In Your Right Mind with Monique Rhodes

Our time here is precious. When others pass over, it can remind us of this.

Staying connected is so important. One of the first triggers of depression is disconnection. Today I discuss the virtual component of these connections.

How often do you find it hard to simply say, "This one's on me"? In this episode, I explore the power of taking responsibility for our actions and mistakes. I'll share why owning up to our missteps isn't a sign of weakness, but rather a path to stronger relationships and personal growth. Discover how saying "this one's on me" can foster trust, open up real conversations, and create a more compassionate space in both personal and professional settings.

How do you balance accepting people as they are with setting healthy boundaries? In this episode, I discuss the importance of being thoughtful about who you allow into your inner circle. I'll explain why having no expectations means letting people be themselves, but it doesn't mean letting anyone and everyone into your life. Discover how to hold space for others' differences while choosing relationships that align with your own values and well-being.

Did you know that the world you see is shaped entirely by your thoughts? In this episode, I explore how we are the creators of the images in our minds, which in turn shape our reality. I'll dive into why changing your thoughts is the most powerful way to transform your world and why our tendency to engage in attack thoughts—whether directed at ourselves or others—only holds us back. Discover how choosing love over fear can shift your mindset and change your life.

I had a huge adventure on my boat this last weekend. It wasn't all easy. However, it was a great reminder of how to deal with adversity.

What are you here for? It's an important question as we enter into this new phase in our world.

How do you handle it when someone close to you is critical or harsh, especially when you're excited about something? In this episode, I share a story about a client who was hurt by her sister's unkind reaction to a big accomplishment. I dive into why people can be critical and how often it's more about their own fears and insecurities than about us. Let's explore how understanding this can help us not take things personally and respond with compassion instead.

I remember when I was a kid being so excited about my birthday. It was a struggle for me to wait for it to arrive. I'm not sure it ever really lived up to my expectations.

Do you find yourself wishing others would change to make your life easier? In this episode, I explore the transformative truth that the only person you can change is yourself. I'll share how shifting your own thinking and behavior can positively impact your relationships and create the changes you want to see. Let's dive into the empowering practice of taking responsibility for your own growth and watching the ripple effects transform your world.

I wish we had language that was different to I Love You. Maybe one of you will come up with a suggestion. I feel that these words are a misrepresentation of what is happening.

Do you ever find yourself disappointed when people don't act the way you expected? In this episode, I explore how we often create stories about others based on our assumptions, only to feel hurt when they don't match up. I'll share insights on letting go of expectations, seeing people as they truly are, and offering love without conditions. Discover how releasing these stories can lead to more freedom and genuine connection.

How can we do small things to bring this light to others? I have a simple few things I habitually do. You might find some ideas from them.

Sometimes people think that to make a difference in the world, they need to have a big audience or affect many people. The truth is that it is much easier than that.

What do you do if the family you love so much has opposing political beliefs? I answer this question today for one of my students struggling with her family.

I spoke to a friend whose mother had just passed away the other night. It reminded me that we have little deaths and little births all through our day. How wonderful when we realize this.

What if the meaning of the world is entirely up to you? In this episode, I explore how the stories we tell ourselves shape our reality and how shifting our perspective can transform our experiences. I'll share why training your mind is essential to creating a life filled with positivity and resilience, even in challenging times.

Do you ever find yourself stuck in the same patterns, hoping for a different outcome? In this episode, I explore why repeating the same actions often leads to the same results and how breaking free requires acceptance and self-love. I'll share insights on letting go of the need for validation from others and discovering how to give yourself the love you're seeking.

What if you were entirely responsible for how you see the world? In this episode, I explore the powerful and liberating truth that we are 100% responsible for our perspective. I'll share insights on how we can choose love over fear, especially when others aren't showing us kindness, and why taking responsibility for our mindset transforms not only our lives but the world around us.

Human beings are not good at uncertainty. It can leave us feeling out of control, and you know how we all like to control things.

I had a wonderful time this last weekend with one of my dearest friends. I realise that we give each other something profound. Something that you can give too.

I have made a commitment this year to not talk about 3 things. Already I feel better for it.

I took some of the kids out on the lake for some fun. I was surprised to see how scared they were. Maybe in some ways we all are right now.

Do you ever feel like life is a constant chase, always reaching for something just out of grasp? In this episode, I share a profound ancient quote that reminds us how our fixation on the future can rob us of the present. I'll explore how living in the now not only reduces anxiety but also helps us navigate an ever-changing world. Let's discuss how letting go of over-preparing for what's next can bring more peace and ease into your life.

How do you handle situations when someone upsets you? In this episode, I explore the difference between constructive communication and falling into the trap of complaining or reacting with anger. I'll share why staying calm, curious, and solution-focused can create better outcomes and strengthen relationships.

