Taboo Talk with Sarah

🔑 Main Topics / Takeaways Why trauma is a nervous system adaptation, not a personal failure How childhood trauma impacts the brain, emotional regulation, addiction, and relationships The difference between “fixing” emotions and learning to stay present with them How men are conditioned to suppress emotions—and the long-term cost of that Why healing happens through small consistent steps, not perfection     🗣️ Intriguing Quotes “I didn’t come out of the womb broken.” “Your brain adapted… and it can adapt again.” “We all came into the world as a bright shining light… and life covered it up.”     ⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps 00:03 – Introduction: trauma beyond mindset 02:26 – Steve’s brain scan and the moment everything changed 06:54 – Trauma as adaptation, not damage 09:39 – The impact trauma had on parenting and relationships 11:35 – “Man up, stuff it down” and emotional suppression in men 14:22 – Leaving a 30-year finance career to pursue healing work 17:58 – Understanding trauma through nervous system regulation 20:51 – Breathwork, neurofeedback, psychedelics & inner child work 22:56 – Why trauma responses aren’t conscious choices 27:04 – How healing changes relationships and attracts healthier people 28:37 – Addiction, trauma, and the body trying to feel safe 34:33 – Post-traumatic growth and reclaiming your life 37:59 – Final takeaway: “You are not broken.” 📚 Resources Mentioned 🎧 The Neuro’s Journey Podcast (A podcast exploring trauma, healing, leadership, nervous system regulation, and personal growth.) 🧠 Neurofeedback / QEEG Brain Scanning 📖 Work and concepts from Dr. Daniel Amen

🔑 Main Topics / Takeaways The quiet unraveling of identity in midlife and why it’s more common than we think Letting go of old identities (like “the runner”) and grieving who we used to be Why “reinventing yourself” is the wrong approach—and what to do instead The importance of resetting, not restarting, and honoring your lived experience How to find your “spark” again through curiosity, small steps, and self-trust     🗣️ Intriguing Quotes “Something that once fit really well… doesn’t anymore.” “You don’t need to reinvent yourself—you need to reset.” “Stop dimming your light and pursue your spark.”     ⏱️ Key Moments 00:00 – Introduction: the quiet shifts of midlife 02:14 – Heike’s “aha moments” and evolving identity 05:30 – Pushing harder… until the body says no 06:59 – The wake-up call: burnout and physical breakdown 10:32 – Losing identity as a runner and grieving the change 15:04 – The healing power of Pilates and slowing down 18:00 – Identity, community, and letting go of who you were 21:53 – Moving forward without looking back 23:34 – Why sparks change over time 28:04 – The story behind Pursue Your Spark 32:50 – Your spark doesn’t have to be big—it just has to be yours 38:07 – Why “reinvention” is the wrong mindset 42:09 – Finding your next step when you feel stuck 44:29 – Final message: stop dimming your light 👤Guest Heike Yates is a Midlife Fitness Expert, author, and creator of the SPARK Framework. She helps midlife women navigate seasons when what used to work no longer fits and routines feel harder to follow than they used to. With over 35 years of experience in fitness, nutrition, and mindset coaching, Heike supports women who feel stuck in the gap between knowing what matters and actually following through. Her approach is practical, compassionate, and designed for real life — not ideal days. She is the host of the Pursue Your Spark Podcast and award-winning author of Pursue Your Spark, where she blends science and lived experience to help women rebuild self-trust and move forward with steady steps, without guilt, extremes, or starting over.

🔑 Key Takeaways   Grief—especially from suicide—can transform identity in ways people don’t understand. Avoiding pain doesn’t remove it… it delays and often deepens it. Trauma isn’t just emotional—it can shape behaviour, identity, and self-worth. Vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s the new definition of strength. Healing isn’t linear—but it is possible with the right tools and support.     🗣️ Quotes to Remember   “The grief transforms you into someone you don’t recognise.” – Todd Maguire “You’ve got to face it now… or it’ll be worse down the track.” – Todd Maguire “The new definition of strength is being vulnerable.” – Todd Maguire “You don’t have to do it alone.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross     ⏱️ Key Moments   00:00 – Introduction: grief beyond death and the weight we carry 02:38 – Todd shares the unseen reality of suicide grief 03:37 – Finding his partner: the moment that changed everything 07:46 – Turning to alcohol and survival coping mechanisms 11:30 – “Surviving badly” vs learning to survive well 13:17 – The alter ego: Donnie and life undercover 17:46 – The turning point: stopping another suicide 20:57 – Losing identity and returning to “normal life” 23:45 – Fatherhood as a wake-up call 26:28 – PTSD, anger, and the delayed impact of trauma 28:18 – Writing the book: the moment everything shifted 31:24 – Redefining strength: vulnerability over silence 37:01 – Message to those struggling: “You are loved. You will be missed.” 46:31 – PTSD explained like a physical injury 48:11 – Final reflections: you don’t have to do it alone

🔑 Key Takeaways What we focus on shapes our reality—and we can train that intentionally. Avoiding end-of-life conversations creates emotional and logistical burdens for loved ones. Legacy isn’t just money—it’s stories, memories, and how we show up in everyday life. Most people delay estate planning not because it’s hard—but because it’s uncomfortable. The real opportunity isn’t just planning for death… it’s learning to live more fully now.     🗣️ Quotes to Remember “What we focus on shapes our entire reality.” – Jermaine Ee “Urgent beats important every time.” – Jermaine Ee “Clarity is love in practical form.” – Jermaine Ee “Those stories disappear only when we stop telling them.” – Jermaine Ee “Every day is a special occasion… we just forget.” – Conversation theme     ⏱️ Key Moments 00:00 – Introduction: Why we avoid conversations about death and legacy 01:58 – Jermaine’s perspective: What we focus on shapes reality 03:19 – Why humans avoid estate planning (urgent vs important) 07:59 – The emotional cost families pay when planning isn’t done 12:31 – What legacy really means (and how it shifts after loss) 15:57 – Jermaine’s story: discovering who his mum was before motherhood 20:01 – Capturing stories before they disappear 24:39 – Why asking your parents questions matters 27:54 – The surprising reason people avoid estate planning 33:45 – “Clarity is love in practical form” 36:04 – Regret, saving, and not fully enjoying life 38:02 – Living differently when you realise life is fragile 41:52 – Choosing joy, using what you have, living intentionally 

🔑 Key Takeaways Grief is not only about death. It can also come through change, transition, identity loss, and the life we thought we were going to have. After caregiving or crisis, many people do not know how to stop “treading water” and begin living again. Healing often starts with small moments of awareness, especially breath, rest, and reconnecting with yourself. Grief does not necessarily get smaller. We grow around it and learn how to carry it differently. Looking beyond the horizon is not betrayal. It is a way of honoring what has been while still allowing yourself to live fully. 🗣️ Quotes to Remember “Life experience becomes your credentials.” – Lani Almanza “Grief isn’t a one-time thing that you experience and then it goes away.” – Lani Almanza “You’re not in crisis anymore, but you haven’t quite figured out what’s next.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross “We grow around our grief.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross and Lani Almanza conversation theme “Remember to come up for air.” – Advice from the whale, shared by Lani Almanza ⏱️ Key Moments 00:01 – Sarah introduces Lani and frames the conversation around life after crisis 01:59 – Lani answers the season’s opening question: what she notices and cannot unsee 04:04 – What happens when caregiving ends and you no longer know where you fit 05:42 – Lani shares her own experience after losing her son Jacob and later caring for both parents 07:19 – The moment she realized she could finally turn her phone off after more than 20 years 10:00 – “Been there, done that” as real-life credentials 12:18 – Finding joy after grief without feeling disloyal 16:22 – Why grief never fully disappears, but we grow around it 20:32 – The inspiration behind Beyond the Horizon 26:08 – One small shift to begin healing: meeting yourself in your breath 29:06 – Advice from the whale: make a splash, come up for air, no blubbering 31:03 – Sarah reflects on honoring the past while still choosing life ahead

🔑 Key Takeaways Authenticity is not a nice extra — it is the foundation for impact, energy, and sustainable success.   Hiding parts of yourself to fit in drains your confidence, performance, and joy.   You do not have to choose between credibility and creativity, seriousness and spark.   Social media often shows the highlight reel, not the full human story behind the success.   You are never starting from zero — every chapter of your life brings experience, wisdom, and tools for the next one.   🗣️ Quotes to Remember “Intentionality plus authenticity equals impact.” – Jennie López   “You’re not starting from zero. You’re bringing all of that experience with you.” – Jennie López   “Stop hiding. Walk into your life truly as who you are.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross   ⏱️ Key Moments 00:01 – Sarah introduces Jennie and the many hats she wears   01:31 – The obvious question: what’s it like being named Jennifer Lopez?   04:38 – Jennie answers the season’s opening question: what she’s noticed and can’t unsee   07:26 – Life as a Latina woman in engineering and manufacturing spaces   09:13 – The cost of changing yourself to be taken seriously   13:36 – Why old advice about “working harder” doesn’t always serve women now   17:46 – Jennie’s journey with dance, energy, and filling her own cup   23:30 – Sarah and Jennie talk about movement, music, and stress release   31:59 – Mexico, uncertainty, and focusing on what you can control   37:19 – How to stop shrinking and start integrating all parts of yourself   41:21 – Why community, mentors, and support matter   44:09 – Jennie’s biggest takeaway: invest in yourself and be yourself   👤 Guest Jennie López Author of Intentional Unicorn Co-host of Very Caliente podcast

🔑 Key Takeaways Grief is bigger than death. It can also come through change, identity shifts, lost dreams, broken relationships, and unmet expectations.   Unacknowledged grief doesn’t disappear. It grows louder until we’re willing to listen.   There are no neat “stages” of grief. Each person’s experience is unique and non-linear.   Compassion doesn’t require carrying everyone else’s pain. We can care deeply without absorbing it.   Healing begins when we accept what is, choose life again, and ask, “What now?”   🗣️ Quotes to Remember “Grief is anything that we feel regret about, anything that we feel sadness and sorrow over, that we can’t seem to shake.” – Carol Pilkington   “It’s not about forgetting. It’s about taking hold of your life right here, right now.” – Carol Pilkington   “Grief isn’t something to rush past. It’s proof that something mattered.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross   ⏱️ Key Moments 00:00 – Sarah introduces the episode and expands the definition of grief beyond death   02:00 – Carol answers the season’s opening question: what she’s noticed and can no longer unsee   03:29 – Why grief is about more than losing a person   08:01 – How Carol helps people uncover the grief they’ve been carrying without realizing it   10:06 – Sarah reflects on losing her mum and the non-linear reality of grief   12:17 – Carol shares the story of losing her mother at 20   17:15 – How grief shapes us and what it can teach us   21:05 – Collective grief, 9/11, Bondi, and what crises reveal about humanity   28:07 – The difference between compassion and carrying the whole world on your shoulders   30:07 – Why grief can be seen as another expression of love   34:13 – Choosing life again and opening to possibility after loss

