Calm it Down

Who would've thought we would learn so much from Pink Floyd's 1979 album, The Wall. As life happens, we get the various bumps, setbacks and punches below the belt. All of these and more lead to us "protecting ourselves" but what if it's that 'protection' that's hindering us from being our full potential? This wall, this shield we build around ourselves may not be what we think it is. Listen in to this archived episode as we break down the ideas behind 'The Wall' in our hopes to no longer be Comfortably Numb.

Aw, nostalgia. Traversing merrily down memory lane is such a delight, until it isn't. Sure it's fun to see old pictures of what you wore 30 years ago is now making a come back but the short "just a glance" can quickly turn to a "how great things used to be." But today, I ask a most poignant question "was it?" Was it really all that great? Was it everything that right now isn't? I challenge you do listen to my thoughts on yesteryear. You may be surprised on the take I have. Listen in as we swim around the iceberg of nostalgia.

Let's chat about grief. It's a heavy word, but what if we looked at it differently. Instead of seeing it as something purely sad, we explore how it can actually reminds us of what we deeply care about. We'll journey together through this idea, discovering that even in sadness, there's a bright side — a testament to love and meaningful connections. Come along on this unique exploration of grief, where we celebrate the strength, love, and life it unexpectedly represents as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

What would you do if movie magic became reality? If, in the movies, we could always get what we wanted by just wishing hard enough or following our hearts, life would be a dream. However, as we all know, this is not the case. In real life, things don't always go according to plan. We make mistakes and sometimes life doesn't turn out the way we hoped it would. Just like in the movies, though, there is still much to be learned from these less-than-perfect moments. But listen in as you'll see there's a reason for this. And guess what, it's a great one. You won't be disappointed

In today's episode, we grapple with the notion that if you can't break it down to a child, how can you truly grasp it yourself? We'll journey into the world of 'hardship', as interpreted through the poignant insights of The Velveteen Rabbit. Paying tribute to Thich Nhat Hanh, we'll explore the concept that when you immerse yourself completely in each fleeting moment, you are indeed fully experiencing life itself. Let's dive in, shall we, in 3...2...1.

Do we ever stop to wonder where our moments of joy and happiness come from during our daily routine? Today's podcast episode aims to explore this thought-provoking question. We're taking a break from the usual rush to understand our emotions better. We'll find out that the source of our happiness isn't as hidden as we may think. By understanding it, we can tap into it more, bringing more joy into our day-to-day lives. Tune in to discover more about your happiness and where it truly comes from.

Scars. Scars are hard. They’re a reminder of something we went through that we would rather forget. They can be a source of shame, or a source of strength. And no matter what they look like, or where they are, scars always have a story to tell. But the most interesting thing is 'how' our scars can not only empower us personally but be the hope in the lives of others. Listen into this rebroadcast from March of 2022 as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

Great. Everything is….great, supposedly. The pressure to look great, to feel great, to post something great but what if I just don't feel great. What if at my core I’m just sad. A study from 2017 stated an estimated 17.3 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode. That was 2017. WAY before we pulled out the KN95s. This episode I’m going to share three reasons why feeling sad perhaps isn’t so bad after all; for a season.

Ever pondered why perfection seems overrated? In this episode, "Perfectly Overrated: You're Doing Better Than You Think," I turn this idea on its head. Just like the unique charm in a lopsided mug or a hat-shaped bowl, life's almost whimsical imperfections make us who we are. Listen in as I dive into an art form where 'perfect' isn’t always the goal, and exploring how the lessons from a potter's wheel can help us embrace our own wonderfully imperfect lives. Join me, as we reshape our perspective on perfection. Remember, you're doing better than you think! Let’s find out how in 3…2…1.

What is your favorite picture? The one at your desk or hanging on a wall that always seems turn any day of rain into sun. While that picture is your emotional go to, what if I told you there's more pictures waiting to be made. But sometimes it's easier to live in yesteryear than in the moment at hand. Listen in to this episode of Calm it Down podcast where I share some thoughts about what really makes the perfect picture.

