The Art Of Imperfect Adulting

If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIn this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Lucy Bedewi about transforming rejection into an engine for personal and professional growth. Lucy is based in Austin, Texas. Listeners and viewers will learn how Lucy reframed setbacks, used resilience and self-reflection to launch her “unicorn” business approach, and why embracing imperfection can lead to powerful transformations.Lucy Bedewi is the brand messaging strategist and copywriter behind My Write Hand Woman. She’s known for her ability to connect the dots quickly and craft unique messaging angles that’ll turn normal businesses into unicorn brands. She has scaled her business to multi-6-figures by the age of 22, working with top coaches, irreverent brands, highly-differentiated businesses, and personality-packed e-commerce companies. Her story and work has been featured in Nasdaq, Thrive Global, and Create and Cultivate. An electric speaker and the host of the podcast Unicorn Messaging, Lucy inspires women to get clear on the articulation behind their business, move into their bigness, and create messaging that’s easy to buy from.Main Topics Covered:Using rejection as a catalyst for change and self-discovery in your careerNavigating job loss and leveraging a supportive safety net to take risksThe emotional reality of being fired—why it’s more common (and survivable) than people thinkBuilding a business from scratch: how spite and determination fueled Lucy’s rapid entrepreneurial successRecognizing when it’s time to walk away from unfair partnerships and startup “equity” situationsRebranding after failure: returning to authenticity, infusing personality, and launching the “unicorn” brand strategyThe role of support systems, including executive coaching, in processing setbacksShifting from internalizing rejection to viewing it as useful information—and letting go of outside validationQuote from the Episode: “You can be like the juiciest peach, but if someone only eats apples, they're never gonna see that you’re a delicious peach... It's never about you. It's also never about them.” — Lucy BedewiTimestamps: [00:00:05] Warm welcome and where Lucy calls home (Austin, Texas) [00:00:44] What Lucy loves about Austin’s climate, food, and lifestyle [00:01:11] Introducing the theme: seeing rejection as the start of great things [00:01:43] Fired from a remote job after 90 days—emotional impact and realities [00:02:36] Graduating during the pandemic and landing her first “adult” job [00:03:32] Early career expectations, red flags, and entrepreneurial leanings [00:06:13] Taking risks because of a safety net and “Jerry Maguire” moments [00:07:12] Launching a business out of spite and necessity; setting ambitious goals [00:09:32] Why Lucy pushed for three months to hit $5k/month—and how she did it [00:12:20] The second rejection: being cut from a startup and confronting undervaluation [00:15:07] The aftermath—scaling back, self-reflection, and emotional impact [00:16:14] Rebranding gone wrong, returning to personality and authenticity [00:17:55] Launching Unicorn Messaging: helping others become the “unicorn” in their industry [00:18:30] The process of self-discovery and breaking free from the need for approval [00:20:01] The mix of personality, coaching, and support required to bounce back [00:22:54] How to NOT internalize rejection—and practical reframes for moving forward [00:25:01] Comparing “bounce-back” stories; the deeper lessons of later rejection [00:26:18] Embracing letting go, trusting what’s meant for you, and future possibilities [00:27:26] About Lucy’s current business, special quiz offer, and where to follow her [00:28:46] Fun quickfire questions (birthdays, grocery shopping hacks, favorite books) [00:31:05] Closing gratitude and final thoughtsABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://www.mywritehandwoman.com and Lucy has a podcast Unicorn Messaging: https://open.spotify.com/show/22xqeOiQGWzrTNaD2NmI03GET LUCY'S SPECIAL OFFER:FREE quiz: What's Your Brand Messaging Superpower?https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/67979624c16f720015e296ad?method=iframeNote from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please

If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIn this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Jacob Engelsman about redefining family, identity, and lactation support for queer and trans parents. Listeners will gain insights into Jacob’s transformative career change, the importance of specialized resources for marginalized families, and the power of creating community in unconventional spaces. Jacob is Based in Atlanta, GA.Jacob Engelsman is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, infant care specialist, speaker, and writer. He is the author of Lactation for the Rest of Us: A Guide for Queer and Trans Parents and Helpers, as well as several articles and presentations on lactation support and supporting gender and sexual diversity in healthcare.Main Topics Covered:Making bold career transitions: Jacob’s move from food service to the world of birth work, doula training, and lactation consulting.What it means to be a postpartum doula versus a lactation consultant, and how real-world experience reshapes career paths.The lack of resources for queer, trans, and non-traditional families in lactation, and how Jacob is filling that gap with his book “Lactation for the Rest of Us.”Inducing lactation for non-gestational parents: myths, biology, and practical advice for queer and adoptive families.Navigating gender, belonging, and being “the only guy in the room” in feminine-dominated birth spaces.The importance of representation and referral in inclusive healthcare—ensuring all parents find the right support.Why giving space and resources for marginalized stories matters, and how listeners can be better allies by simply “being nice” and connecting people to what they need.The rise and role of telehealth in postpartum care, especially for underrepresented families.Quote from the Episode:“I think one of the things that's important to stress in conversations like these is that I'm not telling anybody to change their language about anything or to change the way they do anything. I'm asking people to be nice. If you don't feel comfortable working with trans communities, that's fine. Just know somebody that you can refer them to. That's literally the bare minimum.” — Jacob EngelsmanABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://jacobengelsmanibclc.com/GET JACOB'S BOOK: Lactation for the Rest of Us https://bookshop.org/a/87491/9781805011910Note from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support.Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes.Why subscribe?Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.comIf you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Click here and pitch yourself. Here are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-)For livestreaming and recording ECammPodcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FMWebsite hosting with Siteground Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic For Email I recently switched to Beehiiv before that I used Kit. Online Shopping Cart: ThriveCartNetworking and support with Entreprenista LeagueConnection with Polka Dot PowerhouseBooks I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.orgGrab a $20 coupon for Nutrafol hereDo you need a bank account? Ally