🔑 Main Topics / Takeaways  Overload is real: women are carrying huge mental loads while raising kids in a 24/7 digital culture.   Balance isn’t a luxury: self-care protects your health, relationships, and resilience.   Inner wisdom lives within: learning to tune inward (heart-center, mindfulness, meditation) helps you realign.   Regulation is practical: a one-minute breath reset can shift you out of fight-or-flight and into the present.   Use your voice without becoming caustic: truth-seeking can be compassionate, connected, and bridge-building.   🗣️ Quotes to Remember  “As soon as you start becoming separated… that’s where the crumbling is.” – Alana Cahoon   “If you don’t make time for your wellness, you will have to make time for your illness.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross   “The reality is all of the answers are right here.” – Alana Cahoon   ⏱️ Key Moments  00:01 – Sarah introduces Alana Cahoon and the focus: wellness, leadership, alignment   01:09 – Season question: “What have you noticed that you can’t unsee?”   02:03 – Truth-seeking, peacemaking, and staying connected without taking sides   05:08 – Parenting stress + children growing up in the 24/7 digital world   07:27 – Caretaking, epigenetics, and the “women carry the load” reality   09:21 – Sarah shares her story: late motherhood, career, and learning to share the mental load   14:25 – Ambitious women, burnout, and the skill of delegating support   16:28 – Soul care: Alana’s practices (gardening, painting, creativity)   19:13 – Accessing inner wisdom: heart-center, meditation, mindfulness   21:48 – Alana’s upcoming book: Creating Abundance   23:27 – Chronic fight-or-flight explained and why stress impacts everything   25:56 – Practical shift: “Go with the flow” + morning intention + gratitude   30:20 – Guided practice: Alana leads the 10-count (1-minute) breathing exercise   35:40 – Sarah’s stress release: taekwondo, movement, and making noise   38:45 – Singing, breathwork, and deep breathing for regulation   43:51 – Using your voice: podcasting, confidence, and self-judgment   48:37 – Closing encouragement: your voice matters—share your story   👤 Guest + Resources Mentioned Guest: Alana Cahoon Founder: Balance by Alana   Host: Creating Abundance Podcast Upcoming book: Creating Abundance: Access your inner wisdom to manifest radiant health, wealth and happiness

🔑 Main Takeaways Fitting in and belonging are not the same thing: fitting in demands self-editing; belonging allows self-revelation.   Being “adaptable” can become identity amnesia if it costs your self-recognition over time.   Perimenopause isn’t only biological — it’s emotional and psychological recalibration, where tolerance drops and clarity rises.   There’s a difference between adapting from wholeness vs self-abandonment: one is flexibility, the other is disappearance.   You’re not rebuilding yourself — you’re re-recognising yourself, and learning to stop managing everyone else’s reactions.       🗣️ Quotes to Remember  “Fitting in quietly asks, ‘Who do I need to be so this works?’ Belonging gently says, ‘You get to be who you are here.’”   “I’m not becoming someone new. I am returning to the woman I have always been when nothing asked me to shrink.”   “Stop shrinking to preserve belonging. Choose the rooms that let you breathe.”       ⏱️ Key Moments 00:00 – Welcome + why naming the unspoken brings relief and recognition   00:45 – The disorienting middle-years question: “Who am I when I’m not needed?”   02:30 – Adaptability vs identity: when blending becomes self-amnesia   04:30 – “Fitting in” vs “Belonging” (the core distinction of the episode)   07:40 – Perimenopause as recalibration: tolerance drops, clarity rises   11:30 – “I didn’t have to go searching for her… she was there all along.”   14:00 – Adapting from wholeness vs self-abandonment   16:00 – Stop managing other adults’ emotional reactions   18:10 – Grief and life transitions reorganise a person   21:00 – Refusing counterfeit belonging + choosing rooms that let you arrive whole   23:00 – Closing: legacy, truth-telling, and not hiding anymore

🔑 Key Takeaways:Libido isn’t the problem—it’s a symptom of deeper imbalance. There’s a hidden “missing decade” in women’s health that we need to talk about more. Hormonal shifts in your 30s and 40s are real—even if your bloods say otherwise. You don’t have to do it all. And you shouldn’t have to. Healing starts with listening to your body, not fighting it.  🗣️ Quotes to Remember:“Not having a libido, weight gain—those are symptoms. Just like a cough or a broken leg. They’re messages from your body.” – Emma McDonald“You don’t have to do it all. And better yet—you don’t want to do it all.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross“You are not broken. You’re just disconnected—and you can find your way back.” – Emma McDonald  ⏱️ Key Moments:00:00 – Welcome to Season 2: Noticing what’s going on in women’s bodies 03:00 – Libido as a messenger, not a malfunction 06:00 – The ‘invisible decade’ between postpartum and menopause 10:30 – Why many GPs dismiss hormone issues in women under 40 14:00 – “I haven’t felt right since…” — understanding mum depletion 20:00 – Grounding, nourishment, and nervous system regulation 101 28:00 – Poop, protein & perimenopause: the stuff no one talks about 35:00 – Sex, safety & shame: decoding desire through love languages 44:00 – What labs don’t show and why it matters 50:00 – Hormone therapy: when it helps, when it doesn’t, and what else matters 58:00 – One gentle way to reconnect with your body again  👤 Guest:Emma McDonaldNaturopath & Wellness PractitionerAdvocate for Women’s Health, Cyclical Living & Nervous System Safety

🔑 Key Takeaways:Belonging is a universal need. The deepest thread connecting Season 1 and every panel, summit, and community Sarah has engaged with is the desire to be seen and loved.Tragedy can be a teacher. The Bondi incident shook Australia, reminding us what’s at stake when we dehumanize others or forget our shared humanity.Season 2 is a shift. This season focuses not just on naming pain, but on responding with compassion, persistence, and meaningful action.We all have a role. Whether you're raising children or healing from pain, choosing to stay human is revolutionary.Connection is the antidote to fear. Community, curiosity, and kindness are our most powerful tools for change.🗣️ Quotes to Remember:“We all want to belong. And love needs to be the loudest voice in the room.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross“Courage isn’t always loud. Sometimes it looks like compassion under pressure.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross“History shows us that when we divide people into ‘us and them,’ unimaginable harm becomes possible.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross⏱️ Key Moments:00:00 – Welcome back & introducing Season 201:20 – Why belonging kept coming up in Season 101:50 – Sarah’s personal response to the Bondi incident03:15 – Australia’s history with mass violence and gun reform04:50 – What this season will focus on: people who stayed human06:20 – From silence to response: the evolution from Season 1 to 207:24 – What Sarah wants to pass on to her children08:00 – New season, new question: Noticing before action08:44 – Closing words of gratitude and purpose👤 Host:Sarah Jordan-RossWife, mother, wellness coach, storyteller, and compassionate truth-teller. Creator of Taboo Talk, where we talk about the tough stuff so you never feel alone.📢 Call to Action:If this episode stirred something in you, share it with a friend who needs reminding that love still leads. Subscribe, leave a review, and join us each week as we continue building bridges, choosing courage, and holding onto hope.

🔑 Key Takeaways:✨ Intuition is a remembering — not something we learn, but something we return to. ✨ Nature is one of the easiest gateways back to alignment and inner wisdom. ✨ Sacred living isn’t ritual—it’s presence. It’s grounding, noticing, and reconnecting with your senses. ✨ Balance matters: We need both logic and intuition; science and soul. ✨ Community is essential — healing accelerates when people walk beside you. ✨ Love thy neighbour is not a suggestion — it’s the missing conversation we urgently need.  🗣️ Quotes to Remember:“We start to remember who we are at our essence—who we are at our heart.” — Carolyn McGee“Your heart is your most intuitive muscle. It will always tell you the truth.” — Carolyn McGee“Healing happens where science meets soul.” — Sarah Jordan‑Ross  ⏱️ Key Moments:00:01 — Sarah introduces the episode: science, soul, and sacred living 01:14 — Meet Carolyn: intuitive teacher, author & founder of Sacred Haven Living 01:37 — The childhood drowning incident that shut down her intuitive gifts 03:30 — Princess Diana’s passing and the awakening that changed everything 05:41 — Rediscovering colour, possibility, and purpose for her children 06:58 — Neuroscience meets intuition — how everything is interconnected 07:34 — Remembering who you are beneath fear, programming, and conditioning 09:48 — Sacred living explained: rituals, nature, grounding & everyday intuition 12:10 — Why our modern indoor lifestyles block intuition and regulation 13:50 — The power of community: belonging, support & being seen 17:25 — Growth through messiness: confusion, breakdowns & breakthroughs 18:36 — Divine timing, surrender & Carolyn’s “tap and rant” technique 21:38 — Balancing intuition and spreadsheets: living between two worlds 24:13 — Why extremes don’t serve us — spiritual bypassing vs over-analysis 25:51 — The one conversation we’re not having enough: Love thy neighbour 30:13 — Ripple effects: why one person’s light can change the world 32:37 — Carolyn shares her “Heart Test”—a practical tool for intuitive clarity 35:06 — Closing reflections: listening, pausing & returning to your inner wisdom

🔑 Key Takeaways:Pain is a messenger, not a problem to suppress—tune into it for wisdom. Fascia holds trauma—emotionally and physically—and releasing it can unlock healing. We are vibrational beings: Our thoughts, beliefs, and frequency shape our reality. Science and soul can co-exist: True healing happens when we honour both. You are the architect of your life—tune into a new frequency and choose your path consciously.   🗣️ Quotes to Remember:“If you don’t feel your problem, how do you know what to do?” – Alexander Oxford“We are powerful creators. Healing is possible—one belief, one breath, one action at a time.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross“Every time you make a decision, you’re tuning into a new frequency.” – Alexander Oxford  ⏱️ Key Moments:00:01 – Introduction & meeting Alex through HeroMakers and LAT Summits 02:00 – Alex shares the injury that shifted his paradigm at 12 years old 10:00 – Discovering fascia: the ‘woo-woo’ that science is finally catching up with 17:00 – Emotional trauma stored in the body & fascia’s role in healing 25:00 – Genetics vs epigenetics, and how thoughts shape health 34:00 – Creating your life through frequency, choice & the mind paradigm 40:00 – Redefining leadership & legacy: healing ourselves to help others 45:00 – The one conversation we need to be having more: Consciousness 

🔑 Key Topics & TakeawaysWhy planning for death is an act of love (not morbid!) Loretta’s journey from single mom to grief mentor The surprising healing power of a goldfish funeral How to talk to kids about death, grief, and emergency plans Why every adult should prepare a will — and how simple it really is The link between living well and dying prepared Grief isn’t linear — it’s a mountain range 🌄   🗣️ Memorable Quotes“Every decision made in grief will be questioned — over and over again.” – Loretta Omland“Grief is just love with nowhere to go. But maybe having those conversations gives it somewhere to go.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross“Talking about death doesn’t make it bigger. It tames the dragon.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross  ⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps00:01 – Welcome and why taboo topics matter 02:20 – Loretta’s story of loss and what inspired her work 05:00 – The reality of planning during grief 11:30 – Why "getting your affairs in order" is a healing gift 17:00 – Helping children understand death (the goldfish method!) 25:00 – Legal prep without overwhelm: Loretta’s workshop 33:00 – How music, memories, and legacy connect us across generations 40:00 – Living audaciously because death exists 44:00 – Grief, community, and the power of talking about the hard stuff 46:00 – Final encouragement: have the conversation today 

