The Art Of Imperfect Adulting

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Chicago-based Valerie Friedlander about how intentional choices, including something as small as changing the music you listen to, can lead to major life shifts. Valerie opens up about her journey from family dynamics shaped by addiction, to her self-awareness breakthroughs in college, and her long-standing love affair with music as a tool for emotional processing and personal growth.About the Guest:Valerie Friedlander is a certified life coach, podcast host of Mindset Unlimited, and lifelong Chicagoan with deep roots in music, creativity, and self-development. Valerie is passionate about supporting women through life and career transitions, helping them unpack old patterns and create empowered, intentional lives. She offers coaching, workshops, and a powerful Energy Leadership Index assessment.Main Topics Covered:Valerie’s roots in Chicago and her family’s musical legacy.The ripple effect of growing up in a family impacted by addiction and recovery.Why music is both an emotional touchstone and a tool for moving through difficult feelings.Valerie’s “epiphany moment” realizing she could make different choices about the soundtrack of her life—and what that symbolized for bigger life changes.The importance of intentionality, pausing before responding, and recognizing where we do (and don’t) have agency.Navigating relationships, boundaries, and self-awareness from college through adulthood.Playlists, parenting, technology, and evolving ways to connect with others.The distinction between self-reflection for growth and unhelpful self-judgment about past choices.How Valerie brings these insights to her coaching practice.Quote from the Episode:“I can choose what I resonate with and what serves me... I can choose not to stay there. I can choose to do things that allow me more room in my experience.” — Valerie FriedlanderTimestamps: [00:00:06] Introductions, Chicago roots, and indigenous land acknowledgments[00:02:17] Valerie's love of celebrating with food and cake-making adventures[00:04:03] How music—and Amy Mann’s “Magnolia” soundtrack—became the soundtrack to a pivotal life shift[00:13:48] College, codependency, family recovery, and the toolbox of self-help[00:20:50] The power of self-awareness and talking it out loud[00:32:38] Navigating relationships with pause, consent, and intention[00:40:27] Curating music, playlists, and the power of intentional emotional shifts[00:44:27] Self-reflection, choices, and patterns across adulting[00:55:24] Valerie’s coaching philosophy and how to connect[00:57:38] Final fun questions: movement, research, and connection stylesSpecial Offer from the Guest:The Energy Leadership™ Index (ELI) Assessment. Normally $375. Use the code IMPERFECT for 60% off. https://valeriefriedlander.com/AdultingELINote 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. 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.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 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Connecticut based Karen C.L. Anderson about her decision to go “no contact” with a parent, the impact of childhood trauma and shame, and the path to healing and self-acceptance. Karen shares her own story of estrangement from her mother, breaking generational cycles, and creating a life rooted in intentional identity and boundaries.About the Guest:Karen C.L. Anderson is an author, coach, and sought-after voice in the field of mother-daughter relationships. Her latest book, You Are Not Your Mother, and her coaching practice help adult daughters and mothers understand and shift family patterns, recover from shame, and create healthier boundaries. Karen brings a blend of lived experience, deep empathy, and practical wisdom to the conversation.Main Topics Covered:The slow, complicated process of deciding to go no contact with a parentChildhood trauma, neglect, and learning about shameEstrangement, cultural expectations, and family “rules”The emotional aftermath and healing that unfolds after setting boundariesUnderstanding nervous system responses, enmeshment, and generational cyclesHow new frameworks—including coaching and intentional identity—can change your relationship with shameThe difference between reconciliation, boundaries, and acceptanceQuote from the Episode:“I was trying and trying and trying and also thinking, well, there must be something wrong with me that I can't seem to get along with my mom... And then, I remember getting an email from her that said that she was disappointed in the person that I'd become. And it was like a knife in the heart.” — Karen C.L. AndersonTimestamps:[00:00:10] Welcome, where Karen calls home, and unconventional ways of celebrating[00:01:27] Decision to cut off contact with her mom—process, context, and terminology[00:04:47] Family structure, siblings, and growing up in blended families[00:05:41] Parental loss and the compounding grief of estrangement[00:07:28] Painful turning point: “I never felt safe with my mom”[00:16:07] Substance abuse, neglect, and lack of support in childhood[00:19:32] Adult friendship/enmeshment, codependency, and nervous system responses[00:22:10] Recognizing shame—Brené Brown and the awakening to inner narratives[00:24:33] Modalities and self-development: what helped (and what didn’t)[00:29:50] Setting a boundary: the practicalities and emotional fallout of no contact[00:36:02] Long-term impact, breaking generational cycles, and finding contentment[00:38:18] Karen’s work helping adult daughters and/or mothers heal and set boundaries[00:41:09] Fun quick questions—morning routines, favorite books, and Italian iceKaren’s Book is on Amazon and Bookshop.orghttps://bookshop.org/a/87491/9781684812660https://www.amazon.com/You-Are-Not-Your-Mother/dp/1684812666Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 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.com If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportHere 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 Emily Guerra. Emily is a Los Angeles native, productivity coach, and founder of The Productivity Flow. The conversation is about navigating unexpected career upheaval, redefining family support systems, and finding mindful balance amid major life transitions. Emily shares her journey from collegiate event planner with a clear path, to a pandemic-induced detour that led her to entrepreneurship and personal growth. Through candid stories about living with ADHD, family dynamics, and pivoting careers, Emily offers hope, perspective, and practical advice for anyone facing life’s curveballs.About the Guest:Emily Guerra is a lifelong Angeleno and founder of The Productivity Flow. With a background in event planning, a passion for systems and mindfulness, and lived experience managing ADHD, Emily now helps individuals and entrepreneurs design balanced, sustainable, and productive lives—especially in the new era of hybrid and work-from-home routines.Main Topics Covered:Navigating the sudden loss of a planned career due to the pandemicRe-examining family support systems and expectations as a young adultTransitioning from event planning to launching a freelance business during lockdownThe interplay between ADHD, systems creation, and productivityBuilding resilience, gratitude, and self-advocacy through therapy and coachingHow the new work-from-home paradigm demands rethinking productivity and boundariesImportance of strong peer, family, and community support networks in young adulthoodQuote from the Episode:"I need to take back control of my life. Like, this is ridiculous. I've really given all of my power away. I am placing blame on everyone but myself. And I need to take some accountability and, like, actually get my act together and see what I am able to do." — Emily GuerraTimestamps:[00:00:04] Emily’s LA roots, pandemic career plans, and rituals for transitioning from work to downtime[00:04:41] Event planning background, childhood influences, and love for systems[00:10:54] How COVID changed her graduation, forced moves, and revealed family realities[00:16:19] Emotional impact of losing parental safety nets and therapy breakthroughs[00:23:08] Reclaiming agency: from stuck to entrepreneurial action[00:26:10] Navigating support, FOMO, and digital community during lockdown[00:29:20] Launching a social media freelance business—and shifting to productivity coaching[00:34:23] The through-line of systems and work-life balance[00:38:05] Revisiting event planning and choosing self-employment[00:40:11] Why old productivity advice doesn’t work in the work-from-home era[00:42:12] Emily’s current offerings, community, and special session for listeners[00:43:41] Final fun questions: LA weather, Justin Bieber, and event planner etiquetteABOUT 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.Special Offer from the Guest:A Product: Productivity Alignment Session. We'll uncover what's keeping you stuck and reveal the next best step to take towards your most balanced and productive self.Value: $150 Audience Special offer: FREEFill out this survey and book your call: https://download.theproductivityflow.com/free-productivity-alignment-session-surveyNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 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 link

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Sarah Waldbuesser, attorney, entrepreneur, and founder of Destination Legal and Twist Law, about her remarkable journey from a “dream job” in global health law to building a thriving online legal business, all sparked by the inspiration of a podcast. Sarah shares what it was like to walk away from a traditional legal career, cash in her 401(k), and take a leap of faith into the world of digital nomadism and entrepreneurship, all while navigating family expectations, financial uncertainty, and the pursuit of happiness on her own terms.About the Guest:Sarah Waldbuesser, Esq., is a trademark attorney and owner of Destination Legal® and TWIST Law.  After several years at a law firm and a few career jumps, she ended up falling in love with online business and loves helping entrepreneurs achieve their dreams in a smart and protected way.  She is also an adventurer, traveler, and food and wine lover.   When not at her computer, she loves hanging with her 2 little kiddos, having wine with friends, flying around the globe and connecting with other online business owners.  Main Topics Covered:Why Sarah left a successful global health law career for the unknownThe reality of quitting a secure job, including family reactions, student loan debt, and uncertaintyThe role of podcasts and online communities in finding purpose and new opportunitiesWhat it’s really like to be a digital nomad (the highlights and hardships)Building a business from scratch: trial, error, and eventual clarityHow important community and environment are for growth and successThe value (and challenge) of aligning your career with your definition of happinessSarah’s advice for risk-taking, finding the right people, and embracing imperfect journeysQuote from the Episode:"I wasn't gonna let the fact that I had a law degree or a master’s stop me from figuring out how to enjoy my life. I just— I wasn't gonna sit and be miserable for the next 40 years. I just wasn't going to do it." — Sarah WaldbuesserTimestamps: [00:00:05] Introductions; home and childhood in St. Louis[00:01:28] How Sarah celebrates achievements in her family[00:03:39] Early legal career: “dream” job and underlying discontent[00:08:42] Decision-making process, first thoughts of quitting, and influence of podcasts[00:13:47] Grappling with sunk costs of higher education and family advice[00:21:20] Navigating friends and community reactions to big life shifts[00:22:56] What Sarah hoped for vs. what happened in her journey[00:29:17] The power of community and surrounding yourself with like-minded people[00:33:54] Digital nomad reality, traveling while building a business, and relationship challenges[00:37:00] The long-term impact: business success, family, and gratitude for risk-taking[00:41:19] The ups and downs of online entrepreneurship and risk tolerance[00:43:50] Sarah’s business today and how listeners can connect[00:45:08] Podcast recommendations and final rapid-fire questionsJoin the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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.com 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Stephanie Sanz. Stephanis is a Brooklyn-based therapist, coach, and founder of her own private practice. They talk about her life-altering experience with a panic attack on the New York City subway and how it shaped her professional and personal journey. Stephanie dives deep into her history of anxiety, overcoming a nontraditional and challenging upbringing, and the surprising ways her struggles have informed her mission to make mental health support accessible to all.About the Guest:Stephanie Sanz is a licensed therapist, coach, and founder of a Brooklyn-based private practice dedicated to supporting clients struggling with anxiety and stress. Drawing from her own experiences with panic and overwhelm—including a formative episode in her college years—Stephanie now specializes in helping others build stress resilience through therapy, neuroscience-informed coaching, and spiritual practice. She is especially passionate about making therapy affordable for college students and those without traditional access to care.Main Topics Covered:Stephanie’s formative panic attack on the NYC subway and its ripple effectsNavigating college, instability, and career indecision without family supportThe realities and stigma of panic attacks and anxiety disordersThe pressure of perfectionism, cultural narratives around success, and “nontraditional” adulting pathsHow Stephanie transformed her personal mental health journey into a professional callingBalancing therapy, neuroscience, spirituality, and accessible coachingThe challenge—and importance—of building support networks and making room for imperfectionQuote from the Episode:"I might be creating this panic situation, thinking that the result is going to be so dire, but it's not always going to be that way. The result is not always going to be the end of the world. And this is proof of that." — Stephanie SanzTimestamps:[00:00:06] Intro & where Stephanie calls home[00:01:45] On femininity, power, and motherhood[00:03:03] The panic attack: scene-setting & aftermath[00:10:17] How triggers, dread, and lack of control spiral anxiety[00:14:44] Career indecision and life crossroads[00:19:16] Overcoming family narratives and a nontraditional path[00:27:20] The lesson: support, not catastrophe[00:31:46] Pivoting professionally toward anxiety & stress support[00:38:33] Making therapy more accessible, blending spiritual and neuroscience-based tools[00:45:23] Brooklyn eats, dreams of bagels, local favorites[00:46:39] Wrap-up & gratitudeSpecial Offer from the Guest:Stephanie is offering a FREE ebook, “Four Things Your Therapist Wants to Tell You About Anxiety But Can’t,” available at stephaniesanz.com. She also has an on-demand course, Anxiety Rewired, and an upcoming neuroscience + spirituality card deck for rewiring stress—all details at her website. Affordable therapy rates are available for college students in New York.Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 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.com If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportHere are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great cont

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Lindsey Kaszuba about the lifelong journey to trusting your own body. Lindsey is a New York City-based integrative nutrition health coach and founder of Kaszuba Health. She candidly shares her experiences growing up in Florida, navigating diet culture, the pressures of postpartum weight loss, and how motherhood and self-reflection transformed her approach to wellness.About the Guest:Lindsey Kaszuba is an integrative nutrition health coach and founder of Kaszuba Health. Living in downtown Manhattan with her three children, Lindsey is passionate about helping women unlock their healthiest weight and cultivate sustainable habits by tuning into their bodies’ true needs—beyond the scale.“Her inner dialogue is going to be how I speak to myself. And so it’s really important for me to never talk about my weight or look at myself and be like, ‘Oh my God, I need to lose weight.’” — Lindsey KaszubaMain Topics Covered:Growing up with mixed messages about health, body image, and foodHow generational beliefs and media shape our relationship with body sizeThe transition from obsessive diet and exercise patterns to holistic, intuitive wellnessThe physical and emotional journey through pregnancy, postpartum, and shifting prioritiesNavigating motherhood while modeling healthy behaviors and self-acceptanceProcessing societal pressure, wellness overwhelm, and the realities of trendy interventions (like GLP-1 medications)The importance of quiet, self-reflection, and customizing health habitsQuote from the Episode:“If you don’t adjust your habits and you’re just doing it for a quick fix, like, it’s just gonna come back. And everyone knows when you get off a diet, you usually gain more weight because your body’s like, ‘help, we’ve been starving this whole time. Now it’s time to eat.’” — Lindsey KaszubaTimestamps: [00:00:05] Warm-up: NYC living and celebrating small wins[00:03:13] Early influences: health, family, and evolving messages about weight[00:09:35] Diet, calorie counting, and the origins of food restriction[00:18:37] Pregnancy, postpartum, and self-image evolution[00:24:35] Mindset shift: Letting go of control and honoring what feels good[00:29:32] Developing intuition, finding what works, and embracing gentler habits[00:32:23] Modeling body trust for her daughters[00:35:29] GLP-1 medications: Nuanced perspectives on quick fixes vs. habit change[00:41:36] Why self-kindness, quiet reflection, and intentional habits matter[00:45:03] Lindsey’s work, offers, and how to connectSpecial Offer from the Guest:Name of the product offered: Health Club Collective: A course & community focused on helping women unlock their healthiest weight yet and trust their body...beyond the scale. Value of the product offered: $997 Special offer for the listeners of the show: $100 offHealth Club Collective will be opening in October, use code "IMPERFECT" at checkout (https://www.lindseykaszubahealth.com/membership-signup#becomeamember)Note from the show host: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming this offer please reach out to the guest directly. The show simply shares the information. 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.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.com Here are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-)For livestreaming and recording ECammPodcast h