If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIn this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Alisha Kapani about the reality of living with and healing from depression. Alisha is based in Calgary, Alberta in Canada. Alisha shares her deeply personal journey through severe depression, suicidal ideation, and her eventual discovery of unconditional joy after years of searching and trying both conventional and unconventional healing modalities. Listeners will hear about the importance of seeking the root cause of mental illness, the power of vulnerability, and how a shift in consciousness led Alisha to her own radically transformed life and a new career.Alisha Kapani is a former Chemical Engineer turned Mindbody Mentor after struggling with severe depression for 5 years. She assists clients all over the world to tap into their body’s wisdom to resolve illness and access their highest possibilities for vitality and abundance.Main Topics Covered:Recognizing the signs and symptoms of depression beyond ordinary sadness.Navigating medical and therapeutic treatment options, including antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy.The limitations and challenges of traditional approaches to mental health.Exploring alternative healing modalities: Reiki, hypnosis, acupuncture, and more.Why addressing the emotional root cause is crucial for genuine healing—and how distraction and suppression can impede progress.Transformative impact of finding a mentor and embracing mind-body connection and quantum physics to facilitate rapid recovery.The stigma, vulnerability, and misunderstandings around mental illness—with advice for managing shame, family expectations, and relationships.Alisha’s current work as a mind body mentor, including approaches to raising your vibration and healing at the root.Quote from the Episode: “I think because so many people are managing their illness, whether it's a mental or physical illness, because they think that that is all that's available...I guess I just want people to know that once you get to the root cause, you can heal very quickly. I did heal pretty much right away once I figured out what the root cause was. On the other side of it is more joy than you've ever experienced in your life before.”— Alisha KapaniTimestamps: [00:00:06] Welcome and Alisha’s home base in Calgary, Alberta[00:00:41] Reflecting on learnings from the past year—epiphany around relationships and depression[00:01:49] Trigger warning: depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation[00:02:27] Timeline of Alisha’s depression and age at onset[00:03:49] Working with medical professionals: diagnosis and medication journey[00:06:31] Describing symptoms of depression—fatigue, lack of motivation, impact on relationships[00:08:51] Recognizing depression: misattributing root causes, effect of life transitions[00:10:14] Impact on work performance and relationships; perfectionism and stigma[00:12:55] Relationship dynamics: depression and anxiety in partnerships[00:15:33] Why share your story? Breaking stigma, possibilities for healing, hope for others[00:19:28] Was there hope? The possibility of healing and experiencing greater joy[00:21:05] Sources of support—role of family, friends, and especially stepmom[00:23:44] Treatments tried: medical, therapeutic, and unconventional modalities[00:26:06] Distraction as a coping strategy—work and busy schedules[00:28:26] Surrender and openness: discovering a mentor and holistic healing[00:30:59] How Alisha discovered her mentor and the science behind self-healing[00:33:50] The challenge of understanding others’ experiences with mental health[00:35:16] From engineer to intuitive—embracing spiritual healing[00:36:24] Realizing transformation: unconditional peace and joy[00:39:58] Alisha’s work as a mind body mentor; special offer for listeners[00:41:44] Book recommendation—Love and Respect[00:42:34] Favorite movie snack[00:42:58] Episode wrap-up and gratitudeABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://www.alishakapani.com/GET ALISHA'S SPECIAL OFFER: 3 Ways to Raise Your Vibration Fast with Alisha’s Raise Your Vibration Bundle. Value: $100 Redeem at this link: https://alisha-kapani.mykajabi.com/3-ways-to-raise-your-vibration-fastNote from the show: Guest offers are almost al

If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIn this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Blythe Alpern about choosing self-fulfillment over the pressures of dating and conventional adulthood. Blythe calls Atlanta, Georgia home and listeners will enjoy candid reflections on how Blythe’s decision to stop “finding her person” led to personal growth, renewed focus on her passions, and a powerful reframing of self-worth.Blythe Alpern is a copywriter and podcaster. As the founder of Wordwoman Creative, she helps beauty and lifestyle brands create website, email, and blog post content that makes their audience stop, stay, engage, and buy. As the host of The GenX Experience, which was recently recognized by AARP, she gives latch key kids a place to reminisce and share the joys of navigating midlife as an 80s kid. When she's not podcasting or copywriting, she's taking her dog, Buster, for long walks and working on maintaining her status as the coolest aunt to her nieces and nephew.Main Topics Covered:The emotional toll and fatigue of dating apps: Blythe’s firsthand experiences with ghosting, bad dates, and lackluster connections.The impact of grief and family loss on personal priorities and capacity for relationships.Societal pressure to couple up and the myth of completion through partnership—especially as a Gen X woman.Navigating acceptance: Making peace with not having children and embracing the “cool aunt” role.Strategies for thriving solo—how Blythe channels energy into creative work, friendships, and solo adventures.Anxiety, introversion, and the challenge of doing things alone, from solo travel to coffee shop visits.The value of supportive friendships and reframing singlehood as a choice, not a deficit.Blythe’s work as a copywriter and her podcast “Gen X Experience” as creative outlets and platforms for fellow Gen Xers.Quote from the Episode: "I just got tired. I'm like, why am I putting effort when I'm not getting the effort back? And I deserve better. Every woman deserves better than a man with a picture of a fish." — Blythe AlpernTimestamps: [00:00:05] Amy Stone welcomes Blythe for a role-reversal interview; Blythe calls Atlanta, Georgia home. [00:00:45] Blythe’s creative life, copywriting, and beauty industry work. [00:01:11] Introduction to the pivotal “relationship choice” of 2023. [00:01:46] Blythe recounts dating during perimenopause and the realization triggered by love bombing. [00:02:28] Key turning points—being unsupported during family loss and making a conscious shift away from dating apps. [00:04:11] Memories of app fatigue and “terrible, lazy, lackluster men”; Atlanta’s unique dating frustrations. [00:05:11] Ghosting, rudeness, and security concerns on dating apps. [00:06:29] Expanding beyond the apps—fatigue from singles events and choosing personal growth over dating urgency. [00:08:02] Processing the decision with friends, and recognizing shared pain points among single women. [00:09:28] Feedback and camaraderie from Blythe’s support network. [00:11:13] The freedom and fulfillment of focusing on solo living and creative projects. [00:12:27] Blythe’s personal acceptance around motherhood, reframing her nurturing instincts in new roles. [00:15:23] Generational scripts around adulthood, and how acceptance and visibility among peers eased Blythe’s journey. [00:18:36] Overcoming anxiety and introversion for solo outings and travel; advice for others working through similar hurdles. [00:19:52] Blythe’s copywriting business “Word Woman Creative” and her podcast “Gen X Experience.” [00:21:56] Gen X nostalgia, community, and Blythe’s favorite comedy influencers on social media. [00:26:13] Rapid-fire questions on favorite color, clothing stores, and book recommendations—featuring “The Correspondent.” [00:27:59] Reflection on the lost art of letter writing and maintaining connections as an adult. [00:28:15] Closing gratitude and farewells from Amy Stone and Blythe Alpern.ABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: The GenX Experience Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gen-x-experience/id1734296691Wordwoman Creative: https://www.wordwomancreative.com/GET BLYTHE'S SPECIAL OFFER: Book a done-for-you website content creation service, and receive a free strategy session to h