🔑 Main TakeawaysYour body knows—learn how to decode the signals it's giving you.Wellness is not a one-size-fits-all solution.Food is fuel, not a filler—and gluten & dairy may be the hidden culprits.Poop matters: What’s in the bowl says more about your health than you think.Perimenopause is real—and so is the hormonal chaos (and wisdom) it brings.💬 Notable Quotes“You don’t know how bad you feel until you start feeling better.” – Magda Sommer“Your story doesn’t have to be dramatic to be important—it just needs to be yours.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross“Your body is not a garbage can. Stop rewarding yourself with things that harm you.” – Magda Sommer⏱️ Timestamps & Key Moments00:01 – Welcome and intro to Magda Sommer01:32 – Magda’s wellness journey, divorce, fibroids, and the wake-up call06:00 – Discovering functional medicine and taking ownership of healing08:00 – Elimination diets, lab work, and body wisdom10:30 – What “reset” really means (spoiler: it’s not a fad)14:00 – Why fast food makes you feel terrible (even if it tastes good)17:10 – The sedentary life epidemic24:00 – Poop talk: bowel movements as health diagnostics31:00 – Cholesterol myths and medical gaslighting39:00 – You need a coach too (yes, even wellness professionals!)44:20 – Building joyful, playful, supportive health communities50:00 – Perimenopause, hormones, and kitchen rage 😅57:30 – Why women’s health topics are still taboo (and why they shouldn’t be)1:00:00 – Final wisdom: reclaim your power, listen to your body👩‍⚕️ Guest Bio: Magda SommerMagda is the founder of Reset Wellness Journey, a functional medicine nutritionist and wellness mentor focused on helping women heal chronic conditions, reclaim their energy, and rebuild their vitality from the inside out. She is known for her no-nonsense approach to health, her sense of humor, and her unfiltered willingness to talk about the stuff no one else does—like poop.

 🔑 Key Topics & TakeawaysUnderstanding sacred geometry and how it connects the body, mind, and nature The power of listening to your body’s whispers before burnout hits Healing generational trauma and the courage to break family patterns How energy healing and science are finally aligning Building communities that support, uplift, and heal together Conversations that save lives — breaking silence around mental health and suicidal ideation  💬 Memorable Quotes“The universe whispers, then she speaks, then she roars.” — Anne Almeida“Healing doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about listening, receiving, and remembering who you are.” — Sarah Jordan-Ross“We get attached to our stories like security blankets. Growth comes when we learn to let them go.” — Anne Almeida  ⏱️ Key Moments00:00 — Welcome and introduction to sacred geometry 02:16 — Anne’s journey: from trauma to healing through energy work 04:35 — Discovering empathic gifts and learning to manage energy 07:16 — How stress shows up in the body and how to listen to it 10:20 — Bridging spirituality and science in healing practices 13:52 — Simple ways to experience sacred geometry at home 18:36 — The connection between body balance and divine design 27:47 — Learning to say “no” and set healthy boundaries 31:14 — Breaking generational trauma patterns 38:35 — The courage to have difficult conversations about mental health 43:27 — The power of community and belonging 52:00 — Finding your mantra for hope: “You’ve got this.” 55:20 — Final reflections: why every story matters  👩‍🦰 Guest Highlight: Anne Almeida Anne Almeida is a healer, teacher, and spiritual guide whose passion lies in helping people rediscover alignment through sacred geometry, energy healing, and embodied wisdom. A mother of five and lifelong learner, Anne integrates the scientific and the spiritual, showing how energy patterns connect us to the greater design of life.

🔑 Key Topics & TakeawaysWhy your story matters, even if you think it doesn’t The process and power of multi-author books to launch your writing journey The surprising ripple effects of giving women a platform to speak Creating global community and connection through publishing Breaking the old model of aging and rewriting what life after 50 can look like 💬 Memorable Quotes“Everyone over the age of seven has a story that will inspire someone else.” – Cathy Derksen“Life is too short to stay stuck. Don’t just survive—create your next chapter.” – Cathy Derksen“Our older people are an untapped natural resource. Let’s listen to them before we lose them.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross ⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps00:30 — How Cathy’s books are born from real women and real transformation 02:08 — From medical genetics to storytelling: Cathy’s unexpected career pivot 04:36 — The magic of Passion, Purpose & Possibilities and how community shaped it 07:26 — Behind the scenes of the Inspired Tenacity author community 10:18 — Times Square billboards and global retreats 14:18 — Wild author stories (yes, someone was hit by lightning—twice!) 18:20 — From stuck to published: the transformation of one 75-year-old woman 21:57 — Why one caring adult can change everything 25:03 — Where the name “Inspired Tenacity” came from — and why it matters 33:36 — Midlife, menopause, and breaking up with society’s “retirement” model 37:54 — Intergenerational wisdom, and why older women are not obsolete 39:50 — Final encouragement: Yes, YOUR story matters — and it's time to share it 👥 Guest Highlight: Cathy DerksenCathy is the founder of Inspired Tenacity Global Publishing, a platform that helps women worldwide become published authors by contributing chapters to powerful multi-author books. Her work spans over a dozen published titles, international retreats, Times Square billboards, and a growing global community of empowered women lifting each other up through story.📍 Website: inspiredtenacity.com

🔑 Key Topics & Takeaways:How chronic illness and high-functioning depression go unseen for decades The unspoken reality of being a caregiver to someone with mental illness How faith, rest, and community became lifelines for Jim and his family The danger of religious labels and why identity must start with Christ Why the Church needs to step up and talk about mental health What it really means to rest, surrender, and live anchored in hope   💬 Quotes to Remember:“I don’t like you, God… but I can learn to love you.”— Jim’s raw and real salvation prayer“You shouldn’t be fighting for rest — you should be fighting from a place of rest.”“We gaslight ourselves into thinking sacrifice is holy, when often it’s just unhealed trauma.”  ⏱️ Key Moments (Timestamps)[01:14] — Jim’s chronic illness journey and being misdiagnosed for years [08:35] — Navigating caregiving for a spouse with four mental illness diagnoses [13:06] — The silent suffering of overfunctioning and why it’s not holy [16:09] — Redefining rest through scripture and Sabbath [18:59] — From atheist & witch to a follower of Christ: Jim’s salvation story [24:01] — Deconstructing labels like “left-leaning” or “right-leaning” Christian [40:50] — The Church’s lack of preparedness to deal with real mental health struggles [43:44] — Why telling our stories isn’t weak — it’s the key to healing 

Key Takeaways:📚 Learning struggles ≠ laziness – There’s always a root cause, and it’s often more emotional than academic. 🤲 Kids aren’t broken—they just learn differently – And when given the right tools, every child can thrive. 🧠 Early intervention matters – The earlier we catch challenges, the more empowered and supported a child feels. 🧒 Empathy should be part of the curriculum – Teaching kids how to care for one another could change the world. 🏡 Parenting with play & praise – Why fun, flexible, emotionally safe learning matters at home and in school.   Quotes to Remember:“Your child is not a problem to be fixed. They are a person to be understood.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross“They’re not lazy, they’re not broken—their brain just works differently. And that’s okay.” – Zoe Buckley“We don’t need more shame. We need more hugs, more space, and more ways to say, ‘you’re doing okay.’” – Zoe Buckley Key Moments:[00:31] – Zoe’s personal story of trauma, healing, and the birth of Learning Boosters [04:00] – Why traditional education still doesn’t work for many neurodivergent kids [08:00] – How Zoe uncovers what’s really going on behind the academic struggles [12:00] – What safe spaces do for kids: agency, trust, and transformation [17:00] – The power of yet: shifting from failure to growth [23:00] – Parenting tip: turn everyday challenges into playful, empowering moments [28:00] – Why community matters—and how we lost it [33:00] – Hormones, empathy, and why it’s not “just behaviour” [39:00] – Conversations we need to have: empathy in schools and emotional literacy [46:00] – Reframing inner criticism with self-kindness and simple nervous system resets  Guest Bio: Zoe BuckleyZoe Buckley is the founder of Learning Boosters, a tailored support program for students with learning difficulties or neurodiverse challenges such as ADHD, dyslexia, or trauma-based blocks. With a background in teaching and a deeply intuitive approach to child psychology, Zoe helps children (and their families) uncover root causes, build confidence, and rewire how they see themselves through patience, play, and personalized strategies.

Key Takeaways:💔 Breaking Shame's Silence: How shame—especially double shame—keeps women trapped, and how to break its grip. 🛑 Domestic Abuse vs. Domestic Violence: Understanding the difference and why emotional abuse is often overlooked. 🧠 Infidelity, Identity & Compassion: Reframing the narrative around affairs and giving betrayed women and "the other woman" space to heal. 🛟 The Power of Safe Spaces: How the Hush Festival was born from one woman’s courage to create a judgment-free platform for others. 🧍‍♀️ One Person Can Save a Life: Why it only takes one safe person, one signal, or one word to offer hope in moments of crisis.   Quotes to Remember:“Shame is a silent killer. When you don’t talk about it, it grows.” – Annie Boon“The Hush Festival isn’t about me. It’s about giving women a place to be seen, heard, and start to heal safely.” – Annie Boon“If you're holding it all together for someone else while you're falling apart—we see you.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross  Key Moments:[01:13] – Annie’s story: From confident woman to silenced survivor [04:00] – Helping high-performing women safely exit abusive relationships [06:00] – Understanding the male psyche and the patterns behind infidelity [08:30] – The origin of the Hush Festival and why it’s free and anonymous [13:00] – The danger of the "expert" label and staying in your lane as a coach [21:00] – The “double shame” of both mistresses and betrayed wives [23:50] – Facilitating conversations between mistresses and betrayed wives (and how it heals) [28:45] – The importance of open conversations, code words, and community [33:00] – Teaching our kids how to ask for help—no questions asked [38:32] – Should you tell your friend if her partner is cheating? Annie’s bold advice [44:21] – Suicide prevention, warning signs, and holding space [45:40] – What’s next: Smaller healing pods and the evolving vision of Hush   Guest Bio: Annie BoonAnnie Boon is a mindset coach, speaker, and founder of the Hush Festival, a powerful virtual platform helping women share their stories of infidelity, abuse, shame, and healing. Known for her honest, no-BS compassion and deep intuitive guidance, Annie is on a mission to create spaces where women feel safe to speak, feel, and rebuild. She specializes in helping high-performing women navigate betrayal, abuse, and deep personal transformation. Call-to-Action🎧 Loved this episode?Please rate, review, and share it with someone who might need to hear they’re not alone. If this episode resonated, leave us a comment or DM and let us know your biggest takeaway.Let’s keep the conversation going. Because when we talk, shame loses its power.