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Carah Elizabeth about navigating a major career transformation, overcoming professional burnout, and healing from the fear-based patterns that once shaped her life and work. Carah shares candidly about her journey from rigorous clinical training and private practice ownership to embracing the world of coaching and holistic healing, offering wisdom for anyone considering a bold change in their own professional path.About Carah Elizabeth:Carah Elizabeth is a clinically trained psychotherapist turned trauma-informed coach, empowering high-achieving women to break free from the limitations of generational patterns and lead their lives with embodied confidence, self-trust, and soul-powered abundance.With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Carah blends her expertise in somatic healing, nervous system regulation, and energy work to guide women through a deeply transformative journey of reconnecting with their bodies, healing past trauma, and stepping into their true potential.Main Topics Covered:Carah’s early inspiration to become a therapist and her decade-long path through higher education and licensingThe emotional and financial realities of working in traditional therapy, including burnout, fear of the licensing board, and insurance hurdlesHow the COVID-19 pandemic and personal transformative experiences inspired Carah to challenge limiting beliefs and leave her licensure behindThe shift in mindset from “there’s only one path” to embracing modern, online, and holistic approaches to healingNavigating the loneliness and community pushback that can come with a major career changeThe emerging role of somatic and energy work in mental health—and how therapists and coaches alike are blending modalitiesInsights into embodiment, breaking patterns, nervous system healing, and living a soul-powered lifeQuote from the Episode: “I don’t lose my credibility because I don’t pay $500 every year for a piece of paper… My license was—I don’t lose my credibility. I don’t lose my education. I don’t lose who I am and what I do.”—Carah ElizabethTimestamps:[00:00:05] Welcome and guest introduction: Carah’s home, grounding rituals, and early dreams[00:01:23] Years of training and the backstory of wanting to become a therapist[00:04:14] Working in the mental health field, licensing hurdles, and double supervised hours[00:06:15] Carah’s experience as a therapist, joys and challenges[00:07:42] The initial shock and mindset shift around leaving therapy[00:09:15] Fear-driven patterns: family, career, and licensing board anxieties[00:11:24] The 2020 pandemic, board complaints, and a pivotal breaking point[00:15:26] The power of licensure boards and the limitations of traditional mental health systems[00:18:49] Motivations for making the switch to coaching and expanding impact[00:20:55] Letting go of the “only one way” mentality and embracing holistic healing[00:25:37] How trauma and yoga opened Carah up to embodied healing[00:29:26] Hopes, dreams, and the real-world transition out of private practice[00:31:30] Losing community, rebuilding, and insights on mindset retraining[00:36:31] The challenges of marketing as a coach and lessons from the journey[00:41:32] How the therapy profession is slowly adapting and blending somatic and holistic methods[00:43:43] Carah’s current work and a special invitation to a complimentary masterclass[00:46:49] Light-hearted closing questions and gratitudeSpecial Offer from the Guest:Name of the product offered: Unlocking your Body Blueprint MasterclassThe Chakra Code: Your Body Blueprint Unlocked is a 90-minute masterclass that will guide you to tap into your energy , so you can stop searching outside yourself and start feeling from within.Value of the product offered: $77 Special offer for the listeners of the show: FREE How listeners can collect this offer: https://stan.store/CarahElizabethLLC/p/unlocking-your-body-blueprint-90min-replayCoupon Code: chakracodeNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Monica McKitterick about her journey from nurse practitioner to business owner, how she navigated stepping into the CEO role with no formal business training, and the profound impact that competing in a reality TV competition had on her definition of success, freedom, and personal fulfillment. Monica is an Austin-based founder and CEO of Impact Family Wellness and winner of Season 18 of “The Blocks,” a televised entrepreneurial competition. About Monica McKitterick:Monica McKitterick is a family nurse practitioner turned CEO who built a thriving, multi-location Direct Primary Care practice from the ground up. After winning a national business competition, she realized success is less about titles and accolades and more about freedom, impact, and living in alignment with her values. She now helps other medical providers break free from the broken healthcare system and create sustainable, patient-centered practices. Monica is passionate about redefining success and showing others that their worth is never tied to burnout.Main Topics Covered:How Monica launched and scaled a direct primary care (DPC) practice with no business backgroundThe experience and intensity of participating in “The Blocks” entrepreneurial TV showLearning to redefine personal and professional success beyond traditional metricsThe role of competition, networking, and mindset shifts in entrepreneurshipFacing burnout, the importance of setting boundaries, and embracing freedomMonica’s strategies for building a business that operates independently of her day-to-day presenceNew ways she’s making an impact through writing, mentoring, and online education for healthcare providersQuote from the Episode: “It was the first time I legitimately felt validated as a business owner… I was doing it. I just couldn’t admit to myself that I was doing it. And that was the first time I was like, oh, maybe I do know what I’m doing.” — Monica McKitterickTimestamps: [00:00:00] Monica’s Austin roots and family celebrations[00:02:03] Monica’s journey to “The Blocks” & applying for the show[00:04:54] Transitioning from nurse practitioner to CEO[00:07:32] What is direct primary care and how it differs from concierge medicine[00:09:06] Monica’s hopes and goals for the TV competition[00:10:50] The reality of filming “The Blocks” and competition structure[00:13:59] The diversity of entrepreneurs on the show[00:15:41] Competitive spirit, imposter syndrome, and the reality of winning[00:18:49] The impact and pressure after winning “The Blocks”[00:20:44] Redefining success, facing burnout, and pivoting to new projects[00:25:07] Freedom, mindset shifts, and building an autonomous business[00:27:36] Would Monica do another competition?[00:29:21] Where to find “The Blocks” and Monica’s resources[00:32:11] Austin recs, reality TV, and Monica’s favorite guilty pleasuresABOUT 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 Monica Mckitterick: www.impactfamilywellness.com  GET Monica’s SPECIAL OFFER: Monica invites healthcare providers curious about direct primary care to check out her book, complete DPC launch course, or reach out for consulting and mentorship. Resources for patients and providers, including FAQs.  Get access to this offer plus resources from other guests by subscribing to Amy's email community at https://www.imperfectadulting.com Special Offer from the Guest:Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at h

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Carrie Veatch about her decision to leave a successful nonprofit executive role and embark on a transformative journey living and working around the world. Carrie is an entrepreneur, coach, and freedom advocate in Denver, Colorado when this was recorded. Carrie opens up about what inspired her to create her own “mini-retirement,” how she rebuilt her career with intention, and what it means to design a life aligned with your deepest values, even if it means breaking with expectations.About the Guest:Carrie Veatch is a coach specializing in helping entrepreneurs achieve time, financial, and location freedom. Drawing from her own experiences living and working abroad, downsizing her life, and building businesses online, Carrie empowers her clients to intentionally create lives and careers that truly honor their unique aspirations and rhythms.Main Topics Covered:What led Carrie to quit her executive nonprofit job and move abroad in her 30sThe concept of “mini-retirement” and intentional life designNavigating family influences, financial planning, and solo adulthoodThe realities and rewards of building an online business while traveling internationallyThe challenges (and joys) of fitting in—abroad and at homeHow travel and entrepreneurship shifted Carrie’s perspective on risk, community, and personal alignmentPractical insights about downsizing, taxes, U.S. residency, and logistics while living nomadicallyQuote from the Episode:“I believe as an empowered person... it is up to me and it's my responsibility to do something with what is in front of me. Like, I am empowered to get to re-decide, to change course. Right. Like, that's where I really believe we find our power is knowing that life is not happening to me. I get to choose.”—Carrie VeatchTimestamps: [00:00:04] Welcome & intros; where Carrie calls home[00:01:36] Why she left her nonprofit career[00:03:29] Discovering “mini-retirement” & intentional financial planning[00:06:41] Growing up and early ideas of adulthood[00:09:58] Making unconventional choices and social support[00:13:35] Traveling, soul-searching, and planning the leap to Asia[00:15:51] Feeling out of place—community, belonging, and redefining home[00:20:24] The logistics of going nomadic: downsizing, storage, and finances[00:21:39] Landing in Asia: work, building a business, and changing plans[00:25:35] From fast travel to building connections in Vietnam[00:27:32] Running a nomadic business and navigating U.S. logistics[00:29:25] How travel changed Carrie’s perspective and life today[00:34:33] Carrie’s coaching business: helping others pursue time, location, and financial freedom[00:35:07] Denver food recommendation[00:35:43] Book and treat picks[00:37:28] Wrap-up and gratitudeSpecial Offer from the Guest:Carrie invites listeners to connect with her for a free discovery call to explore time, financial, or location freedom—mention the podcast when you reach out via her website or Instagram. To make sure you have all the information about the guest and the offer be sure to subscribe to the email community at https://www.imperfectadulting.comNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 that happen. Click here and pitch yourself. Here are a few resources that

about navigating the emotional landscape and practical challenges of raising a child with unique genetics and an autism diagnosis. Jennifer shares her family’s journey from uncertainty and medical crises to building a supportive community and ultimately founding Sarah Rise, an adaptation of the Sunrise Program, to help her daughter flourish. The conversation dives into the realities of parenting through unpredictability, the importance of asking for help, and finding empowerment and self-acceptance along the way.About the Guest:Jennifer Celeste Briggs has a BA in English Literature from Swarthmore college. She lives in Pittsburgh, PA with her husband and two daughters. Her daughter Sarah has a genetic anomaly and autism. Organizing hundreds of hours of therapeutic play time for Sarah, Jenny trained and coordinated multiple volunteers to help Sarah thrive. Jenny's book about this experience is called Watching Sarah Rise: A Journey of Thriving with Autism.Main Topics Covered:Early parenting challenges, medical uncertainty, and journey to a genetic and autism diagnosisThe emotional impact of developmental differences and letting go of expectationsThe discovery and adaptation of the Sunrise Program (Sarah Rise) for family and community supportIntentional choices, asking for help, and building a reliable support networkBalancing the needs of two children and preserving family connectionsAccepting imperfection and finding joy in the parenting journeyQuote from the Episode:"Look, you can be a totally imperfect parent and you can still make a huge difference for your child, and your child could still need a ton of help... but also, we can just go to the pool and she can swim and she can go for a bike ride... I feel like I can relax and enjoy her and she can enjoy her life and her connections with people." — Jennifer Celeste BriggsTimestamps: [00:00:08] Meet Jennifer Celeste Briggs & warmup questions[00:01:51] Introducing Sarah: early challenges, seizures, and medical specialists[00:07:43] Discovering developmental differences and the emotional rollercoaster[00:11:38] Grieving, self-blame, and finding support[00:15:58] Redefining expectations: before and after motherhood[00:23:03] The strain—leaning into support, family networks, and volunteers[00:28:03] Discovering and launching the Sarah Rise program[00:30:44] The path to authorship and sharing the journey[00:35:45] How to connect with Jennifer & audience special offer[00:36:59] Final questions: introvert/extrovert, nostalgic music & dream vacationSpecial Offer from the Guest:If you purchase Watching Sarah Rise and contact Jennifer, letting her know you found the book through The Art of Imperfect Adulting, she’ll send you a free signed book plate. www.watchingsarahrise.comNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Lauren Roche about her transformative experience living as a digital nomad during the pandemic. Lauren is a Washington, D.C.-based wellness advocate, remote work consultant, and host of The Naked Truth with Lauren podcast. Lauren shares her honest reflections on hitting the road at 23, navigating remote work across multiple U.S. cities, the realities of loneliness and workplace stress, and the power of building resilience and community while on the move.About the Guest:Lauren Roche is a wellness entrepreneur, transformation coach, and podcast host dedicated to destigmatizing mental health and building supportive communities. With a background in consulting and user experience design, Lauren leverages her own journey—from Maryland to a year of nomadic living—to help others embrace vulnerability, gratitude, and growth. She is the founder of The Naked Truth with Lauren, an omnichannel brand focused on mindfulness, mental health, and manifestation.Main Topics Covered:The impetus and planning behind Lauren’s year as a digital nomad (2021–2022)The unique challenges and joys of working remotely while traveling across the U.S.Coping with uncertainty, isolation, and career transitions on the roadHow to build connections and maintain mental health during big life changesThe impact of support systems: family, friends, and virtual therapyLessons in resilience, resourcefulness, and intentional livingLauren’s mission to break the stigma around mental health and foster genuine communityQuote from the Episode:"I built so much resilience with the things that, like, weren't on my bingo card or went sideways or went wrong. And having to be on our toes, moving around a month or two at a time...dealing with stuff that comes up that you're not expecting because you're still living everyday life." — Lauren RocheTimestamps:[00:00:14] Lauren calls Washington, D.C. home and shares her downtime rituals[00:01:20] Launching her digital nomad journey during the Covid-19 pandemic[00:03:03] Testing out new cities and searching for a long-term fit[00:05:05] Finding a travel companion and planning the adventure[00:07:21] Family and friends’ reactions; packing and storage logistics[00:08:42] Using travel nurse housing platforms for extended stays[00:10:41] Planning vs. spontaneity; dealing with last-minute housing issues[00:13:26] Making friends and exploring communities on the road[00:16:38] Work-life balance, bucket lists, and exploring new cities[00:18:07] Social and work challenges: isolation and changing teams[00:23:18] Adapting to new work environments and managing technology needs[00:24:58] Favorite memories and weekday adventures in different time zones[00:27:17] West coast exploration, wrap-up, and returning home[00:28:53] Health on the road: dealing with Covid and finding a dentist[00:32:58] The essential role of support systems[00:34:37] Lasting skills and lessons: resilience, mental stamina, and seeking therapy[00:39:48] Lauren’s current work and details about The Naked Truth with LaurenSpecial Offer from the Guest:Join Lauren’s free weekly Gratitude Newsletter to kick-start your abundance mindset and stay looped in for future events and workshops. Sign up at thenakedtruthwithlauren.com.Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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.

