Your Unpaid Therapists

Valery gets riled up discussing the men & women who agree to do things to get ahead then turn around and claim they've been harassed or mistreated. This all came into her orbit after decided she no longer liked Blake Lively after seeing an interview where Blake seemed rude. Months later Valery found out there was a smear campaign against Blake shortly after Blake filed for harassment on set. While the truth is unknown and lawsuits are flying all over the place, the one thing Valery stays adamant about is being an actor that has a voice to set boundaries, especially when you're a producer on the project. Matt Marr guests sharing his own thoughts on feeling pressured at work to do uncomfortable things in order to not lose a job while Alikona also hops on board to play devil's advocate. While entertainment news isn't typically our jam, speak out in uncomfortable situations is. So we wanted to talk about it! What do you think? Leave us your thoughts below! XOXO Bestie! P.S. You know the drill!! But if you don't, be sure to follow us @yourunpaidtherapists & Matt Marr too @themattmarr Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thanks to IG people are suddenly throwing the term narcissist around like it ain't nuthin' but a G thang. However, there are so many layers to that word and whom it truly applies to. And sure, we've all dated our share of selfish folks, but it's helpful to know if you're dealing with a legit narcissist or perhaps if you are one. So our awesome returning friend, Matt Marr, joins Valery & Alikona in break-break-breakin' it down! This is supppper informative and we hope you get something from it. XOXO Bestie!!P.S. If you haven't already, find Matt on IG @themattmarr and your girls @yourunpaidtherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy New-New! With 2025 promising a new beginning (if you're into that) and the excitement of a promising future, Alikona & Valery know how easy it is let those goals and resolutions slowly dwindle with out the RIGHT motivation. So in this episode the ladies are breaking down their best tips for sticking to the milestones that will keep you rocking towards your dreams! Let's get iiiiiiiii! You got this bestie, and be sure to share some of these aspirations in the comment section so Alikona & Valery can cheer you on!XOXO Bestie!! You know the drill, but if you don't... Find YUPT on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and on Patreon at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists =) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After dealing with multiple failures and allowing life to lead her in a new directions towards success, Kit Rich found herself amidst a depression during the pandemic. Rather than letting it break her, she decided to return to her passion, put pen to paper, and write a screenplay. This self expression led to directing a movie for the first time which went on to receive an array of accolades at film festivals. In today's episode, Kit discusses her emotional journey as well as some of the challenges of trusting the process when you've never done something before but just know it will work out! You can find Kit's film (and Valery in it as well), Isabel's Garden, on Amazon and Apple TV starting in January 2025. Enjoyed this EP & Kit? Find her on IG @onlykitrich or @isabelsgardenmovie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ho-Ho-Ho Bestie!!! This holiday season you may have been running a muck in those malls and ready for a nap, but before you close those weary eyes, take a beat and celebrate you! Val & Alikona know it might feel a little weird gifting yourself when you're supposed to be gifting others, but it's so important to fill thy cup!!! So whether it's a monetary gift or not, they want you to treat yo self!!! This episode Valery & Alikona cover some pretty stellar ways you can do just that! May these days, no matter what you celebrate, be merry and bright!!! XOXO Bestie!!P.S. Be sure to stay up to date on all the things on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and find fun extras on Patreon www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're told that T'is the season for joy & happiness, but sometimes happy can be hard to find during the holidays, whether it's because of a life circumstance or you're just not feeling the consumerism of this time of year. Regardless, you deserve to feel happy! So in this episode, Valery & Alikona talk about all they ways they like to combat loneliness or somber feelings in hopes it will inspire you to try a little sumthin', sumthin' new to change up your holiday vibe. And even if you are in the zone of happy, you'll still leave this pod with some fun practices that will having you buzzing with that good juju! XOXO Besties! Merry ho-ho's, happy candle lighting, and all the things! P.S. Be sure to find your besties on IG @yourunpaidtherapists & on Patreon for the extra perks www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you even been in a relationship where it just to that point? Gosh, we hope not, but that *ish happens! In this episode Valery brings up her guilty pleasure, a TV show called Ultimatum, which she can whole heartedly relate to. She gets vulnerable in sharing an ultimatum that didn’t go as she expected while Alikona shares her dislike for giving & receiving them. Love is such a complex emotions and we’re here to talk about it allllll! As always, find us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and find those extra perks n’ goodies on patron www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So the saying goes, "never mix business with pleasure," but odds are everyone's ignored that at