Key Takeaways:🌱 Caregiving & Identity: How lifelong caregiving roles can make us lose touch with who we are—and how to reclaim that. 💔 The Healing Journey: Carmen’s deeply personal story of loss, trauma, and rebuilding through radical self-love. 🧭 Boundaries Are Sacred: Why drawing lines isn’t selfish—it’s survival. Especially for women in caring roles. 🔄 Breaking Cycles: From repeating toxic patterns to rewriting the narrative of your life. 🤝 Community, Connection & Courage: The power of safe spaces to say the things you’ve never said out loud.   Quotes to Remember:“I no longer wanted to be a supporting actor in my own life.” — Carmen Walsh“You can't pour from an empty cup. But when you’re full, you get to bless others from the overflow.” — Carmen Walsh“Stop worrying about disappointing others. Start worrying about disappointing yourself.” — Carmen Walsh  Key Moments:[00:30] – Carmen’s powerful question: “How do you show up without expecting anything in return?” [05:25] – The beginning of Carmen’s self-love memoir—and why she wasn’t ready until now [09:04] – Realizing the common denominator in all your relationships is you (and that’s good news!) [11:30] – The power of finding a supportive female community [19:25] – Caregiving vs codependence: learning we’re not responsible for someone else's happiness [22:44] – True self-care: not bubble baths, but tending to your spirit [25:38] – The moment Carmen didn’t show up—and the world didn’t fall apart [33:00] – The taboo of living your own life instead of the one others expect [38:33] – Overflow vs obligation: how to serve from fullness, not fear [45:32] – Compassion, not judgment: how to rewrite your internal narrative   Guest Bio: Carmen WalshCarmen is a heart-led guide, community-builder, and emerging author of her upcoming self-love memoir, chronicling her journey through grief, unhealthy relationships, and self-reclamation. She co-hosts Shine Circle Connect with Debbie Prediger, holds space for women to speak their truth without shame, and is passionate about helping others find their voice, their boundaries, and their way home to themselves.  Call-to-Action✨ Loved this episode?Share it with the person in your life who always puts everyone else first.And don’t forget to subscribe, review, and tag us when you share on socials! Your story matters—and sharing it might just help someone else finally feel seen.

Key Topics & Takeaways:The Caregiver’s Journey: What happens when crisis strikes your own family Grief with Grace: The seasons, cycles, and gifts of grieving Sacred Self-Care: Why simple daily rituals are your lifeline, not a luxury Ho‘oponopono Wisdom: The Hawaiian practice of healing from the inside out Boundaries & Burnout: Redefining selfishness and drawing loving lines Doing vs Being: How to find the balance between purpose and presence   Powerful Quotes:“You grow around your grief. You don’t get over it—you live through it, with it.” — Lani Almanza“If you collapse in a screaming heap, tell me again what’s selfish—resting or falling apart?” — Sarah Jordan-Ross“Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s sacred. It’s survival.” — Lani Almanza  Timestamp Highlights:[00:59] – What happens when healing work isn’t enough to protect those you love [05:23] – Finding joy in caregiving—even through grief [07:19] – How caregiving inspired a wellness business [09:36] – The practice of Ho‘oponopono explained [13:00] – Morning routines that regulate your nervous system [18:51] – The oxygen mask principle: self-care is not optional [22:49] – Don’t try to fix everything—target the one health area most at risk [26:00] – Box breathing and white space: practical tools for presence [31:55] – Burnout, boundaries, and what to do when caregiving blurs the line [37:17] – The evolution of caregiving roles across a lifetime [42:37] – Spiritual connection beyond religion and across the globe [45:42] – Sarah’s “Taboo Table” idea—stay tuned!   Guest Resources:Lani Almanza📘 Under a Full Moon and a Guiding Star – [Insert Amazon or website link]📗 Beyond the Horizon – Coming soon!🌿 Founder of Alaka'i and Associates💛 Vice President, Give Me A Break Hawaii🌐 [Insert Lani’s website or IG/Facebook handles]  Call to Action:If this episode resonated, please share it with someone walking the road of caregiving or grief. Follow the show, leave us a review, and don’t forget—your story matters. Someone out there is waiting to hear it.

Key Topics & Takeaways:Living with Myasthenia Gravis: Brian’s journey being diagnosed at age 10 and how it shaped his identity From Patient to Psychologist: Turning personal pain into purpose and a career in healing Emotional Mastery: Tools for managing overwhelm, regulating emotions, and advocating for yourself Parenting Kids with Extra Needs: Why empathy, routines, and communication are critical Connection over Comparison: The harm of social media highlight reels vs. real-life community   Memorable Quotes:“Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things… when it's paired with proactive action.” — Dr. Brian Grossman“You’re not invisible. You have a right to speak up, to say what you need, and find your tribe.” — Sarah Jordan-Ross“Our nervous system is designed to keep us safe, not happy. It’s our job to create joy and fulfillment.” — Dr. Brian Grossman  Key Moments & Timestamps (approximate):[00:02] – Introduction & why this conversation matters [06:50] – The need for community and assertiveness in medical spaces [10:35] – Brian’s diagnosis story: Life as a teen with myasthenia gravis [15:19] – The rabbi who changed his life and helped him find purpose [27:04] – Emotional mastery: feeling, not fixing emotions [31:12] – Teaching kids to cope instead of rescuing them emotionally [37:06] – How Sarah’s son found music as a new outlet after his MS diagnosis [42:14] – Creating a “mental health toolbox” to self-regulate [46:02] – Brian’s upcoming books: The Human App and Elevate and Empower [53:08] – The power of kindness, shared humanity, and disagreement without division   Guest Resources:Dr. Brian Grossman📘 Elevate and Empower: Insights on Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Success – Coming Oct 1 on Kindle📕 The Human App: How to Be Your Real Self in an Artificial World – Coming Soon💻 [Insert Brian’s website or socials here]  Call to Action:If this episode spoke to you, please share it with a parent, teacher, or friend who needs to hear it. Leave us a review, subscribe on your favourite platform, and let us know what resonated with you. And as always—your story matters. Share it.

💡 Key TakeawaysHealing is not a battle—it’s a process of reconciliation Conventional and integrative medicine don’t have to compete—they can co-exist beautifully Your story doesn’t have to mirror anyone else’s—not even your parent’s Listening to your body’s wisdom is as essential as understanding the science From empty calendars to “heck yes” only: how to rebuild life on your terms   💬 Memorable Quotes“Your mother’s story is not your story. You get to walk your own.” – Lena Winslow“Healing is a pursuit of reconciliation—not a fight against yourself.” – Lena Winslow“Trust is not about knowing what comes next. It’s about feeling safe enough not to know.” – Lena Winslow  ⏱️ Key Moments[00:59] – Lena’s cancer diagnosis and the wake-up call it delivered [04:03] – What she means by finding a “fearless oncologist” [08:30] – Bridging the gap between nuclear medicine and integrative healing [13:12] – The 3-legged stool: balancing body, mind, and soul [16:06] – 4 core mindset shifts Lena used to transform her health journey [20:00] – From stuck to possibility: small steps toward hope [29:09] – “How do I want to live this life?” and other questions that change everything [36:42] – Only saying yes to “heck yeses” — rebuilding a life that fits [39:14] – Lena’s book Stubborn Grace and her next project for mothers of children with complex needs   👤 Guest MentionLena WinslowIntegrative Health Coach & Nuclear Medicine Specialist Author of Stubborn Grace: I Want to Show You Founder of the Stubborn Grace healing series Connect: [Insert social / website when publishing]   📚 Resources MentionedStubborn Grace by Lena Winslow (book + journal) Make It Matter community Integrative cancer support tools Mind-body-soul healing frameworks 

💡 Top Takeaways:God shows up in unexpected ways. From audible whispers to angelic choruses, Robyn shares how her faith sustained her in crisis. Music heals both body and spirit. Worship music became her lifeline in hospital, soothing fear and opening conversations with others. Faith doesn’t erase fear—it reframes it. Robyn learned to claim promises of peace over anxiety and depression. Your hardest battles can awaken your true identity. Her near-death experience clarified her purpose and deepened her sense of who she is. Stories heal. Robyn’s journey is now becoming a book, Half Dead Not Done Yet, so others can find hope through her testimony. 🗣️ Standout Quotes: “God’s voice was like a megaphone in my ear: It’s just you and me. And I knew I was safe.” – Robyn Wilson“When I sang Holy Forever after leaving hospital, I cried… because I had seen the angels myself.” – Robyn Wilson“I used to live in fear and anxiety, but now I won’t unpack there. I choose to claim God’s promises instead.” – Robyn Wilson⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps: 00:00 – Sarah introduces Robyn and the near-death story that changed everything 01:10 – The “half-dead moment” and journey to hospital 06:30 – Faith as her anchor in the midst of crisis 09:30 – Angels, worship, and supernatural encounters 13:20 – Music as a lifeline in healing and connection 18:44 – How her outlook and teaching changed afterward 23:55 – Writing Half Dead Not Done Yet and her new chapter ahead👤 Guest: Robyn Wilson – Piano teacher, mum, and woman of deep faith, sharing her near-death survival story and the lessons she’s carrying forward into music, family, and writing.🌍 Resources Mentioned:Half Dead Not Done Yet (Robyn’s upcoming book) Worship music playlist (Spotify/YouTube) Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted”

🎯 Key TakeawaysHealing through authenticity: Lori shares her story of hitting rock bottom and rebuilding from a place of honesty and vulnerability. Breaking generational cycles: A deep dive into how trauma can be passed down—and how we can be the ones to stop it. Letting go of perfectionism: Releasing the pressure to "have it all together" and embracing messy, beautiful growth. Rebuilding self-trust: Tools and perspectives on learning to trust your own voice again. Community and connection: The role of safe spaces and authentic relationships in our healing journeys. 💬 Memorable Quotes“Authenticity isn’t something you do. It’s something you remember.” – Lori“You don’t have to carry the shame of what happened to you. It’s not your identity.” – Sarah ⏱️ Key Moments[00:02:30] Lori shares her “fall apart” moment and how it changed her life [00:07:45] Why perfectionism is a trauma response and how to break free [00:14:10] The shame cycle and reclaiming your self-worth [00:21:00] Learning to feel safe in your own body [00:28:30] The Be Awesome Network and Lori’s mission [00:35:50] Sarah and Lori discuss redefining leadership as women 👥 Guest MentionedLori — Founder of Be Awesome NetworkFollow her on Instagram for inspiration, coaching, and real-talk healing.

🎯 Key Topics & Takeaways:Why Sarah wouldn’t change her experience with childhood illness — and how it shaped her soul. The powerful lesson her mum taught about making every day special — and using the “good china.” A heartfelt tribute to Malcolm-Jamal Warner and the impact of the Make It Matter sessions. Redefining success: how chasing meaning over metrics leaves a lasting legacy. Grief, purpose, and presence: finding strength in small, sacred acts of love.   💬 Notable Quotes:“Joy stopped being something to be saved for later, and became something to be savored now.”“You don’t need to be famous to matter. You just have to be willing to show up, even when it’s hard.”“Malcolm was more committed to meaning than to metrics. He was chasing impact, and he certainly left a legacy.”  🕰️ Key Moments & Timestamps:[00:00] – Sarah opens with a raw nudge to speak the unspoken. [01:30] – Her experience with chronic illness and why she wouldn’t change it. [04:00] – Her mum’s shift after a cancer diagnosis — using the “good china.” [06:00] – A powerful tribute to Malcolm-Jamal Warner and his lasting impact. [09:00] – Living like it matters: presence, grief, and love in action. [10:00+] – Sarah’s encouragement to live boldly and share your story.

