SHUT UP and Smile!

Send a textIn this episode of Shut Up and Smile, host Nancy Kohne speaks with Adriene Caldwell, author of 'Unbroken Life Outside the Lines.' They discuss Adriene's journey through trauma, her experiences in foster care, and the impact of her childhood on her adult life. Adriene shares her motivations for writing her book, the importance of healing, and the power of storytelling. The conversation emphasizes resilience, personal growth, and the significance of making amends in the healing process.

Send a textIn this conversation, Nancy, Keery and Margaret discuss the complexities of dating, particularly focusing on the challenges women face when navigating relationships with narcissists and emotionally abusive partners. They explore the importance of recognizing green flags, understanding the difference between nice guys and good guys, and the significance of self-love and boundaries in fostering healthy relationships. Margaret shares her personal experiences and insights on healing from trauma, emphasizing the need for women to step back and allow men to pursue them, while also highlighting the dangers of emotional manipulation. The discussion culminates in a powerful message about the journey from brokenness to empowerment, encouraging women to seek support and prioritize their well-being.

Send a textIn this powerful episode of Shut Up and Smile, your hosts Nancy and Keery sit down with Margaret Stone—a licensed clinical therapist turned no-nonsense dating coach for women. Margaret specializes in helping women break free from toxic relationship cycles, including narcissistic abuse, love bombing, and anxious attachment.With her signature tough-love style, Margaret walks us through her non-negotiable coaching framework, sheds light on the red flags too many women ignore, and explains how feminine power is key to reclaiming emotional freedom. From healing childhood wounds to navigating modern dating with clarity and confidence, this episode is packed with real talk, relatable insights, and empowering truth bombs.If you’ve ever felt stuck in a pattern of “dating the wrong men” or questioned whether lasting love is still possible after trauma—this conversation is for you.

Send a textIn this inspiring episode, host Nancy Kohne welcomes the dynamic Blanca Rodriguez, CEO of Wounded Healer, LLC. Blanca wears many healing hats—massage therapist (for both people and pets!), certified fitness instructor, Amazon best-selling co-author, speaker, podcaster, and holistic life coach.Together, they explore:The meaning behind “Wounded Healer” and how Blanca’s personal journey shaped her missionHow she integrates physical, emotional, and spiritual healing in her coachingHer powerful evolution into public speaking through Toastmasters—in both English and SpanishThe heart-driven community work she does with survivors, senior dogs, and no-kill sheltersAdvice for bilingual women and immigrant communities who feel called to heal and leadFrom trauma to transformation, Blanca’s story is one of purpose, visibility, and compassion. Tune in for an honest, uplifting conversation filled with healing, heart, and hope.🗣️ Bianca always offer our listeners some "free life coaching" so don't miss it!💜 Visit us at shutupandsmile.com 📩 Write us at: [email protected] 🛑 If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please seek help. You are not alone.Until next time, never shut up—and smile on.

Send a textGet ready for a raw, real, and unexpectedly witty conversation as we sit down with author Jodi Pavlock to discuss her powerful new book, Jekyll Can’t Hyde. In this candid and emotionally charged interview, Jodi pulls back the curtain on the seductive charm and devastating fallout of falling in love with not one—but two—narcissists.From emotional manipulation and gaslighting to reclaiming her voice and rediscovering her worth, Jodi walks us through the highs, lows, and jaw-dropping twists of her story. Through heartfelt storytelling and unapologetic honesty, she sheds light on the rarely spoken reality of narcissistic abuse—and why breaking the silence is the first step toward healing.Jekyll Can’t Hyde isn’t just a memoir—it’s a survival guide packed with wisdom, wit, and a whole lot of heart. Whether you’re in the midst of your own storm or standing in the light after it, Jodi’s story will leave you feeling seen, inspired, and empowered to take your life back.

Send a textIn this deeply personal episode, host Nancy Kohne continues her story, picking up from the summer of 1999. She had just moved into her dream home, believing she was building a perfect life with her partner. However, the reality was far from ideal—she was unknowingly trapped in a relationship with a pathological liar, someone who manipulated her emotions, isolated her from loved ones, and constantly kept her on edge.Nancy recounts the terrifying events of a seemingly ordinary morning—dropping off her kids at school, making a quick stop at the bank, and then experiencing a horrific car accident caused by her partner’s reckless and aggressive driving. What should have been a minor inconvenience escalated into a near-fatal crash, leaving her unconscious and later waking up in the hospital. As she processed the trauma, she wrestled with overwhelming guilt, questioning whether she could have prevented it, and berating herself for not speaking up when she sensed danger.

