The Challenges of Change

PODCAST · health

The Challenges of Change

Welcome to The Challenges of Change, a podcast dedicated to self-improvement and personal growth. I'm your host, Laura, a mindset coach in the health and fitness industry. Join me as we navigate the hurdles of life and explore practical strategies for managing stress, regulating emotions, upgrading your mindset, and reclaiming your worth.

  1. 94

    The Control Illusion: Why Your Need for Control Is Actually a Fear of Feeling, Episode 93

    What if the thing you call "control" is just fear wearing a very convincing costume?You've felt it — that grip-tightening urgency when things start slipping. The frantic planning. The self-blame spiral that sounds rational but quietly hollows you out. We tell ourselves we just need to get a handle on things. But what if control was never the point?In this episode, Laura gets honest about what the craving for control is actually asking for — and why chasing it keeps you one step behind your own life.▶️ Why control isn't about power — it's about safety, and what that distinction changes everything▶️ The subtle (and sneaky) way self-blame becomes a control tactic — and how to catch it in real time▶️ What to do when the culture around you is dysregulating and control isn't an option▶️ The shift from control → consistency → agency, and why this is the actual path to stability▶️ What Laura texted her best friend on a Sunday when she felt like she was about to explode — and what she said backThis isn't a productivity conversation. It's a much deeper one — about what it means to feel safe in your own skin when the world around you won't hold still.If you've ever white-knuckled your way through uncertainty and called it strength — this one's for you. Listen now, and then ask yourself: what am I actually craving when I want control?Learn more HERE

  2. 93

    Confidence vs. Self-Assurance: The Missing Link in Your Leadership, Episode 92

    We treat confidence like a prerequisite—that magical armor we need to earn before we’re allowed to be brave. But what if waiting for confidence is actually the very thing keeping you stuck?Most of us spend our lives chasing the feeling of certainty, hoping that if we just "had more confidence," the fear would disappear. We look at our environment, wait for validation, and shrink when the feedback doesn't match our intentions.It’s a vicious cycle—and it’s completely backward.In this episode, we’re dismantling the myth that confidence is the starting line. Confidence isn't something you have before you act; it is the outcome of acting. Instead, we’re exploring the one trait you actually need to build first: Self-Assurance.In this episode, you’ll discover:The "Container" Theory: Why your message or effort isn't failing, even if the feedback says it is.The Internal Shift: How to move from seeking external validation to standing on your own "ground."Leadership in Real-Time: How to handle hard conversations—with others and yourself—without losing your footing.The Compassion Loop: How to soothe the inner critic the moment you start to spiral.If you’ve ever felt paralyzed by the fear of being misunderstood, or if you find yourself waiting for permission to be bold, this conversation is for you. It’s time to stop waiting for the "feeling" and start building the foundation.Ready to stop waiting? Join us inside the Challengers Circle to turn these insights into practice. We’re building a community of people who are tired of playing small and ready to lead—starting with themselves.Listen now.

  3. 92

    You've Been Dimming Your Light for People Who Won't Even Clap With Tammi B, Episode 91

    You've been showing up. Giving everything. Shrinking yourself just enough so nobody feels uncomfortable. And the people you've been doing it for? Still not clapping.Tammi B knows this story from the inside.For years she was the prayer warrior, the encourager, the one everyone leaned on...while quietly fighting depression nobody could see. She was performing her life far better than she was living it. And the moment that cracked her open wasn't a breakthrough. It was trauma, a season of forced silence, and a healing meditation that made her realize she'd been waiting for permission that was never coming.This conversation doesn't just name the problem. It walks you through what it actually takes to stop dimming...even when the people in your life aren't ready for the full version of you. Even when choosing yourself feels like betrayal. Even when the silence is the scariest part.What’s inside: The hidden face of functional depression...and why the most giving people are often the most disconnectedHow Tammi's awakening unfolded in secret...and why silence was the strategy, not the shameWhat it looks like to awaken when the people around you aren't ready to followWhy fear was never meant to stop you...it's a yield sign, not a stop signThe butterfly moment that reframes every struggle you've been trying to escapeWhy the most meaningful moments of your life were never comfortable...and what that's actually telling youThe one thing Tammi would tell anyone who's overwhelmed, stuck, and scared to startIf you've ever made yourself smaller to keep the peace...this one will feel like finally being seen. If you've been waiting for the right moment to stop shrinking...this conversation might just be it.Listen now. Then send this to someone who needs to hear that their light was never too much...it was always exactly enough.Join the Challengers Circle TODAY to shine in your FULL light- https://circle.changebychallenge.com/cbc-home Connect With Tammi B:Coaching: www.tammib.com IG/FB/Tik Tok/You Tube: @thassawomanLinkedIN: tammirboydHer life changing partial autobiography and empowerment is available:   It Had to Happen Release the Past and Step into Your Power..  & Successful Women Anthology can be purchased on thassawoman.com

  4. 91

    The Bridge Nobody Tells You Conflict Can Build, Episode 90

    What if every conflict you've been running from was actually an invitation to be trusted, respected, and known?Most of us weren't taught how to fight well. We were just taught not to fight — swallow it, smooth it over, move on. And so we did. Until we looked up one day and realized nobody really sees us, nobody really hears us, and we've been at war with ourselves this whole time.This episode is for anyone who knows there's something they need to say but keeps finding reasons not to say it. For anyone who walks away from hard conversations feeling smaller than when they walked in. For anyone who's confused how people can be this close and still feel this alone.Laura Weiner-Kiser breaks down what conflict actually is (hint: it's not the enemy), why most people handle it wrong, and how to use it as one of the most powerful trust-building tools you have — if you know what you're doing.Inside this episode:→ Why avoiding conflict outside always creates conflict inside — and what that costs you long-term→ The one move that disarms almost anyone in a heated moment (and why most people never learn it)→ How to know if the story you're telling yourself about conflict is actually true — or just fear talking→ Real conversations Laura has navigated — with a family member, a loan agent, and her own husband — and exactly how she did it→ The three warning signs your nervous system sends before you lose control — and what to do the moment they show upConflict doesn't have to break things. It can be the reason someone finally trusts you. But only if you know what you're doing. Start here.If you’re TRULY READY to become the CEO of your mind, check out the Challengers Circle - https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle

  5. 90

    You're Not Stuck. You're Running a Script You Never Wrote, Episode 89

    What if the thing holding you back isn't a lack of motivation—it's a story you don't even know you're telling yourself?Most of us aren't struggling because we're lazy, broken, or not trying hard enough. We're struggling because we're running on invisible scripts—unconscious assumptions so deeply embedded in how we see ourselves and the world that we've never once stopped to question them.In this episode, Laura pulls back the curtain on the hidden operating system most of us never knew existed. She breaks down why awareness—not willpower, not strategy, not another productivity hack—is the real entry point to change. And she gets honest about something most growth conversations avoid: wanting to change and choosing to change are two very different things.What's inside:Why your invisible scripts are quietly running the show—and how to finally see themThe crucial difference between judging yourself and actually assessing what's happening (and why it matters more than you think)Why you can want two things at once and still feel stuck—and what to do about itThe uncomfortable truth about transformation that no one wants to admitThis isn't about optimization. It's about finally understanding why you keep ending up in the same place—and what it actually takes to go somewhere different.If you've ever felt like you're working hard but something invisible keeps pulling you back, this episode was made for you.Listen now—and then ask yourself: what script have I been living by that I've never once questioned?Ready for change? Check Out The Challengers Circle -https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle

  6. 89

    Stop Fighting Your Feelings — Become the CEO of Your Emotions, Episode 88

    What if the emotions you've been running from are actually trying to guide you? In this episode, we sit down with a conversation that stops you in your tracks, the kind that makes you pull over, put your phone down, and actually listen. We're talking about the hard stuff: grief, fear, shame, anger — and why resisting them doesn't make you stronger. It makes you smaller.You'll hear why 80% of your intelligence doesn't live in your head, how a Holocaust survivor's body made a split-second decision his mind couldn't, and why the most emotionally free people aren't the ones who feel less — they're the ones who've learned to lead what they feel.We explore a simple but genuinely life-changing technique: treating your emotions like executives at a conference table. Not suppressing them. Not being hijacked by them. Actually listening to what they're trying to tell you, and then making a conscious, empowered choice.This is emotional intelligence, but not the buzzword version. This is the real, messy, courageous work of becoming the CEO of your inner world.If you've ever felt controlled by your emotions, or ashamed of having them, this one's for you.If you’re TRULY READY to become the CEO of your mind, check out the Challengers Circle - https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle #EmotionalIntelligence #MentalHealth #PersonalGrowth #SelfLeadership #Mindset #EmotionalRegulation #Resilience #BodyAwareness #DiaryOfACEO #PodcastRecommendation #MindBodyConnection #SelfDevelopment #InnerWork #CourageousLiving #EmotionalFreedom #Podcast #GrowthMindset #MentalWellness #Leadership #SelfAwareness

  7. 88

    Why You Reject Yourself Before Anyone Else Can, Episode 87

    There’s a quiet pattern many of us live inside, and most of the time we don’t even notice it.Before the world has a chance to say no… we say it to ourselves.We assume we’re not qualified.We assume they won’t like us.We assume the opportunity isn’t meant for us.And without realizing it, we pull back, stay silent, or never even try.In this episode, Laura explores the hidden habit of self-rejection—the subtle ways we disqualify ourselves from the life we actually want. Through real client stories and honest reflection, she unpacks why this pattern forms and how it quietly shapes our careers, relationships, and confidence.You’ll learn:Why the fear of rejection often turns into self-sabotageHow to recognize when you’re rejecting yourself before anyone else canA powerful mindset shift that reframes rejection as redirectionA simple practice using “small-ticket rejections” to build emotional resilienceThis conversation is about courage. Not the loud, heroic kind—but the everyday bravery of raising your hand, speaking up, reaching out, and allowing life to respond.Because the most limiting rejection isn’t the one you receive.It’s the one you give yourself.

  8. 87

    The Rules of the Game: Why Life Feels Harder When You Refuse Reality, Episode 86

    Most of us believe the path to change starts with motivation, discipline, or a better strategy.But real transformation begins somewhere much less comfortable: accepting reality exactly as it is.In this episode of The Challenges of Change, Laura explores what happens when we refuse to acknowledge the “rules of the game” shaping our lives—whether in relationships, careers, networking, or personal growth. Resistance creates friction. Denial drains energy. And without realizing it, we often chase outcomes because of the emotional rewards we expect them to deliver.Laura unpacks why acceptance isn’t approval...it’s simply the courage to see clearly. And from that clarity, something powerful becomes possible: choice.You’ll learn how to question your motivations, recognize the patterns keeping you stuck, and take ownership of the decisions shaping your life. Because while we can’t control every circumstance, we always have the power to decide how we show up within it.If you’ve ever felt frustrated by the way things are, this conversation will help you move from resistance to responsibility—and from reaction to agency.Topics include:Why understanding the “rules of the game” reduces frustration and stressThe difference between acceptance and approvalHow unconscious motivations shape our choicesReclaiming agency through responsibility and self-awarenessHow the Challengers Circle helps build clarity, courage, and self-trustIf you're ready to stop fighting reality and start navigating it with intention, this episode is for you.Ready for Change... Try The "Challengers Circle" FREE for the first 30 days https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle

  9. 86

    The 3 Hidden Types of Procrastination (And How to Finally Stop Self-Sabotaging), Episode 85

    You don’t procrastinate because you’re lazy.You procrastinate because you’re human.In this episode, Laura breaks down the three types of procrastination most people cycle through: conscious delay, creative avoidance, and priority dilution. If you’ve ever reorganized your desk instead of starting the hard thing… this is for you.Drawing on insights from organizational psychologist Adam Grant, Laura explains why procrastination isn’t a time management issue — it’s an emotional regulation problem. We avoid tasks not because we don’t care, but because we don’t want to feel boredom, discomfort, frustration, or self-doubt.You’ll learn:The 3 psychological types of procrastinationWhy willpower alone doesn’t workHow emotional avoidance fuels delayA simple 2-step framework to break the cycleHow to build self-awareness that actually creates changeIf you struggle with productivity, burnout, stress, or self-sabotage, this episode gives you practical tools rooted in emotional intelligence — not hustle culture.And if you’re ready for accountability and simplified growth, Laura shares how The Challenger Circle helps high performers build micro-habits that turn stress into strategy.This isn’t about doing more.It’s about understanding what’s really in the way.Listen now and finally break the procrastination loop.

  10. 85

    The Motivation Trap: How “Avoiding Failure” Drains Your Energy, Episode 84

    Most people think motivation comes from pushing harder.In reality, it often comes from aiming differently.In this episode, Laura breaks down how your thought patterns—especially your focus on what you don’t want—quietly shape your decisions, energy, and results. Drawing on neuroscience, she explains how the brain’s reticular activating system filters reality based on your focus, often reinforcing the very outcomes you’re trying to avoid.Through a powerful client story, Laura explores the difference between “away from” goals (avoiding pain, failure, or disappointment) and “towards” goals (moving toward clarity, desire, and alignment). One drains your energy. The other creates momentum.You’ll also hear an honest conversation about why naming what you truly want feels vulnerable—and why protecting yourself from disappointment may be costing you excitement, growth, and possibility.This episode offers a simple but transformative practice to help you:Recognize hidden thought loopsShift from resistance to alignmentCreate motivation that feels energizing instead of exhaustingIf you feel stuck, uninspired, or like you’re constantly pushing uphill—this conversation might change how you pursue everything. Challenge is always harder when we go at it alone…SO DON’T The newly revamped Challengers Circle is perfect to meet you exactly where you are by building micro-habits that strengthen awareness so you really can choose your direction and build a satisfying life. Learn more → https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle

  11. 84

    The Drop-Off: What No One Tells You About Habit Change, Episode 83

    Why do so many habits fall apart 🤔In this episode, Laura sits down with Jess to unpack why motivation fades, why “knowing better” doesn’t always lead to doing better, and what it actually takes to create sustainable change. From the common habit drop-off to the challenge of intellectualizing emotional and somatic work without integrating it, this conversation gets honest about why habit change is harder than we expect.You’ll hear a real-life parenting story that brings emotional regulation into focus, along with grounded insights on motivation, self-compassion, and redefining success. Together, Laura and Jess explore how emotions drive behavior, why perfectionism sabotages progress, and how aligning habits with your values—not willpower—creates real momentum.This episode is for anyone who’s tired of starting over, frustrated with inconsistency, or ready to lead themselves with more curiosity and compassion.Because lasting change isn’t about getting it right—it’s about staying in the process.Ready to build a new lifestyle, not just habits? https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle

  12. 83

    Stop Escaping Stress. Start Training Your Mind, Episode 82

    Mental health isn’t just something you have—it’s something you actively care for. In this episode of The Challenges Of change, we challenge the way most people think about mental health and explore what it really means to take responsibility for your mind.You’ll learn why numbing behaviors like endless scrolling, binge-watching, or “checking out” don’t actually relieve stress—and how they quietly keep you stuck. We unpack the science behind discomfort, pain, dopamine, and pleasure, and why avoiding discomfort may be costing you clarity, resilience, and purpose.This episode introduces a simple but powerful framework for mental fitness:Feeding the mind (what you consume mentally matters more than you think)Clearing the mind (how to release emotional and cognitive buildup)Training the mind (building discipline, presence, and inner capacity)If you’ve ever wondered why rest doesn’t feel restorative, why motivation fades, or how to build real emotional resilience—this conversation will shift how you see stress, discomfort, and growth.Listen now if you’re ready to stop coping on autopilot and start caring for your mind with intention.