Takeaways Sarah Jordan-Ross emphasizes the importance of honest conversations. Deborah Green shares her journey as a 911 dispatcher. The emotional toll of first responding is often overlooked. Deborah's PTSD diagnosis came after years of suppressing trauma. Support groups played a crucial role in Deborah's healing process. The impact of a traumatic incident can be profound and lasting. Coping with grief and PTSD can lead to anger issues. Retirement brought new challenges as a caregiver. Mental health awareness is vital for first responders. Advocacy for better mental health care is essential. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Taboo Talk and Guest Introduction 01:25 Deborah's Journey as a 911 Dispatcher 03:51 The Emotional Toll of First Responding 05:54 Coping with PTSD and Mental Health Challenges 08:51 The Impact of Diagnosis on Healing 09:44 Transitioning to Caregiving for Grandson

💡 Top Takeaways:Grief doesn't have a schedule—and that's okay.Nic reflects on her father’s passing and the long road of healing. Waiting isn’t passive—it’s preparation.How seasons of waiting can deepen trust, character, and clarity. Faith and action go hand in hand.There’s a difference between being still in fear and being still in trust. Saying yes to life means saying no to pressure.Nic opens up about redefining success and finding rhythm over hustle. Your ‘not yet’ doesn't mean ‘never.’Trust the divine timing unfolding behind the scenes.   🗣️ Standout Quotes:“I was so used to being in control of everything. And then suddenly, I had no control. That broke me open in the best way.” – Nic Hutson“Sometimes the most powerful move you can make is to wait… not from fear, but from trust.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross“When I stopped striving, I could finally hear what God was really saying.” – Nic Hutson  ⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps:00:00 – Opening reflections on surrender and transition 03:30 – Nic’s grief journey after losing her father 08:12 – Faith, flow, and trusting divine timing 12:50 – Motherhood, identity, and healing ancestral wounds 17:45 – What happens when your purpose pauses 22:00 – Surrender as a sacred practice, not a cop-out 28:33 – Nic’s message to women in their waiting season   👤 Guest:Nic Hutson – Speaker, coach, and spiritual mentor known for guiding women through transformational life seasons with grace, faith, and authenticity.  🌍 Resources Mentioned:Journaling during grief Faith-based coaching Somatic work and body awareness Breath and grounding techniques

💡 Key Takeaways:Naming your story is the first step in reclaiming it. Religion can either be a source of shame—or a path to liberation. Motherhood often brings our wounds to the surface—but also invites deep transformation. Healing isn’t about being “done”—it’s about becoming who you were always meant to be. Trauma may shape us, but it doesn’t have to define us. 🗣️ Powerful Quotes:“I’m not broken. I’m in the process of becoming.” — Hailey Nielson“Sometimes the bravest thing we can do is say, ‘That hurt me.’” — Sarah Jordan-Ross“We’re not crazy—we’re survivors with nervous systems doing the best they can.” — Hailey Nielson ⏱️ Key Moments:00:00 – Opening reflections: healing, truth-telling, and Taboo Talk energy 03:20 – Hailey introduces her story: growing up in purity culture and navigating complex trauma 09:45 – Motherhood and the resurfacing of trauma triggers 14:10 – Reframing “not broken” into “becoming” 20:25 – When church hurts: untangling faith and control 29:00 – Nervous system dysregulation and survival wisdom 36:45 – How Hailey now supports others through their healing journeys 42:00 – Final reflections and encouragement from Sarah and Hailey 👥 Guest Spotlight:Hailey NielsonTrauma survivor, speaker, and advocate for embodied healing and faith reformation. She is passionate about creating safe spaces for people—especially women and mothers—to reclaim their worth and rewrite their stories.

🌿 Top Takeaways:Rage is a sacred invitation—not a symptom to be silenced. Healing isn’t linear—and often begins in the rubble. Nervous system regulation is foundational to rebuilding trust with ourselves. Divorce, death, and grief crack us open—but also rebuild our capacity to lead. Real power lies in showing up vulnerable, honest, and unfinished. 🗣️ Memorable Quotes:“You don’t need to be healed to be helpful—you just need to be honest.” — Sarah Jordan-Ross“Everything fell apart—and that’s where I finally started listening to myself.” — Nicole Cowley“I’m not angry—I’m activated. And I’m allowed to be.” — Jacqui Wilkinson ⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome to the chaos: a 3-way soul conversation begins 06:05 – Jacqui on the moment everything shattered—and what came next 11:42 – Nicole shares the messy truth about rebuilding faith after divorce 18:00 – Rage, regulation, and reclaiming your power as a woman 25:30 – The grief of not being who you were—and the joy of who you’re becoming 31:15 – Parenting through pain and leading from truth 39:50 – Final reflections: you don’t have to be whole to show up 📚 Topics & Resources Mentioned:Divorce as a doorway to authenticity Nervous system regulation during trauma recovery The sacredness of women’s anger Leading while healing Rewriting your story mid-process Permission to not be polished 🔔 Call to Action:This episode isn’t just a conversation—it’s a permission slip.💬 Send it to a friend who’s mid-rebuild and needs to know she’s not alone.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and leave a review if this episode moved something in you.🌕 Tag @tabootalkwithsarah on socials and share your biggest aha—we’d love to hear.

🌱 Top Takeaways:Soil health = human health. If it’s not in the soil, it’s not in our food—or our bodies. Food sovereignty starts with local community connection, not corporate control. Regenerative farming is not just sustainable—it’s healing, ancestral, and wildly empowering. Gardening with your kids can be a portal for healing, regulation, and connection. Earth Food isn’t just a product—it’s a philosophy rooted in nutrient density, microbiome support, and honoring the earth. 🗣️ Memorable Quotes:“The health of our soil is a mirror of the health of our society.” — Bronwyn Holm“We don’t need more control—we need more connection.” — Sarah Jordan-Ross“It’s not just food—it’s information for the body. If the soil is depleted, your body is too.” — Bronwyn Holm ⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps:00:00 – Sarah’s opening: gardening, sovereignty & sacred soil 02:10 – Bronwyn’s origin story: from burnout to Earth Food 06:45 – What regenerative farming actually means 10:30 – Neurodivergence, behavior, and the link to nutrient absorption 17:55 – Food sovereignty: what it is, what it’s not 21:30 – Microbes, minerals, and magic in the soil 27:40 – The garden as a healing space for parents and kids 32:00 – Final thoughts: tuning into the wisdom of the land 👩‍🌾 Guest Highlight:Bronwyn Holm – Visionary founder of Earth Food, regenerative agriculture advocate, and passionate educator on the connection between soil, nutrition, and sovereignty. Bronwyn’s mission is to empower everyday families—especially those raising neurodivergent kids—to reconnect with nature, food, and healing through simple yet powerful soil practices.📲 Connect with Bronwyn: Facebook Profile » 📚 Resources Mentioned:Earth Food by Bronwyn Holm Regenerative farming Nutrient-dense gardening Food as medicine Gut-brain connection for neurodivergent children Soil microbiome & mineral depletion 🔔 Call to Action:If this episode stirred something in you—don’t scroll past it.💬 Share it with a friend who gardens, parents, or just wants to feel less exhausted🌿 Leave a review, subscribe on your favorite platform, and tag @tabootalkwithsarah when you share🌏 Want to nourish your own garden the Earth Food way? Reach out to Bronwyn and tell her Taboo Talk sent you!

👤 About Maria Phipard:Maria Phipard is a parenting coach and somatic grief guide who helps overwhelmed, self-sacrificing women return to themselves. Her work is rooted in lived experience—particularly her journey through her son’s mental health struggles—and weaves together nervous system awareness, inner child work, and a trauma-informed, compassionate lens.  ⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps:00:00 – Opening thoughts: what society doesn’t prepare us for as mothers04:20 – Maria’s story: when her son began struggling with suicidal ideation08:30 – “I didn’t know how to help him—and that broke me”13:10 – The role of shame, suppression, and inherited beliefs17:45 – Learning to meet herself with compassion instead of criticism21:50 – The body as a compass: somatic healing and nervous system work27:30 – Parenting from presence, not fear33:00 – Grieving what we thought motherhood would be37:20 – The power of being witnessed without judgment40:00 – What Maria wants other mothers to know42:00 – The conversation we need to be having but aren’t44:30 – Where to find and connect with Maria  💬 Notable Quotes:“I was trying to hold it all together, and inside I was crumbling.”“I thought I had to fix him—but really, I needed to come home to myself.”“We can’t parent from a place of presence when we’re stuck in survival.”“I started grieving the version of motherhood I had imagined—and made space for what was real.”

🌿 Top Takeaways:Grief and Joy Can Coexist: Ashley shares the emotional weight of watching Sadie lose skills — while fiercely choosing to create joyful memories that will last a lifetime. The Power of Early Diagnosis & Advocacy: Ashley’s persistence in pushing for genetic testing at just three months old led to an early diagnosis — a rarity in Sanfilippo cases — and years of proactive treatment and awareness work. You Don’t Have to Do This Alone: Whether through online awareness, faith communities, or local support groups, Ashley emphasizes the importance of finding your tribe and letting them hold space for you. Raising Awareness Is a Form of Love: Through Saving Sadie Ray, Ashley and her family are changing lives and building hope — one social media post, one story, one connection at a time. Parenting with Purpose: Even when the path ahead is uncertain, love remains constant. Ashley’s unwavering dedication reminds us all of the fierce strength of parenthood.  📝 Memorable Quotes:“You never know when it’s the last time your child will say ‘I love you’—I wish I had it on video.”“This isn’t the life I chose, but I’ve learned to love this life.”“I’m not doing anything special—I’m just being her mum.”“You don’t realize you’re a caregiver when you’re just doing what mums do.”“To be the best caregiver for her, I have to also be the best version of me.”“There’s so much grief in what won’t be—but we’re packing in as much life and adventure as we can.”“When we get recognized in public, it tells me what we’re doing is working. Awareness matters.” 🔗 Resources & Links:Follow Ashley’s journey: Saving Sadie Ray on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok Learn more or donate: Cure Sanfilippo Foundation  

🧠 Key Topics & Takeaways:The real-life challenges of diagnosing ADHD in children—especially girls How ADHD manifests differently in boys vs. girls (and why so many go undiagnosed) The power of routine, movement, and mindfulness in managing ADHD Why emotional dysregulation and rejection sensitivity are often overlooked The importance of seeing ADHD as a difference, not a disorder  💬 Memorable Quotes:“I thought ADHD was just boys bouncing off walls... I didn’t know emotional dysregulation was part of it.” — Debbie Thompson“We tell Jackson it's his superpower—he sees things others don’t.” — Sarah Jordan-Ross“When kids are told off 10 times more, their self-esteem suffers. We need to look for their spark.” — Debbie Thompson 🕒 Key Moments:00:00 – Sarah shares her son Jackson’s ADHD diagnosis story 03:00 – Debbie recalls her son's late diagnosis and emotional toll 06:00 – Why girls often mask ADHD—and how it leads to burnout 10:30 – The power of understanding ADHD beyond the stereotype 17:00 – Taekwondo story: Jackson learns self-regulation in real-time 28:00 – Movement and sleep as foundational ADHD supports 36:00 – The medication journey: what worked and what didn’t 49:00 – A message to overwhelmed parents: “Be kind to yourself” 👥 Guest:Debbie ThompsonFounder of ADD-Vantage, ADHD coach and educatorWebsite & ADHD support tools: [Insert Website URL]Explore her curated ADHD chatbot: [Insert URL if available] 🧰 Resources Mentioned:ADD-Vantage ADHD AI Chat Assistant Kids Learning Tube (for ADHD-friendly learning topics) Brené Brown on belonging vs. fitting in 📣 Call-to-Action:If this episode moved you, helped you feel seen, or gave you new tools—please share it. Whether it’s a fellow parent, your child’s teacher, or that mum at the school gate who looks like she needs a little hope—your share might be the spark that changes someone’s day.🎧 Listen now and let’s break the silence together.