least ONCE in their lives and it was either awesome or shit went down in flames! This week Valery's boo thang, David Hicks, joins us as we discuss taking friendships or relationships to a totally different level by getting involved through either business, investments, or just plain ol' moving in with someone (friend or lover) and finding out they are a total nightmare. How do you deal? How do you succeed? We discuss it all and get down with some pretty awesome songs of the week! If ya know, ya know! XOXO BestieFor more goodness & perks, find us on Patreon at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Justin Timberlake & NSYNC made saying goodbye seem so easy! But ending a relationship; be it with a love interest, a friend, or family member, can be very difficult. And sommmmmmetimes we do it in unhealthy ways that involve talking a LOT of shit about the other person whilst forgetting the blessing that came from knowing the person. So, today your besties discuss how they’ve been challenged with some rough goodbyes and how they’ve done their best to do it with grace. And not just giving themselves grace, but the other person and the situation. By the way, if you’ve found some awesome ways to cope with your own goodbyes, we’d love to hear them! Leave your story below! And while you’re at it, find your besties on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and on Patreon www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists XOXO! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Say my name, say my nammmme! While Destiny's Child may have been asking a man to proudly say her name, there is something to being able to say your name proudly and advocate for yourself when others want to be lazy and not take the time to learn it when it's not basic. "Huh?!, What are you talking about?," you might be thinking. When it comes to diversity in culture and ethnicity, having a name that isn't standard American or having a heritage that isn't part of the majority can leave you feeling invisible or shameful because of your differences. In the episode Alikona discusses her own struggles with not just her name, but biracial background and the ignorance she's experienced from others as well as the histories we don't learn about in school. Meanwhile, Valery and her proud Puerto Rican self shares a very different sentiment behind growing up as a minority. Both of your besties want to make sure we all take the time to respect and learn others' backgrounds before consciously or subconsciously dismissing it as no big deal. Big hugs ,Bestie! XOXO! Helpful links: Patreon www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapistsIG @yourunpaidtherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Opinions? There are many. Feelings? A whole lot. And as "minority" women who are close friends with members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, Valery & Alikona are dumbfounded and still processing the reason why so many people were willing to overlook the blatant hate/discrimination and ignorance towards us and our friends by the two men that were just elected into office. While we try to rationalize and understand how religion & economics may have been the motivator in America's voting decision, we're still scared to see what the future may hold as policies that stand for our rights may or may not crumble. Regardless, we're here to talk it out with you and share our perspective while being open towards yours. XOXO Besties! P.S. Find us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists & snag your perks on Patreon at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Diddy, Weinstein, Jeffries... the list of people finally getting caught for their abuse is continuing to grow. But with people like Diddy who have been accused of grooming talent and preying on those hungry to make their dreams come true, Valery & Alikona contemplate how far would you go? What would you do? Alikona even shares a couple experiences in her own life where she's both been propositioned and seen the product of a celebrity who was being abused. And this isn't just happening in the entertainment industry. History has shown us that when the wrong people get into a position of power, they take advantage. But the more we talk about it, the more we take action, and support each other, change will come.If you've experience any trauma, abuse, or discomfort in your work, athletic, or even social environment, we encourage you to seek help. XOXO Bestie! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wonder what it would be like to be psychic? Or have a weird hunch that you can't decipher whether it's your intuition, a psychic ability, or just a past trauma that's giving you that feeling? Alikona & Valery have!! Outside of being fascinated by the subject, your besties wanted to talk with someone who has been gifted with not just a psychic ability, but also took the time to study/train with the best of the best to hone in on her gift as not just a creative who happens to be psychic, but also a medium. Nikki Bryce tells us about her first surreal experience in hearing a message that freaked her out as well as trying to avoid using this gift because it was A LOT. However, once she embraced it, good things started to flow and a new chapter of her life's journey began. Even if you're not a believer, this episode will have you engaged and entertained!! XOXO Bestie!!!P.S. Do the dang thang! Find us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists & extra bonuses on Patreon at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I meannnn, IS love blind or do we need to see all the superficial aspects of a person to determine if they are for