Send a textNancy took an unexpected ten-month break from her podcast, Shut Up and Smile, due to a series of personal challenges. Now she’s back, excited to relaunch Season Two in September. Here are the main highlights she covers in her update:1.     Reasons for the HiatusAfter planning only a short pause, life threw numerous obstacles her way—medical concerns, family dynamics, and unexpected emotional stress—that prolonged her break.She struggled with self-doubt about continuing creative projects but ultimately persevered thanks to encouragement from loved ones.2.     Personal and Family ChangesNancy’s household experienced both joy and upheaval: she welcomed her second step-grandchild over the summer and undertook major home renovations.Her “bonus” daughter, B, who had been living with them and receiving substantial help, abruptly moved out and cut off contact, leaving Nancy hurt and questioning her own boundaries.Meanwhile, her son Jordan left home but returned, offering Nancy solace and a sense of closure after B’s departure.3.     Friendship Ups and DownsNancy lost a close friend, Leah, over misunderstandings and hurt feelings surrounding a July 4th event and a wedding. Despite efforts to reconnect, Leah blocked Nancy on all platforms, leaving Nancy both shocked and saddened.Reflecting on the conflict, Nancy notes that sometimes friends walk away without resolution, and she’s had to accept that as part of life.4.     Health StrugglesNancy copes with five autoimmune diseases (including fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic fatigue), which flare up in colder months.She dealt with severe throat issues, possibly related to a new RA medication, resulting in an emergency endoscopy and ongoing treatment.Recent months brought additional surgeries and health scares, amplifying her anxiety and PTSD.5.     A New Book and Future Podcast PlansNancy has been working on a book about her journey as an abuse survivor and hopes it will inspire others to share their own stories.Season Two of Shut Up and Smile will feature co-host Keery, plus guests who will share stories of survival and discuss mental health and other important topics.She’s determined to continue advocating for abuse survivors and to encourage conversations that support healing.Despite the setbacks and heartaches, Nancy’s renewed energy and optimism drive her forward. She invites listeners to revisit Season One episodes and get ready for a bigger, better Season Two, launching in September, complete with new content, interviews, and her forthcoming book. 

Send a textIn this raw and real episode, Nancy shares her personal journey of trying to save her beloved pit bull, Jasmine, who had behavioral issues. She recounts how she rescued Jasmine and her sister as puppies, and the challenges they faced due to their inbreeding. Nancy describes the incidents where Jasmine attacked other dogs and a person, leading to vet bills and legal concerns. Despite her efforts to train and rehome Jasmine, her anxiety and aggression continued to escalate. Ultimately, Nancy had to make the heartbreaking decision to euthanize Jasmine. This experience has made Nancy reflect on the importance of choosing who to love and save, and the need for support for those in abusive situations.

Send a textNancy shares her journey of attending her son's army graduation and spending time with her daughter in California.  She reflects on the pride she felt seeing her son's transformation and the special moments they shared. Nancy also discusses her experience of being in an abusive relationship and the emotional toll it took on her. She opens up about the manipulation and control she endured, highlighting the importance of sharing her story to help others in similar situations.

Send a textNancy Kohne returns with another episode of "Shut Up and Smile" after her special edition podcast on health struggles. She shares her recent experiences, including feeling a positive change in her health, reconnecting with a long-lost cousin who praised her podcast, and expressing pride in her son finishing Basic Training. Nancy also discusses her victim advocate training, reflecting on her past experiences and preparing to help others in crisis.The episode delves into Nancy's past relationship, detailing how she met her partner and the early signs of control and manipulation. Despite red flags, Nancy's love and determination to heal him blind her to the extent of his manipulation. She discovers shocking truths about his past, including lies about his family and a lack of empathy, ultimately realizing she was in an abusive relationship.Nancy concludes with a reminder that help is available for those in abusive situations and encourages listeners to reach out. The podcast is now accessible on various platforms, and Nancy welcomes feedback and stories from her audience. She signs off with her signature phrase, "Stay strong and smile on," leaving listeners with a message of resilience and hope. 

Send a textNavigating Life's Marathon: Overcoming Challenges with Chronic IllnessIn this empowering podcast episode, Nancy delves into the profoundand often overlooked struggles of individuals with chronic illnesses. Nancyshares her struggles with chronic illnesses and the daily battles that isbrings with it.The conversation opens with personal stories, offering a raw andgenuine look into the challenges of managing chronic conditions. Listeners gaininsights into the emotional toll, societal misconceptions, and the impact onmental health that often accompanies chronic illnesses.By the end of the episode, listeners will get to know the hoston an even more personal level be left with a renewed perspective on livingwith chronic illness – one that acknowledges the struggles while emphasizingthe resilience and strength that can emerge from the journey.  The podcast aims to inspire, inform, and create a sense of unity for anyone dealing with a chronic condition, letting them know they are not alone in their struggles and that there is hope for a fulfilling life despite the challenges. 

Send a textIn the sixth episode of the podcast series, I began recounting the story of meeting my narcissist husband, delving into the initial stages of our relationship. I painted a picture of the charming facade he presented during our early interactions, highlighting his charismatic personality and the allure that drew me in. I described the initial feelings of excitement and connection, showcasing the moments when his charm seemed irresistible. However, as the story unfolded, I hinted at subtle signs that hinted at a deeper complexity in his character. These signs were easy to overlook amidst the excitement of newfound love.