💡 Top Takeaways:Coercive control isn’t always visible—but it’s dangerously real. Gaslighting + neurodivergence creates a toxic double-bind of self-doubt. Leaving an abuser can be the most dangerous and difficult step. Support systems often fail—but hope lives in advocacy and connection. Healing starts with reclaiming your voice and trusting your reality.   🗣️ Memorable Quotes:“No bruises, no broken bones—but there is a breaking down of your identity, your voice, your spirit.” — Sarah Jordan-Ross“They punish the children because they want to hurt you… it’s not about love—it’s about control.” — Alyson Richelle“Don’t doubt yourself. What you’re experiencing and feeling is the truth.” — Alyson Richelle ⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to Alyson and the topic of coercive control 01:30 – What coercive control felt like inside the relationship 06:00 – How neurodivergence compounded gaslighting and emotional abuse 11:30 – The terrifying logistics and emotional toll of leaving an abuser 19:49 – Post-separation abuse and the continued control through systems 22:25 – Rebuilding self-trust, reclaiming voice, and discovering resilience 30:00 – Tips, tactics, and coded safety strategies for women trying to escape 35:00 – Sarah’s personal story of nearly walking away—and what changed 41:48 – Final encouragement: help is out there, and you’re not alone 👥 Guest Highlight:Alyson Richelle – Mum, neurodivergent woman, survivor, and fierce advocate for those trapped in invisible cycles of emotional abuse. She now supports others globally with connections and safety planning.📲 Connect with Alyson via links in the show notes (include when posting live) 🌱 Resources Mentioned:Crisis accommodation services Libertas International Local and international domestic violence support networks Tips on creating a covert safety plan and emergency cash strategies 🎧 Call to Action:If something in this episode resonated with you—please don’t stay silent.Reach out. Share this episode.DM Sarah or Alyson. There’s help available, and you are not alone.✨ Subscribe, leave a review, and join us next week as we break more silence and foster more hope.

📌 Main Topics & Takeaways:✔️ Cultural Contrast in Reactions – Why Australians and Americans get offended by very different things ✔️ Numbing Through Repetition – How frequent exposure to violence dulls our ability to feel it ✔️ Selective Outrage – Challenging what we normalize vs. what we react to ✔️ Historical Context of Gun Control in Australia – A reminder of the post-Port Arthur reforms and their impact ✔️ Language, Intent & Impact – Why the words we use matter, but so do our actions  💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ “We get numb to the things we see all the time.” 🗣️ “Maybe we should start getting offended by things that are actually worth being offended by.” 🗣️ “Just something to think about—where are we getting our knickers in a twist when it really isn’t that important?”  ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:⏱️ 00:00 – Intro & unexpected solo episode ⏱️ 01:00 – A survivor’s insight: Australians vs. Americans on offense ⏱️ 03:00 – Recalling Australia’s rare mass shootings & gun amnesty ⏱️ 06:45 – Guns, rights, and historical context ⏱️ 09:00 – The F-word vs. the real problems ⏱️ 11:20 – When are we offended—and why does it matter? ⏱️ 13:00 – Final reflections & an invitation to dialogue  📢 Call to Action:💬 Join the conversation—What are YOU truly offended by? And is it the thing that really deserves your voice, your energy, your action?💜 Share this episode with someone who’s feeling overwhelmed by the world and needs a moment of reflection.🎧 Subscribe to Taboo Talk with Sarah on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and if this episode resonated, leave a review or drop a comment. We love hearing from you!

📌 Main Topics & Takeaways:✔️ The Moment Everything Changed – A 13-year-old girl in a brothel ignites Tyler’s mission ✔️ The Emotional Toll of the Work – “We fight the monsters most people pretend not to see” ✔️ Rescue Is Just the Beginning – The long road to recovery, justice, and empowerment ✔️ Healing as Liberation – Survivors need more than freedom—they need dignity and self-determination ✔️ How You Can Help – Think globally, act locally, and never underestimate your voice  💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ “Silence is not neutral. If you see injustice and say nothing, you’re siding with the abuser.” 🗣️ “I don’t know if I could survive what they’ve survived—but they choose healing every day. That’s real courage.” 🗣️ “I couldn’t save them all. But I could save her. And that made it worth it.”  ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:00:01 – Sarah introduces Tyler and sets the tone for this courageous conversation 02:00 – Tyler’s first mission trip and witnessing exploitation in the Dominican Republic 05:00 – The heartbreaking story of the girl who disappeared before he could return 09:00 – How Tyler keeps his humanity while confronting darkness 11:00 – A story of hope: the girl with the graduation ring engraved with her rescue date 15:00 – Speaking at the UN and seeing survivors reclaim their voice 22:00 – Long-term healing: diapers, degrees, and dreams fulfilled 29:00 – When the abuser is family: the deepest betrayal and hardest truths 33:00 – The justice system’s failings and what needs to change 38:00 – Conversations we’re not having and what we must do now 45:00 – Why common ground matters and how humanity is built in dialogue  🌟 Notable Guest:Tyler SchwabFounder & President of Libertas International Human trafficking abolitionist Speaker at the UN and survivor advocate Podcast host and storyteller📱Follow Tyler on Instagram | Facebook  📢 Call to Action:This episode doesn’t end when you hit pause.💜 If it moved you, share it. 💬 If it made you think, talk about it. 🛠️ If you feel called to act, start local.And if you want to support Tyler’s mission, visit libertasinternational.org to donate, volunteer, or learn more.Because silence is not neutral—and every voice matters.

📌 Main Topics & Takeaways:✔️ The Breath is the Bridge – Why conscious breathing is the first step to nervous system regulation and inner clarity ✔️ Anger as a Compass – Honoring anger as a signal without letting it consume us ✔️ Ancestral Clearing Explained – What it is, how it works, and why unprocessed trauma gets passed down ✔️ Chronic Pain & the Body’s Story – How stress patterns show up physically, and how we heal them ✔️ Think Cosmically, Act Locally – Grounding in your values and Source while navigating a chaotic world  💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ “I realized I was leveraging anger to feel powerful when I felt powerless. That’s the same frequency as addiction.” – Elizabeth Kipp 🗣️ “The breath is the bridge. It’s where the word lives. It’s where we reconnect to truth.” 🗣️ “You’re not meant to fit in. You’re meant to belong.” – Sarah Jordan Ross  ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:⏱️ 00:00 – Welcome & blog inspiration: “OMG and WTF” ⏱️ 03:30 – Honoring anger vs. being consumed by it ⏱️ 06:45 – Where are you sourcing your power? ⏱️ 10:00 – Breathwork, nervous system regulation & presence ⏱️ 16:30 – What is ancestral clearing and how does it help? ⏱️ 24:30 – The “witch wound,” motherline mysteries & inherited grief ⏱️ 29:45 – Chronic pain as chronic stress & the mind-body connection ⏱️ 33:00 – The spiritual lesson in surrender ⏱️ 36:15 – “Think cosmically, act locally” explained ⏱️ 38:45 – The conversation we’re not having: Personal responsibility ⏱️ 44:00 – Final reflections & how to find Elizabeth’s work  🌟 Notable Guest:Elizabeth KippInternational bestselling author of The Way Through Chronic Pain Stress management & ancestral trauma clearing specialist Addiction recovery coach🔗 Learn more: elizabeth-kipp.com   📢 Call to Action:💜 If this episode moved you—share it. With a friend, a healer, or someone stuck in stress or pain. 💬 What’s one habit or belief you’re ready to release? Tag us or message Sarah directly. 🎧 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube for more truth-filled, hope-driven conversations. 🧘‍♀️ And remember… “The breath is the bridge.” Start there. Always.

🔍 Main Topics & Takeaways:How trauma can creep in silently—and suddenly crash everything you thought you were. The metaphor of kintsugi and how embracing our cracks can make us stronger and more beautiful. Why rewriting your trauma narrative is a powerful tool for healing. The importance of shifting societal views on mental illness and breaking down stigma. Why emotional regulation and early intervention are essential for lasting change.   💬 Standout Quotes:“I came home that night and couldn’t string a sentence together. Trauma had taken everything I thought I was.” – Nikki Everett“We are not the story of what happened to us. We are the story of how we rose after it.” – Nikki Everett“You can be broken and still beautiful. In fact, that’s where your gold is.” – Sarah Jordan-Ross  ⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps:01:19 – Meet Nikki: Her background in criminal justice and her complex PTSD diagnosis 04:25 – Journaling as a lifeline and how her book Uncomfortably Comfortable came to be 08:50 – The healing power of kintsugi and reclaiming strength in the cracks 12:58 – Reframing trauma through the Hero’s Journey 16:35 – The boldness behind She Is Mental and challenging stigma 22:29 – Misconceptions around mental illness and violence 27:15 – How to rewrite your trauma narrative and reclaim your future 30:25 – The effects of violent media on children and Nikki’s call for emotional education 34:27 – Creating community and returning to the village   👥 Guest Info:Nikki EverettFounder of She Is Mental Author of Uncomfortably Comfortable Speaker and advocate for trauma-informed mental health awareness🌐 Website: sheismental.com.au 📘 Book: Uncomfortably Comfortable (Available on Amazon, Audible, and major platforms)  📢 Call to Action:If this episode moved you, share it with a friend who needs to hear that healing is possible and they're not alone.Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your story matters—just like Nikki’s, just like Sarah’s, and just like yours.