us? In this episode Valery delves into her obsession with the show Love Is Blind and how we as a society and all our apps & technology have lost the art of getting to know someone. So perhaps this show is doing a service for couples in forcing people to get outside themselves to really get to know someone. But Alikona wonders, “What about you?,” dear bestie? Could you get into a romantic relationship with someone that isn’t even close to your type physically and fall hard for them based on their personality, or is the need for physical attraction a must for you? What are your work arounds? Also, are men falling down on the job these days by sitting in their feminine energy of receiving vs providing? Many will argue they don’t want to offend an independent woman, but to Alikona this feels like an excuse to be lazy whilst still expecting women do for them. Let us know your thoughts on IG @yourunpaidtherapists or in the comments below. And if you haven’t already, join the Patreon community to receive extra perks! www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever hear one of your friends complain about how they always attract emotionally unavailable men/women, cheaters, losers, married men/women, etc.? Do you always seem to attract the same type of lovers or friends and can't seem to figure out WHY?! Often times we blame the pool of shitty men/women that are available in the dating world and forget to check ourselves and how we're showing up in the world. In this episode Valery & Alikona discuss why this might be happening as well as their own subconscious patterns that seem to keep showing up and how we can actively try to change them. This is a good one that we can all relate to whether single or not! Happy listening Besties! As always, find @yourunpaidtherapists on IG and check out all the extras like the private Zoom parties & opportunities to co-host an episode on the Patreon! www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists XOXO Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yooooooooo! Did you know that in tantric practices it's believed that being in a heightened state of awareness, such as peaking just before and during orgasm that you are the most powerful, in regards to manifesting your dreams? Also, breath work can be the key to unlocking moments of bliss throughout your day! Now that we have your attention, we know you're going to love so much about this episode! Returning with us is yogi and breath work expert Paul Benedict whom you may remember from season one. He's a plethora of knowledge and dives into the topic of creating a tantric connection with both your partner and yourself, because all these practices are great whether you're single or involved. So get your euphoria on as we get to the nitty-gritty of getting present, which is one of the best gifts you can give yourself! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a world where we've been bombarded with the terms "self-care" & "self-love" many of us don't realize that we've somehow confused the two. Most of us, especially women, THINK we are loving ourselves by getting that massage or pedicure, but the truth is those are not a means of loving ourselves the way we think. In this episode Alikona & Valery breakdown the two and workshop how we can start showing up for ourselves with love be it at work, in a relationship, or when we're flying solo! If you have any fun practices you'd like to share, your besties would love to hear about it in the comments below!! Until next time, XOXO!!!P.S. If you haven't already, find us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and on Patreon www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists =D Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week we tackled coping with trauma. This week we are continuing onto the aftermath, healing, and rediscovery of thy self post life-changing events. Our WOW Women of Wrestling Superhero, Jennyfer Roberts A.K.A. Ice Cold, is back to continue her story and share how she transformed her struggles into opportunities that landed her across the country and on T.V. Jennyfer's light and vulnerability are truly inspiring and we hope that, no matter what you've been through you'll find comfort in knowing that good things can happen when you're open to take a chance on change. If you loved this two-parter be sure to follow Jen on IG @jen_ro and watch her Saturday nights on WOW Women of Wrestling on your local CW affiliate or on Amazon Prime. XOXO Besties! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To say this week's guest is a survivor would be an understatement. Taking a series of back to back physical and emotional hits, the Universe (and W.O.W.) have turned her into a "superhero" whose strength is undeniable. For anyone who's ever dealt with any type of trauma, you are not alone and Jennyfer Roberts A.K.A. "Ice Cold" from WOW Women of Wrestling is sharing her story in hopes you feel seen and know that it can and will get better. We also hope that you'll feel inspired to reach out to friends, loved ones, and professionals to help cope with any traumatic events you might be currently going through or have had to endure in your past.You can find Jennyfer on IG @jen_ro or watch her on WOW Women of Wrestling on your local CW affiliate or on Amazon Prime. If you haven't already, follow the podcast on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and look for all the bonus goodies at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode will drop your jaw! WOW Superhero, Keta Rush, sits with us to share her journey of being bullied - which landed her in the hospital followed by years of recovery - to becoming the founder of Team Bully