Are you afraid of the dark? Do clowns give you the heebie-jeebies? Does the thought of public speaking make you want to run for the hills? Fear not, my friend! This episode is here to teach you how to "Name It to Tame It.", IT as in "your fears!" Listen in as I share how naming your biggest fear immediately gives you control to conquer them like the brave soul you are! Buckle up, buttercup, and get ready to face your fears head-on! Let's Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

Are you tired of constantly chasing after happiness and feeling like you're never quite satisfied? Well, in this episode, I explore the difference between contentment and complacency, and how the Finnish have mastered the art of being the happiest country in the world for the 6th straight year! What is in the WATER up there!? Join me as I share some tips on how to cultivate contentment in your life, and why it's so important to avoid becoming complacent.

We often find ourselves lost in the expectations of others, societal norms, and the dreams of our loved ones. It's easy to forget that our lives should be a reflection of our selves; what we imagine our life to be. But what if we could reclaim our lives and chart our own course? This is the journey of self-discovery that we embark on in this episode. Join me as we explore the process of untangling the web of external influences, embracing our individuality, and making intentional choices that align with our authentic selves. Get ready to be inspired, to embrace your uniqueness, and to chart a path towards a life that's truly your own. Let's Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by society's expectations? Like you have to act, look, or work in a certain way to fit in? It's tough and we can lose our true selves. In this episode, we'll talk about why it's important to be yourself and give practical tips to break away from conformity. Whether you're an artist, caregiver, or anyone who wants to live on their own terms, this episode is for you. So grab a cup of tea, relax, and let's Calm it Down in 3…2…1.

Have you ever felt like your life's destination can't be found on a map, let alone a GPS? Well, you're in the right place (at least with this episode), because this is part two of my two-part series, and I'm going to share some more ideas how to help you find your way along the emotional highway. From chunking your goals to celebrating your successes, there are some key road-trips on the roadmap to success. It's a beautiful day for a drive. Hop in and join me as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

Everyone needs a sense of direction in life; having a clear purpose and goals is essential for feeling confident, motivated, and fulfilled. Without a 'roadmap', we can end up meandering around aimlessly with no real idea of where to go. Though it may seem pretty overwhelming to figure out what we want and how to get there, setting goals can open the door to clarity and newfound motivation. In this episode, join me as we explore the importance of having a destination in mind! Discover how creating a roadmap can help you stay focused and make steady progress towards achieving your desires. Your journey awaits - embrace the open road, follow the signs and let's find some fulfillment on the path of discovery as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

In today's episode, we'll be exploring ways to cultivate hope in our lives. Because let's face it, life can be unpredictable and chaotic, and sometimes it feels like the sun may never shine again. But even in the midst of our darkest days, there's always hope. By holding onto hope and believing that tomorrow will bring a brighter day, we can weather life's storms and emerge stronger and more resilient on the other side. So, let's grab our sunglasses and look to the sky with optimism, because even if we can't guarantee that the sun will come out tomorrow, we can choose to believe that it probably will. Join us as we dive into ways to cultivate hope as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

Ever wondered how the perfect melody can drift you off into dreamland? Well, in today's episode, we're exploring the fascinating rhythm of rest and how calming music can help you sleep faster and better. Listen in as I share the science behind soothing tunes and how they work their magic to slow down your heart rate and whisk you away to a peaceful slumber. So, whether you're battling bedtime woes or simply want to level up your relaxation game, join me in this cozy conversation while you'll also hear NEW music from my latest EP, drift! Let's unlock the secrets of music together and make those sweet dreams a reality. Tune in now as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

Today's episode is an encore presentation of one of my personal favorites, and a fan-favorite as well: "Regret is so 15 minutes ago." As you may know, I'm currently on tour and just finished playing two incredible shows in Canada (Quebec & Toronto). Right now, I'm in the City of Angels, Los Angeles, for a couple of days, before heading to Red Bank, NJ, and Washington DC on March 16th and 18th, respectively. If you're in any of those areas, be sure to come and say hi! But for now, let's dive into regret. It's a feeling that we've all experienced at some point in our lives, but it's all about the perspective we bring to it. In this episode, we'll explore how to move past regret and focus on the future. Thanks for tuning in, and I appreciate your support as always. Stay tuned for more exciting updates, and remember, regret is so 15 minutes ago!

Do you ever feel like life is a rollercoaster, with its ups and downs? You're not alone. In this week's Calm it Down podcast, I shares some tips for embracing the highs and enduring the lows. From being mindful of your thoughts to taking care of yourself and reaching out for help, listen in as I give some practical advice for navigating life's challenges. Plus, I even give you some homework to try out this week! It’s not too hard, I promise. Let’s Calm it Down in 3…2…1.