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Kaitlin Cuevas about navigating the emotional complexities of leaving a family business, finding alignment in work as a mother, and building a new life that honors both ambition and family. Kaitlin shares her journey from working in her father's B2B marketing company to launching her own business aimed at helping moms declutter their physical and mental spaces, all while honoring her values and forging a new path.About the Guest:Kaitlin Cuevas is based in Houston, Texas. She is an author, podcast host, and the founder of Think Happy, where she provides coaching and resources to help moms organize their homes and minds for a more joyful, intentional life. Drawing on her experience in both corporate marketing (with Chick-fil-A and a family business) and entrepreneurship, Kaitlin speaks candidly about change, motherhood, and pursuing fulfillment beyond expectations.Main Topics Covered:Growing up in a close-knit family and working in a multi-generational family businessRealizing her passion for leadership and business ownership, and why she walked away from running the family companyThe emotional weight and complexity of stepping away from her father's "retirement plan"Navigating big life changes: shifting from corporate to entrepreneurship after motherhoodThe role of support systems when making major personal and professional decisionsHow starting her own business has impacted her daily life, values, and family relationshipsKaitlin’s advice for working moms struggling with alignment and career decisionsQuote from the Episode:“With a lot of risk comes a lot of reward... Every coaching call I get on is an opportunity that I have created for myself. And that just feels so freaking awesome.” – Kaitlin CuevasTimestamps: [00:00:05] Kaitlin’s Houston roots & family business introduction[00:01:07] Transition rituals from busy to downtime[00:02:53] What is B2B marketing? Defining the family business[00:04:35] Working in the business as a teen and young adult[00:07:44] Rethinking her teaching career and pivoting to marketing[00:08:44] Early jobs at Chick-fil-A and discovering business interests[00:13:47] Returning to the family business & career crossroads[00:17:32] Realizing the restaurant industry wasn’t a fit[00:20:19] The “whisper” of change and writing her first book[00:23:47] Motherhood, work/life balance, and growing side hustles[00:25:20] The impact of a parent’s illness and the pressure of being the “retirement plan”[00:28:14] Why the work only felt right with her dad present[00:31:46] The pros and cons list, risks, and leaving stability[00:34:37] Breakthrough conversations and family dynamics[00:38:51] Building a new business: fulfillment, structure, and uncertainty[00:40:47] Connect with Kaitlin & the special playroom session offerSpecial Offer from the Guest:Kaitlin is offering listeners a free 30-minute Playroom Optimizer Session (normally $97), a 30-minute call to transform your playroom into a space that works for both you and your kidsNormally $97 Special offer for the listeners of the show: FREE https://think-happy-co.kit.com/playroomNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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.com 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Quincy Tessaverne about her powerful journey of coming out with her sexuality after 16 years of marriage. Quincy opens up about the evolution of her self-awareness, navigating family and community responses to her transition, and how the experience shaped her identity as a parent, partner, and person.About the Guest:Quincy Tessaverne is a writer, entrepreneur, and podcast host living in Los Angeles. With a background that spans parenting, advocacy, creative projects, and LGBTQ+ community building, Quincy brings humor, honesty, and insight to conversations about identity, relationships, loss, and growth. She is the founder of the new podcast Cocoon After Dark, dedicated to sharing real stories from LGBTQ+ and BIPOC voices, especially from a Gen X female perspective.Main Topics Covered:Discovering and understanding sexuality in a conservative 1980s environmentThe experience and challenges of coming out after a long, “traditional” marriageMaintaining a supportive co-parenting and friendship dynamic post-divorceThe societal and family impacts of coming out, including community rejection and finding new belongingSupporting children through family transitions and honoring authentic parentingThe importance of representation and storytelling for the LGBTQ+ communityLaunching Cocoon After Dark: why sharing diverse stories mattersQuote from the Episode:“It’s important because while so many people are trying to shed labels, I think it’s still important, because it’s still not accepted in so many parts of this country and this world… To see people, regular, normal people—your neighbors, your friends, classmates, parents… LGBTQ people are around you and have just as normal lives as you do. We just love different people than you love.”—Quincy TessaverneTimestamps:[00:00:05] Quincy’s favorite way to transition to downtime[00:01:52] Early awareness of sexuality & formative experiences[00:06:36] Navigating changing friendships and family norms in the 1980s[00:09:59] Marriage, honesty with a partner, and why she chose not to “play both sides”[00:13:24] The turning point and emotional aspects of coming out[00:21:25] Impact on daily life, family, and loss of friend group—finding community[00:27:07] The crucial role of chosen family and supporting children[00:34:36] Why representation and sharing LGBTQ+ stories still matters[00:39:03] Launching Cocoon After Dark & how to tune in[00:43:16] Fun questions—favorite books, sunsets, and musicConnect with the Guest:Instagram: @cocoonafterdarkPodcast: Cocoon After Dark https://cocoonafterdark.buzzsprout.com/ Special Offer from the Guest: Be among the first to listen to Cocoon After Dark and share your story! If you are an LGBTQ+ or BIPOC person interested in being interviewed, mention “TAOIA” in your application for priority consideration during the first season (offer valid through December 2025).Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Christie Kaplan. Kaplan is a Dallas-based entrepreneur, mother, and founder of Startup Design Partners. They chat about navigating massive life transitions: career pivots after new motherhood, financial uncertainty following a layoff, and how losing security in traditional employment pushed her to create her own design venture. Christie shares candid stories about managing chaotic postpartum days, leaning on her spouse through stress, and reclaiming autonomy by launching a business that reflects both her creative skillset and her needs as a parent.About the Guest:Christie Kaplan is a holistic venture designer, community builder and fine artist. Her why? She believes intentional systematic design has the power to reshape industries for the better of humanity. Every company should be design-led, that's her mission at Startup Design Partners.Main Topics Covered:Navigating the emotional roller coaster of new motherhood and being laid off 8 weeks postpartumPlanning for financial security and facing unexpected setbacksManaging postpartum recovery while job searchingMaintaining a strong partnership and communication during periods of stressMaking a career pivot from traditional employment to entrepreneurshipHow the illusion of security in full-time roles inspired Christie’s business pathBuilding a design consultancy and collaborative network to empower indie creatorsQuote from the Episode:“I never want to go through that again. Even the story I told you about, you know, being on the toilet and finishing up a pumping session, I just, I was like, this is not—I don't ever want to have to be forced to do this. Like I want that to be a choice.” — Christie KaplanTimestamps: [00:00:05] Intros; Christie calls Dallas home[00:00:57] Transitioning from busyness to downtime through art[00:02:17] Laid off 8 weeks postpartum—setting the stage[00:03:43] Financial planning, unexpected expenses, and startup realities[00:06:48] The shock of layoffs and postpartum job hunting[00:08:09] Preparing for maternity leave and returning to work[00:11:17] Recovering from a complicated delivery[00:11:55] The day of the layoff and making plans as a couple[00:15:07] Stress-testing the relationship and effective communication[00:19:09] Being told you're “too young” for a promotion—igniting the spark to start her own business[00:24:25] The decision that made her career pivot possible[00:30:43] What Startup Design Partners does and its vision[00:36:21] The gig economy, community building, and supporting founders[00:38:35] The final three fun questions: TV habits, reusable water bottles, and parental fears in an AI worldSpecial Offer from the Guest:Offer:A One Hour Complimentary Venture/Product Advisory Session To collect offer please email: [email protected] from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Dominique Levesque about the realities of rebuilding a life from the ground up after sudden upheaval. Dominique shares the challenges she faced after losing everything, including her business and community in Central America, and how she transformed the crisis into a journey of healing, self-truth, and creating new belonging from within.About the Guest:Dominique Levesque is an intuitive coach and color energy healer. She helps sensitive, soul-led humans reconnect with their inner wisdom through color, aura work, and sacred geometry. Main Topics Covered:The experience and reality of being a global nomadLosing everything: sudden business loss and expulsion from a chosen communityHow conditioning shapes decisions, risk, and belongingSurvival mode and rebuilding from the inside outThe power of intuition, somatic wisdom, and self-acceptanceCreating authentic community versus seeking belonging at any costEmbodying learned knowledge and setting new personal guide railsQuote from the Episode:"When you're living from your conditioning, you're always losing because you're not aligned. And there are a lot of choices to make in that not alignment. And those choices are hard because you have to look at yourself and you have to understand, see the red flags and have people that care enough to really tell you what is going on." — Dominique LevesqueTimestamps:[00:00:06] Welcomes, intros, and the life of a nomad[00:01:24] Dominique’s journey: From thriving business to losing everything[00:03:32] Impacts of community loss and forced expat experience[00:07:03] Business, relationships, and the power of conditioning[00:10:11] What is conditioning and why are red flags hard to see?[00:13:07] Survival mode, somatics, and rebuilding after crisis[00:17:40] Questioning beliefs and facing uncomfortable truths[00:20:44] Intuition: From impulsive adventure to embodied guidance[00:24:13] Practical steps for rebuilding: Workshops, community, and values[00:27:58] Commitment to truth over belonging[00:32:29] Life today: Authentic connection, color, and creating safe spaces[00:34:18] Dominique’s intuitive coaching in color and energySpecial Offer from the Guest:Take Dominique’s free Intuitive Color Quiz to discover what color you’re resonating with right now and gain insight into your personal energy and alignment. Visit www.intentioninflow.com/quiz .Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Stacie Walker. Walker is a Colorado-based entrepreneur, digital marketing mentor, and founder of Unleash Your Ambition. They talk about her profound journey from a chaotic, unhealthy lifestyle in her 20s through a near-death health crisis, to a life of sobriety, purpose, and success. Stacie shares candidly about the wake-up call that forced her to reevaluate her choices, the long recovery that followed, and how she rebuilt her life, health, and career into something she once thought impossible.About the Guest:Stacie Walker is a Marketing & Business Strategist and the founder of Unleash Your Ambition. Her mission is to help her clients design an aligned $100K+ business foundation without sacrificing their health, sanity, or values.Main Topics Covered:What life looked like for Stacie before her health crisis: codependency, unhealthy choices, and overwork.The warning signs and realities of severe liver failure in her 20s, and how it became a near-death experience.How her road to recovery (including a year of healing) sparked immediate and lasting sobriety.Reimagining her career after illness, building an online business from her bed, and discovering the power of the digital community.The importance of self-care: mental, physical, and spiritual health practices adopted during recovery.How significant life challenges clarified Stacie’s purpose, deepened her relationships, and transformed her approach to life and business.Advice for others who may be ignoring their health or feel stuck in unhealthy patterns.Quote from the Episode:“I felt my soul, my spirit, drifting away… That was my wake-up call, you know, that’s what I needed in order to get my life in order and to really think about how I wanted to live moving forward.” – Stacie WalkerTimestamps: [00:00:12] Welcome and Stacie’s background; Colorado roots[00:01:14] Compliments, kindness, and setting the pre-crisis scene[00:04:54] The health crisis of 2008: symptoms, missteps, and hospitalization[00:13:37] Instant sobriety and facing recovery after a near-death warning[00:19:11] Rebuilding health: habits, routines, and mindset shifts[00:22:12] Stacie today: entrepreneurship, family, and finding fulfillment[00:25:14] The power and importance of online communities for support[00:28:39] Reflections: Would change have happened without hitting rock bottom?[00:30:41] Stacie’s business, Unleash Your Ambition, and how she helps clients[00:33:39] Final fun questions: reality TV, dog hair, and chocolateSpecial Offer from the Guest:Complimentary Business Breakthrough Session. (Valued at $1,000) Book your session at: https://www.unleashyourambition.com/breakthroughNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Sara Thornhill—Florida-based meditation coach, relationship expert, and founder of Prana Tova—about transforming panic attacks into powerful peace through authenticity, sobriety, and self-discovery. Sara candidly shares her journey through coming out, divorce, trauma, and embracing her truth, offering actionable insights on how ambitious women can break the cycle of people-pleasing and anxiety to find greater peace within themselves.About the Guest:Sara Thornhill is the founder of Prana Tova and creator of the BreathWORTH™ method. A master coach in nervous system regulation and subconscious reprogramming, Sara blends science-backed breathwork with vibrational healing to help you reset, release, and reclaim power from within. Main Topics Covered:Turning panic attacks, trauma, and anxiety into self-acceptance and personal peaceComing out, surviving two divorces, and breaking free from religious and family expectationsThe power of breathwork, meditation, and solo retreats in healing emotional woundsPeople-pleasing as a root of anxiety and the freedom in learning to say “no”The physiology of panic attacks and why highly sensitive people are spiritually primed for evolutionThe importance of building supportive environments and boundary setting for lasting changeQuote from the Episode:"The secret is that I stopped people pleasing. People pleasing causes panic attacks. We are shoving down who we are. We're hiding our needs because of some perception of trying to get approval or avoid rejection or any number of core wounding... The biggest difference is I live my authenticity." — Sara ThornhillTimestamps: [00:00:06] Introduction, warm-up questions, and Sara’s location[00:01:26] Amy introduces Sara’s story and major life transitions[00:02:02] Sara’s marriage/divorce timeline, coming out, and journey through sobriety[00:05:48] Living the “perfect” life and waking up to authenticity[00:08:55] Suppressing identity, masking pain with drinking, and early signs of trouble[00:12:43] Discussing coming out, identity, and ending a marriage[00:15:27] First panic attack, trauma history, and early coping strategies[00:20:01] The physical experience and physiology of panic attacks[00:29:09] Sara’s full “reset” via solo silent retreats and deep self-work[00:32:22] Boundary setting, removing toxic influences, and finding support[00:36:59] The impact of change: from anxiety to authenticity[00:38:55] Childhood programming and why self-compassion matters[00:41:04] Could transformation have happened without adversity?[00:44:10] Sara’s work: helping ambitious women transmute panic into peace[00:46:20] Where to connect with Sara, free masterclass, and support groups[00:47:02] Final three questions (documentaries, skeeball, tornadoes)Special Offer from the Guest:Sara offers a Free Masterclass Watch the free masterclass here: https://sarahthornhill.com/registerNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited-quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Gwendolyn Dolske. Dolske is aLos Angeles-based philosophy professor, writer, and host of the podcast Good Is in the Details. Gwendolyn shares her journey from academic routine to creative exploration, the vulnerability of stepping into the media space, and the transformative surprise of becoming a parent alongside launching her show.About the Guest:Gwendolyn Dolske PhD is a writer, educator, speaker, and producer of the award winning podcast Good Is In The Details. In all areas, her work focuses on using the wisdom of thinkers from her studies in Philosophy to navigate and explore issues of today.  She is the author of Tips From The Professor. A Guide to College Success, Philosophy Unplugged, and scholarly articles emphasizing Existentialism. Gwendolyn has taught Philosophy at Loyola Marymount University, Cal Poly Pomona, Cal State Fullerton, and Gonzaga University. Main Topics Covered:Academic comfort zones and why Gwendolyn chose philosophyNavigating career satisfaction, routine, and intellectual curiosityThe decision to launch a podcast as a midlife creative leapVulnerability, self-doubt, and being a woman in a public, media-facing roleUnexpected personal growth through parenting and embracing imperfectionHow podcasting provided a space for curiosity and communityThe value of learning new things, risking discomfort, and living authenticallyQuote from the Episode:“The desire for a perfect presentation—I was almost forced to let go of it. And I’m glad I did, because now when something goes a little bit sideways, it doesn’t bother me as much. I’m like, oh, this is life. That’s what makes life good. That’s what makes life fun.” — Gwendolyn DolskeTimestamps: [00:00:23] Gwendolyn calls Los Angeles home[00:00:38] Transitioning from busy to downtime with mystery novels[00:02:52] Routine life as a professor and academic comfort zone[00:05:08] Why philosophy? Childhood curiosity and passion for deeper meaning[00:07:37] Life applications for a philosophy degree[00:10:36] Relationship changes and creating space for new adventures[00:15:37] Starting a podcast outside her comfort zone[00:22:10] Addressing vulnerability as a woman of “a certain age” in media[00:29:05] 2019: Embracing podcasting and unexpected new motherhood[00:33:24] Letting go of perfectionism and embracing imperfect adulting[00:36:19] What Good Is in the Details is all about[00:39:02] The podcast as a space for deep thinking and growthConnect with the guest at GoodIsInTheDetails.comJoin the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Lyn Delmastro-Thomson—an Arizona-based energy healer and coach who helps sensitive, visionary leaders heal visibility issues and step into their power. Lyn opens up about her deep-rooted fear of the spotlight, how childhood bullying and overprotection shaped her self-expression, and the transformative journey that allowed her to claim her place on stage, both in business and in life.About the Guest:Lyn Delmastro-Thomson helps sensitive, soul-led visionaries and healers stop leaking energy and start leading from their power—without guilt and burnout. She’s the go-to guide for sensitive, soulful healers and visionary women who are ready to feel safe being seen and fully expressed, set boundaries that honor their energy, and grow their business without self-abandonment.Through her Stand in Your Power method, Lyn helps you energetically recalibrate, set embodied boundaries that actually hold, and feel safe being seen in your full truth—so your business and life can expand without draining your system.Main Topics Covered:How childhood bullying and classroom anxiety lead to “playing small” as an adultThe impact of family dynamics and learned helplessness on confidenceNavigating professional and networking situations while managing fear of being seenLyn’s pivotal moment stepping on stage and the healing power of community supportThe importance of nervous system safety in building confidence and visibilityStrategies for rewiring fear, building self-advocacy, and translating confidence into relationshipsHow Lyn helps clients heal their own “visibility wounds” for personal and professional growthQuote from the Episode:"It was like my inner child who had been bullied and bullied and bullied, received this, like, complete shift of, oh, there's people actually who are not going to laugh at me...I was accepted. And that kind of gave me the courage to start putting myself out there." — Lyn Delmastro-ThomsonTimestamps: [00:00:06] Lyn’s Arizona roots & transition rituals[00:01:49] Hiding in plain sight—fear of the spotlight as a teen[00:06:10] How those patterns showed up in adulthood and business[00:10:10] Family influences and learned helplessness[00:12:53] The breakthrough: claiming the stage at a women's conference[00:15:51] Dancing vs. public speaking: Exploring safety and self-expression[00:20:45] Uncovering roots of visibility fear and the healing journey[00:26:44] How life and business transformed by claiming visibility[00:28:29] Lyn’s work today: helping others heal visibility wounds[00:30:56] Special visibility reset toolkit for listeners[00:31:22] Quick fun questions: travel snacks and pet peevesSpecial Offer from the Guest:The Visibility Reset KitA nervous system-safe toolkit to help you feel grounded, clear, and embodied before you speak, post, or share your work.Use the code IMPERFECT to save 100% offhttps://heartfirehealingllc.com/visibility-reset-kit/Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Bronwen Sciortino, a Perth-based author and burnout recovery expert, about her deeply personal journey from high-achieving perfectionist to a life rebuilt after shattering burnout and a health crisis. Bronwen shares the unexpected wake-up call that forced her to confront her own limits, her experience of losing her identity, and the powerful process of reclaiming a more authentic, aligned self.About the Guest:Bronwen Sciortino is an internationally renowned author and speaker who helps people redefine success without burning out. After pushing herself past the point of exhaustion, she rebuilt her life from the ground up—ditching perfectionism for purpose and pressure for peace. Through her work, she teaches people how to create a life that’s perfect just for them—one that allows them to be healthy, happy AND highly successful. She now guides others to live in a way that’s simpler, slower, and far more sustainable. Bronwen invites people to stop performing and start living—imperfectly, but powerfully.Main Topics Covered:Bronwen's personal story: from ignoring warning signs to a life-altering medical diagnosisWhat “shattering” from burnout really looks and feels likeThe silence, stigma, and shame surrounding mental health and perfectionismThe small, practical steps Bronwen took to redefine success and self-worthReclaiming identity, self-compassion, and the power of asking: “What if they’re wrong?”The importance of intuition, permission, and micro-choices in healingSupport systems, the role of partners, and practical tips for resilienceQuote from the Episode:“I really lost who I was in the process of being what everyone expected me to be. The process that I went through was about reclaiming me and really owning the perfection of who I am as an individual.” — Bronwen SciortinoTimestamps:[00:00:07] – Introductions and Bronwen’s home in Perth, Australia[00:01:09] – Cats, play, and transitions from busy to downtime[00:03:39] – The health crisis and the moment of “shattering”[00:07:18] – Burnout: definitions, stigma, and the perfectionist trap[00:16:40] – The emotional and practical experience of collapse[00:26:14] – Healing: practical changes, asking “what if they’re wrong?”[00:29:38] – Permission, intuition, adventure, and micro-steps[00:36:20] – Support systems: partner, animals, creativity, and nature[00:39:04] – Reclaiming identity, self-worth, and bioindividuality[00:42:40] – Bronwen’s current work, books, and ways to connect[00:44:15] – Special offer details and final rapid-fire questionsSpecial Offer from the Guest:The Reset Session. A 1-hour Reset Session to help you pause, reflect, and take the first step toward a life that feels clearer, lighter, and right for you.Value of the product offered: $597.00Special offer for the listeners of the show: $400 discount using the below link and coupon codeLink: https://bsciortschool.mysamcart.com/checkout/the-reset-sessionCoupon: SAVE400Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Rose Sprinkle. Sprinkle is a parenting educator, children’s author, and self-awareness advocate. We talk about her journey navigating the trauma of losing a close friend, learning to cope with PTSD, and how these experiences inspired her work empowering children and parents through emotional regulation and core virtues. Rose opens up about the realities of grief, the limits of traditional self-care, and how tools like EMDR therapy helped her heal and ultimately led to the creation of her Little Virtues book series.About the Guest:Rose Sprinkle is a Washington-based children’s book author, graphic designer, and founder of the Little Virtues series, which helps kids build self-worth, emotional intelligence, and character through storytelling. Driven by her own healing journey, Rose blends her background in teaching and design to create accessible resources for families, emphasizing resilience, compassion, and growth.Quote from the Episode:“It was kind of like I was bringing a hose to a fire, but what I really needed was the whole fire department.” — Rose SprinkleMain Topics Covered:Coping with the sudden, unexpected loss of a close friend and the realities of traumaDiscovering and understanding PTSD outside of commonly held stereotypesThe importance of support systems—and the challenges of losing support through major life changesHow trauma can manifest physically, and recognizing when traditional coping mechanisms aren’t enoughLearning about EMDR therapy and the science behind trauma healingMoving from pain to purpose: How Rose wrote her first children’s book as a tool for her own healing and to help othersBuilding The Little Virtues book series and supporting children in emotional regulation and self-worthThe messy, lifelong journey of self-awareness, changing attachment styles, and embracing imperfect adultingTimestamps:[00:00:06] Welcome, Rose’s home base, and personal warmups[00:01:11] The loss of a friend, initial trauma response, and relocation[00:04:29] Support systems and grieving in isolation[00:06:33] Self-judgment, shame around trauma, and the absence of language for PTSD[00:10:46] Leaning on coping skills and the realization that more help was needed[00:12:58] Introduction to EMDR therapy and the turning point in recovery[00:14:42] What EMDR is (and why it sounded like “voodoo”—but works)[00:17:02] Triggers, recurring trauma, and compounding experiences[00:18:33] From trauma to growth: Finding meaning and new purpose[00:20:40] Teaching, creating, and writing as forms of healing[00:25:38] The organic birth of The Little Virtues books[00:31:02] Series overview, the difference between values and virtues[00:34:13] New curriculum for parents, practical tools for social-emotional learning[00:35:20] Rose’s childhood favorites and the power of reading with kids[00:37:46] Final questions: dream vacations, reading habits with young kids, karaoke stylesSpecial Offer from the Guest:The Little Virtues Character Development Guide for Kids. A 236 page parent led guide for social emotional learning. Normally $97 but you can get it for $37 https://thelittlevirtues.com/pages/guide  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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Paulette Rigo—divorce coach, credentialed mediator, and founder of Better Divorce Academy—to explore the realities of surviving and rebuilding after a high-conflict, litigated divorce. Paulette shares her personal story of a twenty-one-year marriage that ended in an eight-and-a-half-year court battle, how it sparked a total life transformation, and her mission to disrupt the divorce industry by empowering others through education, support, and mediation.About the Guest:Paulette Rigo is the CEO of Better Divorce Academy as a Credentialed Private ADR Mediator, Certified Divorce Coach, Speaker, Podcast Host and Author.Main Topics Covered:Paulette’s origin story: Growing up in a legacy-driven ballet family, marrying young, and living by others’ expectationsThe realities of high-conflict divorce: An eight-and-a-half-year court battle, financial and emotional toll, and learning the legal system from the insideBreaking family and cultural taboos around divorce, especially in faith-based upbringingsThe psychological and practical steps required for rebuilding after divorce—“exfoliating the soul and the body and the mind”Why divorce is a $50+ billion industry and how mediation can save time, money, and sanityThe importance of self-awareness, learning to say “no,” and reclaiming one’s passionsHow Paulette turned her pain into purpose, and positioned herself as a disruptor and educator in the divorce spaceStrategies for preserving dignity, managing court requirements, and building a new life after leaving a consuming relationshipQuote from the Episode:“My whole life felt like it wasn’t my life. I felt like I was being an actress and I was pretty good at it. Even my best friend said, ‘I had no idea.’ … It was an exfoliation of the soul and of the body and the mind.” — Paulette RigoTimestamps: [00:00:05] Paulette’s introduction and background (Boston, Belize, Atlanta)[00:00:50] Favorite ways to transition to downtime[00:01:45] Meeting her ex, marrying young, and family pressures[00:05:43] Growing up with Catholicism and inherited divorce stories[00:11:11] On recognizing the signs, power dynamics, and ignoring inner doubts[00:18:23] Stepping into family business and building a consuming life[00:22:08] The tipping point: resentment, self-reflection, and quitting the job[00:27:58] An eight-and-a-half year divorce, the court system, and financial realities[00:32:08] Mediation, legal complexities, and why mediation sometimes fails[00:38:53] The aftermath: changing everything, self-discovery, and new beginnings[00:47:10] Becoming a mediator and advocate for change in the divorce process[00:50:15] The true cost of divorce and how Paulette’s work saves others time and money[00:53:17] Closing questions and Paulette’s plant-based lifestyleSpecial Offer from the Guest:Paulette is offering a FREE digital version of her book and workbook, Better Divorce Blueprint, for listeners. Visit betterdivorceacademy.com to download.Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Barbara Hemphill about how a Nebraska farm upbringing, international adventures, and a knack for noticing everyday problems led her to launch a multi-decade organizing career. Barbara shares how listening to fellow parents on a New York City playground inspired her very first business and sparked a movement, and how she turned setbacks and skepticism into opportunities for innovation and legacy-building.About the Guest:Barbara Hemphill is a celebrated productivity expert, speaker, and founder of the Productive Environment Institute. With a career spanning over four decades, Barbara’s journey began with a $7 classified ad and evolved into a global movement, bestselling books, and training programs for aspiring organizing consultants. Her expertise bridges the gap between physical, digital, and emotional clutter, helping countless individuals and organizations transform chaos into clarity."My business is based on four words, which I learned from clothes closets: Clutter is postponed decisions." — Barbara HemphillMain Topics Covered:How Barbara’s childhood on a Nebraska farm instilled entrepreneurial thinking and resourcefulnessThe backstory of adopting three children in India and starting over in New York CityListening on the playground: discovering the real-world pain points of busy familiesLaunching an organizing business with a $7 classified ad, and what happened nextEarly challenges as a woman entrepreneur and how persistence led to innovationMyths about organization and why “handle it only once” doesn’t always workBuilding a company designed to last beyond her lifetimeThe emotional and spiritual side of clutter—and how to finally clear itQuote from the Episode:“Clutter is postponed decisions. The reason your closet fills up is you haven't decided if you'll lose the ten pounds or play tennis again... Take it to the digital world and people wake up, open and close their emails, and forty minutes go by with no decisions.” — Barbara HemphillTimestamps: [00:00:05] Barbara’s welcome and introduction[00:01:42] Why listening on the playground sparked her organizing business[00:02:48] Barbara’s unconventional path from Nebraska to India to NYC[00:07:19] Family background and the entrepreneurial spirit of farming[00:15:39] How farm life systems became the seeds of her business[00:17:08] Reading Stephanie Winston and launching her first ad[00:20:42] Lessons learned from early clients and media pitches[00:27:08] Facing skepticism and gender bias in business environments[00:29:00] The organizing business boom and the birth of national associations[00:33:38] Organization myths and managing realistic clutter[00:35:43] What’s changed (and what hasn’t) in the organizing industry[00:39:11] Building a legacy business and the impact of emotional clutter[00:43:24] Barbara’s favorite reads and her go-to potluck dishSpecial Offer from the Guest:Access the Productive Environment Institute’s “Success Scorecard: The Art of Managing Information” and the Less Clutter More Life 12-minute training video at www.LessClutterMoreLife.comNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Amy Bartko about the hidden challenges of entrepreneurship, finding community as an adult, and how seeking the right support network can change everything. Amy Bartko opens up about balancing single motherhood, burnout, and her journey from isolation to connection after joining an online mastermind of like-minded women. Together, the Amys break down the myths of community in adulthood and explore what happens when you intentionally build the network you actually need.About the Guest:Amy Bartko is the founder of Chatterbox PR & Marketing, a boutique agency known for helping lifestyle, baby, and wellness brands gain visibility through media, TV, and celebrity product placement. With over 20 years of experience, Amy has landed clients in top outlets like Forbes, Good Morning America, and blockbuster films. She's also a 2x best-selling author and speaker, passionate about teaching entrepreneurs how to build credibility and profit through visibility. When she's not helping brands shine, she's raising two amazing boys and soaking up sunshine in Phoenix, Arizona.Main Topics Covered:The loneliness of solopreneurship and single parentingHow Amy’s experience at the Mom 2.0 conference was a game changerWhy support from fellow entrepreneurs can be different from (and just as vital as) family or mom friendsThe changing landscape of community: from in-person clubs to online mastermindsThe value of stepping out of your comfort zone and becoming visibleNavigating shifting relationships when you become more authentic and open about your businessAdvice for adults who feel isolated and need help finding their communityQuote from the Episode: “There are other people that are in the exact same space that you are … There are groups out there that can help you. You don’t have to do it alone.”—Amy BartkoTimestamps: [00:00:05] Amy Bartko’s intro & “toasty” life in Phoenix, AZ[00:01:43] Transitioning from busy to downtime: meditation and sound healing[00:03:09] Realizing the need for community as a solopreneur[00:05:10] Amy’s PR journey, family changes, and single motherhood[00:10:02] Childhood, being an only child, and support in groups[00:13:43] How Mom 2.0 conference and an unexpected podcast panel changed everything[00:15:35] The power of joining an entrepreneurial mastermind[00:20:10] Gaining confidence and allowing yourself visibility[00:23:40] Navigating changing friend groups and self-presentation[00:27:20] Building lasting adult friendships, Enneagram personalities, and showing up authentically[00:28:26] Finding communities at different life stages—from mom clubs to entrepreneur masterminds[00:32:41] Advice to younger self and to adults seeking community now[00:33:47] Why you have to “get out there” to find your people[00:34:52] Trial and error: not every group will be the right fit[00:35:25] The power and challenge of searching for community as an adult[00:36:25] Amy’s PR business, tagline, and special offerConnect with the Guest:Website: https://chatterboxprandmarketing.comInstagram: @chatterboxprandmarketingSpecial Offer from the Guest: The PR Formula Academy (Self-Paced Course)This self-paced course teaches you the exact system we use to get clients featured in Forbes, GMA, Scary Mommy, and more. Inside, you'll get pitch templates, media strategies, and insider guidance to help you confidently land powerful media placements—without hiring a publicist.Value of the product offered:$397Special offer for the listeners of the show:Get the full PR Formula Academy for just $197—save $200!Visit https://chatterbox.mykajabi.com/offers/5ekNF5HJ and use coupon code IMPERFECT at checkout.Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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.im