Busters to help combat bulling. We cover both the physical and mental aspects of bulling and how to take matters into your own hands, especially if you are a parent and/or your child is the one doing the bullying. Keta is filled with gems of wisdom and we hope you leave this episode feeling empowered. Be sure to follow Keta @KetaRush_wow as well as watch her on WOW Women of Wrestling. XOXO Besties! P.S. If you're interested in Team Bully Busters, find more info here: http://teambullybuster.orgP.P.S. If you're new to Valery & Alikona, find us on social @yourunpaidtherapists & Patreon at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Birthdays. We love them as kids and can't wait to be another year older! Wooo! But then something happens, especially for women, once we exit our early 20's. Suddenly the idea of getting older no longer seems fun. The world treats you different, your sex appeal in society may or may not change, and your body starts doing things it hadn't before. It can all seem so strange, when it's actually not. Society has normalized the fear of growing older, but in today's episode Valery & Alikona celebrate the miracle of living another year and also share their own insecurities that have popped up. This is an awesome episode that hopefully touches on a few thoughts that have crossed your mind as well. XOXO Besties! P.S. Find us on Patreon www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists and IG @yourunpaidtherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After marathoning across the Great Wall of China, Valery found herself in a whirlwind of emotions that reminded her of the precious moments created when stepping out of your comfort zone. In the is episode she and Alikona discuss some of their epic adventures in hopes of inspiring you to go out and have some of your own! From travel flops to burnt armpits, this episode will have you both laughing and ready to pack your bags! Happy listening, friends! XOXO Besties! P.S. Stay up to date on the podcast by following @yourunpaidtherapists. Annnnnd for extra goodies be sure to find your girls on Patreon! www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Teresa Espinosa is back in the house and we are talking about getting that monnnnnaaay!!! And if you're new to Teresa, she's just you know danced & choreographed for some of the hugest names in Hollywood as well as choreographed movies like Magic Mike. How you might ask? Using the same mindset she coaches others to do as they set out to accomplish their dreams and make great money doing it. However, there's more than meets the eye when it comes to money. From healing ancestral wounds to the vibration of wealth, we cover so much in this episode! So get ready to hype yourself up as we blow your mind! Or at least challenge it just a tad! XOXO Besties! P.S. For more Teresa, follow her @teresa.espinosa22 P.P.S. For more Alikona & Valery follow @ yourunpaidtherapists and sign up to be a patron on Patreon~ www.tinyturl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Besties, in a day and age where we as adults are owning when a relationship may not be working and filing for that D, it doesn't mean that it's easy. We know what at least SOME of you might be thinking, so get your head out of the gutter! Not that "D!" We're talking about divorce. One of Valery's childhood O.G. Unpaid Therapists, Karina Rodriguez, shares her experience with coming to terms with what she needed to do and how she's found her strength and freedom in reclaiming single hood as both a mother and elevated woman. No matter where you are at romantically, this is one we think everyone can relate to! XOXO Besties! And if you can't get enough of Your Unpaid Therapists, find us on Patreon! There are fun extras that we think you'll love! www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is such a hot topic for us in today's world of lazy daters! We're talking about the folks that put in little to no effort and the many that come on wayyyyy to strong. How do we deal?! Our returning guest, Yael Tygiel, has loads of opinions and we're here for all of them!For more YourUnpaid Therapists be sure to follow us @yourunpaidtherapists & scope out our Patreon at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Also! Find Yael @yaeltygiel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Besties! If you’re a fan of women with grit and tenacity, then you’ll love today’s guest! Known as “Candy Krush” on WOW Women of Wrestling, Amberly Shaw discusses her experiences before WOW as a future Olympian who stepped away due to the toxic and abusive nature of professional sports. In this intimate discussion she shares the sacrifices she made, the detours she took, reclaiming her mental health, and the accomplishments that followed. This one is sure to shock you, but also leaving you feeling inspired! Find Amberly on IG @sugarshaw_herself and your besties @yourunpaidtherapists XOXO! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We wear many masks and have many identities depending on who's looking. Most of us are also very aware of the stereotypes placed upon us at birth, be it because of our gender, race, sexual preference, financial status, etc. But what happens when you find yourself pigeon holed into an identity that others have place on you in your career? What if playing into that stereotype gets you out of trouble or more opportunities even though it's not really you? Would you do it?! Today's special guest, DeShaude Barner, is not only gracing us with his glorious vocals, he's also sharing his journey as a closeted queer R&B artist who started his career "playing straight" to appease the industry and the masses. Alikona & Valery talk about their own encounters in the entertainment industry, but ish gets real when DeShaude breakdown how he went from walking needles to not giving a fluff even when it created a huge ripple in his relationship with his father. Besties, this one is loaded and amaaaazing! And we know that you're going to melt when you hear DeShaude's pipes. Happy listening, friends! XOXO Besties! P.S. Follow DeShaude Barner @DeShaude on IG & of course stay up to date on the podcast @yourunpaidtherapists. For extra goodies be sure to find your girls on Patreon! www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