Send a textIn this podcast episode, I delve into the complexities faced by individuals living in abusive relationships during the holiday season. I explore the various challenges they encounter and the unique stressors that can intensify during this time. By recognizing these difficulties, we emphasize the importance of a compassionate and all-encompassing approach in response.The episode highlights the need for increased awareness and understanding of the struggles that may lie hidden behind festive facades. It emphasizes the importance of bolstering support systems and creating a safe space where those experiencing abuse can find solace and assistance.Ultimately, the goal is to foster a more empathetic and inclusive environment, ensuring that during a season meant for joy and connection, individuals facing abuse receive the support they need. Through this understanding and support, we aim to alleviate the immense burden carried by those navigating abusive relationships during the Holidays.

Send a text"Join us in Episode 5 of Shut Up and Smile! for a deeply personal journey in 'Foot Loose & Fancy Free.' In this episode, I'll share my triumphant escape from the clutches of an eating disorder, the liberating adventure to the 'Land Down Under,' and the serendipitous discovery of my true calling in life. However, just as life seemed to align perfectly, two little blue lines on a pregnancy test changed everything, compelling me to close a door I never thought I'd have to. Tune in as I navigate the complexities of these life-altering moments and the unexpected paths they carved in my journey."

Send a textThis episode will resonate with a wide audience, as many listeners can relate to the powerful influence parents have on shaping their children's perspectives on relationships.The host Nancy Kohne will talk about how she showed her daughter from a young age what an unhealthy relationship was and how her daughter is currently trying to break that cycle through strength and healing.Stay tuned to how you can break the cycle and find your voice! The SUAS Squad!"Stay Strong and Smile On!"

Send a textIn this special edition podcast, I am going to delve into the critical issue of sexual assaults on young women in college campuses. This Special podcast is a “painful” one as you will learn because it hit home last weekend.  I will provide a comprehensive overview of the topic, discussing its prevalence, the experiences of survivors, and the various factors contributing to this distressing phenomenon.The podcast opens with a poignant introduction to what happened to a close family friend.  Emphasizing the urgency of addressing this issue and the importance of creating a safe environment for all students. It highlights the significance of an open dialogue about sexual assault in order to prevent and combat this pervasive problem.This firsthand account serves as a stark reminder of the need for empathy, support, and justice for survivors.The podcast also delves into the factors that enable sexual assault, including the role of alcohol and drug use, lack of consent education, and the normalization of certain behaviors. They stress the importance of bystander intervention and consent education programs on college campuses.Furthermore, I will discuss the legal aspects of reporting sexual assault, providing information about campus resources, and the importance of encouraging survivors to seek help and justice through appropriate channels.The podcast concludes with a call to action, urging educational institutions, students, and society at large to work together to create safer campus environments. It emphasizes the significance of ongoing awareness, support, and policy changes to combat sexual assault and promote a culture of respect, consent, and accountability in colleges.Overall, this special edition podcast provides a thought-provoking and informative exploration of the pressing issue of sexual assaults on college campuses, shedding light on the experiences of survivors and advocating for change to ensure the safety and well-being of young women in higher education. 

Send a textIn the compelling Episode 2 of "Shut Up and Smile," titled "Let Me Tell You About Myself," we embark on an intimate journey into the past. Your host, Nancy Kohne takes a courageous dive into the depths of their own childhood, revealing the intricate link between those early experiences and later tumultuous adult relationships.In this deeply personal episode, Nancy shares their own story, painting a vivid picture of their formative years and the events that left an indelible mark on their identity. They delve into the emotional landscapes of their childhood, the challenges faced, and the connections between those experiences and the unhealthy adult relationships they found themselves in later.With unwavering honesty and vulnerability, Nancy explores how our early experiences can shape our understanding of love, trust, and self-worth. This episode is a testament to the power of self-reflection and the healing journey, as Nancy navigates the intricate web of their past to find healing, strength, and self-discovery."Shut Up and Smile: Let Me Tell You About Myself - Episode 2" is more than a podcast episode; it's a heartfelt conversation that speaks to the human experience and the universal journey of understanding and healing. Whether you've experienced similar challenges, are looking for insight, or simply seek to connect with authentic storytelling, this episode invites you to join Nancy on their path of self-discovery, resilience, and growth. Tune in, be part of our community, and let's embark on this transformative journey together.

Send a textWelcome to the inaugural episode of "Shut Up and Smile," a podcast dedicated to survivors of abuse. In this groundbreaking episode titled "Who Am I," we embark on a transformative journey of healing, self-discovery, and empowerment.Join me your host, as I create a safe and supportive space for survivors to share their stories, find strength in their vulnerability, and explore the profound question that often lingers in the aftermath of abuse: Who am I?