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Emry Kettle about the wild, winding journey from evangelical upbringing to a major adult awakening in Austria. Emry shares their experience of growing up in a turbulent, religious household in the Pacific Northwest, finding safety in church while missing out on some pretty big scientific facts (dinosaurs!), and how moving overseas led to questioning, self-discovery, and a total shift in identity and beliefs.About the Guest:Emry Kettle is a Child Behavior & Family Support Specialist helping overwhelmed parents break harmful cycles and build relationships rooted in connection, boundaries, and self-trust. Based in Austria, they bring humor, warmth, and lived experience to the messy, meaningful work of raising kids and healing ourselves.Main Topics Covered:How unstable family life and the search for connection can draw kids (and adults) into religious communitiesWhat it’s like to discover—as an adult—that dinosaurs are, in fact, realThe process of unraveling childhood indoctrination, questioning faith, and redefining personal valuesNavigating family systems, belonging, and the grief/joy of losing and building communityEmry’s radical self-discovery around sexuality, gender, and the importance of values-based parentingThe practical work of helping parents shift away from inherited dogma and write their own family storiesQuote from the Episode:“It was like the Truman Show. Like, you guys are all freaking lying to me this entire time. Are you kidding me? And now I have to figure it out in my 30s. How dare you.” — Emry KettleTimestamps: [00:00:05] Emry calls in from Vienna, Austria & self-care confessions[00:04:23] Discovering the “truth” about dinosaurs—and biblical alternatives[00:09:23] Turbulent family life, church as a safe haven, and Sunday school[00:18:26] Science vs. faith at public school in Washington State[00:20:36] Moving to Austria and the start of deconstruction[00:29:53] Sex, values, and how research and relationships changed everything[00:35:21] “Plinko” moment: connecting the dots and a trip to the Natural History Museum[00:40:52] The freedom of letting go, the betrayal of indoctrination, and processing anger[00:48:12] Emry’s work helping parents define values after leaving religion[00:54:10] Rapid-fire questions: the Sound of Music, dogs, and outer spaceSpecial Offer from the Guest:Defining Your Parenting Values Guide. A self-paced guide that can help you uncover the values that actually matter to you—so you can parent with more confidence, clarity, and connection. Normally €19 50% off for the audience of Imperfect Adulting.Use code IMPERFECT at checkout: https://payhip.com/b/pUubj Note from the show: guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming this offer please reach out directly to the guest.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Lisa Smith about her experience as a parent loving and supporting a son navigating substance use disorder and mental health challenges. Lisa opens up about the heartache, resilience, and hard-earned wisdom that comes from shifting from “fixing” to genuinely “loving” someone in active addiction. Together, Amy and Lisa dive into the realities of family stress, the limits of traditional support systems, and the power of radical acceptance and connection.About the Guest:Lisa Smith is the founder and CEO of Parallel Recovery, an organization providing comprehensive family recovery support for those impacted by substance use and mental health disorders. As a certified Peer Recovery Specialist with over 20 years of experience in education and family systems, Lisa brings deep expertise to her work empowering families on the parallel healing journey alongside loved ones.Main Topics Covered:Parenting a young adult in active addiction: shifting roles, boundaries, and hopesThe difference between “fixing” versus “loving” a child in crisisThe shortcomings of traditional support resources and the concept of “detaching with love”Family systems, shame, and societal stigma when a loved one struggles with substance useBuilding sustainability, resilience, and connection through radical acceptance and self-reflectionPractical communication strategies and the limits of advice versus lived experienceLisa’s creation of Parallel Recovery and the release of her new bookTimestamps: [00:00:04] Welcome & Lisa’s life in Colorado[00:00:51] Transitioning from busy to downtime: walking dogs (without the phone!)[00:01:47] Lisa’s relationship with her son and the realities of substance use[00:06:27] Diagnosis, home dynamics, and early treatment attempts[00:08:10] Family stress and the myth of “lowering the temperature”[00:09:35] The “gut check” moment and finding clarity as a parent[00:12:52] Radical acceptance and learning to step back[00:14:37] The difference between “fixing” and “loving” in family conversations[00:18:19] Searching for resources and the problems with “detachment with love”[00:25:10] Internal work, research, and shifting the family system[00:31:27] The lack of support for families in the crisis cycle[00:35:06] Shame, societal judgment, and learning to separate behavior from identity[00:43:52] Lisa’s support philosophy, Parallel Recovery, and her new book[00:47:10] Knitting, cheese platters, and fun wrap-up questionsConnect with the Guest:Website: https://parallelrecovery.comInstagram: @parallelrecoveryFind Lisa’s Book, Parallel Recovery: A Guide for Those Who Love Someone with Substance Use Disorder, is now available on Amazon. https://a.co/d/fgmD9Vn 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Sheryl Ramstad about resilience, life-changing trauma, and finding meaning through unexpected adversity. Sheryl shares the riveting story of surviving a solo plane crash at age 29, her arduous physical and emotional recovery in a burn unit, and the surprising turn her career and personal life took as a result.About the Guest:Sheryl Ramstad is a survivor, trailblazer, and lifelong advocate for service. She has had successful careers in law, healthcare, and teaching. Above all, she treasures her role as a mother to three adult children and grandmother to six. Sheryl resides in Minneapolis with her husband, Lee."I would say that the prevalent thought I kept having was to not ask, why me? But what next? And that's what guided me throughout the rest of my decisions." — Sheryl RamstadMain Topics Covered:Sheryl’s path from aspiring lawyer and pilot to surviving a fiery plane crash on her first solo flightThe intersection of elective change (choices) and changes thrust upon us by fateDetails of her crash, the critical actions that saved her life, and the realities of acute traumaThe long and disempowering recovery from burn injuries, and the power of friends, family, and faithHow the accident reshaped her identity, career, and drive—and inspired her late-in-life nursing careerThe importance of patient voices in medical care, and giving back as a way to healWriting her memoir and the role of honesty about faith in her storytellingEndurance running after burns, facing public curiosity, and building a full life beyond traumaQuote from the Episode:"I would say that the prevalent thought I kept having was to not ask, why me? But what next? And that's what guided me throughout the rest of my decisions." — Sheryl RamstadTimestamps: [00:00:05] Welcome & intros; where Sheryl calls home[00:02:17] Surviving a plane crash at 29—Sheryl’s life before and after[00:05:02] Being a female pilot in 1979 and solo flight details[00:08:18] The crash, emergency decision-making, and escaping the wreckage[00:13:33] Trauma memory, hospitalization, and the emotional toll[00:17:24] Type A recovery struggles and loss of independence[00:24:20] Channeling adversity into a career in nursing and supporting burn survivors[00:28:40] Perseverance, faith, and support systems in healing[00:43:15] Could her growth have happened without the accident?[00:44:19] Writing Living Life Full Throttle—why and how[00:49:39] Integrating faith into her story[00:50:18] Book availability and final questionsFind Sheryl’s Book on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/a/87491/9781960876805 Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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.com 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Kathy Barron about launching a niche digital magazine for women podcasters, building creative community, and the realities of independent media. Kathy shares her unconventional journey into publishing, her motivations for centering and promoting women in the podcasting sphere, and her new initiatives to support indie creators at every stage.About the Guest:Kathy Barron is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Women Who Podcast magazine, author of fiction and children’s books, and videographer. With a passion for supporting women podcasters  be successful in their craft, Kathy has become a trusted resource for women in podcasting. Women Who Podcast magazine celebrates women podcasters all over the world by giving them the accolades they deserve. Kathy is creating a safe space where women’s voices and stories matter. She strives to be a forum for fans and podcasters to reach out to one another for support, collaboration, and inspiration. Her vision is to create scholarships and mentorships to future podcasters, organize symposiums, and build a learning community. Main Topics Covered:The inspiration behind Women Who Podcast Magazine and its unique focus on women in audio media.Kathy's creative background and unconventional entry into digital publishing.The challenges and rewards of sustaining both a magazine and a podcast as an indie creator.Why community-building and mentorship matter for women podcasters.The launch and goals of the Women Who Podcast Awards.Addressing representation, burnout, and the need for supportive spaces for indie women in podcasting.Exploring growth, collaboration, and how listeners can get involved.Quote from the Episode:"I want it to be personable. I want to talk to the podcasters. I want to hear their story... everyone has their own unique background, why they started their podcast, what their story is, and some of them are just hilarious. So I enjoy that part—to get to know the podcasters." — Kathy BarronTimestamps: [00:00:00] Meet Kathy Barron & her Bay Area roots[00:00:43] A recent compliment: the Women Who Podcast Awards[00:02:15] What is Women Who Podcast Magazine?[00:03:12] Starting the magazine: pandemic inspiration & building from scratch[00:05:15] Kathy’s creative background and confession: “I don't listen to podcasts!”[00:07:22] Podcast origins with Women Who Sarcast[00:10:44] Why a magazine versus other formats?[00:12:54] The power of personal interviews & tackling meaningful topics[00:14:33] Representation stats and the importance of women’s spaces[00:18:09] Startup story & early issues[00:20:52] Community, service, and supporting others through media[00:23:04] Why a scholarship/mentorship program matters[00:26:12] What keeps Kathy going as an indie creator[00:28:32] Hopes for magazine growth and mentoring new writers[00:30:19] How podcasters can get involved[00:32:03] The very first issue & honoring a lost friend[00:33:02] Growth, momentum, and the role of awards[00:33:50] Ways to support and engage with Women Who Podcast Magazine[00:34:52] Get to know Kathy: Fun questions and more!Connect with the Guest:Website: womenwhopodcastmag.comInstagram: @womenwhopodcastmagazineNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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.com 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Nicole Havelka—burnout recovery coach, ordained pastor, and founder of Defy the Trend—about the journey from institutional frustration in religious administration to finding wholeness at the intersection of spiritual practice and organizational change. Nicole opens up about the realities of working in faith-based organizations, facing resistance as an innovator, navigating personal burnout, and how yoga, meditation, and a spirit of “both/and” led to her latest chapter as a coach and podcaster.About the Guest:Nicole Havelka believes you are inherently worthy of rest — no productivity required. She’s a burnout coach, mindfulness teacher and founder of the Defy the Trend coaching community, which supports helpers, healers, activists and artists in reclaiming rest as a radical act. With more than 20 years of experience in spiritual leadership and wellness, Nicole will soon launch Burnout Tips for Everyday Radicals: Just Rest for world changers who are tired but not giving up, a podcast for those resisting grind culture one deep breath at a time. Main Topics Covered:Nicole’s career journey: from journalist to minister, then to burnout recovery coachThe inside story of church administration, institutional resistance, and advocating for organizational changeHow burnout showed up—and why yoga became a lifeline and “both/and” practiceThe importance of spiritual practice for navigating tough decisions and personal pivotsReclaiming faith and belonging: Nicole’s journey through disillusionment, leaving and returning to faith, and finding community againPractical discussions on salaries, money, and sustainability in religious workHow integrating yoga, meditation, and rest into leadership can support more humane organizationsThe launch of Nicole’s new podcast: Just Rest—Burnout Tips for Everyday RadicalsQuote from the Episode: "What if it’s not either/or, but both/and?" — Nicole HavelkaTimestamps: [00:00:05] Introductions and where Nicole calls home[00:01:22] Recent acts of kindness and everyday grace[00:03:11] Frustrations and burnout in faith-based administrative work[00:09:50] How Nicole became a denominational leader and the reality of church job searches[00:15:06] Evolving passions: from youth work to organizational change[00:20:07] Faith, the church, and leaving/returning to community[00:29:13] When journalism isn’t enough: becoming a participant, not just an observer[00:33:09] Returning to church and finding a new kind of home[00:34:43] Money talk: salaries and living as a faith worker[00:37:34] The parallel path of yoga: teacher training and integration with ministry[00:44:54] The both/and moment: when leaving doesn’t have to mean abandoning[00:47:26] Advice for those facing black-and-white decisions[00:49:54] Nicole’s current work, podcast, and where to connect[00:53:41] Fun wrap-up questions: coffee cake vs donut, favorite summer drink, friendship & supportSpecial Offer from the Guest:Read more about her radical rest quest on her Substack newsletter, Just Rest, where you'll be the first to hear about the podcast launch and how to support it. www.defythetrend.substack.com.Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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.o