That's a wrap on Season One, Besties!!! Valery & Alikona go in on what it means to take up space out in the world and how to have the confidence to boldly claim your right to be seen, heard, and even take up physical space in a society that doesn't always just give it to you. They also have some fun creating alter egos before wrapping it up with a reflection on some of their favorite moments from this season. And don't worry, there will be a Season Two, so stay tuned! XOXO Bestie!!P.S. Stay in the know by following @yourunpaidtherapists on IG and find some stellar perks on Patreon www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're in the era of manifestation and energy awareness, which is stellar! HOWEVER, there's a fine line between dreaming and waiting for things to manifest and taking "inspired action" to allow things to manifest for us. Today's guest calls BS on manifestation and believes hard work and hustle is the key to success. Returning with Valery & Alikona is Mister Freddie Sheppard, a man of many successes, who came to debate, besties! Alikona feels strongly about the energy of attraction while Valery will meet you in the middle. Freddie also gives Alikona his best advice on networking her way to Dwayne Johnson. Will his advice work? Guess you'll just have to wait and find out... But rest a sure, if it does work, you will be the first to hear about it!!! XOXO Besties! P.S. Be sure to do the dang thing! Follow @yourunpaidtherapists on IG and subscribe to the Patreon for a chance to host an episode and join private Zoom parties! www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists or search for Your Unpaid Therapists on Patreon.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ladies & Queens, don't let those uber tough masculine men fool you. At their core, many Alpha's seek love & tenderness whether they know how to express it or not. This week our guest Freddie Sheppard (World Champion ATV rider, multi-business entrepreneur, monster truck announcer, and father) shares the simplicities of what he feels makes a relationship work with those "a man's man" type of guys. While he's not the spokesperson for all men, his perspective definitely gives Valery & Alikona some insight that sparks an awesome conversation! If you're new to us, WELCOME! And if not, ya'll know the drill! You can find us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and find some stellar perks on Patreon at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No matter who you are or where you're from, someone at some point in your life has imposed their beliefs of what is right for you onto you and possibly even shamed or scolded you for not living within that ideal. Why is that?! Whether it's society, your parents, or the patriarchy, there are so many standards put into place as to how we should live our lives. But at the end of the day, you are the only one living that life, Boo, so do you! In this episode Valery, Alikona, and returning guest Yael Tygiel, discuss defying parental and social expectations for your career, marriage status, the desire to pop them babies out, open relationships, and more. So if you're a people pleaser or feeling unhappy with the direction you've been going in, this episode is a nice reminder that the only standards you need to live up to are your own! And perhaps even question where you developed those standards and beliefs. Did YOU create them based on what feels good to you, or did you adopt them because someone else taught you that's what you "should" do? Hmmmm... Think about it! And in between that think sesh, find us on Patreon for some fun extras then keep up with us on social @yourunpaidthereapists and our guest @yaeltygiel XOXO Besties! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can miracles really happen when you realign your body’s energy? Reiki Master, Sound Healer, and Movement Intuit, Gina Starbuck, discusses her experiences as both a healer and witness to reiki healing injuries, diseases, and terminal illnesses as well as having clients who’ve accepted their time to transition. Valery questions how a child could possibly “manifest” something like cancer while Gina breaks down her own beliefs of a soul’s purpose, sacrifice, and choice to leave early as a part of their journey. Alikona shares her current experience with a “terminally ill” family member who is not ready. Then things heat up as they dive into the topic of autonomy when it comes to suffering and wanting to leave on your own terms vs being forced to live despite mental or physical pain. This episode is loaded and we want to know your thoughts, Bestie! Be sure to leave comments, reviews, and subscribe to the pod! You can also stay up to date on IG @yourunpaidtherapists as well as grab your goodies on Patreon at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Also, be sure to find Gina on IG @ginastarbuck as well as @awakenyoursoul For information on classes, healings, and more go to stan.store/GinaStarbuckAbout our guest: Gina Starbuck is a dynamic medicine woman & healing artist. She's a Reiki Master, Sound