We all know the classic chocolate chip cookie - gooey, filled to the brim with chocolate chips and oh-so-satisfying. But in this episode of the Calm it Down podcast, we're taking it a step further. We explore how this humble treat has much to teach us about life. So grab a glass of milk and tune in as we explore how a gooey morsel of goodness can give us the insight we need to make life a little sweeter, smarter, and all-around a bit more tastier.

There's an age-old cliché that says we learn something new everyday. But if life is a teacher, are we really paying attention and listening to the lessons? From childhood to adulthood, it seems like each stage of our lives can provide us with meaningful moments of growth - but how often do these transformations turn into real life applications? In this episode, I hope to explore the ways in which life continuously gives us opportunities for learning - and more importantly, how we can use those teachings as fuel for further growth and development. With creativity, focus and a pinch of humility, anything is possible - so let’s jump right in as we Calm it Down in 3…2…1

With the skies opening and my touring returning, some concert halls have asked me to lead a guided breath-work meditation before the shows. This is seriously one of my most favorite things ever! But one of the questions I get asked the most is "well, what's it like? what kind of experience?" In today's episode, I take listeners through a peaceful journey that is perfect for anyone looking to de-stress. We'll be focusing on our breath as we clear our minds and let go of any worries or concerns we may have. If you're new to meditation or just want someone to talk you through it, this episode is perfect for you! So grab your device, find a comfortable spot, and join me for some peace and tranquility. Let’s Calm it Down in 3..2..1.

Searching for our true selves can be both intimidating and exciting. Despite the pressures of everyday life, remembering to pause and recognize moments when we feel in tune with our most honest selves can be incredibly rewarding. It may sound simple, but sometimes it’s hard to recognize when these moments are occurring. A good place to start is by paying attention to what brings you joy, whether that's spending time alone, engaging in a physical activity or simply having a conversation with someone. These experiences have the potential to reveal different parts of your personality and foster an even deeper understanding of who you are beneath all of the expectations and responsibilities that life throws at us. So let’s embark on this journey together as we look for ways to authentically express ourselves and ultimately reach a place of lasting fulfillment.

We've heard a lot about how being tough and strong is important, but what about those of us who always seem to wear our hearts on our sleeves and express our emotions openly? Contrary to popular belief, emotional sensitivity is not a hindrance - often it can be what we need to help us get through the tough times in life. Emotional sensitivity allows us to better connect with others and understand the world around us. In this episode, we explore the power of emotional sensitivity and examine why it should be celebrated rather than shamed. With a funny and creative lens, I will offer you some thought-provoking perspectives that may just help you appreciate the importance of being emotionally sensitive! Join me as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

Do you ever feel like something is missing in your life? That there's a longing for something more but you're not sure what it is? In this episode of the Calm It Down Podcast, we explore the power of longing and how it can be an important signal that we're meant for something more. We'll discuss the difference between passing fancy and sincere desire, and how to begin to listen to the clues our longing provides. If you've ever felt lost or uncertain about your next steps, this episode is for you! Check it out, share it with a friend and drop me a note how you think longing is or isn't an integral part of your journey.

We all make choices in life, and one of the biggest is who we allow into our inner circle. It's easy to think that anyone we call a friend is a positive influence on us, but sometimes that isn't always the case. If you feel like things aren't quite right in your relationships, it might be time for you to take a step back and re-evaluate those bonds. In this episode, we'll talk about ways to detect bad influences in your relationships and ways to cut ties with toxic people so you can cultivate strong friendships with those who are supportive and encouraging. Listen in as we Calm it Down.

We’ve all been there, struggling and feeling like we have to fight our own battles alone. We put on a brave face and tell ourselves everything is fine, but often times the truth is that we could really use some help. Asking for help has long been viewed as a sign of weakness or failure, leaving us feeling stigmatized or embarrassed when it comes time to reach out for assistance. But why? Why can't seeking help from others be seen as an admirable act of courage — something expected rather than shamed? Let's find out by uncovering the secrets behind this four letter word: Help. Together, let's explore how understanding the stigma surrounding asking for assistance can empower us to take control of our lives!

We often strive to be perfect in all that we do; but perfectionism can lead us down a path of constant dissatisfaction, feelings of guilt and worry. This year, instead of focusing on being perfect, let's focus on being better—better than where we were last year and better at taking care of ourselves. It's time to start aiming for progress rather than perfection and focusing our energy on developing better habits that will help us reach the goals we truly desire. This week, we start the new year with the mantra Better, Not Perfect. Join me and let’s take a step forward.