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Kellie Grutko about the winding roads of creative ambition, career pivots, and rediscovering purpose after corporate life. Kellie candidly shares the story of following her dream to pitch a TV travel show pilot, why it never made it to air, and how the lessons from that risk-taking adventure eventually led her to coaching women through major life and career changes.About the Guest:Kellie Grutko is a women’s transition coach and founder of Purposeful Pivot. With a professional background in marketing and media, Kellie now helps women translate decades of corporate experience into fulfilling new phases of work and life. Her journey from high-powered executive, to travel show dreamer, to empowerment coach inspires her mission to support others navigating big changes.Main Topics Covered:Kellie’s leap from corporate marketing to pitching a travel TV show pilot.The realities of navigating creative dreams outside one’s comfort zone and network.Lessons learned from “failure” and the value of trying, even if the project doesn’t take off.Identity, reinvention, and finding your next chapter after leaving a traditional corporate role.The importance of support systems, introspection, and celebrating small wins during transitions.How Kellie now guides women through similar transitions as a certified coach.Quote from the Episode: “A lot of people would have the idea and never even give it a shot. I looked at it as, you know, I had an idea, I followed through. It didn’t work, but I learned from it. I had fun doing it. And eventually, in a weird, like you said, thread kind of way, it led me to where I am.” — Kellie GrutkoTimestamps: [00:00:04] Kellie’s background and move from Pennsylvania to Charlotte[00:01:34] Life and career at a Fortune 50 company; the origins of her TV show idea[00:08:59] Turning a dream into action: how Kellie developed, shot, and pitched her pilot[00:14:03] Financial realities, support from her husband, and staying motivated[00:21:03] The afterlife of a shelved project—accepting change and evolving goals[00:23:10] Transition coaching: redefining career and identity for women[00:28:22] Connecting the threads from past dreams to new purpose[00:32:59] Being brave, introverted, and going after what you want[00:33:39] Kellie’s business, Purposeful Pivot, and her “Celebrating Small Wins” offer[00:35:17] Fun closing questions: monkeys, turn signals, and thermostat negotiationsSpecial Offer from the Guest:Creating Small WIns Worksheet  https://www.purposefulpivot.net/small-winsNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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.com 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Katrina Sawa—Northern California-based business coach, author, and publisher—about the pivotal moments that led her to leave situations that no longer served her, from quitting a draining corporate job to making bold moves in her personal and professional life. Katrina shares how her clarity around self-worth and refusal to settle shaped her journey into entrepreneurship, and offers insights for anyone feeling “stuck” or undervalued in their work or relationships.About the Guest:Business Coach & Book Publisher, Katrina Sawa, is CEO of JumpstartYourBizNow.com and JumpstartPublishing.net. For over two decades, Katrina has been helping entrepreneurs of all kinds get more comfortable and clarity around marketing, pricing to their worth, packaging and selling themselves. As the creator of the Jumpstart Your Sales & Systems Bootcamp, International Speaker and International Best-Selling author with 22 books, she hosts and speaks at events, workshops and webinars online and in person all year long and she’s been doing it since 2002. Katrina lives in Northern California with her husband Jason, stepdaughter Riley and their loving dog Luna. She loves entertaining, cooking, wine tasting and speaking to groups of all sizes.Main Topics Covered:What it feels like to be in a job (or relationship) that’s no longer serving youHow workplace burnout and a lack of support catalyzed Katrina’s leap into entrepreneurshipThe role of intuition, self-worth, and risk-taking in moving forwardPractical support systems—from family help to lines of credit—that make transitions possibleIdentifying when you’re “settling” and why it’s okay (and necessary) to say noParallels between quitting a job, leaving a relationship, and ending a business offerNavigating unsupportive relationships and finding people who lift you upAdvice for anyone feeling stuck or undervalued in any area of lifeQuote from the Episode:“I want to empower people just to stop settling for not being totally happy. We deserve this. Life could be short. ... Let’s make it our happiest, most amazing life ever, with the right people around us, doing the things that we love and just embracing it all.” — Katrina SawaTimestamps: [00:00:04] Warm welcome & where Katrina calls home[00:00:49] Katrina’s philosophy on kindness and real-life support[00:02:36] The experience that led to leaving her last job[00:07:03] Self-worth, intuition, and walking away from “bad bosses”[00:10:32] Laying groundwork for entrepreneurship: networking & coaching[00:12:11] The leap into business ownership: excitement, nerves, and risk[00:15:26] What settling feels like—patterns in work and relationships[00:17:39] The crucial role of family support and financial planning[00:19:48] Are you a risk-taker? Katrina’s perspective[00:22:23] Recognizing settling and trusting your gut[00:26:34] The gentle process of deciding it’s time to move on[00:28:31] Parallels in quitting jobs, relationships, and business offers[00:29:19] Money, letting go, and making room for better opportunities[00:30:10] Katrina’s work today—business coaching and book publishing[00:31:32] Fun questions: favorite TV, networking, and desert island mealsSpecial Offer from the Guest:Get a free audio version of Katrina’s book Love Yourself Successful and explore resources for launching your own story via collaboration or solo publishing. Visit LoveYourselfSuccessful.com for more details.Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 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.com If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportHere 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Julia Chien—Vancouver-based registered dietitian and passionate world traveler—about the life-changing impact of booking a one-way ticket and embracing adventure after heartbreak. Julia shares her story of leaving behind a comfortable routine, overcoming the limitations of chronic eczema, and discovering both freedom and loneliness during her years of solo travel across Central and South America, Europe, and Asia.About the Guest:Julia Chien is a registered dietitian based in Vancouver, BC, specializing in holistic nutrition and the root causes of chronic inflammation. Through her own journey healing from eczema and building a location-independent business, Julia helps others find balance and empowerment in their health and careers. She is also an avid solo traveler, digital nomad, and advocate for growth through risk-taking and self-discovery.Main Topics Covered:What inspired Julia's decision to buy a one-way plane ticket to Costa Rica at the end of a long-term relationship.Navigating the healing journey from chronic eczema and what newfound health enabled Julia to do.The logistics, emotional experience, and practical strategies of working remotely while traveling solo through multiple countries.How spontaneous decision-making, risk-taking, and meeting new people shaped Julia’s self-discovery and spiritual healing.The challenges of being a digital nomad—including loneliness, burnout, finances, and adapting to different cultures.Insights into Julia’s work as a holistic dietitian and the unique pressures of entrepreneurship.Learning to nurture one’s own wellbeing and redefine what “home” and “success” mean.Quote from the Episode:“Traveling really showed me how much out there there is that we haven’t really seen as people... it was healing in the sense where I kind of finally was able to do things for myself, because I realized that I poured so much into my business... I started to not really do things for myself.”—Julia ChienTimestamps: [00:00:06] Welcome & intros; where Julia calls home[00:01:39] A one-way ticket to Costa Rica: the catalyst moment[00:02:20] Healing, heartbreak, and remote work: what led to travel[00:04:56] Leaving a healthy long-term relationship and mindset shifts[00:06:46] Booking the ticket: doubts, freedom, and practicalities[00:09:00] Choosing Costa Rica and first days as a solo traveler[00:12:02] Combining work and adventure as a digital nomad[00:14:25] From Costa Rica to Colombia: the spark for indefinite travel[00:16:47] How Julia chose her next destinations and the power of nature[00:18:25] Deciding how long to stay and returning home for milestones[00:19:57] Letting go of “home” and going all in as a digital nomad[00:21:48] Navigating logistics: connectivity, finances, and minimalism[00:25:43] Solo travel: from loneliness to community[00:27:11] Expanding to Europe and Asia: the full world tour[00:29:38] Living from a suitcase; how her travel rhythm evolved[00:31:13] Spiritual lessons, self-discovery, and redefining success[00:34:56] Adventures, risk-taking, and pushing boundaries[00:39:44] Could this transformation happen without travel?[00:41:57] Julia’s business, nutrition practice, and special offer[00:43:23] Fun questions & rapid-fire favoritesSpecial Offer from the Guest:Journalling Guide for Busy Entrepreneurs Value: $29 USD Special offer: FREE - https://julia-chien.mykajabi.com/journalling-guideNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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 Tr