If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIn this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Amy Benjamin about the overlooked realities and challenges of perimenopause and menopause. Amy Benjamin is based in a suburb of Des Moines, Iowa. The audience will learn about common symptoms that are frequently misunderstood, the lack of societal conversation, how Amy turned her struggles into advocacy, and how a renewed focus on humor and science is empowering women to advocate for better care.Amy Benjamin Moore, M.Ed., turned 31 years in education into a menopause revolution. As a GGS-Certified Menopause Coaching Specialist, she built the Menopause Mastery Toolkit app and the Menopause Symptom Tracker app so women could stop suffering in silence and start advocating powerfully for themselves. In her debut book, Hot Flashes & Cold Truths (2026) she tackles menopause with education, humor, and strategies because menopause shouldn’t be whispered about; it should be owned.Main Topics Covered:Recognizing and navigating the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause hidden among everyday stressors and aging.The struggle for medical validation—why so many doctors miss menopause and rely on minimal training.The impact of menopause on work, relationships, and mental health, including overlooked symptoms like brain fog, irritability, and suicidal ideation.Intergenerational silence: why women rarely hear about menopause from their families or communities.The transformation from unaddressed discomfort to becoming an informed and empowered advocate for other women.Social media’s role in connecting women for information and support, plus caution on product-driven “menopause influencers.”Essential tips for self-advocacy in medical settings—how to prepare for doctor visits and what questions to ask.Resources and support: Amy’s survival guide, coaching, and upcoming humorous book on menopause.Timestamps: [00:00:05] Welcome & intro; Amy Benjamin’s Midwest home and outlook on daily joy[00:00:39] Sources of beauty and daily nature rituals—adapting to Iowa winters[00:02:07] Introduction to topic: Amy's “basket of physical and emotional symptoms” and medical journey[00:03:39] Realization of menopause symptoms: joint pain, brain fog, memory issues, and stress in early 40s[00:08:09] Lack of family/societal discussion about menopause—generational silence and missed opportunities[00:13:30] The medical runaround: symptoms dismissed as aging, lack of hormone and menopause conversation[00:14:03] Discovery of frozen shoulder—an overlooked menopause symptom and physician disconnect[00:17:13] Doctors saying “You’re fine”—Amy’s frustration and the systemic lack of menopause education[00:19:17] Minimal training for doctors on menopause; expert commentary[00:22:23] Unexpected weight gain, irritability, impact on relationships and divorce[00:24:28] Suicidal ideation flashes—mental health symptoms leading to help[00:26:01] Extreme bleeding, ablation, still no mention of menopause by doctors[00:28:41] Working in a female-majority environment—absence of conversation and recent shifts[00:30:43] Amy’s motivation to support other women, break the silence, and advocate for her daughters[00:33:01] Certification as a menopause coach—training and UK influence[00:35:03] “Rooms talking about it”—social media, influencers, and connecting online[00:36:18] Caution on menopause influencer marketing vs. genuine medical info[00:38:01] Navigating the challenge of finding supportive medical practitioners—telehealth as a new option[00:40:12] Self-advocacy in medical care; specific strategies, persistence, and moving on when not heard[00:42:12] Resources for listeners: survival guide, symptom tracker, doctor visit checklist[00:44:01] Amy’s upcoming book, use of humor in menopause advocacyABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://amybenjaminmoore.com/GET AMY BENJAMIN'S SPECIAL OFFER: Menopause Survival Guide Free on the website.Note from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support.If you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make t

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Lori Balue about the journey of sustainable weight loss after 50, holistic functional health, and how embracing adventure can transform life in midlife and beyond. Lori calls Los Angeles home. The audience will learn about the impact of food sensitivities, inflammation, and the difference between dieting and truly changing your life.Lori Balue is a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner and former obesity survivor who lost 100 pounds naturally in her 50s and has kept it off through low-carb nutrition, metabolic repair, and a movement-forward lifestyle. Now in her 60s, she hikes rim-to-rim across the Grand Canyon, runs half-marathons, and teaches women over 50 how to reverse metabolic dysfunction and reclaim their energy without medications or extreme dieting.Main Topics Covered:Why midlife and post-50 weight loss often requires a fundamentally different approach, especially for womenThe lifelong “diet merry-go-round”: Lori’s story of cravings, diet culture, and not just losing, but keeping off significant weightHow food sensitivities, inflammation, and functional health labs became breakthrough tools in Lori’s transformationReversing asthma, depression, and metabolic blocks by personalizing food choices—not just following trendsMoving beyond “willpower” and working with biology: protein, gut health, and understanding how diet drugs compare to real foodFinding real joy and motivation by embracing movement—hiking, half marathons, and making nature a regular part of lifeThe difference between short-term dieting and creating an adventurous, joyful lifestyle that sustains lifelong healthLori’s work as a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner and how she supports women in breaking through metabolic blocksQuote from the Episode:"I look in my mirror, see, you know, I've still got, like, a flabby abdomen, and I'm 63, and I was 225 pounds, but I look and I feel slender. I feel slender and confident in my body, and I think that's great... I just started planning another half marathon and I'm going back to the Grand Canyon next September because this is what I love. And it keeps me activated and excited and joyful and happy. And I look forward to it." — Lori Balue 32:43Timestamps:00:08 Amy welcomes Lori and introduces the conversation about adulting, art, and daily beauty00:39 Lori shares her home in the Los Angeles high desert and love of her victory garden03:02 Shifting to the main topic: weight loss after age 5004:24 Lori’s backstory—struggles with childhood/adolescent weight, first diet at age 11–1206:07 A lifetime of diet programs, food cravings, and learning what did (and didn’t) work10:18 The turning point: functional nutrition, discovering keto, and what changed for brain health and joy15:51 Functional lab testing for food sensitivities—and finally reversing long-term asthma and inflammation20:19 Personalized transformation: experimenting, testing, and finally cracking the code22:40 Why profound, lasting change only happened when joy and health—not thinness—became the goals27:05 Commentary on weight loss meds, protein, and food “noise” today29:04 Discovering her adventurous self through movement, hiking, and the Grand Canyon37:45 Lori’s practice: Functional Diagnostic Nutrition, breaking blocks, and helping women reclaim health43:13 Fun closing: flowers, decorating, and the health tech/gadgets Lori now loves48:29 Gratitude and farewellABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST:https://loribalue.com/GET LORI'S SPECIAL OFFER: A downloadable recipe guide. Normally $27. Download here: https://contact.loribalue.com/recipebookNote from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support. If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportNever Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes.Why subscribe?Stay up-

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Darlene Lekowski about the lifelong impact of sibling sexual trauma and the journey of letting go of secrets that shaped her adult life. Darlene lives in the Charlotte, NC suburbs with her husband, Tom, their dog Pepper, and is the proud mother of three adult children. Listeners will learn how the process of opening up allowed Darlene to move from perfectionism and hypervigilance to forgiveness, healing, and connection.About Darlene Lekowski:Darlene Lekowski is a speaker, author, and advocate who writes and speaks about what happens when high-functioning adults realize that control and perfection aren’t peace—they’re survival strategies. After decades of striving to “hold it all together,” Darlene was forced to confront the emotional cost of living this way and learn, imperfectly, how to let go.Her debut memoir, Shattering Silence: A Story of Survival, Justice & the Power of Telling the Truth (April 2026), chronicles her journey of reclaiming her voice, redefining success, and choosing freedom over fear.Main Topics Covered:The effects of sibling sexual abuse and trauma on childhood and adult relationshipsUnderstanding and coping with PTSD masked by perfectionism, control, and successThe power dynamics and family pressure that keep childhood trauma secret for decadesHow releasing control and secrets changed Darlene’s relationships with her children and spouseNavigating hypervigilance, competitiveness, and the illusion of “good adulting” as survival strategiesThe role of therapy, supportive friendships, and alternative healing methods like EFT tapping in trauma recoveryThe courage to confront abusers, share your story publicly, and reclaim agency—even through the stress and grief of litigationDarlene’s mission to help others break the silence around sibling sexual abuse and start honest conversations with their own childrenQuote from the Episode:"The problem, when you've got a giant secret, the box leaks... I had PTSD all my life, but I actually wasn't diagnosed with it until I was 58 years old. I thought my behaviors were normal." — Darlene LekowskiTimestamps:00:05 Opening & intros; Darlene’s Charlotte, NC home and warmup questions00:34 Proximity to mountains and ocean; Charlotte lifestyle and history fleeing snowy states01:24 Amy’s perspective from the tropics; setting the scene for a conversation on control and secrets02:10 Darlene’s midlife confrontation with trauma; timeline and context of her secret02:47 How her mother’s death and family dynamics led to her secret surfacing03:35 Civil trial details; trauma in court, family structure, and relationships04:08 Childhood abuse between siblings, control issues, and survival mechanisms07:11 Perfectionism, hypervigilance, and adult life before telling the secret09:02 Sports, popularity, and strategies to avoid being alone at home10:19 Parenting as an overprotective mom; shifting relationships after the truth was revealed12:10 Direct fears, coping, and the psychological weight of secrets14:34 How shame and trauma “leak” into all relationships—friends, colleagues, and self-image17:23 Examples of outsize reactions; healing journey and day-to-day changes after releasing the secret19:13 Close friendships, difficulty forming intimacy, and pivotal moments in recovery20:19 Confrontation, PTSD episode with her daughter, and major turning point22:03 Suppressing vs. confronting trauma after her mother’s death; blowup with sibling and lawsuit24:33 Long-term therapy, diagnosis of PTSD, and alternative healing (EFT tapping)27:59 Losing relationships with abusive siblings, family impact, and trial testimony30:29 Thoughts on secrets and privacy; why families keep trauma hidden33:39 The importance of open conversations with children and the prevalence of sibling sexual trauma35:11 Making the trauma public; support from children and transforming fear into connection36:40 Emotional healing after the trial; shedding anger and shame38:29 The ongoing journey of healing and finding purpose in helping others40:41 Publishing her book, Shattering: A Story of Survival, Justice and the Power of Telling the Truth41:24 Darlene’s hope for the book and her outreach mission42:23 Rapid-fire closing questions: morning routine, favorite book (The Women), travel habits44:22 Episode wrap-up and thanksABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Toni Will, a lifelong resident of Kalamazoo, Michigan about breaking free from alcohol as a coping tool and redefining what sober success looks like.About Toni Will:Toni Will is a leadership coach, speaker, and the General Manager of the Kalamazoo Wings, making her one of the few women leading in men’s professional hockey. She is the host of the Women In… podcast, a TEDx speaker, and the creator of the empowHER conference, dedicated to uplifting women and redefining success in male-dominated spaces. Toni is known for her unapologetic authenticity and her advocacy for alcohol-free living, blending high-performance leadership with personal clarity and conscious living. Her first book will be published in August 2026, further amplifying her mission to help others own their story, challenge the norm, and lead with intention.Main Topics Covered:Choosing sobriety during high-stress times: How COVID-19 lockdowns became an unexpected opportunity for self-work and lasting change.Professional sports & alcohol: Navigating stereotypes, “belly up with the boys” culture, and breaking barriers as the first female GM for the Kalamazoo Wings.The shortcomings of traditional recovery models: Why AA didn’t fit, and how modern, female-inclusive approaches (like This Naked Mind and Sober Sis) empowered Toni’s success.Sober curiosity versus “rock bottom”: Challenging black-and-white thinking and embracing a more inclusive, less stigmatizing language around substance use.Reclaiming time and energy: The practical and emotional benefits of giving up alcohol, from launching new businesses to deeper self-awareness and integrity.Community, belonging, and coping: Rethinking social drinking, friendship, and the unique challenges of rebuilding connections in recovery, as a female leader.Using transformation to help others: How Toni’s coaching, podcast, and upcoming book extend her story to support those reevaluating their relationship with substance.Representation matters: The power of seeing women openly lead in both sports and sobriety spaces.Quote from the Episode: “Whoever said that you had to drink to be a great leader? ...It’s just all these beliefs that are programmed into us and not in a culty way, but just culturally.” — Toni WillTimestamps:00:01 Introduction to Toni Will and the topic of choosing new coping skills02:07 Toni shares where she calls home and her approach to incorporating beauty into daily life04:02 The timeline of Toni’s sobriety journey and previous attempts to quit drinking05:51 Life before sobriety: career stress, family dynamics, and making the decision during COVID lockdowns08:56 Alcohol as a coping tool, early experiences with drinking, and societal influences12:53 Going public with her decision to quit drinking and gaining support from her husband and community13:38 The realities of leading a men’s professional hockey team as a woman, and the cultural context of sports and drinking15:38 Physical and emotional consequences of drinking, and challenging the concept of “rock bottom”18:23 Support systems, stigma, and balancing leadership with living alcohol-free20:33 The process of finding alternative recovery resources like "This Naked Mind" and Sober Sis24:00 Representation, leadership models, and the value of learning from empowering women28:21 The role of core values in lasting change and the influence on personal and professional life31:10 Coping skills, processing grief, and the complexity of friendship and belonging after transformation33:13 Toni’s entrepreneurial journey: launching a coaching business, podcast, conference, and writing a book35:21 Fun wrap-up: sober drink choices, mentors, and in-flight entertainment preferences38:45 Final thoughts, ways to connect, and community resources for listenersABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://www.toniwill.com/ You can find her podcast Women In … https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/women-in/id1745524618Note from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support.If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportNever Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite

Amy Stone, host of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, marks a huge milestone—200 episodes—by reflecting on the choices, pivots, and lessons learned behind the scenes of the show. In this episode, Amy gets real about navigating life transitions, staying true to her values, and building a more inclusive space for women and creators.About Amy Stone: Amy Stone is a media entrepreneur, storyteller, and founder of The Art of Imperfect Adulting - a growing media platform featuring long-form interviews that explore the messy, non-linear reality of building a life.Topics covered:• Celebrating 200 episodes and Amy’s personal growth journey as a creator• Transparency around what works—and what doesn’t• Behind the scenes: experimenting with tech upgrades, building a creative team, and her ongoing search for a creator-first community• Special shout-out to listeners who’ve been part of the journey since the startABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIf you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Click here and pitch yourself. Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes.Why subscribe?Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.comHere are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-)For livestreaming and recording ECammPodcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FMWebsite hosting with Siteground Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic For Email I recently switched to Beehiiv before that I used Kit. Online Shopping Cart: ThriveCartNetworking and support with Entreprenista LeagueConnection with Polka Dot PowerhouseBooks I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.orgGrab a $20 coupon for Nutrafol hereDo you need a bank account? Ally

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Belinda Coker about reinventing life through adventure and self-discovery, focusing on solo multi-day hiking as a transformative tool. Belinda splits her time between Australia, New Zealand, and Scotland. In this conversation she shares a change she made starting in her mid-50s that resulted in challenges, unexpected joys, and a profound sense of self-worth. About Belinda Coker:Belinda Coker is an Australian hiker and educator who shows women how practical adventure can restore confidence and clarity in midlife. After years of building businesses and raising three children on her own, she began hiking to find space and perspective, a journey that took her from the deserts of Australia to a solo crossing of Greenland inside the Arctic Circle. Belinda is also the founder of Soul Treader and The House Sitting Collective, where she teaches a structured, professional approach to trusted, responsible travel.Main Topics Covered:How to return to adventurous pursuits during midlife, even after decades away from the trail.Practical steps for women to build confidence, safety, and skills for solo travel and multi-day hiking.The emotional and physical transformation that comes from embracing new challenges after 50.Why Belinda swapped business travel for wilderness hikes—and how she found healing in nature.Navigating setbacks, unpredictable weather, and safety emergencies on remote trails.The role of community and how to surround yourself with the right support when starting something new.Early retirement and minimalist travel: making adventure possible on a budget through house sitting and frugal living.The mindset shift from “just a housewife” to self-affirmed adventurer and educator.Quote from the Episode:“I just felt that I really was someone to myself...I just really felt like I’d done something for myself, and that really was just so, so important. I can’t stress how good that made me feel.”—Belinda CokerTimestamps: [00:00:06] Amy welcomes Belinda and discusses where she calls home and her ties to New Zealand, Australia, and Scotland[00:01:42] Initial impressions of Scotland and the allure of wilderness versus developed environments[00:03:05] Belinda’s three stages of solo travel: from youthful adventures to international business trips and a post-pandemic return to hiking[00:06:05] The moment of self-realization at 55 and how the pandemic fueled her return to the outdoors[00:09:05] Starting over with day hikes, joining a local meetup group, and rediscovering health and confidence[00:12:27] First foray into overnight hiking, overcoming obstacles, and the liberating experience of her seven-day solo hike[00:17:00] How friends and family reacted to her decision and the importance of choosing supportive confidants[00:20:03] Lessons learned on the first multi-day hike: food, safety, preparation, and the realities of trail life[00:28:25] Pursuing skills to level up: Wilderness first aid, writing educational resources, and the dangers of unprepared hiking[00:29:43] Most recent hiking setback in the Canary Islands: managing gear failure, dangerous weather, and emergency decision-making[00:39:20] Upcoming hiking projects, the practicality of early retirement, and the value of simple/frugal living[00:42:49] Life as a full-time traveler, house sitter, and educator—plus a special offer for the podcast audience[00:45:29] Belinda’s quick takes on weather, travel routines, and what animals she really fears in Australia[00:48:09] Final thanks and closing remarks from AmyABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://soultreader.com/GET BELINDA’'S SPECIAL OFFER:The House Sitting Collective, - House Sitting Courses20% off all courses (Retail Value $79 & $197)https://housesittingcollective.com/ CODE: ADULTINGNote from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support.If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIf you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Click here and pitch yourself. Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Terri Pease about the emotional realities, challenges, and unexpected joys of loving someone with Parkinson’s disease. Joining the conversation from Yarmouth, Maine, Terri opens up about her late-in-life marriage, building a life with her husband while navigating the relentless progression of Parkinson’s, and how caregiving transformed her understanding of love, loss, and support. Listeners will hear how Terri found unexpected strength, candid reflections on relationships changed by illness, and practical wisdom on sustaining dignity.Terri Pease PhD worked in academics, social services and health care all her professional life. When Terri married her husband who had Parkinson's Disease, she brought her wealth of knowledge and experience to bear on caring for him. That professional experience has informed her approach to caregiving, and to encouraging Parkinson's caregivers to make the idea of self-care real, practical and possible. As the author of Love, Dignity, and Parkinson’s: from Care Partner to Caregiver she has become the online voice for the more than 60,000 new Parkinson’s spousal caregivers who each year start on this long and challenging path.Main Topics Covered:Understanding the unpredictable journey of Parkinson’s disease and its impact on both the diagnosed and loved ones.Navigating the isolation and emotional overwhelm often experienced by Parkinson’s caregivers, especially partners and spouses.The importance of community, connection, and finding “enough similarity” in shared experiences, even amidst unique circumstances.Maintaining dignity for both the person with Parkinson’s and the caregiver—and why this is central to long-term caregiving relationships.The complex emotions of loss, frustration, and grief as a partner’s capabilities and personality change over time.Coping with changes in intimacy, partnership, and reciprocal support within a marriage affected by neurodegenerative illness.Why communities and support systems often fall short—and creative ways caregivers can find connection and help.Lessons learned on acceptance, letting go, and being present through the end of life.Quote from the Episode: “When I was able to say to myself, he has nothing for you, that meant I could stop looking for him to be the husband that I had married…and when that happened, I was able to think differently about what is happening here. What are we here?” — Terri PeaseTimestamps: [00:00:07] Welcome & intros; Terri’s home in Yarmouth, Maine; opera as shared art and connection[00:01:27] Introducing the day’s topic: Loving someone with Parkinson’s disease[00:02:48] Terri shares how she met her husband and the early awareness of his Parkinson’s diagnosis[00:03:24] What Terri knew (and didn’t know) about Parkinson’s at the start[00:04:11] Explaining Parkinson’s disease for those unfamiliar—its unpredictable, individualized course[00:05:20] How Parkinson’s impacts emotions, personality, and behavior, not just mobility[00:06:18] The gap between common perceptions and caregivers’ lived experiences[00:08:02] The role of loneliness and why peer caregiver support is so powerful[00:10:29] Comparing caregiving to early parenthood—the similarities and crucial differences[00:11:53] Examining societal expectations, visibility, and (lack of) communal support for adult caregiving[00:13:24] Cultural contrasts: communal care in other countries vs. isolation in US aging[00:15:11] Dreams of retirement, sailing, and how Parkinson’s stole shared plans[00:18:08] Scaffolding, adapting activities, and supporting dignity as abilities decline[00:19:54] The subtle onset of symptoms and the slow, unpredictable losses[00:22:00] What surprised Terri most—changes in judgment, writing, and emotional availability[00:24:00] Navigating deeply personal topics (e.g., incontinence, loss of privacy) and sustaining dignity[00:26:12] The emotional toll—grappling with loneliness, resentment, and the transformation of partnership[00:30:16] Lack of support from community, religious groups, and adjusting expectations for help[00:35:20] Nine years together: the timeline of joy and progressive challenges[00:36:15] Finding slivers of joy, humor, and connection, even late in illness[00:38:30] Advice for others: preparing for death, honest conversations, and staying present[00:40:27] A powerful moment of acceptance and comfort at the end of life[00:41:48] Terri’s work today: writing, her book (“Love, Dignity, and Parkinson’s”), and helping other caregivers[00:43:53] Where to find Terri, offer for listeners, and final lighthearted questions about life and joyABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights.

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Pallavi Pande about building a supportive community as a South Asian immigrant mom and entrepreneur in Portland, Oregon. The discussion shines a light on the realities of starting over in a new place, the importance of vulnerability, and how taking the first small step toward connection can lead to lasting impact.Pallavi Pande is a BIPOC mompreneur and the founder of DTOCS, a brand offering classy, compostable single-use tableware for events. Through her firm, DTOCS Consulting, she helps other brands grow on Amazon. She also leads a 2,000+ member South Asian moms group in Oregon. A Tory Burch Foundation Fellow and an honoree on Inc.’s list of fastest-growing companies, Pallavi serves on the board of Naturally Seattle. When she’s not building businesses or mentoring founders, you’ll likely find her dancing Zumba or sipping wine—always championing People, Planet, and Parties.Main Topics Covered:Overcoming the isolation of relocating and reinventing yourself in a new city as an immigrant.Postpartum depression and the power of vulnerability in reaching out for help.Building community for South Asian women through "Portland Brown Mommies" to address culture-specific needs.The evolution of an online community into deep, multigenerational in-person friendships and support.Using feedback and responsiveness to keep community events relevant, safe, and engaging.Transitioning from social connection to business mentorship: supporting South Asian women entrepreneurs.Mindset, habit change, and resilience in overcoming rejection—personally and professionally.How community supported Pallavi’s entrepreneurial journey with DTOCS compostable tableware.Quote from the Episode:"So I went with the vision I had, which was, there's nobody for me. How can I change that narrative? How can I be there for somebody else who's like me, who's trying to move, who has million of questions..." — Pallavi PandeTimestamps: [00:00:06] Welcome & quick intros; Pallavi shares her Portland home [00:00:38] Navigating life in rainy Portland and fitting in daily movement [00:01:18] Pallavi’s three focuses: moving, overcoming rejection, building community [00:01:43] Pallavi’s migration: marrying young, moving from India to Ohio, then Oregon [00:04:12] Facing postpartum depression, loneliness, and the search for cultural connection [00:05:08] The spark of finding community online and creating “Portland Brown Mommies” [00:07:27] Diversity and inclusivity experiences in Oregon [00:08:05] Loneliness, pandemic impact, and the choice to take action [00:10:02] Mechanics of building an online-to-offline local mom community [00:12:13] Event planning by consensus and member feedback [00:13:43] Advice for those feeling lonely: why Pallavi didn’t just “join a club” [00:16:10] Taking the first baby step: how the group started with a single Facebook post [00:18:48] Tying community-building to entrepreneurship and DTOCS [00:21:03] From social group to business mentor network for South Asian women [00:24:34] Rejection, resilience, and pivoting toward progress [00:28:36] Pallavi’s passion for LinkedIn and how to connect with her/DTOCS [00:30:50] Rapid fire: morning routines, family priorities, and world travel tips [00:36:45] Closing and gratitude for Pallavi’s insightsABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: www.dtocs.comGET PALLAVI PANDE’S SPECIAL OFFER: Use coupon code DTOCS10 at checkout on our website - https://www.dtocs.com, for 10% off and free shippingNote from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadultingIf you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIf you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Click here and pitch yourself. Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about ne

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Kim Nicol about the power and impact of asking for what you want. Specifically Kim share the story of how at age 24 she requested a 10-week unpaid sabbatical from her first salaried job. Kim is based in San Francisco. Listeners will gain insights into career pivots, self-advocacy at work, and the transformational value of travel and saying “yes” to yourself.Kim Nicol is an Executive Mindfulness Coach for leaders in diverse industries. She talks about the human side of leadership on The New Manager Podcast, and teaches Communication Strategies on Maven.Main Topics Covered:Self-advocacy in early career: Why and how Kim asked for an extended unpaid sabbatical in her early 20s.Overcoming fear in the workplace: Navigating the nerves and uncertainty that come with requesting big things from your employer.The role of supportive work cultures—Kim’s experience in a small, tight-knit company with no formal HR.Transformative power of travel: How living and learning in France expanded Kim’s worldview and triggered new personal growth.The difference between sabbaticals, leaves of absence, and corporate culture in the U.S.Lessons for managers: How leaders can approach unusual employee requests and foster growth.Applying boldness forward: How early self-advocacy continues to impact Kim’s professional and coaching life, and how she encourages others to ask for what they need.French culture, lifelong learning, and the “through line” of storytelling in Kim’s career.Quote from the Episode: “You can ask for things, it’s okay. They might even say yes. Be willing to be Pleasantly surprised at what someone might say yes to.” — Kim NicolTimestamps: [00:00:05] Intro & where Kim calls home—San Francisco and Santa Cruz roots[00:01:15] Childhood activities: tennis, college rowing, and the introversion of team sports[00:02:08] Kim’s first post-college job and studying marketing[00:03:12] Why marketing: the allure of storytelling and business[00:06:13] The big ask: requesting a 10-week sabbatical as a 24-year-old[00:07:16] Response & process: boss’s reaction, team structure, and no HR involvement[00:10:13] What inspired the idea of a sabbatical, French art, travel dreaming[00:11:14] No precedents: Kim's research, self-direction, and planning the trip[00:12:49] The ask unfolds: process details and how Kim presented solutions[00:15:28] Coworkers’ reactions: surprise, envy, and supporting young ambition[00:16:28] Returning to work: changed perspective and inevitable next steps[00:18:05] Manager’s perspective: Kim reflects on handling requests as a leader[00:19:59] Corporate vs. personal sabbaticals; evolving U.S. work culture[00:21:10] Long-term takeaways: power in asking and why it matters in professional development[00:23:44] The impact of cultural immersion and expanded worldview[00:25:40] Previous travel experiences and what inspired Kim’s French adventure[00:27:44] Closing, Kim’s current podcast, self-advocacy worksheet, and rapid-fire fun questions (“no eggplant!”)ABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://kimnicol.com/ or listen to her podcast, New Manager Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-new-manager-podcast/id1482942451If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIf you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Click here and pitch yourself. Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes.Why subscribe?Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.comHere are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-)For livestreaming and recording ECammPodcast hosting a

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Lisi Lopez about taking the leap from a decade-long career in industrial engineering to embracing her true passion for writing. In this episode both the host and guest are in Miami but we still recorded it remotely. Listeners will be inspired by Lisi’s candid reflections on practical career choices, honoring family support, and nurturing passions alongside parenthood.Lisi Lopez is an engineer-turned-writer and a second-generation immigrant, born to a Cuban mother and a Puerto Rican father. In 2017, Lisi and her husband welcomed their middle son, who has Down Syndrome. Channeling her passion for writing, she began publishing advocacy articles to help create a world where her son's extra chromosome is celebrated rather than seen as a disability. Through that journey, she rediscovered her love for storytelling and hasn't looked back since.Main Topics Covered:Making a major career shift from engineering to creative writing, and what prompted Lisi to make that leap.How family support, practical decision-making, and cultural expectations influenced her educational and professional choices.The impact of parenting, particularly raising a child with Down syndrome, on Lisi’s priorities, creativity, and eventual career transformation.A behind-the-scenes look at balancing a demanding household, marriage to a physician, and personal ambition.The challenges and realities of leaving a stable, technical career for an uncertain but fulfilling creative pursuit.How Lisi blends advocacy for special needs and her Cuban heritage into her writing projects.The importance of rediscovering and honoring creative passions at any stage in adulthood.The power of community, flexibility, and resilience—especially for women navigating work, family, and self-discovery.Quote from the Episode: "But that doesn’t mean you have to put your passions on a shelf. Right. It’s not a give or take. It’s not a black or white thing here." — Lisi LopezTimestamps: [00:00:05] Amy welcomes Lisi and kicks off with childhood storytelling favorites[00:00:51] [Lisi Lopez] shares Harry Potter as the book that sparked her imagination[00:01:44] Discussing the cultural phenomenon of Harry Potter for both kids and adults[00:04:04] How long Lisi worked as an industrial engineer and what the role entailed[00:05:58] Lisi on the creativity and challenges of being an engineer—especially as a parent[00:07:18] The “practical” choice to pursue engineering and balancing family expectations[00:08:09] Rediscovering writing through electives and family advocacy after her son’s birth[00:13:31] How parenting (and her husband’s medical career) influenced her shift away from engineering[00:16:13] Lisi’s "aha moment" after back surgery—publishing the manuscripts she’d hidden away[00:17:59] Navigating marriage, medical school, and raising three children with family support[00:25:10] Lisi outlines her published and upcoming historical fiction novels, including stories tied to her Cuban American heritage[00:28:32] Delving into Cuban immigration waves and their impact on storytelling[00:31:08] Where listeners can find Lisi online, and how she connects with readers[00:32:10] Fun closing questions—adult responsibilities, movies, gifting, and moreABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges. You can expect interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://www.lisilopezauthor.comFind Lisi’s most recent book on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/a/87491/9798992480009If you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Click here and pitch yourself. If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportNever Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes.Why subscribe?Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listen