📌 Main Topics & Takeaways:✔️ The Neuro-Identity Shift – How conscious self-awareness leads to lasting transformation ✔️ Healing from Burnout – The hidden cost of high-performance culture (and how to rebuild yourself) ✔️ Conscious Leadership – Why authentic leadership begins with inner work, not outer image ✔️ The CEB Technique – Alex’s cognitive, emotional, behavioral method for rewiring your reality ✔️ The Power of Belonging – Creating safe spaces where true connection and growth can happen  💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ “The messy middle isn’t failure. It’s the becoming.” – Jenny Infante-Reyes (quoted during the episode) 🗣️ “Healing your identity isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about remembering who you are.” – Alex Terrey 🗣️ “You’re not meant to fit in. You’re meant to belong.” – Sarah Jordan Ross  ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:⏱️ 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Meeting Alex Terrey ⏱️ 01:30 – Global Businesses, Burnout & Identity Shifts ⏱️ 06:10 – Navigating Loss, Infertility, and Grief ⏱️ 08:30 – The Awakening: Personal Growth After Rock Bottom ⏱️ 10:00 – Noticing the Need for Change: Signs from Within ⏱️ 13:00 – High-Performance Culture and the Hidden Mental Toll ⏱️ 18:40 – The Birth of the CEB Technique ⏱️ 26:00 – Conscious Leadership & Healing the Workplace ⏱️ 32:00 – Belonging vs. Fitting In: The True Power of Community ⏱️ 39:00 – What Conversations We Need to Have More Of ⏱️ 43:00 – Closing Thoughts: Authenticity, Courage & the Road Ahead  🌟 Notable Guest:Alex TerreyFounder of The Mentoring Effect Leadership and identity coach Speaker at Leadership Week and Total Disruption events Creator of the CEB Method for conscious leadership and personal growth🔗 Find her links and upcoming speaking engagements in the show notes!   📢 Call to Action:💜 If this conversation spoke to you, share it with someone navigating their own identity shift or leadership journey. 💬 What was your biggest takeaway? DM Sarah or Alex—we’d love to hear from you! 🎧 Subscribe to Taboo Talk with Sarah on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube so you don’t miss these real, raw, and hope-filled conversations. ✨ Your story matters—and sometimes, the messy middle is where the magic happens.

📌 Main Themes & Takeaways:✔️ Healing Doesn’t Have to Be Heavy – Joy belongs in the process, and vulnerability is a bridge to connection. ✔️ The Sacred Messy Middle – That space between breakdown and breakthrough is where the real becoming happens. ✔️ Motherhood & Identity – You can be both a present parent and a purpose-led woman—but not if you lose yourself. ✔️ Community is Everything – Safe spaces, not isolation, are where transformation and healing unfold. ✔️ Turning Pain Into Purpose – Trauma and grief don’t define us—but they can refine and empower us.  💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ “We’re not broken—we’re becoming.” 🗣️ “One adult who believes in a child can break the cycle. Just one.” – Misty Kerrigan 🗣️ “Putting yourself last as a mum might feel noble—but it’s one of the most common traumas we carry.” – Ashley Borromeo ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode: ⏱️ 00:00 – Welcome & why this episode matters ⏱️ 04:30 – The biggest threads that keep showing up across episodes ⏱️ 09:10 – Why healing doesn’t have to look like hard work ⏱️ 13:00 – How asking for help is a strength, not a weakness ⏱️ 17:40 – The sacred messy middle: becoming in the in-between ⏱️ 23:00 – Reflections on motherhood, self-worth & generational healing ⏱️ 28:15 – From trauma to transformation: turning pain into purpose ⏱️ 33:30 – What we’ve learned & where we’re headed next ⏱️ 38:00 – The power of storytelling, safe spaces & community ⏱️ 42:00 – Closing words: you are seen, you are becoming, and your story matters 🌟 Notable Mentions:Ashley Borromeo – Dance Through Life episode: Joy as a healing tool Craig Whitney – The Second Chance Man: Rock bottom as a foundation Debbie Prediger – On intuition, alignment, and self-trust Misty Kerrigan – On homelessness, foster care, and the power of one adult Celine Egan – Grief, faith, and spiritual mentorship Jenny Reyes – Branding, identity, and the messy middle Jono O’Neill – Youth mental health and community-driven care Karen Hall, Jenny Reyes & Debbie Prediger – The Roundtable Episode on leadership, impact, and sisterhood Nicole Cowley – On disconnection, growth, and the need to belong  📢 Call to Action:✨ Share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that they’re not alone in the messy middle. 💬 DM Sarah or drop a comment on your favorite moment—what hit home for you? 🎧 Subscribe to Taboo Talk with Sarah on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube. 📝 Leave a review to help amplify the voices and stories that matter. 💜 Until next time—take care of yourself, take care of each other, and remember:You are not broken. You are becoming. And your story? It matters.

📌 Main Topics & Takeaways:✔️ Living on Purpose – Why discovering your God-given purpose is key to a life of impact and fulfillment ✔️ Navigating Grief & Loss – Celine’s journey with the loss of her granddaughter and how faith carried her through ✔️ The Power of Presence – How to truly see, hear, and hold space for others in a distracted world ✔️ Wisdom of Age – Why society needs to value elders and lean into their lived experience ✔️ The ACE Check-Up – Celine’s life framework: Attitude, Commitment, and Effort  💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ “My business is not just my passion—it’s my purpose and my ministry.” 🗣️ “There’s no such thing as perfection, but there is commitment. That’s where the magic happens.” 🗣️ “If I see potential in someone, it’s my responsibility to shine a light on it—it’s their responsibility to live it out.”  ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:⏱️ 00:00 – Welcome & Sarah introduces Celine ⏱️ 01:55 – Finding purpose & showing up with intention ⏱️ 06:12 – The wisdom that comes from valleys, not just mountaintops ⏱️ 08:30 – How to do an ACE check-in: Attitude, Commitment, Effort ⏱️ 14:15 – Grief, motherhood, and faith: What Celine learned through the loss of her granddaughter ⏱️ 19:03 – The value of peer groups & guarding your inner circle ⏱️ 26:30 – How to truly hold space for others and be present ⏱️ 33:56 – Why we need to talk about loss, mental health & taboo topics ⏱️ 37:05 – The conversation the world needs: bringing back common sense, compassion & respect ⏱️ 49:30 – Celine’s challenge: Take personal responsibility, show up with love ⏱️ 52:00 – Final reflections & the ripple effect of intentional kindness  🌟 Notable Guest:Celine EganInternational speaker, mentor, and business leader Advocate for living a purpose-driven life Known for her heart-led leadership and ability to make others feel seen and safe🌐 Connect with Celine on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or via the links in the show notes   📢 Call to Action:✨ If this conversation touched your heart, share it. Someone you know might need this reminder that they’re not alone. 💬 Take up Celine’s challenge: how can YOU take responsibility and show up with intentional kindness today? Let us know in the comments or via DM. 🎧 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube. And don’t forget to leave a review—your support helps us reach more people with real, healing conversations.💜 Until next time: Take care of yourself, take care of each other, and remember—your story matters. You are never alone.

📌 Main Topics & Takeaways:✔️ Redefining Success Through Alignment – Why saying “no” can be the most powerful decision you make ✔️ The Power of the Messy Middle – Letting go of perfection and embracing life as it comes ✔️ Motherhood Meets Business – How Jenny balances being a present parent and purpose-led entrepreneur ✔️ DISC & Communication – Using behavioral tools to strengthen relationships and show up with self-awareness ✔️ Community & Trust – How collaboration and surrender fuel personal and business growth  💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ “Sometimes the most powerful thing we can say is ‘no’—and mean it.” 🗣️ “The messy middle isn’t failure. It’s the becoming.” 🗣️ “I had to remind myself—I'm a mum first. And my values get to guide my business, not the other way around.”  ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:⏱️ 00:00 – Welcome and setting the tone: What is the messy middle? ⏱️ 01:45 – Jenny’s journey from global brands to building her own ⏱️ 07:00 – Balancing marriage, business, and motherhood ⏱️ 11:30 – Lessons from early team-building & trust mistakes ⏱️ 14:00 – Understanding DISC and how it transforms communication ⏱️ 22:30 – Navigating burnout, people overload & honoring your bandwidth ⏱️ 27:00 – Letting go of “perfect” to protect what matters most ⏱️ 34:00 – Why failure (and spider bites) might be part of the plan ⏱️ 38:00 – When life throws curveballs: business pivots and closing doors ⏱️ 40:00 – Final thoughts: Becoming in the messy middle  🌟 Notable Guest:Jenny Reyes – Brand strategist, communication coach, DISC behavior consultant, and co-founder of Your Brand Story.She’s also a mum, wife, and deeply grounded woman who leads from values—not vanity.🌐 Learn more at: [yourbrandstory.co]📱 Connect on: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook  📢 Call to Action:💜 If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone in their own messy middle. Remind them they’re not alone—and that this in-between space is where the real growth happens.💬 What’s your biggest takeaway? DM Sarah or Jenny or drop a comment on social media—we’d love to hear your thoughts!🎧 Subscribe to Taboo Talk with Sarah on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so you never miss an episode of these honest, hope-filled conversations.Until next time…Take care of yourself, take care of each other, and remember:The messy middle is where your magic begins. 💜

📌 Main Topics & Takeaways:✔️ Dance as a Healing Framework – How movement, creativity, and aligned action help shift us from survival mode to self-expression✔️ Redefining Leadership – Why Ashley believes real leadership starts with self-leadership and modeling joy✔️ Motherhood & Identity – The challenges of balancing personal purpose with parenting, and the healing that comes from claiming space✔️ Education, Play & Creativity – Why we need to reimagine learning, freedom, and expression for our kids✔️ Confidence through Action – How accountability and doing things before you're ready leads to growth and fulfillment  💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ “If it’s not fun, it’s not worth doing. Everything is a dance—especially healing.” – Ashley Borromeo🗣️ “Putting yourself last as a mum might feel noble—but it’s one of the most common traumas we carry.”🗣️ “The way we move through life teaches our children how to do the same. They’re always watching.”  ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:⏱️ 00:00 – Welcome & flipping the script: Sarah introduces Ashley⏱️ 01:40 – The origin of Dance Through Life and Ashley’s reluctant dance beginnings⏱️ 05:00 – Discovering leadership and expression through movement⏱️ 08:30 – Surviving vs. thriving: Helping women reconnect with joy⏱️ 13:50 – Motherhood, identity, and giving yourself permission to shine⏱️ 19:30 – Healing by honoring your desires instead of always waiting⏱️ 24:10 – Generational patterns, mum guilt & breaking the cycle⏱️ 33:10 – Building a movement, legacy, and ripple effect of empowerment⏱️ 40:00 – The conversation we need: Rethinking education and raising free thinkers⏱️ 54:00 – Real talk: Minecraft, motion sickness, and the mess of motherhood⏱️ 56:30 – Final thoughts: Healing doesn’t have to be heavy—just dance  🌟 Notable Guest:Ashley BorromeoFounder of Dance Through Life and TapFit FamilySpeaker in the LA Tribune Women’s Journal and Be Empowered Women’s NetworkAdvocate for joy, expression, and helping women lead from within🎓 Connect with her and learn more about her programs via the links in the show notes!  📢 Call to Action:💜 If this episode lit you up, share it! Whether it's with a friend who needs a reminder to find joy again, or a fellow mum stuck in survival mode—help us spread the message that healing can be light, fun, and deeply transformative.💬 DM me or drop a comment—what’s one way you can dance through life a little more this week?🎧 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and don’t forget to leave a review so more people can find these real, raw, and heart-centered conversations.Until next time, take care of yourself, take care of each other, and remember: you’re not alone—and your story matters. 💜