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with JoNeil Conley—Michigan-based nurse, organizational leadership expert, and self-described “bullyologist”—about the reality of workplace bullying in healthcare and beyond. JoNeil shares her personal story of facing intimidation, sabotage, and toxic leadership in the operating room, how she turned that experience into a research-backed crusade against bullying, and why “miracles can be found in the messes” of adult life. Together, Amy and JoNeil explore how individuals can recognize, document, and respond to bullying, and why no one is truly a “hot mess”—just someone moving through life’s most challenging chapters.About the Guest:JoNeil Conley is a nurse, coach, speaker, and organizational leadership expert from Alma, Michigan. After decades in healthcare—including ER and OR nursing, leadership roles, and earning her doctorate—she specializes in coaching women through life’s “hot mess” moments and is dedicated to helping individuals and teams navigate bullying and toxic environments with courage and clarity.Main Topics Covered:Navigating the geography, culture, and quirks of Michigan (and why it matters!)JoNeil’s journey from hands-on nursing to academic research on bullying in the operating roomThe anatomy of workplace bullying: sabotage, power dynamics, and the “executive bully”Why documenting facts (not just feelings) is critical for real change at workTurning a personal ordeal into a movement: JoNeil’s meanness matrix tool and doctoral research resultsThe enduring myth of “nurses eat their young”—how toxicity takes root in organizationsStrategies for protecting yourself from bullies, rude people, and narcissists (at work, at home, and beyond)The power of speaking up, building alliances, and surviving the “hot mess” seasons of adultingQuote from the Episode:“We have a tendency to call everything bullying…and that’s not true. Some people are just rude. The differentiation between a rude person and a bully is the bully is intentional—it’s about you.” — JoNeil ConleyTimestamps:[00:00:05] Where JoNeil calls home: Michigan “the Mitten” and the UP[00:02:37] What brings JoNeil laughter—her grandbaby[00:03:18] Childhood, nursing origins, “joiner” tendencies, and leadership[00:08:35] On entering nursing, ER burnout, and the road to the operating room[00:10:57] Team dynamics, hierarchy, and the anatomy of a sabotaging bully[00:12:49] The incident that triggered JoNeil’s anti-bullying journey[00:18:21] Recognizing bullying patterns, toxic cultures, and why people stay[00:21:23] Turning experience into expertise: JoNeil’s dissertation and OR research[00:27:27] The meanness matrix—you can’t stop all bullying, but you can protect yourself[00:29:08] Power, influence, and the importance of documenting facts[00:31:13] The confrontation: documenting, courage, and turning the tables on a toxic CEO[00:39:16] How to document incidents (and why it matters in any environment)[00:41:43] JoNeil’s work today—coaching women through “hot mess” seasons[00:46:01] Rapid-fire: water preferences, books, Michigan travel, and haunted lighthousesSpecial Offer from the Guest:Hot Mess HotlineThe Hot Mess Hotline is a one-hour, one-topic laser coaching session for women who are overwhelmed, stuck, or facing one of life’s “what now?” moments. Whether it’s burnout, a tough relationship, workplace chaos, or an identity shift, this session is your space to breathe, unpack what’s really going on, and leave with clear, doable next steps—and a whole lot more peace of mind. Value of the product offered: $97Special offer for the listeners of the show:Audience of The Art of Imperfect Adulting can book their Hot Mess Hotline session for just $77.Go to www.DrJoNeil.com/hotmess and enter the code IMPERFECT77 at checkout to unlock the special rate.Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com If you have a story to share and

In this milestone episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, the tables turn as career strategist Raquel Sands takes the interviewer's seat to explore the origin story, philosophy, and evolution behind Amy's podcast journey. Originally planned as the 100th episode celebration (better late than never!), this candid conversation reveals the "why" behind the show's inclusive approach to storytelling and the messy, non-linear nature of adult life.From unexpected sources of wisdom (like exterminators offering grief advice) to navigating differing viewpoints on air, Amy opens up about creating space for authentic human stories while maintaining boundaries and building community. Raquel's spontaneous interviewing style draws out insights about the challenges of visibility, the power of lived experience, and why "imperfect adulting" resonates across generations.About the Guest HostMiriam Raquel Sands is a career strategist turned self-trust coach, podcast host, and creator behind A Work of One's Own and A Day in the Life. She helps purpose-driven, emotionally-aware Millennials and Gen Z professionals redefine success without toxic hustle or spiritual bypassing. Her work blends trauma-aware coaching, nervous system literacy, communications strategy, and storytelling to help clients reclaim self-trust, alignment, and capacity.Topics CoveredThe Origin Story Behind the ShowThe Art of PodcastingHolding Space for Different PerspectivesCommon Themes and Surprising StoriesThe Business of StorytellingVisibility and BoundariesMemorable Quotes"Very strangely, being a child doesn't prepare you to parent children." - Amy Stone on the myth that life experience automatically creates expertise"I find it very helpful to hear stories from people who have done the thing that I think I want to do, and they did it." - Amy on the power of practical inspirationConnect with Raquel linkedin.com/in/mraquelsandsTimestamps[00:00:04] Role reversal introduction and spontaneous energy [00:01:26] The origin story: from step-parenting focus to inclusive adulting [00:04:59] Unpacking the show title and the "art" of imperfection [00:05:37] Why podcasting as the chosen medium [00:09:14] Life moments that sparked introspection and the show's creation [00:14:28] The exterminator story: wisdom from unexpected sources [00:17:47] Navigating different viewpoints and guest perspectives [00:21:30] Visibility, boundaries, and the public-private balance [00:24:36] Behind the scenes: guest vetting and emotional readiness [00:27:13] Practical advice for pitching to the show [00:29:18] Surprising guest stories and common themes [00:34:43] Career and relationship changes as universal experiences [00:38:02] What Amy hopes listeners take away [00:41:35] Maintaining momentum and future vision [00:48:51] Dreams of expansion and the changing media landscape [00:54:53] Fun facts and closing reflectionsJoin the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Moira Mills about making unconventional choices around education, career, and family. Moira shares her upbringing as an unschooled Alaskan, her journey to becoming a solo parent by choice, and how she and her son have embraced a nomadic lifestyle, learning along the way. Together, they delve into unschooling, navigating the “shoulds” of adulthood, and finding growth and community off the beaten path.About the Guest:Moira Mills is a lifelong unschooler, entrepreneur, and former Rolfing practitioner who now helps entrepreneurs and families lean into their unique energy through human design. After raising her son on the road and embracing “road schooling” post-pandemic, Moira works with families making the shift to alternative education and supports business owners in authentic branding. She currently roams the eastern half of the U.S. with her son, London.Quote from the Episode:"I think that the way we're thinking about education is kind of inherently kind of backwards, because I think that we're really designed at a very core level [to learn]." — Moira MillsMain Topics Covered:What “road schooling” and “unschooling” look like in real lifeMoira’s own education outside of traditional classrooms in AlaskaThe nuances behind school choice, including faith and family valuesEmbracing flexibility, change, and a non-traditional path in career and familyHow milestones and benchmarks (in school and development) can be unhelpful or freeingCommunity, friendship, and socialization for families on the moveParenting as a single mom by choice and focusing on authentic livingTimestamps: [00:00:05] Moira’s background & current home on the road[00:01:05] Warm weather memories and living locations[00:02:10] Defining “road schooling” & “world schooling”[00:02:45] Moira’s unschooled upbringing on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula[00:04:33] Diplomas, transcripts, and life after unschooling[00:05:32] Family choices and motivations behind homeschooling[00:07:16] Faith, stereotypes, and educational values[00:09:09] Shifting to unschooling for her son during the pandemic[00:10:03] What self-directed “unschooling” means[00:12:57] Career shifts, Rolfing, and systems thinking[00:16:02] The basics of Rolfing and fascia explained[00:20:15] Single motherhood by choice and making decisions solo[00:21:30] The leap to road schooling and embracing nomadic life[00:24:46] Curriculum, benchmarks, and letting interests lead[00:28:17] Socializing and building community as a roaming family[00:32:57] Looking ahead: how long will they stay on the road?[00:35:26] Moira’s business: human design for entrepreneurs and families[00:38:59] Final fun questions: overstimulation & sources for answers in 2025Guest Contact Information: Website: moiramills.comInstagram: @moiramills.meSpecial Offer from the Guest:Name of the product offered:Full Human Design Reading A 60–75 minute session where we dive deep into your unique Human Design chart. You’ll walk away with clarity about your energy type, decision-making strategy, and core life themes—plus insight into how to align your relationships, work, and parenting with who you truly are.Value of the product offered: $200Special offer for the listeners of the show:$50 off your Full Human Design ReadingVisit MoiraMills.com and mention the code IMPERFECT50 in your message. I’ll follow up personally to schedule your session.Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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: Castma

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Victoria Carrington Chavez—digital nomad, storyteller, and founder of The Story Saloon—about her journey from “main character” to “author” of her own life. Victoria shares her transformative experience navigating a major breakup, detaching from societal checklists, and embracing her childhood dreams through intentional storytelling, entrepreneurship, and travel.About the Guest:Victoria Carrington Chávez is a storytelling powerhouse, award-winning entrepreneur, and TEDx speaker. Her talk has been praised as "a masterclass in storytelling." Featured on Telemundo, FIERCE by mitú, and over a dozen podcasts, she brings bold, honest energy to every stage she steps on, from college campuses to global conferences. Victoria doesn’t just speak. She sparks transformation.Through her platform, The Story Saloon™, she helps creative entrepreneurs and thought leaders distill and share their stories authentically and unapologetically, so they can build the community they crave and become unforgettable.Her message is simple. It’s not too late to live the life you want. The best chapters are still being written, so make them legendary. Your story is too important to go untold.Main Topics Covered:The difference between being the “main character” and the “author” of your storyNavigating a late-30s/early-40s life shift and healing from heartbreakLearning to recognize societal pressures and rewrite your own personal “checklist”The role of storytelling and content creation in healing and belongingBuilding intentional community and support systems onlineTaking bold steps: from post-breakup blues to solo cross-country road trips and TEDx talksThe process of distilling your story and using it to fuel your personal or business brandQuote from the Episode:“It’s not like, let me come and take center stage. It’s about taking my story, my values, and putting those things center stage in my life.” – Victoria Carrington ChavezTimestamps: [00:00:05] Victoria’s digital nomad lifestyle & Carmen San Diego reference[00:01:46] Giving kindness and compliments on LinkedIn[00:03:23] Main character vs. author of your story—what it means[00:05:51] Victoria at 35: teaching, engagement, outward perfection vs. inward emptiness[00:08:50] Recognizing discontent, ignoring hobbies, and doubting self[00:13:14] A telenovela-worthy breakup as plot twist and catalyst[00:15:52] Choosing authorship at 40: launching a business, traveling solo[00:19:47] Finding support and connection via TikTok, content creation[00:22:25] Mentorship, entrepreneurship, and joining the HEFA in Training community[00:24:07] Doing bold things—getting a passport, booking retreats[00:27:50] Seven-month solo road trip & embracing other people’s opinions[00:31:03] Claiming “storyteller” as a profession[00:34:13] About The Story Saloon and Victoria’s current work[00:36:54] Favorite activities, book recommendations, daily gadgetsSpecial Offer from the Guest:The Story Spark: A 60-minute 1:1 deep dive to help you uncover your signature story and shape it into content that connects. Perfect for: creatives, coaches, speakers, and founders who are sitting on a powerful story but don’t know where to start in sharing it with clarity and authenticity.Value:$297 Special offer for the show: As a thank you for tuning in, I’m offering your first Story Spark Session for FREE!How to collect: https://tidycal.com/victoriacchavez/the-story-spark Note from the host: All the offers from guests should be considered limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest. 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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 a

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Caterina Rando about the realities of becoming financially savvy after divorce, the power of entrepreneurial confidence, and the personal journey of recovery from financial betrayal. Caterina candidly shares her story of rebuilding after her marriage ended in unexpected financial upheaval, and the lessons she’s learned about financial empowerment, self-advocacy, and supporting other women to thrive through entrepreneurship.About the Guest: Caterina Rando is a woman on a mission to uplift the lives of women everywhere through thrive entrepreneurship. She is an author, sought-after speaker, podcaster, and business transformation coach who, for thirty years, passionately serves women leaders and entrepreneurs to massively monetize their mastery.Main Topics Covered:Navigating marriage, divorce, and discovering financial betrayalHow family history and cultural expectations shape money confidenceRecovering from debt and building back savings and investmentsWhy entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for women’s financial empowermentThe importance of asking “beginner questions” and learning financial vocabularyCreating boundaries and autonomy with money, even within marriage or partnershipDaily financial habits and the impact of financial trauma on future decision-makingQuote from the Episode: “Money gives you choices, and it can give you a feeling of freedom... If you don’t have the resources, you don’t have the choice.”—Caterina RandoTimestamps: [00:00:06] Caterina shares her background and love for San Francisco[00:02:06] Marriage, divorce, and family values around money[00:06:09] Financial roles in marriage & discovering financial infidelity[00:14:49] Recovering from debt after divorce and redefining financial savvy[00:19:30] What it means to be financially savvy—in savings, investing, and entrepreneurship[00:26:29] Why women should feel empowered to make financial decisions[00:33:39] Caterina’s journey from cafe owner to business coach[00:36:33] Caterina’s ongoing mission: empowering women through entrepreneurship[00:38:35] Caterina’s favorite travel story & advice from her mom[00:41:16] How Caterina uses tech and AI for learning and businessSpecial Offer from the Guest: Caterina invites listeners to attend her free monthly workshops on topics such as authentic selling, speaking to grow your business, business retreats, and more. Details and sign-up information are available at https://caterinarando.com/linksNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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/support

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Tina Palmgren, business owner and Excel specialist, about navigating one of the darkest chapters of her life—a sudden and tragic loss that forever changed her relationship with family, grief, and herself. Tina opens up about becoming a young widow, losing the stepchildren she loved, and the unique ways she rebuilt her life, moving from "just being alive" to truly thriving.About the Guest: Tina Palmgren survived open heart surgery at the tender age of 15 months. Her passion is to strengthen the heartbeat of your business – the back-office processes needed to run your business.With a BA in Accounting, a master’s in technology management, 25 years in accounting and finance, and 12 years as an entrepreneur creating customized systems to your business’s needs and teaching Excel, Tina’s well-positioned to help you strengthen your business’s heartbeat by finding efficiencies and errors most others overlook. Main Topics Covered:The sudden and traumatic loss of Tina’s husband in her early thirties and the immediate aftermath.Navigating grief, loneliness, and the loss of her stepchildren due to a high-conflict stepfamily dynamic.The challenges of social support, workplace misunderstandings, and rebuilding a sense of community.How Tina redefined her self-worth, learned to accept joy, and embraced the courage to thrive—not just survive.Practical tools Tina used to process grief: gratitude journaling, reading, and gradually re-engaging with joy through everyday moments and new adventures.Tina’s journey to entrepreneurship and her philosophy of having fun with both life and work.Quote from the Episode: "I always heard 'you’re lucky to be alive' growing up... So you don’t deserve happiness, to thrive, to be abundant, to whatever. And didn’t know that. I incorporated that into my whole life. You’re alive, what more should you want? But it took me decades to realize: I deserve more than just breathing." — Tina PalmgrenTimestamps: [00:00:05] Welcome & intros; where Tina calls home[00:01:34] Tina’s marriage, stepchildren, and blended family background[00:04:41] Sudden loss: Tina’s husband’s heart attack and hospital days[00:07:05] The experience and aftermath of being widowed young[00:10:00] Losing connection with stepchildren and facing isolation[00:13:59] Family support, changes in communication, and small moments of laughter[00:14:50] Finding the courage to re-engage with life and social circles[00:20:12] From just surviving to thriving—defining what joy means[00:27:39] Practical healing: gratitude, reading, and faith[00:35:08] Starting her own business and embracing fun at work[00:36:37] Special offer, favorite books, and closing thoughts on travel and happinessSpecial Offer from the Guest: The Fortune Follow Up SystemSpecial Podcast Sale: $222 Link to purchase: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Z5SSTGB93LUSANote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social media. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Dr. Danielle Griffin about her journey through overwhelm, pandemic stress, and personal transformation. Danielle shares candidly about balancing multiple careers, family loss, and collective uncertainty, as well as how she rediscovered alignment through somatic practices and shifting her professional focus toward helping others heal from stress and trauma.About the Guest:Dr. Danielle Griffin is a leading speaker and coach dedicated to empowering busy professionals to overcome the complex interplay of physical discomfort and emotional overwhelm. As the award-winning author of Somatic Exercise Made Simple, she specializes in helping high-achievers reclaim their focus, boost productivity, and enhance their presence through accessible mind-body practices. With a doctorate and certifications in hypnotherapy and somatic approaches, Dr. Danielle provides tangible, actionable tools to reduce pain and stress, manage anxiety, and foster profound resilience. Her impactful presentations equip audiences with practical strategies to create positive change and unlock their full potential, even amidst demanding schedules.Main Topics Covered:Danielle’s life pre-pandemic: balancing family, career, and entrepreneurshipNavigating stress, uncertainty, and grief through COVID-19 and major life changesOutward resilience versus internal overwhelmThe concept of collective stress and its impact on communitiesHealing with somatic practices: breathwork, movement, and mind-body awarenessThe role of hypnotherapy in shifting mindset and finding clarityLetting go of hustle culture and creating space for intentional self-careHow Danielle helps clients implement practical, restorative routinesQuote from the Episode:"We’re reminded that our mental health isn’t just within our mind, but it’s carried within parts of our body... It allows you opportunities to relieve the stress and embodiment of that tension from within you." — Dr. Danielle GriffinTimestamps: [00:00:06] Welcome & warmup: Danielle’s background and where she calls home[00:02:21] Life pre-pandemic: family, work, travel business, and daily routines[00:05:21] Lockdown changes: loss of social connection, work/career pressures, and home responsibilities[00:08:54] Outward resilience vs. internal overwhelm; family changes and stress compounds[00:14:36] Realizing overwhelm after major loss, postpartum, and stacked life events[00:20:28] Turning to yoga and somatic practices for relief[00:23:49] Defining collective stress, why it matters, and pandemic as a global shared trauma[00:37:24] What is somatic healing? Mind-body tools to release tension and heal[00:43:53] Creating her program: supporting clients with stress, pain, and trauma recovery[00:45:11] Fun questions: guilty pleasures, thoughts on aging, and favorite travel escapes[00:48:39] Upcoming trips, Mexico favorites, and closing gratitudeSpecial Offer from the Guest:Receive a free copy eBook, somatic exercise Made simple book 3 as well as any other books I release if they join my book review team https://mailchi.mp/33e037c9508c/free-e-book-reviewers-sign-upNote from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Amy Taylor—a Missouri-based mental health advocate, podcast host, and social worker—about how a diagnosis of thyroid cancer sparked a transformative journey toward living more intentionally. Amy shares the realities of cancer treatment, going back to school in her fifties, pivoting careers, and launching her own podcast and side hustle to support conversations around mental health and neurodivergence.About the Guest:Amy Taylor has nearly 30 years of experience as a social worker and recently obtained her MBA in her fifties. She believes fiercely in the power of choice—the right to love openly, to embrace every unique aspect of ourselves, and to live authentically. She has walked a path through mental health challenges, with the courage to face Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, and ADHD, and she extends her hand to those who walk a similar road. As a single mom to a multiracial daughter on the spectrum, she has learned that differences are not barriers but gifts, bridging our understanding and compassion.Main Topics Covered:Amy’s cancer diagnosis, treatment process, and experience with radioactive iodine isolationRealizations about “autopilot” living, and the decision to make bold life changes after illnessReturning to school at age 52 to complete an MBA 20 years in the makingMaking a meaningful career pivot within social work and health advocacyLaunching a podcast and side hustle as a first-time entrepreneurBreaking down stigma and building online support for neurodivergent familiesQuote from the Episode:“I had a lot of time to think, and I thought a lot about how cancer is pretty scary. And I was not happy with the way my life was going. And there were things that I had wanted to do for years and had not done. And I thought, you know what? I'm not going to put it off anymore. I'm going to make these changes.” — Amy TaylorTimestamps: [00:00:08] Amy Taylor’s hometown and Kansas City connections[00:01:54] Receiving a thyroid cancer diagnosis and sharing her prognosis[00:03:17] Life before diagnosis: career, family, and “autopilot” routines[00:05:13] How Amy’s cancer was discovered through routine blood work[00:07:58] Undergoing radioactive iodine therapy and isolation[00:11:28] Complications in treatment and support from family[00:14:27] Facing mortality and intentional living during isolation[00:17:53] Decision to return to school and the challenges of finishing an MBA[00:22:19] Switching jobs for more meaning and less burnout in social work[00:25:57] Starting a podcast and side hustle for the first time[00:29:00] Building community around neurodivergence and mental health[00:30:03] Final fun questions: food, relaxation, and karaokeConnect with the Guest:Podcast: Mental Health Warrior & Neurospicy Mama https://open.spotify.com/show/6gSjJDMEff7WJr71zvZnwy?si=39cfbe74414442ea&nd=1&dlsi=33ee4d7fa9374fafSpecial Offer from the Guest:Get Amy Taylor’s “Who Am I?” guided journal for free—a resource designed to help you unlock self-understanding, clarity, direction, and mindfulness. Download available at advancingwithamy.com.Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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 ac

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson—an organizational psychologist, podcast host, and advocate for women’s voices—to explore what happens when life shifts beneath your feet. Julie opens up about her cascade of personal challenges, including a chronic illness diagnosis, the loss of her father, job upheaval, a major surgery, and the reckoning that came with the COVID lockdown. Through these tough transitions, she shares how she redefined her sense of self, found healing in storytelling and podcasting, and discovered a new purpose beyond the "traditional path."About the Guest:Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson is a Podcaster, Speaker, Coach, & Advocate empowering women to share their stories through podcasting. She coaches women to be awesome podcast guests and helps women launch and host their own show without breaking the bank. Julie has two podcasts, Podcast Your Story and The Story of My Pet. She also created the Women's Podcaster Party Networking Community and Podcast Your Story Community Membership to further support women and non-binary podcasters, podcast guests, and speakers.Main Topics Covered:Navigating chronic kidney disease and the limits it set on Julie’s life and workThe death of a parent and lessons in anticipatory and personal griefLosing jobs, financial anxiety, and the challenge of rebuilding in midlifeThe emotional toll of a hysterectomy and the stigma around being “childless”How COVID lockdown prompted a reevaluation of purpose and creativityFinding healing, identity, and connection through podcasting and storytellingThe unseen value of women who don’t follow the traditional path of marriage and childrenBuilding community as a “proud auntie,” animal advocate, and support network for othersQuote from the Episode:“I talk openly about a lot of this experience because I know so many people are going through it, either watching it happen or it already has happened and they don’t know what to do. And I think I’ve also found that podcasting is very therapeutic.”—Julie Marty-PearsonTimestamps:[00:00:05] Julie’s roots and home in Bakersfield, CA[00:03:16] The “cascade” of life events: illness, bereavement, job loss[00:08:34] How work and commuting shaped her relationships and self-image[00:10:17] Chronic kidney disease diagnosis and learning to advocate for her needs[00:16:53] Losing her father: anticipatory grief and community support[00:33:49] Job losses, marriage stress, and the breaking point[00:36:53] Hysterectomy, menopause, and identity as a woman without children[00:44:16] Pandemic lockdown as a catalyst for reinvention[00:46:09] Moving into coaching, animal care, and podcasting[00:52:01] Spirituality, seeing “signs,” and learning from the universe[00:55:14] Women’s invisible roles, “auntiehood,” and advocating for childfree women[01:02:03] What Julie is doing now: podcasting, advocacy, and helping women share their stories[01:03:36] Quickfire questions: routines, reading, and dream vacationsSpecial Offer from the Guest:Julie is offering a complimentary “Podcast Clarity Call” to listeners of The Art of Imperfect Adulting. If you’re curious about guesting on podcasts, launching your own, or simply want to explore how to share your story, mention this episode when reaching out! https://www.juliemartypearson.com/Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Julieta Duvall about her family’s journey from traditional schooling to an unschooling lifestyle. Julieta opens up about the challenges of upending societal expectations, the impact of the pandemic on her family’s choices, and the transformative work of shifting to a life built on partnership, flexibility, and intentional living.About the Guest:Julieta has spent 20 years as a flight attendant and now lives intentionally with her family. Their choice to home educate has brought them closer and fostered deeper alignment. She is dedicated to inspiring others to value and nurture living in partnership with their children.Main Topics Covered:How the COVID-19 pandemic and virtual schooling prompted Julieta’s shift to homeschooling and unschooling.The difference between traditional schooling, homeschooling, and unschooling philosophies.Challenging societal and cultural norms around work, school, and parenting roles.The importance of reconnecting with your children and yourself as part of the educational journey.Finding community and support through mentorship and local unschooling groups.The emotional work and self-reflection required to model partnership, communication, and imperfection as a parent.Rethinking family priorities: work, money, and time as intentional, life-affirming choices.Quote from the Episode: “The way I define unschooling, it's a life of partnership with your children. You meet in the middle. I don't have all the control, but they also don't have the control. And we are meeting everyone's needs in the middle.” — Julieta DuvallTimestamps: [00:00:06] Introductions and Michigan geography[00:01:02] Last compliment given—supporting a young instructor[00:01:17] Family background & school changes in 2020[00:03:11] Julieta’s educational path from Mexico to Michigan[00:07:45] The value of learning for life[00:08:40] Impact of pandemic on schooling decisions[00:13:45] Julieta’s pre-pandemic struggles with the “busy” life[00:20:39] Transition from traditional homeschooling to unschooling[00:24:03] Letting go of curriculum; reconnecting with her son[00:28:26] The philosophy of unschooling and “radical unschooling”[00:35:18] Emotional labor and breaking societal conditioning[00:41:08] Faith, parenting philosophies, and real life learning[00:42:54] The personal (and ongoing) work behind family alignment[00:47:52] Family communication and partnership in daily life[00:49:02] Rethinking work, money, and intentional living[00:53:57] Where to connect with Julieta, closing questionsConnect with the Guest: Instagram: @the_unschooling_lifestyleJoin the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Kyla Holley, founder of the Australian Centre for Eating Behaviour and host of the “Change Your Relationship with Food” podcast. Kyla shares her candid story of how gallbladder surgery in her early 40s became a turning point, leading to a personal and professional transformation—from navigating binge eating disorder to helping others heal their own relationship with food. Together, Amy and Kyla explore medical interventions, midlife reinvention, body acceptance, and the evolving landscape of weight loss and wellness.About the Guest:Kyla Holley is a Therapist and Founder of the Australian Centre for Eating Behaviour (ACFEB). She leads a community of over 1000 ACFEB trained health professionals, and continues to work in private practice to keep her clinical experience up to date. She also hosts an award-winning podcast Change your Relationship with Food.Main Topics Covered:The life-changing impact of gallbladder surgery and the revelations that followedKyla’s journey with binge eating disorder and finding self-acceptanceThe role of counselling and education in transforming relationships with foodBariatric surgery, the rise of GLP-1 medications (Ozempic/Tirzepatide), and global trendsWhy weight and body image are so complex—and why shame and judgment don’t helpBuilding a new career and helping others after personal transformationThe crucial value of laughter, partnership, and living authentically through midlife changesQuote from the Episode:“It was just a quest for the inside and the outside to match … This wasn’t really a quest for thinness. I wouldn’t put myself into that category even now. But it was just a quest for the inside and the outside to match.” — Kyla HolleyTimestamps: [00:00:00] Kyla’s background: from the UK to Australia; laughter & resilience in marriage[00:02:30] The story behind gallbladder surgery and the “five Fs”[00:04:15] When health forces a reckoning: self-acceptance vs. change[00:09:24] Studying counselling, becoming her own case study, and life/career transformation[00:15:04] Deciding to re-train, approach her surgeon, and start helping others[00:18:46] Working with bariatric patients; realizing the need for eating disorder expertise[00:23:10] The GLP-1 medication boom and what’s happening for patients in Australia[00:29:02] Why relationship with food is key—beyond medication or surgery[00:34:11] Bringing expertise to a global audience; Kyla’s podcast & training centre[00:35:35] Fun questions: Princess Cake, favorite TV shows, and dream kitchen upgradesSpecial Offer from the Guest:Mention this episode of “The Art of Imperfect Adulting” to receive a 10% discount on Kyla’s online professional training courses for a limited time. www.acfeb.comNote from the show:Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Tiffani Bibb about what happens when a Christmas Eve accident sparks a wave of life-altering decisions. Tiffani opens up about her journey through injury, divorce after 15 years of marriage, and a transformative reinvention of both body and career, all marked by self-honesty and bold, sometimes messy, action.About the Guest:Tiffani Bibb is a mom to a fearless 10-year-old girl, HR professional by trade, and personal reinvention coach for women who are ready to shake things up. She lives in Jacksonville, Florida, where sunshine and water adventures keep me grounded. Tiffany is a nonprofit executive and in my “free” time, she runs an HR consulting business and coach mid-life, mid-career women through the mindset shifts needed to stop fearing change and start chasing what they really want. Main Topics Covered:How a Christmas Eve accident led to months of forced stillness and deep self-reflectionNavigating marriage, motherhood, and the choice to end a long-term relationshipThe role of therapy (individual and couples) and the importance of honesty with oneselfEmotional and physical transformation through weight loss and lifestyle changeDealing with family, financial, and community reactions to rapid personal changeLaunching and relaunching a coaching business, and making the leap from side hustle to full timeSupporting other women through periods of uncertainty, reinvention, and dreaming biggerQuote from the Episode: “When you’re knocked on your butt, you have a lot of time to think. ... My mind got really busy and I started thinking about where I was in life—and was I truly okay with where I was? The answer was a resounding no in some places of my life.”—Tiffani BibbTimestamps: [00:00:05] Jacksonville origins, family warmth, and Florida quirks[00:01:12] Laughter as medicine—finding joy in parenting[00:02:18] What “normal” Christmas Eve looked like vs. what actually happened[00:04:21] The accident: racing her daughter, refusing an ambulance, and urgent care visit[00:08:13] The aftermath—months in bed, forced introspection, and relationship reflection[00:09:57] Childhood dreams: a vision of career, independence, and family[00:15:06] Deciding to leave a marriage, the process of realization, and seeking support[00:19:11] The emotional and physical transformations post-separation[00:21:19] Community reactions to big life changes—old friends vs. new friends[00:23:02] Building a coaching business, setbacks, and relaunching with purpose[00:26:40] Final fun questions: fears, secret wishes, and favorite way to listen to musicSpecial Offer from the Guest:Tiffani is offering podcast listeners her “Rituals and Routines” Masterclass. Access this free resource by visiting https://tbibbcoaching.myflodesk.com/successrituals Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Alli Williams, founder of Financialli Focused about the emotional and financial journey of canceling her first wedding, processing loss, and what it taught her about boundaries, money, and relationships. Alli candidly recounts how she called off her wedding just two months before the big day, the challenges of managing other people’s expectations and the reality of “eating” the sunk costs. She also delves into her later marriage, where she and her husband faced $154,000 of combined debt, and how her experiences sparked a thriving career helping others pay off debt and take charge of their finances.About the Guest: Alli is the founder and CEO of FinanciALLI Focused, a financial literacy company helping people create a flexible financial plan they can actually stick to (no deprivation here). She paid off over six-figures of debt while still saving, investing, and buying season football tickets.She has her MBA in Finance and lives in South Carolina with her husband and 2 sons. She spends her time at football games (Go Gamecocks!) and with a Starbucks latte in her hand.Quote from the Episode: “I was scared to lose that money… at 22, like $7 or $8,000 was like what we lost or in deposits, and at 22, I didn’t have that much money to start. Now, you know, in the grand scheme of things, that doesn’t matter. But for me at 22… losing that was a really big deal and definitely played a factor in, do I want to go through with this or not?” — Alli WilliamsMain Topics Covered:Calling off a wedding: navigating social pressure, financial losses, and family reactionThe regional and cultural influences on “right age” for marriageMoney logistics: who pays for the wedding, what’s nonrefundable, and why deposits matterProcessing guilt, fear, and relief when making “big” adult decisionsDiscussing money and debt openly in relationships—and why it matters before marriageTackling $154,000 in debt as a couple: communication, teamwork, and creative strategiesHow Alli turned her journey with money into a business helping others pay off debt without giving up the things they loveGenerational shifts in student loans, debt obligations, and financial planningTimestamps: [00:00:07] Alli’s intro, family, and rural South Carolina life[00:02:11] College romance, engagement at 22, and wedding planning[00:03:16] Marriage culture: North vs. South, family expectations[00:05:25] Who paid for the wedding? “Mid-size” details and budget[00:06:55] Why Alli began questioning her decision—and the “aha” moment with her friend[00:12:25] The wedding was 60 days away: facing financial and emotional aftermath[00:17:03] Family/friend reactions and letting go of people-pleasing[00:23:33] Marrying into six-figure debt: open conversations and financial teamwork[00:29:43] Paying it off: strategy, sacrifices, and realism[00:32:59] Alli’s business: Financialli Focused—how she helps others tackle debt & win with money[00:36:24] Special offer: Debt Free Blueprint and why budgeting doesn’t mean “beans and rice”[00:37:07] Final three questions: best advice received, belly button piercing story, aging gracefullyConnect with the Guest: Website: www.financiallifocused.comInstagram: @financiallifocusedSpecial Offer from the Guest:The Debt Free BlueprintThis ebook shows you how I paid off $154K in under 4 years without giving up Friday night takeout, weekend getaways, or my sanity Normally $57 but only $27 for your listeners https://amy_stone--financiallifocused.thrivecart.com/ebook-welcome/Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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 b