As this current year draws towards its close, many of us may find ourselves facing a seemingly insurmountable bridge that stands between us and the new year. Whether it's loneliness or worry about the future, sadness for what has been lost, or simply feeling overwhelmed - there are bound to be strong feelings that can keep us from taking the next steps. But before we ring in the countdown, let's look at the bridge we've crossed this year, all that we've come through, all that we stepped forward one step at a time.

Aaahhh, the joys of catching a cold. Not the "oh it's chilly outside.", but the "my nose is stuff and I'm miserable." That all too familiar chill that takes over your body; it's something we've all experienced. Although a seemingly trivial thing, this cold can represent much more than what meets the eye - it can be symbolic of inner turmoil and emotional struggles. Listen in as we connect these two things together. Examining how emotions play an integral part of our lived experiences and use them as insight into how to better manage difficult times. Join me on a journey exploring the parallels of how mental health is more common to the common cold than you think.

We are never given more than we can handle. So when you feel like life is giving you too much to handle, know that it chose you for a reason. It saw the strength in you to be able to deal with whatever situation it throws your way. Be grateful for the chance to help others through their time of need and ask yourself what strength you can bring to them. Life will always find a way to keep going, no matter how hard things seem at first. You just have to be willing to see the good in every situation and find the strength within yourself to get through it and to realize for THIS particular moment you're in, Life Chose You.

The holiday season is a time of joy, family, and friends. But what happens when grief interrupts that? What do you do when the holidays don't feel like they used to? Today's episode explores some new traditions that can help make the holiday season a little more bearable for those who are grieving.

Emotions are a normal and essential part of our lives but that doesn't mean we should always act on every one of them. It's important to be aware of the different types of emotions and how they can impact our decisions. Knowing how to deal with emotional reactions can help us make sounder judgments in everyday life - whether we're choosing what to wear or picking who to date. Our emotions can be swayed just as strongly as our response TO our emotions. So, how do we tame this lion within us to be less.....emotional? Dive in as we find out.

What would you do if movie magic became reality? If, in the movies, we could always get what we wanted by just wishing hard enough or following our hearts, life would be a dream. However, as we all know, this is not the case. In real life, things don't always go according to plan. We make mistakes and sometimes life doesn't turn out the way we hoped it would. Just like in the movies, though, there is still much to be learned from these less-than-perfect moments. But listen in as you'll see there's a reason for this. And guess what, it's a great one. You won't be disappointed

Forgiveness. It's something we've all heard of, and even experienced to some degree in our lives. But what is it really? What does it mean to forgive someone? Is it simply saying that you're no longer mad or upset at someone? Is it more than that? In this episode, I'm going to explore what forgiveness is not, as well as give my own definition of forgiveness can be.

We all have that one t-shirt. You know the one I'm talking about—it's the one you've had for years and years, and it's seen better days. It's comfortable, sure, but it's also stained, full of holes, and maybe a little bit smelly. Just like an old t-shirt, our emotional baggage can be stained with the negative experiences of our past. It can be full of holes from all the times we've been hurt. And it can be so threadbare that it doesn't provide any warmth or protection anymore. Sound familiar? That's because that old t-shirt in your closet is a lot like your emotional baggage. Listen in and let me explain.

In life, we all experience disappointing moments. Times when things don't go our way and we don't get the outcome we were hoping for. These moments can be really tough to deal with and can sometimes make us feel like a disappointment to others and ourselves. But today, we're going to learn the difference between disappointing and being a disappointment. There's a much wider gap than you would ever imagine. Listen in, share with a friend and most importantly, give yourself some grace.

There's something about sitting down to a plate of food that can make us feel immediately guilty. We think about all the things we could have done differently - we shouldn't have had that extra slice of cake, we should have gone for a run before breakfast, we should be eating more greens. But what if, instead of beating ourselves up every time we eat, we took a moment to appreciate how miraculous and nourishing the food is? Just think about all the incredible things that had to happen for that meal to end up on our plates. The seed had to be sown, the sun had to shine, the rain had to fall, the crop had to be harvested. And that's just the journey of the food itself! Then somebody had to cook it, and somebody else had to serve it. So many people and so many processes came together to create this one meal, and it is truly a gift. If we can remember that every time we eat, maybe it will help us break the cycle of shame that food so often brings. Today, we talk about one of my very favorite things; food!

