laughs, and a reminder that growth doesn’t always look graceful—but it’s worth it.You can learn more about Yoga Detour here - www.followthedetour.com or on IG @yogadetour.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott settle into a conversation that makes space—for pause, for presence, for not having it all figured out. They touch on the discomfort of asking for help, and the subtle ways we override our nervous systems in the name of getting things done.They share personal reflections on people-pleasing, growing up fast, and learning (still) how to receive. Jenn opens up about her early tendencies to fill space in therapy sessions — and the transformative impact of learning to wait, be quiet, and trust the process. Scott shares insights from his time as a crisis negotiator and police officer, and how those experiences shaped his comfort with silence and presence under pressure.This one’s for anyone who:Struggles to slow down, ask for help, or sit in silence without squirmingFeels the pull to perform, please, or be productive — even when nobody’s askingWants to better understand the link between nervous system health and emotional capacityIs curious (or frustrated) about journaling and other creative practices that just won’t stickHas ever wondered what it really means to be with someone, rather than fix or guide themAlso covered: phones in bedrooms, wine after 40, the challenge of teaching online, and why prompts might be the key to unlocking Scott’s secret dream of writing.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Scott and Jenn sit down with Scott’s brother, Dan Jones—a former beat cop, current Chair of Justice Studies at NorQuest College, and someone who brings heart, grit, and wisdom to conversations about justice, trauma, and healing.Dan shares the path that took him from being labeled and underestimated as a kid to earning a Master’s degree from Cambridge University, and building a career rooted in compassion, not just correction. He opens up about the emotional toll of policing, the importance of boundaries, and how he’s learning to stay regulated in a world that often isn’t. From his deep respect for Indigenous healing practices to the everyday rituals—like barefoot walks and feeding magpies—that help him feel human, Dan invites us into a conversation about vulnerability, resilience, and finding fulfillment in unexpected places.This episode is full of laughter, honesty, and reflections on brotherhood, burnout, and why men’s mental health deserves more space. It’s a conversation about doing the work—and staying curious while you do.Connect with Dan: [email protected] more about NorQuest College: https://www.norquest.ca/Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, we sit down with Caroline Cheng, a mental health educator with the RCMP, whose journey has taken her from science labs to forensics to the front lines of mental wellness in law enforcement. Caroline shares stories of growing up in an immigrant family shaped by academic pressure and high achievement, how she’s learning to quiet her inner critic, and why she believes curiosity and community are central to healing.We talk about the shift from independence to interdependence, how perfectionism and cultural values can shape our mental health narratives, and the power of crying, cold plunges, and aerial circus arts as regulation tools. Caroline also reflects on integrating wellness into first responder culture, what she’s still unlearning, and the big, open-ended questions guiding her life right now.Expect laughter, real talk, and an inspiring reminder that growth is rarely linear—and always better when shared.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this heartfelt episode of Unscripted Curiosity, it’s Jenn’s turn in the hot seat as she opens up about her 4 decade journey through therapy, healing, and reconnection with herself. With Scott asking thoughtful, grounding questions (and bringing a few good laughs), Jenn shares the layered path that’s led her from rhythmic gymnastics and disordered eating to becoming a trauma-informed therapist with a deep respect for body-based healing.She reflects on how traditional talk therapy often left her feeling more overwhelmed than supported, and how discovering somatic practices, trauma-informed yoga and movement, and Indigenous healing helped her finally start to come home to herself. From early sports psychology to land-based ceremony, Jenn shares candid moments of struggle, insight, and self-compassion—reminding us that healing is rarely linear, and always personal.Scott also brings his usual warmth and curiosity, opening the conversation with stories from a recent retreat and time spent caddying for his son. The episode closes with a grounded reflection on the ongoing nature of resilience, the value of vulnerability, and how small daily choices can help us meet ourselves with more grace.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this honest and deeply personal episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Scott takes the hot seat as he opens up about his journey through therapy, trauma recovery, and emotional regulation. Co-host Jenn holds space as Scott reflects on his early resistance to therapy during his time as a police officer and how that mindset slowly shifted through experience, curiosity, and necessity.Scott shares candidly about the impact of cumulative trauma, the role of EMDR in processing what he calls his “trauma trunk,” and how practices like breathwork, yoga, and cold exposure became anchors in his healing. He touches on the profound influence of Indigenous healing practices, including his powerful experiences participating in sweat lodges—spaces that helped him connect more deeply with himself and something greater than himself. Scott also talks about the emotional toll of first responder work, the transition into civilian life, and the importance of seeking support before burnout hits.Throughout the conversation, Jenn brings her perspective as a therapist, asking thoughtful questions and drawing out the nuances of Scott’s experience. Together, they unpack the challenges of regulation, the messiness of healing, and what it means to show up more fully in life and relationships.This episode is a raw, real, and compassionate look into one man’s journey toward well-being—and a reminder that growth often begins in the uncomfortable places.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, Jenn and Scott open up about their very different approaches to planning and presence—Jenn’s love of preparation (thanks to her past in event planning and engineering) contrasts with Scott’s go-with-the-flow mindset shaped by years as a crisis negotiator. A missed appointment sparks a deeper reflection on anxiety, catastrophic thinking, and the inner voices we all wrestle with.The conversation flows through topics like negativity bias, the tug-of-war between discipline and self-compassion in exercise, and the essential role of active listening—whether in therapy or crisis situations. Jenn shares candidly about becoming a therapist in her late forties, while Scott reflects on his own transition out of law enforcement and into wellness work for first responders.Throughout, they explore what it means to stay grounded, stay human, and stay curious—even when life doesn’t go as planned. Plus, a peek at future guests and their hopes for what’s next on the podcast.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Unscripted Curiosity, co-hosts Scott and Jenn invite a very special first guest—Scott’s wife, Terri! The conversation kicks off with some playful banter about Ontario’s recent weather drama (spoiler: it wasn’t as wild as predicted). From there, they dive into the heart of the episode: Terri’s powerful story of career reinvention.Terri opens up about her career path as an occupational therapist and the balancing act of work and family life. But when chronic health issues hit in her early forties, everything changed. Forced to step away from her career, Terri began to explore new ways of healing—leading her to yoga teacher training and an unexpected shift in her life.As she shares her experiences, Terri reflects on the pressures Gen X women faced to “have it all” and how her journey into wellness, from yoga to pain science and polyvagal theory, has transformed her approach to self-care. She talks about finding balance, letting go of rigid expectations, and the importance of listening to her body—practices she now embodies every day.The episode wraps up with a fun and heartwarming chat about what’s next for Terri and Scott’s yoga company, Twisted Oak Yoga. From sound healing events to a sold-out retreat, they’re creating meaningful spaces for others to find wellness, too. Plus, hear about their exciting future plans, including a Tuscany yoga retreat and more!Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!

In this first episode of the podcast, Scott and Jenn introduced themselves and discussed their backgrounds. They discussed their respective careers, with Jenn sharing their experiences of reinventing themself and finding new meaning and purpose in their present work as a somatic coach and registered psychotherapist. Scott shared his experience in law enforcement and the impact of that 30+ year experiences on his personal growth and wellness. They also explored the concept of somatic therapy, the structure and roles within a crisis negotiation team, and touched on some of their current interests and preferences.Connect with Jenn & Scott:https://twistedoakyogaandwellness.offeringtree.com https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1262404Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you!