What does it take to create deep and meaningful friendships? In this episode, I explore the role of vulnerability in building connections that truly matter. I'll share how small acts of openness, trust, and curiosity can strengthen bonds and why being a good friend to yourself is equally important.

What if the parts of yourself you try to hide are actually asking to be seen? In this episode, I explore the nature of our shadow sides—the messy, uncomfortable parts of us we often reject. I'll share why bringing these parts into the light, rather than pushing them away, can lead to deep healing and self-acceptance.

What do you do when someone hurts you? In this episode, I explore how much of our emotional pain stems from our own expectations and reactions. I'll share why taking responsibility for our feelings is key to breaking the cycle of suffering and how letting go of blame can bring peace and clarity. Let's learn how to navigate hurt with self-awareness, forgiveness, and the power to choose a different path forward.

Who do you look up to, and what does that say about you? In this episode, I explore the power of mentorship—not just as guidance from others, but as a mirror reflecting our own potential. I'll share why the qualities we admire in others are simply parts of ourselves waiting to grow.

You might not believe me if I told you that trees were a partial cure for loneliness. But it's true! Science is showing it makes a big difference.

It's time to stop blaming everyone else for how things are. What your reality is is up to you.

The New Year is the perfect opportunity for a fresh start. How are you see this very first day, can set you up for the rest of the year.

Do you ever feel like you need to present a flawless version of yourself to the world? I explore how our culture of perfection—fueled by social media and filtered communication—can strip away the beautiful, messy reality of who we truly are. I reflect on why embracing our imperfections, our scars, and our life experiences actually brings us closer to our authentic selves. Join me as I share how the most interesting people I know are those who simply show up as they are, without apology or pretense.

Can you become friends with the parts of yourself you usually avoid? In today's episode, I explore how our scattered, overwhelmed minds often stem from the parts of ourselves we try to outrun. But what if, instead of resisting them, we welcomed them home? I'll show you how to create a kind of "tea party" for your mind—a space where you can listen, understand, and soften. This practice isn't just about focus or calm. It's about discovering that even your shadow parts aren't as scary as they seem—and that befriending them might be the most healing thing you can do. Let's sit down, close the doors, and come home to ourselves.

It's easy to get lost with all of the demands on us. What a difference it makes when we add just a little bit of intention into our lives.

Your happiness and your suffering are in your hands. I know that it is easier to blame all of your circumstances, but it's time to shift that mindset.

What would it be like to truly see the beauty and goodness in ourselves and in each other? In this episode, I reflect on how easy it is to miss our own worth — shaped by childhood wounds, cultural messages, and the constant pressure to be "more" — and how that same blindness affects how we see others. We'll explore the cost of living in a world that brings people down instead of lifting them up, and how shifting our attention to the inherent goodness in ourselves and others can dissolve fear, sadness, and division. Let's look at how you can begin to recognize your own secret beauty and help create a world that is more loving and whole.

When we run from our negative emotions, they end up chasing us until we hear them. How can we manage them differently?

Today is Christmas Day. Whether you celebrate it or not, here is my Christmas wish for you.

We usually believe that suffering comes from outside of ourselves. However, there is no doubt that a lot of the suffering in our lives right now is created within us.

What happens inside us when we're sure we're right? In this episode, I explore the subtle tension that builds when our identity gets wrapped up in our opinions. We'll look at how clinging to certainty can constrict our hearts and relationships, and how softening our grip can open space for real connection and understanding. True strength isn't about winning arguments but about meeting life with curiosity, humility, and compassion. Together we'll explore practices that help you release the tightness of being right and move toward a freer, more grounded way of being.

When I grew up, we had drills at school. They weren't the drills some schools have. I wish kids weren't learning how to protect themselves. I wish kids were learning how to love and open themselves up to life.

Learning how to be happy is one of the most important things you can do. In today's podcast, I explain why.

Sometimes we feel that it is easier to be in control. It can be exhausting when things change. I want to give you an example of allowing stressful situations not to be exhausting.

Can you hold space for the unknown? In this episode, I share a timeless story that reminds us of life's unpredictability—and why that's not something to fear. We explore how our need for certainty often adds unnecessary suffering and how choosing to live fully in the present moment brings both freedom and peace. If you've ever felt anxious about what's ahead or fixated on what's gone, this conversation will help you soften into trust and possibility. Let's talk about the wisdom of not knowing.

When we are experiencing stress, it isn't easy to think effectively. There's one quality that we can bring into our mind at this time that will make all of the difference.

How do we define success? When I work with people, often, the goal is the finish line. Interestingly, they eventually find the finish line deeply unsatisfying.

I was taught a simple strategy to help me do well in all sorts of situations. This is what I am going to teach you today.