  13. 82

    You Can’t Lead Others Until You Lead Yourself (Here’s Why Most Leaders Fail First), Episode 81

    Most people think leadership is about influence, authority, or managing others.It’s not.In this episode, Laura breaks down the leadership skill no one talks about—but every great leader must master: leading yourself first.After introducing The Challengers Circle, a new community built for personal growth and self-trust, Laura shares a pivotal coaching moment with a client who identified as a leader—yet was still waiting for permission, doubting her instincts, and battling an inner critic that quietly ran the show.Laura then tells a raw, behind-the-scenes story from her own time as a manager—one where she chose approval over integrity, mishandled a conflict, and had to decide what kind of leader she was actually willing to be. The turning point? A hard conversation, a risk to her job, and a decision to stand for her values instead of her comfort.This conversation is for you if you’ve ever:Struggled with self-doubt while being “the strong one” for othersFelt torn between doing what’s right and doing what’s safeKnown what you should do—but couldn’t bring yourself to trust itWanted to lead with confidence, clarity, and integrity—starting from the insideYou’ll learn:Why self-leadership is the foundation of real influenceHow your inner critic quietly undermines your leadershipThe questions that build trust in yourself when things get hardWhat it actually means to stand for something—even when it costs youLeadership isn’t about having the answers.It’s about having the courage to listen to yourself—and act accordingly.If you’re ready to stop outsourcing your authority and start leading from the inside out, this episode is your invitation.

  14. 81

    You Can’t Think Your Way Out of Stress Learning to read your body, regulate your nervous system, and show up better, Episode 80

    Personal growth changes you—but it also changes your relationships. And if you’re not paying attention, stress can quietly become the wedge between who you’re becoming and the people you love.In this episode, Laura unpacks what happens when self-awareness increases faster than your nervous system’s ability to regulate. She shares a personal story about returning home after a major life shift, navigating family dynamics, and realizing that growth isn’t just about insight—it’s about capacity.You’ll learn why trying to plan your way out of stress doesn’t work, how to recognize stress signals in real time, and what self-regulation actually looks like when life gets overwhelming. From meditation and movement to curiosity and nervous system awareness, this conversation offers practical tools for managing stress without disconnecting from yourself—or others.If you’ve ever felt torn between honoring your growth and maintaining your relationships…If stress keeps showing up even when you’re “doing the work”…Or if you want to show up calmer, clearer, and more grounded in your life—This episode is for you.🎯 Topics covered:• Personal growth and relationship dynamics• Nervous system regulation and stress awareness• Why self-control isn’t the same as self-regulation• Tools for responding to stress in the moment• Choosing joy, alignment, and self-trustGrowth doesn’t require self-abandonment. It requires regulation. And that changes everything.

  15. 80

    From Control to Curiosity: Escaping the Perfectionism Trap With Jessica Gruss, Episode 79

    Perfectionism doesn’t make you better—it makes you smaller.In this episode of The Challenges Of Change, Laura and Jessica unpack how perfectionism quietly shapes our decisions, fuels resistance, and limits our ability to adapt when life doesn’t go according to plan. What starts as a desire for control and safety often turns into a deep distrust of our own resilience.You’ll learn how to recognize resistance in real time—through tension, frustration, and impatience—and why those signals are invitations to pause, zoom out, and rethink your approach. Instead of forcing outcomes, this conversation explores how reconnecting to purpose, values, and intention helps you move forward with clarity and confidence.This episode is for anyone who feels stuck trying to “get it right,” struggles with letting go, or senses there’s more available when they stop gripping so tightly. Growth doesn’t come from control—it comes from curiosity, trust, and the courage to embrace the adventure.If you’re ready to release perfectionism and step into a more expansive way of leading, living, and becoming—this one’s for you.Start the year off strong with a supportive community JUST FOR YOU! → https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle

  16. 79

    Stop Setting Goals You’ll Quit: The Alignment Method for Real Change, Episode 78

    Most New Year’s resolutions don’t fail because of laziness—they fail because they’re built on the wrong foundation.In this episode, Laura breaks down a smarter, more sustainable way to approach goal-setting—one rooted in alignment, intention, and self-trust, not pressure or perfection. Instead of obsessing over rigid outcomes, she invites you to identify the feeling you’re actually chasing—and design your goals around that.You’ll learn how to:Clarify the real motivation behind your resolutionsMeasure progress in a way that builds momentum (not shame)Avoid burnout by honoring how you want the journey to feelStay committed without forcing yourself into extremesIf you’re tired of starting strong and quitting by February, this conversation will help you reframe success, reconnect to purpose, and build goals that evolve with you—not work against you.🎯 Perfect for anyone craving meaningful change, emotional alignment, and a New Year that feels grounded instead of exhausting.

  17. 78

    The False Equation Behind Success, Purpose, and Burnout, Episode 77

    We all say we want more: more success, more meaning, more happiness, more ease.But what if the very thing exhausting you isn’t the work — it’s the false equation you’re using to pursue it?In this episode, we unpack the uncomfortable contradiction between what we think we want and what fulfillment actually requires. From bigger houses and better jobs to purpose, joy, and meaning, we explore why so many high achievers feel burned out, frustrated, or unfulfilled even after reaching their goals.You’ll hear:Why meaningful lives are built through challenge, conflict, and hard emotions — not constant happinessHow resisting effort often means resisting what makes you feel alive and valuableThe psychology behind the “hedonic treadmill” and why achievement never feels like enoughA powerful reframe for burnout, overworking, and dissatisfactionHow to spot the wrong equation you may be using in your own life and goalsThrough real coaching stories, fitness analogies, and honest reflection, this episode challenges you to ask better questions:What are you pursuing?Why does it matter?And what are you actually trading in the process?If you’re setting new goals, feeling stuck, or quietly wondering why success doesn’t feel the way you expected — this conversation will help you get out of your own way.🎯 Listen if you’re ready to stop chasing the wrong reward — and start aligning your pursuit with who you really are.

  18. 77

    The Invisible Forces Quietly Controlling Your Life (And How to Break Free), Episode 76

    Ever feel like you're doing everything right and still carrying pressure that won’t quit? In this episode, Laura pulls back the curtain on the “invisible forces” shaping your life—unconscious cultural norms, inherited expectations, and internal micro-cultures you don’t even realize you’re following.From productivity guilt to communication habits like ghosting, Laura breaks down how these systems quietly dictate your behavior, stress levels, and sense of self. You’ll learn how to:👉🏻 Spot the hidden pressures driving your decisions👉🏻 Break free from self-imposed standards that don’t serve you👉🏻 Challenge cultural norms that sabotage connection👉🏻 Build trust in your natural rhythms instead of forcing perfectionLaura also invites you into The Challenger Circle—a community designed to help you rethink outdated systems, hear real stories from real people, and create alignment from the inside out.If you want more clarity, more agency, and more courage to live by your values—not the world’s expectations—this episode is your turning point.Listen now and start questioning the systems that have been shaping you all along.Ready to redefine yourself and release unnecessary pressures? Click here= https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle #MindsetPodcast #DiaryOfACEOStyle #InvisibleForces #CulturalPressure #SelfAwareness #PersonalGrowth #EmotionalIntelligence #MindsetShift #BreakTheCycle #ChangeByChallenge #ChallengerCircle #SelfLeadership #StressToStrategy #ModernCulture #GhostingCulture #InnerWork #PsychologyPodcast #GrowthMindset

  19. 76

    The Belief That Changes Everything: How Willingness Rewrites Your Life With Deborah Yager, Episode 75

    What actually transforms a life? In this raw and unfiltered episode, Laura sits down with Deb to unpack the mechanics of real, lasting change — the kind that starts when everything falls apart.Deb takes us back to 2011, when she hit rock bottom: the wrong career, destructive relationships, and addiction. Two mentors changed everything by introducing her to NLP and personal development work — igniting a journey that helped her heal, evolve, and rebuild her entire identity from the inside out.Together, Laura and Deb explore:✨ The power of belief and willingness — why change starts the moment you decide to stop running from your life and start engaging with it. ✨ How mentors expand what's possible — and why witnessing someone else’s transformation rewires your own sense of potential. ✨ Frequency, vibration, and consciousness — the ancient and modern frameworks explaining how emotion, language, and energy shape your reality. ✨ A new era of personal evolution — and why we’re collectively transitioning toward a more integrated state of being.They close by sharing tools and resources — including Deb’s go-to program, NLP Made Simple — that can support anyone ready to shift, heal, and lead themselves at a higher level.If you’re craving a perspective shift, a spark of hope, or the readiness to take your next brave step, this episode will meet you exactly where you are.#Awakening #HealingIsPossible #MindsetMatters #YouAreWorthy #GrowthMindset #SpiritualJourney #InnerHealing #TransformYourLife #FromTraumaToHealing #BreakTheCycle #RiseAgainIf you’re ready for transformation- start strong with 30 days FREE in the Challengers Circle = https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle Don’t forget to try Deborahs program and get your discount = NLPmadesimple.com 

  20. 75

    How to Adapt When Life Doesn’t Go to Plan (Your New Year Strategy), Episode 74

    Most people don’t fail because they’re “undisciplined.” They fail because they build goals on invisible expectations, rigid rules, and versions of themselves that don’t match their real capacity.In this eye-opening episode, Laura breaks down the psychology behind why so many pursuits—fitness, weight loss, habit building, career changes—fall apart. She exposes the unconscious assumptions that sabotage progress, why we cling to predetermined outcomes, and how to pivot when reality doesn’t match the plan.You’ll learn:Why rigid goal-setting collapses under real-world pressureHow unconscious beliefs shape your expectations and emotional reactionsThe surprising reason “falling off track” isn’t a character flawHow to adapt faster by treating your goals like experiments rather than testsThe power of self-compassion for long-term successHow to build a personal “pursuit ecosystem” that supports sustainable changeLaura closes with transformative reflection questions to help you design goals for the New Year with clarity, honesty, and resilience.If you want growth that lasts—not just motivation that fades—this episode gives you the blueprint.Want support in setting goals that work- join The Challengers Circle =https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle #PodcastClip #DiaryOfACEOStyle #ChangeByChallenge #LauraWeinerKiser #MindsetPodcast #LearnAndGrow#StressManagement #MentalWellbeing #HealthyMindset

  21. 74

    When “Fine” Isn’t Enough: How to Actually Feel Satisfied with Your Life With Coach Eric, Episode 73

    What if “satisfied” isn’t a finish line… but a practice?In this episode, Laura sits down with Eric, a former fitness coach turned mindset coach at Change By Challenge, to unpack what it really means to feel satisfied in your life—not just on paper. They trace Eric’s journey from chasing external results to learning how to create inner peace, clarity, and a life that actually feels good to live.Together, they explore:How Eric’s definition of “satisfied” evolved from a vague goal to a daily practice of living his valuesWhy your environment—internal and external—is often the real “secret sauce” behind lasting changeThe subtle ways we treat symptoms instead of root causes, and how that keeps us stuckHow to recognize resistance as information, not failureThe power of slowing down, asking better questions, and embracing not knowingWhy self-compassion isn’t a soft skill, but a strategic one for sustainable growthAnd if you’re ready to turn these insights into action, come hang out inside The Challengers Circle—Laura’s coaching community where you get tools, support, and accountability to practice this work in real life, not just listen to it. #mindsetcoaching #personaldevelopment #innerpeace #selfgrowth #emotionalintelligence #selfcompassion #mentalwellbeing #lifesatisfaction #changestartswithin #ChangeByChallenge #TheChallengersCircle

  22. 73

    Sunk Costs, Dead-End Roles, and Knowing When It’s Time to Quit, Episode 72

    We don’t just fear losing money or time — we fear losing identity, status, relationships, and the story we’ve built about who we are. That fear silently shapes our choices every day.In this episode, we break down the psychology of loss aversion, sunk cost effect, sure loss aversion, status quo bias, and commission vs. omission bias—and how they keep you stuck in jobs, relationships, and habits you’ve already outgrown.You’ll learn how to spot when you’re:Holding on just because you’ve “already invested so much”Choosing the familiar over the better option, simply because it’s familiarJudging yourself more harshly for taking action than for staying frozenAvoiding small, certain losses that are actually protecting you from bigger onesWe also dive into “kill criteria”—clear rules for when you will walk away—so you stop letting emotion and ego drag you deeper into bad decisions. And we end with a challenge: look back at the last few years and ask, Where have these biases been running the show in my life?If you’re ready to stop being a victim of your own wiring and start acting as the greatest agent of your own life, this episode is your wake-up call. 🔊Looking for support, check out The Challenger’s Circle = https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle

  23. 72

    Understanding Yourself to Lead Others: Emotional Intelligence for Real-Life Challenges, Episode 71

    We all know what it feels like to be misunderstood by other people—but what about when you misunderstand yourself? In this episode, Laura breaks down the quiet, everyday ways we mislabel our emotions, misread our motives, and then build whole stories (and decisions) on top of those inaccuracies.You’ll hear how a client who thought she was in an “anxious season” was actually experiencing excitement and eagerness, and why slowing down to accurately name our inner world is a non-negotiable skill for emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and healthy relationships.Laura then introduces metacognition—the ability to think about your thinking—and shares how she used it in a real-life dilemma: deciding whether to cancel client sessions while feeling unwell. Instead of defaulting to guilt or people-pleasing, she walked through her own resistance, uncovered the real drivers underneath, and made a decision that was aligned, not reactive.From there, the conversation shifts to misunderstandings with others:How to spot when you’re no longer on the same page (agitation, defensiveness, checked-out listening)Practical tools like active listening and permission-based communicationTurning conflict into a collaborative, back-and-forth dialogue instead of a power struggleLaura closes by reminding us that the foundation of all effective communication is self-understanding—knowing your emotions, motivations, and thought patterns so you can lead yourself (and your life) with more clarity and self-respect.Finally, if you’re heading into the holiday season feeling emotionally stretched, Laura invites you into The Challenger Circle—her community for people who want to build emotional intelligence, upgrade their internal narrative, and navigate life’s hardest moments with more grounding, curiosity, and choice.

  24. 71

    Breathe Before You Break: How Conscious Breath Transforms Love, Work & Self With Anthony Abbagnano, episode 70

    What if the fastest way to change your life is the simplest—your next breath? In this conversation, Laura sits down with Anthony (half English, half Italian; citizen of many cultures) to unpack how conscious breathing became his lifelong practice after a transformative moment at age eight. Together they explore how breathwork sharpens clarity, de-escalates conflict, and builds real agency—at home, at work, and in the chaos of everyday life.You’ll learn:- How to use breath as an anchor in hard moments-How to use breath to reset for energy- How to utilize breath as a pathway to compassion in your relationships. Anthony also shares resources from Alchemy of Breath—free weekly sessions, Italy retreats—and his book Outer Chaos, Inner Calm, including a limited one-to-one offer for readers.Join the Challenger Circle TODAY and join a community of your peers all lifting each other to new heights= https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circleConnect With Anthony: ALCHEMYOFBREATH.COMOUTER CHAOS INNER CALM ASHA.GLOBAL #Breathwork #ConsciousBreathing #NervousSystemRegulation #ConflictResolution #EmotionalIntelligence #Mindfulness #AlchemyOfBreath #OuterChaosInnerCalm #Relationships #StressRelief #Agency #Resilience

  25. 70

    Living Forward: Turn Pivotal Moments into a Future You’re Proud Of, Episode 69

    What if your past wasn’t a prophecy…but a draft? In this episode, we unpack how to transform your future by intentionally redefining your story. Most of us use history as our decision-making template, accidentally creating a loop where yesterday becomes tomorrow. But when you choose to rewrite your narrative in real time….recognizing that we rarely know we’re in a pivotal moment while it’s happening…you reclaim authorship of your identity and align it with who you want to be and how you want to experience your life.You’ll learn:Why the brain defaults to the past, and how to break that prediction habitA simple narrative reframe to choose identity-aligned actions todayHow to spot “live” key moments and pivot on purposePractical prompts to move from old labels to your future selfPerfect for anyone ready to stop reliving the same chapter and start living forward with intention.JOIN THE CIRCLE AND START LEADING TODAY! https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle #personaltransformation #rewriteyourstory #futureself #identityshift #mindset #narrativetherapy #selfleadership #intentionalliving #emotionalintelligence #growth

  26. 69

    Stop Resisting, Start Integrating: Emotional Mastery & the Paradox of Control with Coach Jess, Episode 68

    What if the fastest way to change isn’t more control—but deeper acceptance? In this intimate conversation, Laura Weiner-Kiser and coach Jess Gruss unpack how “being okay” can actually block growth, why anger and sadness are intelligent signals (not flaws), and how community dissolves the myth that you’re the only one struggling.We explore:Emotional vulnerability & self-acceptance—feeling vs. fixingThe paradox of control—why acceptance precedes changeThe value of shared struggle—belonging as a catalyst for growthReclaiming anger & superiority—turning “bad traits” into protective wisdomTrusting the process—faith through uncertainty, disappointment, and detoursIf you’ve ever tried to “think” your way out of feelings, this episode offers a practical reframe: let emotions move through, learn what they’re asking for, and integrate them into who you’re becoming.Don’t wait, join us TODAY in the Challengers Circle= https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle #EmotionalVulnerability #SelfAcceptance #Anger #Sadness #ParadoxOfControl #Acceptance #CommunitySupport #PersonalGrowth #EmotionalIntelligence #Uncertainty #TrustTheProcess #LauraWeinerKiser #JessGruss

  27. 68

    Stop Self-Sabotaging Your Relationships: The Unconscious Communication Mask That Creates Your Pain, Episode 67

    Are you tired of feeling misunderstood? Dive into the unfiltered reality of human communication and discover the secret behind why your attempts at vulnerability often backfire.In this deep-dive episode, we expose the silent, powerful mechanism of self-sabotage: masking. When we express vulnerability through a confident, aggressive, or 'fixed' exterior to protect ourselves, the listener doesn't receive your true need—they only perceive the mask (confidence, aggression, control). This unconscious act creates the very isolation and pain you were trying to prevent.This is more than just a communication skills lesson. It's a journey into personal development and emotional intelligence. You will learn to:Identify the 'mask' you use when seeking support.Decipher the hidden context listeners receive, regardless of your words.Cultivate discernment and wisdom in choosing who, when, and how to share your truth.Shift from 'projecting and fixing' to 'stable and supportive' self-talk.Pain is inevitable, but strength is a choice. A broken bone grows back stronger when it's treated with care and wisdom. Learn how to approach life's hardest moments—and your most crucial conversations—with the wisdom needed to not just endure, but to amplify your personal growth and finally forge genuine connection.We're stronger together...JOIN THE CHALLENGERS CIRCLE- https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle#Communication #Vulnerability #Self-Sabotage #Relationship #AdvicePersonal #GrowthEmotional Intelligence #Confidence #Discernment.

  28. 67

    From Overwhelmed to On-Purpose: Choosing How You Engage with Life With Jennifer Ferrante, Episode 66

    What if the stories you tell yourself are the biggest obstacle to your growth? In this episode, Laura and hypnotherapist/author Jennifer unpack how to deconstruct beliefs, work with the reticular activating system (RAS), and leverage the placebo effect to create real change. You’ll hear practical ways to pause, choose your response, and shift from overwhelm to intentional abundance—plus a look at Jennifer’s upcoming book and her hypnotherapy practice.In this episode:Navigating change & identity — unlearning old labels to uncover who you really areBelief, perception & reality — placebo, RAS, and guiding your brain’s focusBalance in action — moving from overload to agency; creating space before you respondJennifer’s work — her upcoming book and how hypnotherapy supports behavior changeWhy should you listen…▶️ Actionable mindset tools▶️ Science-backed insights▶️ Compassionate strategies to rewrite your narrative and lead yourself through change.A better question is why SHOULDN’T you listen Jennifer's Website= https://www.ferrantefamilywellness.com/ Jennifer’s Book = https://www.ferrantefamilywellness.com/product-page/solos-a-story-for-these-times-pre-order #personal growth #mindset #hypnotherapy #belief change #reticular-activating-system #placebo-effect #emotional-intelligence #behavior-change #resilience.

  29. 66

    Lead Yourself First: The Art of Becoming Someone You’d Actually Follow, Episode 65

    What if the biggest leadership challenge is the one in your mirror? In this episode, we unpack self-leadership—how to become someone you’d actually follow. We explore why you “can’t force the horse to drink,” and how a smarter approach to guiding yourself turns stalled intentions into consistent action. You’ll learn how to choose how you show up, replace pressure with direction, and integrate skills through practice so change actually sticks.You’ll learn:A clear framework for self-leadership you can use todayHow to move from self-criticism to self-directionThe power of integration and repetition (why skills > motivation)Practical rituals to lead yourself when you don’t feel like itWant structure and support while you build these muscles? Join The Challengers Circle—our community designed to help you practice self-leadership in real life. It’s free to start, with an option to upgrade when you’re ready.Learn more about The Challengers Circle= https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle#self-leadership #personal growth #behavior-change #habits #mindset #resilience #integration #dailypractice #accountability #The-Challengers-Circle

  30. 65

    Your Mind’s Cast of Characters: Using Parts Work to Get Unstuck With Coach Jess, Episode 64

    Ever feel like different “you’s” are arguing in your head? In this episode, Laura and coach Jess Gruss demystify Parts Work (Internal Family Systems/IFS)—a practical way to turn inner conflict into inner leadership. We unpack why protective strategies from childhood (perfectionism, people-pleasing, overworking) once kept us safe but now create shame, guilt, and stuckness—and how to evolve them with curiosity and compassion.What you’ll learnHow to spot parts (the inner critic, the fixer, the avoider) and what each is trying to protectA step-by-step way to engage parts without spiraling or self-rejectionWhen to try Parts Work solo—and when to bring in a coach or therapistSimple language and prompts you can use today to create calm, clarity, and choiceIf your inner boardroom is loud, it’s time to step up as Chair. This work isn’t woo—it’s wiring. Learn the language of your parts, lead with self-respect, and watch your decisions get cleaner, your energy steadier, and your life simpler.Ready to practice with support? Join The Challengers Circle—Laura’s community for building emotional agility through coaching, skill labs, and micro-groups. Come get reps with people who are done white-knuckling it and ready to lead from the inside out. Start your 30-day trial—link in the show notes.Join The Challengers Circle TODAY! https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circleEpisode beats 09:31 Parts Work 101 13:18 The wisdom behind your parts’ strategies 37:41 Signs you’re ready for Parts Work 49:47 Recap + next steps#Parts Work #IFS #InternalFamilySystems #innercritic #shame #guilt #emotional intelligence #mindset #coaching #therapy #self-compassion #personalgrowth

  31. 64

    Stop Outsourcing Safety: Silence the Inner Critic & Choose Bravery, Episode 63

    Safe spaces are not enough. If you keep chasing external safety, you’ll never feel brave. In this solo episode, Laura Weiner-Kiser breaks down the difference between safe spaces and brave spaces—and why true safety starts inside your nervous system, not in a controlled environment. You’ll learn how to create inner safety, quiet the inner critic that attacks your self-worth, and use self-compassion as a practical tool for accountability, healing, and deeper connection.Laura shares a raw story about trying to fit in by putting others down—and the regret that followed. She explains how self-forgiveness, courage, and authentic vulnerability can transform shame into growth, and how the Challengers Circle community blends safety and bravery to help you practice these skills in real life (including a free 30-day challenge).You’ll learn:Safe vs. brave spaces—and how to build inner safety for resilienceA step-by-step way to disarm your inner critic and act with integrityWhy self-compassion increases accountability (not excuses)How community, vulnerability, and boundaries create real belongingDon’t just listen → act. Start building inner safety now and test it in the wild inside the Challengers Circle (free for 30 days). Follow, review, and send this to a friend you want on your brave team.The Challenger Circle= https://www.changebychallenge.com/challengers-circle Chapters 0:00 Safe spaces vs. brave spaces 2:55 Overcoming the inner critic 9:15 Healing past mistakes with self-compassion 15:26 The Challengers Circle: where safety meets bravery#bravespace #safespace #innersafety #vulnerability #innercritic #self-compassion #accountability #healing #community #personal growth.

  32. 63

    From Approval to Agency: Valerie Steele on Boundaries That Stick, Episode 62

    Feeling “low” doesn’t mean something’s wrong with you. In this honest conversation, Laura and coach Valerie Steele unpack why our energy naturally fluctuates—and how to stop shaming ourselves for it. We go deep on people-pleasing, self-worth, and the skill of validating your own experience so you can set healthier boundaries without burning bridges.In this episode you’ll learn:Why tired days are data, not defects—and how to respond wiselyA practical path out of people-pleasing (start small, build reps)How to validate your feelings while challenging limiting beliefsScripts and mindsets for saying “no” with clarity and careNext steps if you want support: Valerie’s free group coaching calls and her 8-week transformational program (details in show notes)If you’ve been running on approval and calling it love, this one’s your permission slip to be human. Follow, rate, and share with someone who needs stronger boundaries and softer self-talk.Instagram: @drvaleriesteele- https://www.instagram.com/drvaleriesteeleWebsite: www.WhyNotNowCoaching.comOffice Hours: my complimentary bi-monthly Mindset Reset:https://www.whynotnowcoaching.com/events

  33. 62

    She Stopped Pleasing Everyone—And Finally Became Herself with Tara Wiskow, Episode 61

    When your identity is built on approval, who are you without it? In this episode, Tara Wiskow shares how a traumatic family revelation, emotional eating, and a doctor’s blunt wake-up call became the catalyst for rebuilding her life on authenticity—not applause.We unpack why people-pleasing is a trauma response, how to set boundaries without burning bridges, and the difference between gratitude and “toxic positivity” (aka “positive toxicity”) so you can want more without shaming what you already have. Tara also introduces her women’s coaching program, She Rises, a 3-step method to unravel limiting beliefs, upgrade daily behaviors, and uplevel into your most honest self.Chapters 03:16 Tara’s story: identity, emotional eating, and the turning point 04:59 Authenticity vs expectations; gratitude without gaslighting yourself 24:39 People-pleasing as a trauma response; real-world boundary setting 55:31 She Rises: unravel → upgrade → uplevel 59:05 Closing reflections & what’s nextYou’ll learnHow to stop people-pleasing and set clean, compassionate boundariesWhy authenticity is the shortest path to self-worth and energyPractical mindset shifts to replace coping with growthA repeatable 3-step framework to align your life with who you really areFollow, rate, and share if this conversation helped you choose yourself today.

  34. 61

    Feeling Misunderstood? The Real Reason Might Be Your Nonverbals, Episode 60

    We like to think communication is simple—say what you mean, and people understand. But the truth? 80% of communication comes from nonverbals—our tone, body language, and expressions. And when those don’t align with our words, people walk away confused, mistrustful, or disconnected.In this episode of The Challenges of Change, Laura unpacks why communication so often feels messy, and how subtle mismatches between what we say and how we say it cost us opportunities in relationships, interviews, and even daily conversations.You’ll discover:Why 80% of communication is nonverbal—and what that means for youReal-life examples of incongruency (like apologies that don’t land or jokes that miss the mark)How mismatched signals make people feel misunderstood—or even manipulatedPractical ways to notice your tone, body language, and expressions in real timeA simple self-check practice: listen to yourself as you speak and notice when your words and nonverbals don’t align If you’ve ever walked away from a conversation thinking, “Why didn’t they get what I meant?” this episode will help you bridge the gap between what you say and what people actually hear.#CommunicationSkills #BodyLanguage #NonverbalCommunication #EmotionalIntelligence #PodcastRecommendations

  35. 60

    The Hidden Cost of Constant Giving, Episode 59

    We celebrate giving—but what about receiving?In this heartfelt episode of The Challenges of Change, Laura explores why so many of us struggle to let love, support, and kindness in. Using the powerful metaphor of The Giving Tree, she unpacks how constantly giving without learning to receive leads to imbalance, burnout, and loneliness.You’ll discover:The hidden fears that keep us from receiving (fear of losing control, fear of unworthiness, fear of being a burden)The real costs of not receiving—eroded intimacy, resentment, and isolationPersonal stories of how receiving transformed Laura’s relationships and sense of worthPractical ways to open yourself up to compliments, generosity, and support without guiltWhy receiving is not selfish, but a profound act of connection and resilienceThis episode is an invitation to soften, to let others love you, and to feel the wholeness that comes when you allow yourself to receive.#Receiving-love #self-worth #relationships #intimacy #burnout #vulnerability #emotional-connection #self-love #giving-and-receiving #loneliness #resilience #challenges-of-change

  36. 59

    The Power of Not Going Alone: Why Asking for Help Builds Trust and Connection, Episode 58

     We often convince ourselves that carrying things alone is an act of strength. We say we’re protecting the people we love, sparing them from our burdens. But underneath that story is another truth....fear.Fear that they won’t be able to hold our emotional weight. Fear they might dismiss or minimize our feelings. Fear they might see us differently… or even turn away.In this episode, Laura explores how choosing to go it alone is more than just self-protection—it’s also a silent message: I don’t trust you to love me in this. She unpacks the hidden cost of withholding our struggles and why letting people in is not only brave, but deeply relational.You’ll discover:Why we default to carrying hard things alone (and what it’s costing us)How fear of invalidation and rejection shapes our silenceThe unspoken messages we send when we don’t ask for helpA practical “Safe Ask” framework to invite support without fear of burdening othersHow vulnerability creates trust and deepens connectionThis is a conversation about the courage to be seen and the freedom that comes when we let ourselves be held.#EmotionalIntelligence #MindsetShift #SelfCompassion #ReframeYourStory #PersonalGrowth

  37. 58

    What You Avoid Owns You: How Facing the Uncomfortable Frees You, Episode 57

    Avoidance isn’t laziness—it’s a nervous system response. But when we chronically avoid hard emotions, difficult conversations, or uncomfortable truths, we slowly give our power away. In this episode, Laura unpacks the psychology and nervous system roots of avoidance, why it becomes a coping mechanism, and how it quietly shapes our behavior, relationships, and sense of purpose.You’ll learn:The 3 hidden ways avoidance shows up in daily lifeWhy avoidance gives short-term relief but long-term painWhat’s really driving your urge to delay, numb, or distractA simple awareness practice to shift from avoidance to intentional actionWhen it’s actually wise to avoid (honoring your capacity without guilt)This conversation is a compassionate call-in to notice what you’ve been turning away from—and an invitation to come home to your courage, clarity, and self-leadership.

  38. 57

    The Hidden Cost of High Performance: How to Pursue Goals Without Losing Yourself, Episode 56

    What if your drive to succeed is quietly draining your fulfillment?In this powerful episode, Laura breaks down the invisible pressure many of us carry—the need to constantly perform, achieve, and optimize—and why that mindset can sabotage not only our well-being, but our long-term success.She explores:The dopamine trap of goal-chasing and why achievement often feels emptyHow to recognize when you're working from insecurity instead of intentionThe shift from outcome-attachment to values-alignmentHer own raw, personal struggle with impatience in a project that deeply mattersA step-by-step process to pursue your goals with integrity, clarity, and purposeIf you’re tired of hustling without meaning or starting strong only to burn out, this episode will show you how to lead your mind, not let it run the show.🎯 Learn how to:Redefine success on your termsIdentify the unconscious filters shaping your habitsTrade pressure for purpose without sacrificing progressTakeaway: The mindset that got you here isn’t the mindset that will get you where you’re truly meant to go.Tune in now and start reimagining what’s possible when your habits serve your highest self....not your inner critic.

  39. 56

    From Anxious to Empowered: How to Heal Through Mindset, Nutrition, and Self-Leadership, Episode 55

    What if anxiety wasn’t something you had to manage forever—but something you could move through and rise above? In this powerful conversation, Laura sits down with Melissa Armstrong, a former nurse turned holistic health consultant, to explore the deeper root causes of chronic stress, burnout, and low energy. Together, they unpack the limitations of traditional medicine, the critical role mindset plays in healing, and how true transformation begins with radical honesty and discomfort.You’ll hear:Why symptom-chasing keeps us stucKHow to break free from anxiety loopsWhat it really takes to reclaim energy, confidence, and clarityWhy growth requires discomfort—and how to move through it with purposeIf you’ve been trying to feel better but keep hitting the same walls, this episode will give you fresh insight, hope, and practical tools to start your healing journey from the inside out.WEBSITE= https://holistichealthbymelissa.com/PODCAST=https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holistic-health-with-melissa/id1778991009

  40. 55

    That Thought Isn’t the Problem…. It’s the SIGNAL: Why You Keep Misreading Your Mind, Episode 54

    If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why do I keep doing things that don’t even feel good?”—this episode is for you.In this deeply honest and empowering conversation, we explore the truth behind why your thoughts and emotions can feel so overwhelming—and how most of us have been misreading the message all along. Cravings, spirals, overthinking, irritation… these aren’t problems to fix—they’re signals trying to guide you toward something deeper.You’ll learn:Why your mind and body speak in emotional code, not commandsHow cravings and anxious thoughts are often misinterpreted survival strategiesWhat it means to reframe your inner dialogue with self-compassion and clarityHow to pause and ask the right questions to access your internal GPSWhy self-awareness is the most powerful form of self-leadership Instead of reacting or shaming yourself, you’ll walk away with a practical way to decode your emotional habits and build the inner trust you’ve been craving. Plus: A powerful Mirror Moment practice to help you reconnect with what your emotions are really trying to tell you.📩 If this episode resonates, share it with a friend who tends to overthink or feel hijacked by their emotions. It could be the map they didn’t know they needed.Listen now and start shifting from emotional reactivity to embodied understanding.

  41. 54

    From Stuck to Shift: Practicing the Habits That Heal, Episode 53

    We all know what to do, but actually doing it? That’s the real work. In this episode, we unpack the everyday emotional struggles so many of us face: procrastination, harsh self-talk, boundary-setting, anxiety, and depression, not as personal failures, but as normal human challenges that require compassion, not condemnation.But here’s the truth: information alone doesn’t change your life. Practice does. This episode dives into the “why” behind your stuck points and offers practical guidance for building new patterns, one small shift at a time. Learn how to move beyond mental overload and into emotional integration by engaging with your experiences, not escaping them.You'll walk away with:A new perspective on procrastination (hint: it’s not laziness)Tools for responding to your inner critic with curiosity, not shameA mindset shift around boundaries (and how they can strengthen your relationships)Gentle ways to start metabolizing heavy emotions like depression and anxietyAnd most importantly: a reminder that you’re not alone in this work.Whether you're just starting your growth journey or feeling stuck mid-process, this episode will inspire you to stop overthinking and start practicing the habits that actually move the needle. Because real change isn’t about knowing more—it’s about becoming more through intentional action.

  42. 53

    Knowing Isn’t Doing: The Real Work of Change, Episode 52

    Ever wonder why you know what to do—but still don’t do it? In this short and powerful episode, Laura unpacks the frustrating truth: information isn’t enough. Change doesn’t happen in your head—it happens in your habits. From resisting discomfort to falling back into old routines, she explains why your brain fights change and what it actually takes to create lasting transformation.You’ll learn: Why awareness alone won’t shift behaviorHow to train your “brain muscles” with daily mental reps The power of an “inner-size buddy”Why self-compassion matters more than self-controlIf you’re tired of understanding the what and ready to master the how, this episode is your sign to stop waiting and start practicing. Real change starts after the aha moment.

  43. 52

    Feel It to Free It: The Power of Emotional Processing, Episode 51

    What if the very emotions you’ve been avoiding are the key to your peace, purpose, and personal power?In this short but impactful episode, we dive into why learning to process your emotions isn’t just self-care, it’s survival. You’ll discover how unprocessed emotions quietly shape your choices, drain your energy, and distance you from your purpose. We explore the real reasons so many of us resist this work (spoiler: it’s not your fault), how emotions show up in the body, and what to do when your mind tries to "think" its way out of feeling.Whether you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just a little numb, this episode offers an honest look at the messy but transformative journey of emotional healing, and gives you a challenge that could change everything.Tune in to learn:Why emotional avoidance keeps you in survival modeHow to recognize the physical signs your body is begging you to feelWhat to do when your mind won’t stop overanalyzingA simple challenge to begin your emotional healing todayYour emotions are not the enemy—they're the compass. Let’s learn to follow them.