Every morning is a chance for a fresh start. A chance to heal, grow, laugh, and embrace all of life's unpredictability. Today may be tough, but it's also a chance to learn and become stronger. The past is over and done with; it can't be changed. All we have is the present moment, which we can choose to make the best of it or not. Today is a new day, full of possibilities. Let's make the most of it!

Do you ever feel like you're constantly in a hurry? Like you never have enough time for everything? Overwhelmed and stressed out? If so, then you may be experiencing what's called "hurry sickness." Unfortunately, hurry sickness is becoming increasingly common as our society becomes more and more fast-paced. But what is hurry sickness and why is it such a big deal? And most importantly, what can we do to address it and prevent burnout? Listen in to find out.

Loneliness. That nagging feeling that something is missing, and no matter how much we try to fill the hole, it always seems to come back. Loneliness has been called the "common cold of emotions" because it's so widespread. But why is loneliness so common? And what can we do about it? Listen in as we explore the solitude soliloquy and offer some solutions for overcoming it.

The other day someone wrote to ask my advice on adapting to new seasons. They are entering their first year of college away from home and wanted to know what advice I could offer. Whether you're transitioning into a new job, a new relationship, or a new home, change can be tough. If you're finding it difficult to adjust to your new circumstances, don't worry—you're not alone. In this episode we'll take a look as to how change can be easier than we allow ourselves to be accustomed to.

Dealing with depersonalization can be a challenge. Sometimes, it feels like you are living in a dream and everything is not real. It's hard to focus on anything when you feel this way. You may find it difficult to connect with other people and experience the world around you. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing depersonalization, recognizing and accepting that life is lived in the present moment can be a helpful start. Today, we find ways to become Real. Present. Alive.

Unicorns and suicide have something in common: they're both based on fiction. We like to think of suicide as something that doesn't happen to real people, that it's a myth. But the truth is, suicide is all too real. Every day, people of all ages and backgrounds take their own lives. And while we may not know them personally, their deaths have a ripple effect, touching the lives of those who knew and loved them. September is Suicide Awareness Month. If we're going to prevent suicide, we need to stop treating it like a myth and start acknowledging the very real pain and suffering that leads someone to take their own life. Only then can we hope to provide the support and resources that those in need so desperately deserve.

Failure is something that we often try to avoid. We are taught from a young age that it's not okay to make mistakes, and that we should always do our best in order to be successful. But what if failure was actually the key to success? What if we stopped being afraid of failure, and started embracing it as part of the process? You are about to hear one of the most fascinating stories that seems to be absent from a lot of the history books. And once you hear of this iconic person and his path, you will be inspired to hear how sometimes we just need a little nudge of failure.

Imagine if we had a switch that could instantly ease our nerves. We could flip it whenever we felt anxious or stressed, and breathe a sigh of relief as calmness washed over us. Of course, such a thing is only a fantasy. But that doesn't mean we can't find ways to calm ourselves in the moment. Sometimes, all it takes is a deep breath. Listen in as we learn you have everything you need with you RIGHT NOW to calm the mind and aid in easing your anxiety.

In order to get the most out of anything, you must first bring an understanding of what it is you want from it. And that means even with this podcast and its 73 episodes. Without this fundamental understanding, you'll only ever be skimming the surface of possibilities. And let's be honest, we're tired of skimming. We want rich, deep, authentic.....life. We want to live and feel as if we're living fully. So, before we dive in further I have to ask...how come you're listening? And if you are, are you making the difference it takes?

Aw, nostalgia. Traversing merrily down memory lane is such a delight, until it isn't. Sure it's fun to see old pictures of what you wore 30 years ago is now making a come back but the short "just a glance" can quickly turn to a "how great things used to be." But today, I ask a most poignant question "was it?" Was it really all that great? Was it everything that right now isn't? I challenge you do listen to my thoughts on yesteryear. You may be surprised on the take I have. Listen in as we swim around the iceberg of nostalgia.

This episode takes inspiration from the touchingly beautiful book, "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse", by Charlie Mackesy. While it's somewhat directed as a children's book, I'm often asking myself "is it REALLY for children or for adults?", as the life lessons are simple yet wonderfully profound. Listen in as we learn the importance of kindness, love, friendship and even cake. You'll be surprised what we find on this journey with a most unique group of friends.