📌 Main Takeaways:✔️ Love Through the Fire – What it really takes to fight for your marriage when everything falls apart✔️ Faith & Mental Health – The turning point that shifted an atheist into a pastor✔️ Parenting Through Trauma – Raising three boys with honesty, transparency, and heart✔️ Survival Mode vs Safe Spaces – Why connection and community are the antidote to isolation✔️ Messy, Beautiful Transformation – The power of surrender, stubborn love, and saying “yes” to healing  💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ “I tried to push her away. She stayed. That’s the kind of love that changes everything.” – Jeff Ross🗣️ “We argue in front of our kids… but we also show them how to forgive.” – Sarah Ross🗣️ “You don’t get to skip the messy middle. But you do get to choose who you walk through it with.”  ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:⏱️ 00:00 – Welcome + Why they’re turning the mics on each other⏱️ 06:15 – The wild way they met in a rainforest spa⏱️ 10:40 – The early years: whiskey, wanderlust, and wild kids⏱️ 18:00 – How grief, disability, and parenting broke them—and what pulled them back⏱️ 27:45 – The moment Jeff tried to end his life—and the miracle that stopped him⏱️ 35:30 – How church, community, and a screaming toddler saved their marriage⏱️ 44:55 – Raising boys with MS, ADHD, and everything in between⏱️ 56:10 – Why they started an online church for misfits, seekers & the hurting⏱️ 1:10:30 – The healing power of stories & why they tell the hard truths⏱️ 1:19:00 – Final thoughts, dad jokes, and a heart-filled wrap-up  🌟 Notable Mentions & Resources:Today’s Discipleship Community (2DC) – An online church helping people find healing, faith, and family from anywhere in the worldTaboo Talk with Sarah – A podcast breaking silences and holding space for life’s hardest conversationsThe Laptop Lifestyle Dad Show – Where fatherhood meets freedom, faith, and entrepreneurshipMental Health Support Resources in Australia:Lifeline: 13 11 14 | Lifeline ChatBeyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 | Beyond Blue Chat  📢 Call to Action:💜 If this episode hit home—don’t keep it to yourself. Share it. Someone you know needs to hear that healing is possible.💬 Let’s keep the conversation going.What’s your messy middle moment?What’s one lesson you’ve learned from love, loss, or faith?🎧 Subscribe to both podcasts on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube—and drop a review to help more people find this story of redemption and real-life resilience.

📌 Key Takeaways:✔️ Breaking Generational Trauma – How Jacqui stopped the cycle and ensured her children were raised differently✔️ Super-Achievement as a Coping Mechanism – Why many high-achievers push themselves to extremes✔️ Trauma-Informed Leadership – How understanding trauma makes us better leaders, parents, and partners✔️ Rewiring the Brain for Healing – The neuroscience behind overcoming childhood adversity✔️ The Power of Owning Your Story – Why sharing your truth helps dissolve shame💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ "Who would I be without my achievements? I thought I’d be no one. That’s how little I valued myself." – Jacqui Wilkinson🗣️ "You don’t have to pass down what happened to you. You get to decide what kind of parent, leader, and person you want to be."🗣️ "Trauma doesn’t just disappear—it hides in plain sight. Leadership means seeing the unseen and helping others rise."⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:⏱ 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Jacqui Wilkinson⏱ 05:30 – Growing up in a dysfunctional home: The 9 ACEs that shaped Jacqui’s childhood⏱ 12:45 – Using achievement as a coping mechanism: The endless chase for self-worth⏱ 18:10 – The pivotal moment: Breaking free from survival mode⏱ 22:35 – The impact of trauma on leadership: Why we need trauma-informed leaders⏱ 28:50 – Healing & parenting: How Jacqui ensured her children never inherited her trauma⏱ 33:20 – The power of sharing your story: How speaking out dissolves shame⏱ 40:49 – Why kindness and connection can change lives: The story of a soldier she helped⏱ 50:19 – Final thoughts: "Your past does not define you—it’s how you rise from it that does."🌟 Notable Mentions:✔️ Turning the Tables on Trauma – Jacqui’s book (All profits go to Access Counseling, supporting survivors of abuse)✔️ Access Counseling – The organization that helped Jacqui start her healing journey✔️ Los Angeles Tribune Women’s Journal – Co-founded by Jacqui, dedicated to empowering women✔️ Mental Health Support Resources:📞 Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 | Lifeline Online Chat📞 Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | Beyond Blue Online Chat📞 Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 | Suicide Callback Online📢 Call to Action:💜 If this episode spoke to you, please share it. Share it with a friend, a family member—someone who needs to hear that healing is possible.💬 Let’s keep this conversation going. What’s one takeaway from today’s episode? Drop a comment or DM me on social media!📖 Want to support Jacqui’s mission? Buy her book, Turning the Tables on Trauma, and know that every purchase supports survivors of abuse.🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe! Leave a review and share this episode with someone who needs to know: they are not alone.

📌 Key Takeaways:✔️ Homelessness is a universal crisis – How it happens, why it's increasing, and the hidden side of the problem. ✔️ Foster care & aging out of the system – Why foster youth are among the highest at risk for homelessness. ✔️ Mental health & homelessness – How trauma, survival mode, and lack of support keep people stuck. ✔️ The truth about community & connection – Why people often stay homeless despite available resources. ✔️ Real solutions – What we can do as individuals and communities to make a difference.  💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ "Homelessness isn’t just about lacking a home—it’s about lacking a support system." 🗣️ "When we stop seeing homelessness as ‘their’ problem and start seeing it as our collective responsibility, change happens." 🗣️ "One adult who believes in a child can break the cycle. Just one."  ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:⏱ 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Misty Kerrigan ⏱ 05:30 – Understanding the real causes of homelessness ⏱ 12:45 – Why foster youth face such high homelessness rates ⏱ 18:10 – Mental health, trauma & survival mode in homelessness ⏱ 22:35 – The power of connection & how small acts of kindness change lives ⏱ 28:50 – How communities can create real, lasting solutions ⏱ 33:20 – Final thoughts: What YOU can do to help  🌟 Notable Mentions & Resources:✔️ Misty Kerrigan – Advocate & leadership coach for vulnerable communities ✔️ Foster Care Support Programs – Addressing the gaps in the system ✔️ Mental Health & Homelessness Studies – Understanding the psychology of survival ✔️ Community-Based Solutions – Why long-term strategies matter🏡 If this episode brought up heavy emotions, please reach out to support services: 📞 Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 | Lifeline Online Chat 📞 Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | Beyond Blue Online Chat 📞 Homelessness Australia – homelessnessaustralia.org.au  📢 Call to Action:✨ Listen, share, and take action. If this episode resonated with you, don’t just listen—get involved. Find local organizations helping the homeless, donate, volunteer, or simply start a conversation.💬 Join the discussion! Let’s break the silence and work together for change. Drop a comment, send a message, or connect on social media.🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube!#TabooTalkWithSarah #HomelessnessCrisis #FosterCare #MentalHealthAwareness #BreakingTheCycle #CommunityMatters #SocialChange

📌 Key Takeaways:✔️ Burnout & The Traditional Business Trap – Why making millions didn’t equal financial or personal freedom. ✔️ The Shift to Online Entrepreneurship – How Mike transitioned from construction & cabinet manufacturing to online business success. ✔️ The Gut-Brain Connection & Mental Health – Why fixing his gut health changed his mindset, stress levels, and relationships. ✔️ TikTok & Digital Marketing – How Rock the Tok Academy is helping entrepreneurs grow through short-form content. ✔️ Breaking the "Suck It Up" Mentality – How men can shift from ignoring stress to taking charge of their mental wellness. 💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ “I was running a business that made over $500K a month, but I was so stressed, I couldn’t even enjoy it.” 🗣️ “I used to believe stress, anxiety, and gut issues were just part of life—until I learned that they weren’t.” 🗣️ “Most of us are walking around in survival mode, thinking it’s normal. It’s not. And we need to talk about it.” ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:⏱ 00:00 – Welcome & introduction to Mike Gostola ⏱ 05:20 – The reality of traditional business: stress, overhead, and financial struggle ⏱ 12:45 – Making the leap: How Mike transitioned from traditional business to online entrepreneurship ⏱ 18:30 – Discovering the gut-brain connection: The mental & physical impact of stress ⏱ 26:15 – The turning point: How fixing gut health improved focus, relationships, and business ⏱ 33:40 – The power of TikTok for business owners & why short-form video matters ⏱ 40:00 – Breaking the “suck it up” mentality & encouraging men to take control of their wellness ⏱ 50:20 – Final thoughts & how listeners can take action 🌟 Notable Mentions:✔️ Rock the Tok Academy – Mike’s TikTok training program for entrepreneurs ✔️ Amare Global – The mental wellness company that helped Mike regulate stress & gut health ✔️ Gut-Brain Connection – The science behind mental wellness & physical health ✔️ The Power of Community – Why who you surround yourself with matters in both business & life📢 Call to Action:✨ Feeling stuck in survival mode? This episode is your wake-up call.✅ Subscribe & leave a review to help us keep these conversations going.📌 Share this episode with a friend who needs to hear it!💬 Join the conversation—tag Sarah on social media & tell us your biggest takeaway!🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube!

📌 Key Takeaways:✔️ Breaking the Cycle of Silence – Why so many men struggle to ask for help and the cost of staying silent ✔️ The Rock Bottom Moment – Craig’s powerful story of loss, shame, and the wake-up call that changed everything ✔️ Rebuilding After Crisis – The mindset shifts and small steps that helped Craig reclaim his life ✔️ The Importance of Brotherhood – How men’s groups and community support can be life-saving ✔️ RAGE: The Framework for Transformation – Craig’s 4-step method for turning pain into purpose  💬 Standout Quotes:🗣️ “We were never meant to go through life alone, yet somewhere along the way, men were told to tough it out and suffer in silence.”🗣️ “I had to make a choice—stay in the darkness or take one small step toward rebuilding my life.”🗣️ “Second chances aren’t just about bouncing back. They’re about rising stronger, wiser, and more intentional than before.”  ⏳ Key Moments in the Episode:⏱ 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Craig Whitney ⏱ 05:30 – The Moment That Changed Everything: Craig’s Story of Rock Bottom ⏱ 12:45 – Why Men Struggle to Ask for Help & The Role of Society ⏱ 18:10 – How Craig Started Rebuilding His Life, One Small Step at a Time ⏱ 22:35 – The Power of Brotherhood & Why Men Need a Pack ⏱ 28:50 – The RAGE Formula: Recognizing Blind Spots & Reclaiming Purpose ⏱ 33:20 – Final Thoughts: You Are Not Alone  🌟 Notable Mentions:✔️ The Second Chance Man – Craig’s coaching program helping men navigate crisis and change ✔️ The Resilience Project – A community designed to help men find strength, support, and purpose ✔️ Phoenix Rising Coaching – Craig’s transformational coaching program for men ✔️ Mental Health Support Services – If this episode brought up heavy emotions, please reach out:National Support Services (Australia):📞 Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 | Lifeline Online Chat 📞 Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | Beyond Blue Online Chat 📞 Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 | Suicide Callback Online 📞 Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 | Kids Helpline OnlineTasmania-Specific Support:📞 Access Mental Health Helpline – 1800 332 388 | More Information 📞 Emergency Services – In crisis, call 000 📢 Call to Action:✨ If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear this message. 📌 Subscribe & leave a review to help us reach more people with these life-changing conversations. 💬 Join the conversation! DM Sarah or connect on social media—your story matters.📍 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube!