In Your Right Mind with Monique Rhodes

Humility is prized in our world. The last thing we want to be is too big for our boots. However, I believe that humility is misunderstood. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

Some years ago I suffered from a serious burnout. One of the symptoms I experienced was that I felt like I was depressed. At the same time, I knew I wasn't. So I read an article in the New York Times about the difference between burnout and depression and I wanted to share some of the information from it with you, in case you are suffering from burnout. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

Do you ever mistake feeling calm for being half-asleep? In this episode, I talk about the subtle but important difference between peaceful awareness and sleepy dullness in meditation. You'll learn how to stay relaxed yet fully awake, how to let go of attachment to blissful experiences, and why true mindfulness isn't about drifting off—it's about waking up to the present moment.

How do we reclaim our peace in a world designed to distract us? In this episode, I explore our complex relationship with phones, the subtle cost of constant connection, and how small shifts—like a screen Sabbath—can restore calm, clarity, and control.

Are you measuring your success by how busy you are? In this episode, I explore our cultural obsession with productivity and how being constantly busy has become a symbol of worth. We'll look at how this busyness often masks deeper discomfort—and how creating space for rest and presence can actually bring more joy, clarity, and balance into our lives. If you'd like to go deeper into this work, visit iintendtobehappy.com—it's a wonderful place to begin your journey with me.

What happens when we feel like giving up because something feels too hard or unfamiliar? In this episode, I explore the importance of embracing the early, awkward stages of learning—those moments when progress feels slow and self-doubt starts to creep in. We'll look at why courage, not talent, is what truly carries us forward, and how every person who's ever mastered something once stood exactly where we are: at the beginning. Real growth doesn't come from getting it right immediately, but from having the patience and bravery to keep going. Let's explore how you can cultivate that courage and trust the process of starting anew.

What does it really take to transform? In this episode, I share a deeply personal story about a young person facing a difficult time—and the letter I wrote to encourage him through it. Transformation often looks beautiful from the outside, but the courage to go through the "cocoon" is where the real work happens. We'll explore why facing ourselves honestly, even in our darkest moments, is what allows us to grow wings and discover who we truly are.

No one knows the future. I spoke with a close friend of mine this week who is very sick. I loved her approach to handling it. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

Have you ever felt drained by someone who always seems to complain? In this episode, I explore how we can stay open without becoming a landing place for negativity. Together, we'll look at how meditation, awareness, and gentle boundaries can shift the cycle. Protecting our peace doesn't mean closing our hearts—it means choosing presence over drama.

What if every action you take plants a seed that shapes your future? In this episode, I explain the powerful metaphor of the storehouse—where our habits, thoughts, and behaviors leave imprints that eventually bloom into life experiences. Learn how both positive and negative actions set the stage for what's to come, and discover how you can start creating a life filled with more joy, kindness, and alignment. Even small, loving acts can change everything when they're planted with intention.

Vulnerability can feel uncomfortable. We naturally like to protect ourselves. And yet it is essential for us to have deep friendships and relationships. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

What if the person causing you the most stress is actually just like you—trying their best to be happy? In this episode, I share a powerful perspective shift that helps transform frustration into understanding. You'll learn a simple phrase—"just like me"—that can soften conflict, build compassion, and remind you how deeply connected we all are. When we recognize our shared humanity, even the most difficult people begin to make sense.

The passing of Olivia Newton John was a great reminder to me of a couple of things - how short life is and what is a life well lived. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

When was the last time you reached out to someone you haven't spoken to in a while? In this episode, I explore the power of connection and why reaching out can bring unexpected joy—not just to the person you contact, but to yourself as well. I'll share research on how much people appreciate being remembered and how small gestures can create meaningful bonds.

I'm not much of a gambler, and I'm not too fond of slot machines. Why is it then that each day I am being robbed by one? If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

It can be easy to think that sad films make us sad. Researchers believe you might benefit from choosing a sad film now and then. It promotes feelings of bonding and can even increase your pain tolerance by boosting certain chemicals in your brain. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

What if working harder isn't the same as working wisely? In this episode, I explore our common belief that struggle automatically equals value. From relationships that drain us to goals that demand too much, we'll look at how to tell when "hard" is actually worth it—and when it's just habit. You'll discover how letting go of unnecessary struggle opens space for what truly matters.

We had some good news today. I wanted to thank so many of you for being part of it. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

How much do the people around you influence your future? In this episode, I explore fascinating research from Harvard that shows how our friendships—especially cross-class friendships—can impact everything from our habits to our financial success. I'll share why the company you keep matters more than you might realize.

Have you ever stopped to consider who influences you the most? In this episode, I explore the idea that we become like the people we spend the most time with. I'll share why it's important to examine whether your closest relationships align with your values—and how surrounding yourself with the right people can either support your growth or hold you back.

What daily habits can truly transform your life? In this episode, I share four simple but powerful practices that have helped me stay focused, energized, and connected. From setting daily priorities to tidying your space, exercising, and sharing meals with others, these habits are easy to adopt and make a big difference. Let's explore how these small changes can create a happier, more balanced life. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

How often do we mistake our own stories for reality? In this episode, I explore how we filter the world through our own experiences, assumptions, and beliefs—often missing the truth of what's really there. I'll share how shifting our perspective can free us from unnecessary pain and open us to deeper understanding.

How often do we speak words that truly lift others up? In this episode, I explore the impact of criticism—especially on young people—and why choosing encouragement, kindness, and acknowledgment can create powerful ripple effects. I'll share how being more mindful with our words can help us heal old wounds and build a more loving world.

Do you find yourself buying things you don't need to feel a fleeting sense of happiness? In this episode, I explore the culture of consumerism and why shopping often becomes a substitute for deeper fulfillment. I'll share tips on recognizing your triggers, shifting toward experiences, and contributing meaningfully to the world.

My friend is sick right now. And I am hoping you might help me.

How does the ego shape our thoughts, emotions, and actions? In this episode, I explore the nature of the ego and how it influences our sense of self and happiness. I'll share why meditation is such a powerful tool for loosening the ego's grip and reconnecting with the compassionate, loving aspects of ourselves. Let's dive into how understanding and working with the ego can bring more clarity, peace, and fulfillment into our lives.

What if true intelligence isn't about how many facts you can remember, but how deeply you can live? In this episode, I explore the quiet difference between knowledge and wisdom—and how shifting our definition of "smart" can free us from outdated labels. Join me as we unpack how being curious, kind, and willing to grow might just be the most intelligent thing of all.

Why do some moments feel heavy while others feel full of possibility—even when nothing has changed on the outside? In this episode, we talk about the quiet but transformative shift that happens when you start to see your world differently. I'll share a story about healing, energy, and the subtle ways our mindset can invite in more ease, clarity, and movement. If you'd like to go deeper into this work, visit iintendtobehappy.com—it's a wonderful place to begin your journey with me.

If you haven't yet seen the video of Joni Mitchell appearing at the Newport Folk Festival this week, then I encourage you to watch it. It touched me so deeply in my heart. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

Are you caught up in the weight of everything that's going wrong? In this episode, I share the importance of shifting your focus to possibility and the positive changes we can create together. I'll explore how seeing the good, imagining a brighter future, and taking action can inspire not just hope but real progress. Let's discover how focusing on possibility can help us move forward, build a better world, and become part of the solution.

Can changing your surroundings change your life? In this episode, I explore the subtle but powerful impact our environments have on our well-being, mindset, and behavior. From tiny daily shifts to transformative travels, I'll share how creating space—both physically and mentally—can unlock new possibilities for growth. If you'd like to go deeper into this work, visit iintendtobehappy.com—it's a wonderful place to begin your journey with me.

Why is it so hard for us to ask for help? In this episode, I explore the shame, fear, and vulnerability that often hold us back—and why asking for help is not weakness but a profound act of strength and connection. I'll share how opening ourselves to support not only transforms our lives but also deepens our relationships.

What if the answers you're searching for are already within you? In this episode, I explore the two voices inside us all—the loud, demanding ego and the quiet, steady wisdom of your true self. I'll share how calming the mind through regular practice makes space for your inner guide to emerge with clarity, peace, and insight.

What happens when you stop waiting for someone to join you—and just go anyway? In this episode, I share my own journey of learning to do things alone, from solo dinners to traveling the world. I'll explore how being alone doesn't mean being lonely, and how carving out time for yourself builds confidence, freedom, and deeper self-understanding.

What does it truly mean to walk a spiritual path? In this episode, I explore the profound idea of seeing yourself in every person and seeing every person in you. I'll share how dissolving the illusion of separation can deepen your compassion, connection, and understanding of the world. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

I think most of us would like to live longer. I read a study the other day that showed me that one of my favourite things led people to live longer. So, of course, I want to share this with you. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

How do you handle it when you hear that someone has spoken about you behind your back? In this episode, I explore the idea that what others say about us might actually be a hidden gift. Instead of reacting with anger or hurt, what if we used it as an opportunity for self-reflection and growth? I'll share how shifting our perspective can turn criticism into insight and even gratitude.

What if your mind could be your greatest ally instead of something that holds you back? In this episode, I explore what it truly means to train your mind and why it's one of the most transformative skills you can develop. I'll share how working with your mind can reduce stress, anxiety, and overwhelm while creating a solid foundation of calm and focus.

I was with some friends for dinner the other night, and the conversation became a little tricky. In some ways, this is a sign of our times. However, it doesn't have to be that way. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

Most of us have more than enough. However, there are things in our life that control us. It might be food, alcohol, TV, or social media. These are sometimes hard for us to let go of, even for a day. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

Is your clutter holding you back more than you realize? In this episode, we explore how the physical and emotional clutter in our lives can weigh us down and why learning to let go is essential for clarity and well-being. Discover the deeper reasons behind our attachment to things and the emotional challenges that arise when decluttering. Learn practical strategies for releasing what no longer serves you, so you can create a lighter, simpler life. It's not just about tidying up—it's about freeing yourself to focus on what truly matters.

What does it mean to live and die without regret? In this episode, I reflect on a powerful idea from the Tibetan poet Milarepa: "My religion is to live and die without regret." I'll explore how being intentional about our choices, embracing risks, and stepping out of our comfort zones can help us lead a life filled with meaning and joy.

Do you find it hard to avoid getting caught up in gossip? In this episode, I dive into why gossip is so pervasive in our culture and how it can subtly damage our relationships and well-being. I'll share practical strategies for breaking the cycle of negative talk and shifting towards conversations that uplift rather than tear down. Discover how being more mindful of your words can lead to healthier, more positive connections with those around you.

What kind of energy are you putting out into the world? In this episode, I explore how our thoughts and words act as magnets, attracting more of what we focus on—whether positive or negative. I'll share how shifting your attention to what's going well can change your energy and create more balance in your life.

A few nights ago, I got up to watch the men's Wimbledon final. It was again a reminder of how big a role mindset makes in our lives. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

Do you ever feel like giving up when things get tough? In this episode, I explore why obstacles are a natural and necessary part of achieving something meaningful. I'll share how shifting your mindset from "This is too hard" to "How can I overcome this?" can transform challenges into opportunities for growth.

What if you could see your future simply by examining your present actions? In this episode, I explore how the choices you make today shape the life you'll live tomorrow. I'll share why meaningful change requires conscious effort and how small shifts in your habits can lead to profound results.

We live in a world where it is so easy to buy endless things. I lived for a long time travelling the world. And it forced me to ask a question of myself that I still ask to this day. This might be helpful as you look at your habits around buying things. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

If you've listened to me for any period of time, you'll probably be aware that I really enjoy walking. I wanted to present some research today as to why walking is so good not only for your mental health but also for your physical health. If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

Have you ever wondered if something small you did really made a difference? In this episode, I share two powerful moments from my life that reminded me how a single kind word or act of courage can leave a lasting impact.