Healer, Intuitive & Master Teacher Of Embodied Movement. With a background as a world-renowned performer, she guides individuals to rediscover their inner divine essence through creative expression and soul connection.Gina is a published author and inspiring speaker, captivating audiences with her insights into the human spirit and the power of self-expression. As the co-founder of Awake & Soulful, she offers deeply spiritual retreats worldwide, empowering people to integrate their spiritual gifts into their daily lives.With decades of study and practice in various forms of healing art and energy medicine, she creates safe, nurturing environments for transformative journeys where individuals can feel seen, heard, held, and loved.As a devoted mom, Gina brings her nurturing essence and wisdom to all aspects of her work and life, guiding others to embrace their true essence and live with purpose and vitality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MOST of us dance around the "F" word and wouldn't dare call someone fat to their face, none the less behind their backs. Hurt, shame, and an array of other feelings are associated with that 3 letter word, but not for Yael Tygiel. She sees it as a fact, and she embraces it as part of her beauty. The plus size model and Electric Now on-air host proudly owns her gorgeous body and reminds us all that "EVERY body is a good body," so why do we waste so much of our time shaming ourselves? Her wisdom and confidence are incredibly inspiring and enlightening, and we can't wait to hear your thoughts! Leave those comments below and find us on the gram @yourunpaidtherapists You can also find our guest @yaeltygiel annnnnnnd for stellar perks like private Zoom parties & opportunities to guest on the show, find us on Patreon www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists XOXO Besties! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The shame, the guilt, the pleasure...there are so many mixed messages and emotions behind self-touch. Whether it's sexual or soothing, most of us are not taught or encouraged to touch ourselves, especially as women. In this episode Patreon member and special guest, Brandie Velazquez, joins Valery & Alikona for a juicy conversation about getting to know your body so you can be its best friend, lover, and everything in between. And if you find yourself a little jelly of Brandie, then head on over to our Patreon to see how you can be a guest host too! www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists. And, as always, be sure to stay in touch on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and find Brandie @velazquezmom5 XOXO Besties! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Losing someone. Most of us have experienced it and all of us deal or will deal with it differently. Sometimes it's comforting to know that you're not the only one processing the complex emotions of seeing someone transition. This week Alikona shares her ability to stay grounded during chaos and process later while also letting us know that it's okay to feel relief when someone passes on. Valery opens up about facing the day when her parents depart and both besties acknowledge the beauty in their difference perspectives. At the end of the day, just know that there is no right or wrong way to look at the final chapter of life. There isn't a given time frame to process, and you're never alone. Your Unpaid Therapists are just a "comment" away. <3 Let them know you're thoughts on IG @yourunpaidtherapits XOXO Bestie! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Besties!!! Today’s guest is a MASTER in multiple genres of alternative practices that can realign your body into optimal health, shall you keep an open mind. Alikona and Valery wanted to break the stigma of practices like Reiki, sound baths, and energetic realignment being woo-ey or being “sooooooo L.A.!” So they invited healer, Gina Starbuck, to educate us all on how energetic practices can transform both your internal & external life tremendously. And of course Alikona, master of going left field mid-conversation, squeezes in questions on inter-dimensional travel during dreams after having heard that souls leave the body to play while we sleep. This convo gets real interesting, so you’ll want to stay tuned until the very end. We thing you’ll adore Gina, so be sure to find her on IG @ginastarbuck as well as @awakenyoursoul For information on classes, healings, and more go to stan.store/GinaStarbuckAnd, of course, find us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists as well as grab your goodies on Patreon at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapistsAbout our guest:Gina Starbuck is a dynamic medicine woman & healing artist. She's a Reiki Master, Sound Healer, Intuitive & Master Teacher Of Embodied Movement. With a background as a world-renowned performer, she guides individuals to rediscover their inner divine essence through creative expression and soul connection.Gina is a published author and inspiring speaker, captivating audiences with her insights into the human spirit and the power of self-expression. As the co-founder of Awake & Soulful, she offers deeply spiritual retreats worldwide, empowering people to integrate their spiritual gifts into their daily lives.With decades of study and practice in various forms of healing art and energy medicine, she creates safe, nurturing environments for transformative journeys where individuals can feel seen, heard, held, and loved.As a devoted mom, Gina brings her nurturing essence and wisdom to all aspects of her work and life, guiding others to embrace their true essence and live with purpose and