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Cristina Ramirez about personal and professional pivots, the power of discomfort, and redefining resilience in the face of grief and change. Cristina, currently living in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (by way of Miami and New Mexico), shares how her life experiences—including global moves, founding a kids’ run club, and facing profound loss—have shaped her philosophy on growth, mindset, and helping children (and adults) build grit. Listeners will hear firsthand how Cristina transformed adversity into action, scaled her business, and found meaning and connection through both her personal journey and her work with DashStrom.About Cristina M. Ramirez:Cristina M. Ramirez is Co Founder of DashStrom, a youth empowerment start-up based in Pittsburgh, PA. Her programs have impacted over 12,000 children across 41 states. A veteran of Wall Street and Silicon Valley, Cristina is an award winning coach, best selling author, Ironman triathlete and a USASA Snowboard National Silver Medalist.Main Topics Covered:Reinventing yourself: How Cristina pivoted from educator and triathlete to entrepreneur, author, and grief survivorStarting and scaling DashStrom: Building a children's run club into an impactful, scalable program focused on empowering kids across the U.S.Navigating grief and life transitions: The reality of losing parents and a spouse while parenting and running a businessThe role of discomfort in personal growth: Applying the “20% power principle” and why leaning into uncomfortable situations is key for resilienceAuthenticity over appearance: Facing the fear of “course correcting” in life or business and letting go of external expectationsUsing social media for support: The surprising comfort Cristina found in sharing her grief journey onlineEmbracing uncertainty: Why it’s okay to change directions, make mistakes, and follow new opportunities at any stage of adultingHelping kids thrive in the digital age: DashStrom’s mission to combat screen time and mental health challenges in youthQuote from the Episode:“There is such so much pain that it cannot be more amplified... Having that shared grief with my community and with people, you know, that knew me and people that didn’t know me, yeah, it felt good. It felt like that wall, like there were other people there with me.” — Cristina RamirezTimestamps:00:06 – Welcome, Cristina’s global sense of “home”, and landing in Pittsburgh00:53 – Why Pittsburgh is an underrated city with culture, art, and sports02:42 – The birth of the kids’ run club: lessons from Ironman and changing mindsets04:41 – From “I’m Possible Run Club” to DashStrom: The story behind the name and brand06:46 – Moving from Miami to New Mexico: On shaking up family life and the role of grief09:30 – The shock and aftermath of losing her husband, and communicating grief publicly13:44 – Social media as a support system during tragedy15:03 – Writing “Empowered by Discomfort”: Why and how the book came to be17:17 – The “reverse Uno” move: Going back to DashStrom full-time after adult coaching20:41 – Mindset shifts, facing doubts, letting go, and reinventing yourself25:00 – Unexpected paths: Following “breadcrumbs” and reaching thousands of kids nationwide27:41 – Where to find Cristina’s book and how to get involved with DashStrom29:14 – Cristina’s triathlon update, creating tranquility through shamanic drumming, and applying life lessons from growing up internationally33:05 – Closing reflections and gratitudeYou can find Cristina’s Book, Empowered by Discomfort here https://bookshop.org/a/87491/9798987856000ABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIf you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Click here and pitch yourself. Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes.Why subscribe?Stay up-to-date without c

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Kristina Heaugh-Avritt about the complexities of school choice, navigating "cracks in the system" of public education, and redefining joyful, values-based learning at home. Kristina, based in Southern Oregon, brings nearly three decades of classroom experience and her perspective as a special needs parent to the conversation. Together, they dive deep into teacher burnout, the shifting landscape of education, and the empowering journey of supporting alternative learning paths for families.Kristina Heagh-Avritt is the founder of Vibrant Family Education and the co-host of the Bringing Education Home podcast. After over 30 years in education, she now guides parents to create joyful, connected, values-based learning at home. She is dedicated to helping families raise happy, healthy, and successful children who love to learn and feel deeply supported.Main Topics Covered:The evolving realities and challenges within public school systems, including “teaching to the test” and loss of teacher autonomyHow administrative shifts and tech demands have impacted both teachers and families, especially after the pandemicThe crucial role of parent involvement and how modern schools have unintentionally created barriers to collaborationNavigating burnout as an educator: emotional shifts, leaving legacy workplaces, and the hard decision to step awayThe difference between replicating traditional schooling at home versus designing custom home education experiencesDemystifying alternative education: homeschooling, unschooling, road schooling, and world schooling—and how to choose the right fitAddressing family values, holistic learning, and handling fears about “missing something” in home-based educationHow Kristina supports parents through 1:1 coaching, building accountability, routines, and personally tailored plansQuote from the Episode: “I think a lot of it had to do with helping other people, you know, and just knowing that the children I could impact and help grow and change and be confident and stuff. When I started school, I wasn't very confident, and I grew into my confidence and my capabilities with great teachers. … When you're watching, watching a little kid and they finally get something, their eyes pop open, and you can almost literally see that little cartoon bubble, light bulb above their head going, I got it right.” — Kristina Heaugh-AvrittTimestamps: [00:00:06] Welcome & intros; Kristina shares her Oregon roots [00:01:20] Snow days: Why Kristina prefers evening walks over outdoor sports [00:02:04] Kristina’s dual perspective—teacher and special needs parent [00:03:06] Why second and third grades are a “sweet spot” for growth [00:04:06] Teaching all subjects except PE, music, and library [00:04:27] Big district restructuring: Shifts, chaos, and adapting [00:05:16] Being an academic “bookworm” and loving school childhood [00:06:01] Mrs. Reynolds: The teacher who inspired Kristina’s journey [00:06:58] Motivation for teaching: Helping kids gain confidence [00:08:13] Hitting limits—“loving kids through the cracks in the system” [00:09:00] From connection to burnout: Policy, tests, and admin changes [00:11:07] Curriculum before “teaching to the test”—what flexibility looked like [00:12:39] What changed for teachers who fell behind rigid test schedules [00:15:40] Slow decline, parent disconnect, and impact of frequent admin turnover [00:17:57] The increasing barriers for parent involvement at school [00:21:58] Principal changes and the loss of school “family” [00:23:14] Making the difficult decision to leave classroom teaching [00:24:20] Transition into Vibrant Family Education—helping parents directly [00:27:32] What does Kristina’s coaching offer? Foundations for alternative and home learning [00:29:51] What “values-based” really means: Tailoring to each family’s traditions [00:32:29] The mistake of trying to “bring school home” vs. building custom routines [00:34:19] Kristina’s ebook offer: Education at home in 10 simple stepsABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: Kristina has a podcast: Bringing Education Home - https://feeds.captivate.fm/bringing-education-home/GET KRISTINA’S SPECIAL OFFER: Education at Home in 10 Simple StepsEducation at Home in 10 Simple Steps eBook is the guide for those who are ready to get started on t