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Janelle Martin about her transformative journey as a parent navigating her daughter’s struggle with addiction and the process of letting go of control. Janelle candidly shares how the experience forever changed her relationship with her daughter, her own healing journey through the 12-step process, and how this path shaped her life’s purpose and career.About the Guest:Janelle Martin is a licensed counselor, neurofeedback provider, and the author of two books, including her latest, Losing Her, Finding Us: A Mother’s Fight, A Daughter’s Journey and the Road to Recovery. Her life was forever changed by her family’s experience with addiction—a journey that reshaped not only her personal life but her professional path. Today, she owns a holistic mental health practice and works with individuals and families navigating trauma, stress, and substance use. Janelle also facilitates weekly PAL (Parents of Addicted Loved Ones) support groups and is passionate about helping others find hope in the midst of struggle. Her story, rooted in both pain and healing, is the heart behind everything she does.Main Topics Covered:What it’s like parenting a child through addiction and crisis as a “regular” middle-class familyRealizing the limits of parental control and shifting focus to self-healingThe challenges of navigating boundaries, letting go, and processing grief as a parentThe power and practicality of 12-step programs for parents (Al-Anon) as tools for growthHow releasing control positively changed Janelle’s relationship with her daughter—from conflict to collaboration, and eventually, to becoming work partnersThe importance of sharing both parent and child perspectives around addiction and recoveryThe long-term, lifelong nature of recovery journeys and the impact on purpose and careerQuote from the Episode:“You can’t rebuild a relationship from a standpoint of, I did everything right. You have the problem. So I’m going to let you figure out how to make it right. It doesn’t work that way.” — Janelle MartinTimestamps: [00:00:05] Welcome & introductions; where Janelle calls home[00:01:13] Laughter, dogs, and the healing power of humor[00:02:13] The beginning of her family’s experience with addiction[00:05:08] Family background, divorce dynamics, and co-parenting struggles[00:12:15] What “trying to fix it” looked like and early attempts at control[00:16:04] Crisis point, choosing tough boundaries, and entering treatment[00:22:14] Discovering healing and surrender through Al-Anon and the 12 steps[00:24:22] The impact on her relationship with her daughter—and the slow, honest rebuilding[00:32:11] Giving up control: school, sobriety, and patience with relapse[00:38:07] The trauma and difficulty of letting her adult child make her own decisions[00:40:28] Self-care: prayer, meetings, and the importance of supportive community[00:42:54] Why recovery isn’t “over”—and how it continues to shape Janelle’s purpose[00:46:49] On writing the book together and the importance of sharing both perspectives[00:50:52] About Janelle’s counseling practice, books, and how to connectConnect with the Guest: www.ourbeautifulrecovery.comIf 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Dr. Angela Downey, Canadian family physician, podcaster, and author, to explore the realities of major career change, resilience, and pursuing childhood dreams—against overwhelming odds. Angela shares her remarkable journey from a blue-collar upbringing and early academic setbacks, through life as an accountant and mother of two, to ultimately achieving her lifelong goal of becoming a doctor in her 40s. Together, Amy and Angela unpack the influence of family messaging, gender expectations, self-doubt, and the invisible labor of parenting while juggling strenuous academics.About the Guest:Dr. Angela Downey is a family physician, host of The Codependent Doctor Podcast, and author of Enough As I Am. Downey’s work focuses on helping people heal from codependency, set healthier boundaries, and rebuild self-trust. Downey published a 365-day guided journal, Enough As I Grow, to support personal growth and reflection.Main Topics Covered:Navigating the transition from accounting to medicine as a full-time parent and mature student.Overcoming family beliefs and societal assumptions about women, career, and “who gets to become a doctor.”Busting myths around academic failure, resetting at any age, and the nonlinear path to success.The invisible workload for women: balancing professional ambitions with family responsibilities.Building resilience, understanding self-worth, and reframing failure as growth.The power of supportive partners, therapy, and the ability to ask for (and pay for) help.Women in medicine: confronting gender bias and redefining professional boundaries.Creating new narratives for professional women through podcasting, writing, and storytelling.Quote from the Episode:"The more times I have failed, the easier it is for me to get back up. And now it's gotten to the point where I'm less afraid of failure and I'm okay to put things out there, and if it flops, it flops." — Dr. Angela DowneyTimestamps: [00:00:05] Welcome & audio mishap story; where Angela calls home[00:03:06] Angela’s childhood dream and early family messaging[00:06:04] Real talk on gender bias in medicine and nursing[00:09:11] The impact of early academic failure and shifting to accounting[00:14:33] Facing rejection from med school; balancing risk/family[00:21:54] Burnout, taking a break in med school, and hiring help[00:26:15] Living lean, student debt, and leveraging Angela’s accounting skills[00:28:45] Personal growth, therapy, and reframing failure[00:32:57] The origins of resilience and overcoming “people-pleasing”[00:34:44] Pivotal conversations and finally pursuing medicine[00:37:46] Creating a sustainable, customized medical career[00:39:32] About Angela’s podcasts, books, and how to find her online[00:41:33] Fun questions: self-care, travel, and historical eventsSpecial Offer from the Guest:Dr. Angela Downey offers listeners of The Art of Imperfect Adulting a special promo: Download a FREE chapter of her codependency recovery workbook, Enough as I Am, by visiting thecodependentdoctor.com/free-chapter.Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer, please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Jill Kaufman, a therapist, divorce coach, and author who splits her time between Colorado and New Jersey. Jill candidly shares her personal story of a 20-year marriage, enduring a high-conflict divorce, and ultimately finding happiness and healing as a single mom and later in a blended family. Together, Amy and Jill explore the realities of ending a long-term relationship, the emotional complexities of divorce for both parents and children, and why sharing our divorce stories reduces isolation and shame.About the Guest:Jill Kaufman is a Divorce Coach, Therapist, Mediator & Co-parenting Expert. After going through her own difficult divorce, she made it her life’s mission to help others not have it so tough. Her book, online course, and her transformational coaching program help parents navigate the overwhelming process of divorce both emotionally and practically with less stress, more confidence and a greater sense of peace. Main Topics Covered:Jill’s marriage story: college sweethearts, 20 years together, and raising kids in a faith-based homeThe isolating experience of divorce and the importance of support and communityHow therapy and counseling—with both successes and limits—factored into the marriage’s timelineHigh-conflict divorce: working with attorneys, mediators, and the impact of adversarial legal processesThe difficult process of telling children about divorce and supporting them through the transitionLiving together during divorce and navigating finances, co-parenting, and shared assetsHealing after divorce: rebuilding, single parenting, new partnerships, and shifting perspectives on marriageThe role and value of divorce coaching, and how it differs from therapyQuote from the Episode:“You have this little baby and you’re going to protect it for the rest of your life... and you’re hurting your children. Not in the long term—you’re helping them in the long term—but immediately it feels like you’re hurting them. All those emotions are—you can’t describe what it is to go through all of that.”—Jill KaufmanTimestamps: [00:00:07] Opening—Jill’s bi-coastal lifestyle and sources of daily laughter[00:01:08] Life before divorce: Meeting her husband, raising kids, and faith traditions[00:04:34] Therapy and counseling throughout marriage, and what finally led to divorce[00:15:34] High-conflict divorce: attorneys, mediation, and adversarial pitfalls[00:21:16] Why divorce was harder than grief, and the emotional toll[00:23:35] Living together during the process, asset division, and legal considerations[00:25:35] Telling the kids, their reactions, and how they’ve coped and thrived long-term[00:32:01] Single parenting, blended families, and Jill’s path forward[00:34:25] Jill’s approach to divorce coaching, therapy vs coaching, and available resources[00:36:01] Special offer for listeners and how to connect with Jill[00:37:22] Fun rapid-fire questions and show closeSpecial Offer from the Guest:30 Minute Divorce Clarity Session, Value $175, Email me at [email protected] from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Lola Maclean about navigating burnout, living with IBS, and making a major career and wellness shift from conventional Western medicine to functional medicine. Lola shares her personal health journey, what led her to leave traditional medicine, and how addressing the root causes of her digestive issues transformed her life and work.About the Guest:Lola MacLean, DNP, FNP, is a functional medicine practitioner and gut health expert who helps high-achieving women break free from chronic bloating, anxiety, and fatigue. After navigating her own burnout and IBS, she left conventional medicine to create Haelan Empowered—a practice focused on the gut-brain connection and root-cause healing. With over a decade in healthcare and advanced training from IFM and SAFM, Lola blends science with real-life strategies that stick. She’s passionate about making gut health and healing approachable - not just a long list of supplements. Quote from the Episode:“I can’t do the conventional road anymore because I don’t have that time with people. I don’t have that way to address these things. I can’t go upstream when I’ve got 15 minutes and you’re asking me for a fix for this problem.” — Lola MacleanMain Topics Covered:Lola’s lifelong interest in medicine and journey into nursing and becoming a nurse practitionerHer experience living with undiagnosed digestive issues and IBS, and how “normal” shifts over timePersonal and professional burnout—especially during the early days of the COVID pandemic—and the limits of conventional medical adviceThe discovery of functional medicine and the difference between root-cause healing versus symptom managementThe gut-brain connection, why mindset matters, and becoming your own health advocateHow Lola healed her IBS through functional medicine tools—and why she now helps other women do the sameWorking collaboratively between conventional and functional medicine providersTimestamps: [00:00:06] Welcome & Lola’s home in Oregon wine country[00:01:00] Laughter as medicine and parenting young kids[00:03:54] Lola’s path from pre-med to nursing to nurse practitioner[00:06:47] Early curiosity about medicine with no family background in health[00:07:23] Struggling with digestive issues from childhood through adulthood[00:10:25] Postpartum, anxiety, and hitting a health crisis during the pandemic[00:11:52] Experiencing burnout and what it meant for Lola[00:16:33] First awareness of functional medicine, and differences in medical culture[00:20:26] Explanation of the low FODMAP diet[00:22:19] Lola’s healing process: stool testing, addressing microbiome, mindset work[00:25:52] What is functional medicine, and how is it different from conventional care?[00:28:02] Healing outcomes and what “better” now feels like[00:31:22] Making a professional leap into functional medicine[00:32:32] Can conventional and functional medicine work together?[00:35:12] Lola’s current work and how to connectSpecial Offer from the Guest:Lola is offering podcast listeners a free gut health assessment call to talk through your unique digestive challenges and map out next steps. Visit www.haelanempowered.com Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.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 listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com 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 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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Kathi Burns—San Diego-based professional organizer, image consultant, and founder of OrganizedandEnergized.com—about the massive life and business changes she faced after 9/11. Kathi shares how a sudden and total business disruption led her to start over in a new state, with only $49, and ultimately to a fulfilling new career focused on helping women entrepreneurs clear both physical and digital clutter.About the Guest:Kathi Burns is a best-selling author, board certified professional organizer and personal stylist. Kathi is also the host of the Organized and Energized Podcast. Kathi is nationally recognized for her simple organizing and style solutions and featured on Good Morning America as a successful woman owned business. Main Topics Covered:Sudden career upheaval after 9/11 and the collapse of the hospitality marketing industryMaking a cross-country move (from Florida to California) after losing nearly everythingTaking a “year off” to reinvent herself, the impact of sabbaticals, and learning from life experienceStarting a new business on a shoestring budget (just $49!)The evolution of print, marketing, and organizing in a digital worldHow writing a local newspaper column boosted Kathi’s business and developed her expertiseThe challenges of organizing paper and digital clutter for entrepreneursCurrent work helping women entrepreneurs get “unstuck” and thrive with effective systemsQuote from the Episode:“You can be broke in Florida, you can be broke in California. When you’re broke, you’re broke. It didn’t really matter. So that was our impetus to move to California, because who cares? We’re already broke.” — Kathi BurnsTimestamps: [00:00:04] Welcomes & Kathi’s location[00:01:22] The 9/11 tourism shutdown and instant business collapse[00:06:24] Reflecting on the obsolete print marketing industry[00:07:36] Moving from Florida to California & starting over[00:10:48] Purging belongings and the “ridiculous” moving experience[00:11:57] Launching a business with $49: door hangers and business cards[00:13:46] TV organizing shows, luck, and the “love offering” that started it all[00:17:46] Life skills, forgotten talents, and the power of self-inventory[00:22:14] Writing a weekly newspaper column to establish expertise[00:24:58] Evolving services: from physical organizing to digital systems for entrepreneurs[00:27:22] The pain of paper, digital overwhelm & modern organizing tips[00:29:47] Offers: Google Workspace masterclass and free Inbox Hero Routine download[00:34:45] Fun questions: coffee, Google Calendar, and lifelong friendshipsConnect with the Guest: Website: https://organizedandenergized.comSpecial Offer from the Guest:6 Quick & Simple Steps to Organize Your Life —So You Can Finally Feel in Control ⏰✨Finally, a stress-free way to take charge of your schedule, priorities, and goals—without the overwhelm.Value $19.95 and for listenres, it is completely FREE!https://organizedandenergized.com/free-treats/6-steps-for-life/Note from the show: Guest offers are often limited-time and limited quantity. If you have an issue redeeming the guest offer please reach out to the guest or vendor directly.Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadulting 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.com 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. 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