  44. 51

    Say It While You Can: The Healing Power of Expressing How You Feel, Episode 50

    What if the very thing that could bring you more joy, connection, and even better health… is simply saying how you feel?In this heartfelt and deeply human episode, Laura reflects on a moment of unexpected clarity, a quote that stopped her in her tracks and made her realize how often we wait until something’s wrong to say what really matters. She opens up about her own relationship with her mother, and how learning to express love without waiting for a crisis has reshaped the way she connects.From the science of oxytocin to the soul-level healing that comes from vulnerability, this episode is a powerful reminder that expressing emotion isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a vital act of self-care. Laura explores why it can feel so hard to be emotionally honest, and how we can learn to share our love and appreciation freely, without expectation.Whether you’re someone who holds back or someone who’s learning to speak from the heart, this episode invites you into a courageous kind of living—one where love doesn’t go unsaid.💌 Your challenge: Reach out to three people you care about and tell them how you truly feel. No strings attached. Just the gift of honesty, connection, and presence.Because love, when expressed, doesn’t just change relationships—it changes us.🎧 Listen now and be reminded of the light you already are.#EmotionalHealth #ConnectionMatters #SayHowYouFeel #PodcastChallenge

  45. 50

    Amplify the Spark: Turning Connection, Courage & Community into Impact With Nicole Waters, Episode 49

    In this energetic and heart-expanding episode, Nicole Waters joins Laura for a powerful conversation about purpose, leadership, and the deep magic of connection. What begins as a reflection on their serendipitous meeting quickly blooms into a masterclass on building momentum through aligned relationships, bold failure, and authentic community.Together, Nicole and Laura unpack how failure—when met with curiosity—becomes fuel for reinvention. They shine a light on the often-hidden power of choosing vulnerability over perfection and the essential role of support systems in sustaining vision-led work. Whether you’re a founder, creative, or change-maker, this episode speaks directly to the courage it takes to keep showing up for your calling.Nicole also shares the vibrant origin story of the Amplify Women’s Empowerment Event, a gathering designed to catalyze confidence, connection, and community transformation. Her passion for building immersive, resource-rich spaces where women rise together is infectious—and you’ll leave inspired to take bolder action in your own sphere of influence.💡 Key themes:Trusting timing and the people placed in your pathRedefining failure as feedback and evolutionWhy coaches and success teams matter more than everCreating immersive, impact-driven events for womenLiving your values out loud—in business and beyond✨ Tune in for a conversation that invites you to amplify your voice, your vision, and your impact—starting right where you are.Connect With Nicole525 CoachingAmplify Women Tampa Bay SummitLinkedIn - Nicole Waters

  46. 49

    From Knowing to Becoming: The Sacred Work of Integration, Episode 48

    In a culture obsessed with consuming more information, this heartfelt teaching from Laura is a clarion call to pause and ask: Are we living what we know?In this intimate and powerful session, Laura explores the gap between understanding and embodiment, reminding us that knowledge without integration doesn’t create transformation—it creates pressure. She invites us to take radical responsibility for our own growth by engaging in small, courageous experiments that teach the body safety, presence, and adaptability in real time.With compassion and clarity, Laura explains why our nervous systems often resist even the changes we consciously desire. Drawing on her experience teaching emotional intelligence, she shares why intellectual insight alone isn’t enough—and why real change requires us to bring the body along for the journey. It’s not about perfection; it’s about returning to ourselves again and again with gentleness, curiosity, and truth.💡 You’ll learn:Why information doesn’t equal transformationHow the body’s intelligence protects you—and how to work with itWhat “micro-experiments” are and how they create lasting changeWhy emotional safety is a prerequisite for growthHow to stop outsourcing worth and start embodying your wisdom✨ This episode is a loving, grounded reminder that your growth is not a race to win but a relationship to deepen—with yourself, your nervous system, and your inner truth.If you’re ready to move beyond knowing and step into becoming, this conversation is your invitation.

  47. 48

    The Myth Of Balance And The Wisdom You Find Along The Way with Coach Jess, Episode 47

    What if balance isn't a destination, but a rhythm we learn to move with?In this soul-nourishing conversation, Jess Gruss joins Laura to unravel the myth of balance as a perfectly distributed 50/50 life. Together, they explore the idea of balance as a living practice—a process of returning to presence, making micro-adjustments, and honoring the truth that imbalance is not failure, but a call to realignment. With compassion and insight, they guide listeners through the dance of groundedness and disruption, revealing the deep wisdom that emerges when we stop striving for perfection and start tuning into what’s real.If you’ve ever felt like you’re falling short of “having it all together,” this episode offers a breath of fresh air and a powerful reframing that might change the way you see everything.🎧 Tune in for reflection, freedom, and practical tools to support your own journey back to center.

  48. 47

    Breaking the Cycle: Healing from Self-Abandonment, Episode 46

    Why is it so hard to show up for ourselves—especially when it matters most?In this honest and soul-stirring episode, Laura unpacks the hidden patterns of self-abandonment that so many of us carry: people-pleasing, over-giving, poor boundaries, and the fear of being “too much” or “not enough.” With deep personal insight and gentle wisdom, she reveals how these patterns form, how they protect us—and how they quietly keep us disconnected from our own worth.Through raw storytelling and reflective prompts, Laura invites you to look beneath the surface of your habits and ask: What am I afraid will happen if I choose myself?💡 In this episode, you’ll explore:What self-abandonment looks like in real life—and why it’s so commonHow to identify the fear-based beliefs driving your people-pleasingLaura’s personal story of rewriting her relationship with self-worthOne powerful step you can take today to begin reclaiming yourselfShe leaves us with a heartfelt call: to become the love we’re longing for by choosing—again and again—to stand by ourselves, even when it’s uncomfortable.🌱 Healing starts with one brave step: showing up for the person who needs you most—you.#SelfWorth #HealingJourney #EmotionalIntelligence #SelfLove #Podcast #Boundaries #PeoplePleasing #PersonalGrowth

  49. 46

    Becoming The Love You Seek, Episode 45

    We spend so much of our lives searching—for connection, for the right partner, for a love that finally feels like home. But what if the most powerful love story begins within?In this transformative episode, Laura challenges the myth that love is something we find and instead invites us to become the love we seek. With wisdom and warmth, she explores what it truly means to build a relationship with yourself that is grounded in acceptance, courage, and radical self-compassion.From redefining love beyond the transactional to embracing the grit and grace of real self-love, this conversation will shift how you think about intimacy, partnership, and your own worth.💔✨ In this episode:Why self-love is the foundation for lasting relationshipsHow to stop outsourcing your worth to othersThe bravery it takes to love yourself through pain, growth, and changeA powerful reminder that love isn't just soft—it's strong, boundaried, and deeply honestWhether you're healing from heartbreak or simply longing for deeper connection, this episode is a heart-opening guide to coming home to yourself.🧡 The love you’ve been searching for might be closer than you think.#Podcast #SelfLove #EmotionalHealing #Authenticity #Relationships #PersonalGrowth

  50. 45

    The Power of Why: A Radical Approach to Change, Episode 44

    Why do we keep repeating patterns that don’t serve us—even when we know better? In this insightful episode, Laura explores how asking a simple but profound question—“why?”—can unlock lasting change in our habits, relationships, and mindset.From rethinking her own morning routine to helping clients overcome budgeting resistance, Laura shows how our actions are often driven by hidden motivations we rarely take the time to examine. You’ll learn how curiosity (not judgment) is the gateway to transformation—and why true change starts with understanding, not willpower.✨ Discover:The real reason your habits don’t stickWhy discomfort is a sign you’re evolvingSimple ways to bring the “why” question into daily lifePrompts that lead to emotional clarity and stress reliefThis episode isn’t just about self-help—it’s about self-honesty. Tune in to begin your own journey of unraveling the why beneath your what.🎧 Listen, reflect, and let your own “why” lead the way.#Podcast #EmotionalIntelligence #SelfDiscovery #Habits #PersonalGrowth #MindsetMatters

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to The Challenges of Change, a podcast dedicated to self-improvement and personal growth. I'm your host, Laura, a mindset coach in the health and fitness industry. Join me as we navigate the hurdles of life and explore practical strategies for managing stress, regulating emotions, upgrading your mindset, and reclaiming your worth.

HOSTED BY

Laura Weiner-Kiser

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