vitality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Valery & Alikona are hitting some big topics today so buckle up because your moral compass might just go on a ride. And if these topics get under your skin, great! They should. We may not all agree, but listening to different perspectives might just make you think twice or at least be more compassionate and understanding to others beliefs. As Salt-N-Pepa once said, "Let's talk about sex, baby...Let's talk about all the good things and the bad things that maybe..."XOXO Besties!As always, feel free to drop a comment, find us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists, and get in on those perks at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode Alikona & Valery explore that age-old question, "Why Men Love Bitches" and why do successful, beautiful women love toxic men otherwise known as douche bags! After doing some research, the answers we found were not only interesting, but very relatable!! Ladies, being a doormat isn't a good look on us, but also being a bad-ass boss who's used to working hard for something doesn't mean we need to overwork in our relationships too. This episode is filled with some fun nuggets we think you'll enjoy! XOXO Bestie! And as always, find us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists & all the goodies on Patreon www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this continuation of amazingness, Jason J. Carter gives us the real-real on what happens after you realize the dream job isn't so dreamy. Despite not having a clear next step, he was able to see his worth well enough to walk away from his cushy job as a network television host and into the unknown with the faith that something better will come. For most of us this would be way too scary. We'd spend a few moments fantasizing about shouting "I QUIT!" from the rooftops only to go back home, wake up the next day, and shuffle back into a situation that isn't as fulfilling as we hoped. Val share's similar feelings about her having to walk away from a loving relationship that just wasn't enough, and Alikona finds that the Universe likes to kick her out frequently when she lingers. Wherever you are at in your journey, we hope you are feeling joy and bliss, but if some reason you're not, perhaps this episode will give you the little nudge you needed to hear to change things up! We love you besties!!! XOXO P.S. You know the drill! Find us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and find extra perks like getting the chance to co-host with us or join us on our private zoom parties on our Patreon www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No one can rock spandex better than today’s guest, besties! He’s spent 15 season’s serving as one of RuPaul’s right-hand men on Drag Race, was sought after and hired by Entertainment Tonight, hosted his own Morning Show in Miami, and spent years working for next to nothing before his break. And it was those years that Jason J. Carter and Alikona shared an apartment together! Today we talk about all the secret and not so secret highs and lows, where all that grit comes from, annnnnd somehow manage to work in ghosts and lore. Hey, what's an episode without a juicy Never Have I Ever, right?! Laugh, be inspired, and hit that heart button Bestie! Also, follow Jason @jasoncarterofficial, find us @yourunpaidtherapists, and get those perks on Patreon! www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How many times have we heard "celebrate your wins." then wondered, "Well how the fluff do I do that?" We all know how to celebrate someone's birthday or a festive holiday, but do you know how to truly celebrate achievements regardless of the size? Alikona's so focused on the big win she's clueless on how to celebrate the milestones, so she often just eats a "celebration cookie." Valery is the best at finding ways to celebrate both herself and others, while Matt is MATT! The wisdom keeper! In this episode we dive into how and why we celebrate ourselves in certain ways, and how to get better at it. Besties, we hope you get inspired and throw yourself a party, get that massage you've been meaning to treat yourself too, or take a moment to look in the mirror and give yourself the credit you deserve!! We love you and we hope you get a lot out of this one! XOXO Bestie! P.S. If you're new to us, find us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and Matt @themattmarr P.P.S. If ya can't get enough of us and would like a shot at co-hosting the show with us or getting an invite to our private Zoom parties, find us on Patreon www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Valery's reverse catfishing men, Alikona's face-flopping from 20 ft in the air, and Matt is...well, he's MATT! Need we say more! After getting out all the giggles we move into an often untapped energy for women, anger. And you might be thinking, "What?! Psssh, trust, I know how to feel angry." You might, but do you know how to unleash it? Like, reallllllllly unleash and feel it to its depths so that you can properly release it once it's done? Studies have shown that most women don't because they're not conditioned to believe displaying anger is proper. If your like Valery and Alikona you're anger might be a silent stillness that rumbles inside with the release of a few angry tears. However, there is something to be said about anger getting stuck and also giving noise and a voice to the energy that you're feeling so it doesn't turn into longterm resentment. Besties, we have so much to say and are so glad we have a professional like Matt to join us as we hash it out! If ya love him, find him on IG @themattmarr then stay up to date with us @yourunpaidtherapists! As always, don't forget to slide into that Patreon subscription for extra perks at www.tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists XOXO Bestie!!! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy Valentine's Day Bestie!!! We're celebrating with that age old question, are soulmates legit? Do they really exist or are me romanticizing an idea we hope is true. Do you only get one or do we get a few? Is my dog my soulmate??? Lol. Whatever you believe, we hope you find ways to celebrate love and loving yourself! As always, stay up to date on all things @yourunpaidtherapists on IG and dive into those Patreon perks at tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists XOXO Besties!!! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Writer & Creator of the hits series Hit The Floor has some fun little secrets about his past that we love to hear! From thievery to creating the T.V. Series that both Valery & Alikona have been on- - but mainly Valery- - and led to the creation of this podcast, you're gonna gasp and giggle your way through part one of our sit down with James LaRosa. And if you haven't watched Hit The Floor, Boo, get IN! It's so good! And, if ya wanna keep up with James find him on IG @jameslarosa! Be sure to also follow @yourupaidtherapists and subscribe on Patreon to get those perks! (tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists) XOXO Besties! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whoop there it is! Part two of our candid convo with Hollywood writer, James LaRosa. In this episode he shares with us the challenges that came in his career as well a fun stories about casting the show annnnnnd why Valery Ortiz made the cut to play Raquel on Hit The Floor. We also find out which the other surprise celebrity auditioned for the role. James vivacious personality and storytelling kept us uber engaged and we having a feeling it will reel you in too! Find James on IG @jameslarosa and your girls @yourunpaidtherapists. If you're loving the show and wanna see more or attend our private zoom parties and even guest on an episode, subscribe to our Patreon! tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Oh my god Matt's back agaaaain..." We get to the real-real on his "long horn" past, how patriarchy & patriarchal wounds still have women by the wrists, and how the fluff Ken got nominated for an Oscar in Barbie's movie while she didn't. Okay, so that might sound silly, but there are most definitely some layers to this conversation. We get all sorts of history buff on you, but have not fear, you'll still find yourself giggling! If you love Matt as much as we do, follow him on IG @themattmarr and find us too @yourunpaidtherapists For extra goodies, subscribe to Patreon at tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapists XOXO Bestie! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Besties!!!! We have our FIRST EVER Patreon Perk recipient, Brandie Velazquez, join the podcast as an extra special guest as we discuss the sacrifices SOME of us have made for love and others, not so much! This was such a wonderful opportunity for Valery & Alikona to get intimate with a listener who has supported the podcast from the jump. We're so honored to have her not only on the podcast, but as a part of our Your Unpaid Therapists framily. (Friend+Family) Now you might be thinking, "What the heck? How do listeners become guest hosts?!" Or maybe you've heard Alikona's bah-jillion commercials so you know! But just in case you're new to us, join us on Patreon and ya just might find yourself an Official Unpaid Therapist too! We love you and we thank you!!! XOXO Besties!! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you handle change? Are you a soldier or do have a complete meltdown? Sometimes life's not about the change, it's about the growth that will come with it and if you're willing to embrace it! Let's take that growth with grace, people! ...But if you're not in a place to be grateful, hopefully you'll at least feel like you're not the only that's had one heck of a 2023! We love you and we get it.Stay in the loop with all thing Your Unpaid Therapists by following us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and subscribing to the Patreon here: tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapistsXOXO Bestie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

YES! The P stands for what you think it does. Ladies, we're owning our voices, bodies, taboo feelings, and getting loud about being a woman in a mannnnn's world. Cue Christina Aguilera's rendition of It's A Man's World! "Good little girls are seen not heard?!" Not in Alikona & Valery's world. This episode we talk about the shame surrounding a woman standing in the power of her sexuality and how to let go of being shy when it comes to our intimate pleasure and need for respect from men. Hold on to your seat or go grab your megaphone, we hope this episode sparks a fire in you!Like the episode? AWE-SOME! Be sure to find us on IG @yourunpaidtherapists and on Patreon, which we've loaded with neat perks! tinyurl.com/YourUnPaidTherapists XOXO Besties! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yogi and all around happy human, Paul Benedict, shares with us how he found his dharma (purpose) and how he helps other people find theirs through yoga practices, meditation, and personal mission mantras. It's an awesome way to kick off the New Year and we hope it inspires you to live your dharma despite natural ebbs and flows. Find Paul on YouTube and social @newrajayoga. For all those extra goodies, check out our Patreon at tinyurl.com/YourUnpaidTherapistsXOXO Besties! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.