The Art Of Imperfect Adulting

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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Emily Paulsen about the realities of being child free by choice. Emily joins from Chicago, Illinois.The audience will gain clarity on how to talk about family planning (or the lack thereof) with sensitivity, learn about the shifting landscape for Gen Z and Millennials, and explore the sometimes unseen ripple effects of opting out of parenthood.About Emily Paulsen: Emily Paulsen is an award-winning entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are . She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Main Topics Covered:The evolving cultural conversation and data on living child free, including global trends and generational differences.Why representation matters—how seeing alternative life paths enables true personal choice, and the impact of visibility in media, workplaces, and families.Navigating family and friend reactions when "coming out" as child free, and why supportive communities make a difference.Workplace bias, caregiving double standards, and the ripple effects of assumptions about who will (or won’t) have children.The pressure, pain points, and social judgments embedded in conversations around parenthood—and what to say (or not say) to someone who is child free.How internal clarity and confidence develop over time, and the importance of talking about personal decisions openly but respectfully.The nuanced differences between being child free by choice and by circumstance, with discussion about language, labels, and surveys.The value of parallel life paths and rejecting the idea that one way of "adulting" is better than another.Quote from the Episode: "My goal is for women, for all people really, to understand themselves well enough to make a choice that's right for them. And I think that choice becomes a lot more fair when you see both sides of that decision." — Emily PaulsenTimestamps: [00:00:05] Amy welcomes Emily; Chicago’s winter wonderland; favorite winter activities[00:01:57] Child free by choice: Amy introduces the topic; Emily shares her passion for representation[00:02:30] Data and trends: declining birth rates, international comparisons, and generational shifts[00:04:23] Survey limitations: why it’s hard to research people’s choices and the categories of child free, childless, and more[00:08:57] Emily’s personal story: When she realized motherhood wasn’t for her, and how family scripts shape our view of adulthood[00:14:12] Barbie, representation, and the power of seeing alternatives in childhood play[00:15:04] Why it’s not about convincing others to be child free, but about informed, personal decision[00:17:58] The workplace: maternity leave, double standards, and caring for aging parents[00:20:05] The internal journey: relief, “awakening,” and the complexities of telling others about being child free[00:24:24] Sensitivity and conversations: Recognizing that choices about family are deeply personal and varied[00:26:27] Societal assumptions, parental expectations, and the generational “timeline”[00:34:07] The ripple effect: how choices echo through families and communities[00:37:40] Public conversations: intrusive questions, Uber driver moments, and survey double standards[00:41:37] On judgment, selfishness, and why choice—not sides—matters most[00:43:49] How workplace and community structures spark comparison among women (and why the problem isn’t kids vs. no kids)[00:51:31] Emily’s best advice for talking to child free adults: Don’t ask why, and be normal![00:52:18] About Emily’s podcast: “Curious Life of a Child Free Woman” and how to connectABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com/Listen to Emily Paulsen’s Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curious-life-of-a-childfree-woman/id1777850561https://open.spotify.com/show/6sT7kPp4dOthbvXAFZPOBNIf 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 an

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Joanne Gates about navigating motherhood, career ambition, and the realities of working in the male-dominated tech industry. Joanne, joining from Scottsdale, Arizona, recounts her move from Boston to Seattle, her nearly 30-year career at Microsoft, and the pivotal choices she made as both a mom and a leader. Listeners will discover how Joanne carved out success in corporate America, confronted workplace bias, and now channels her expertise into coaching women to thrive at work and at home.About Joanne Gates:Joanne Gates is a certified executive life coach who helps professional women in tech and male-dominated industries unlock their career potential with clarity, confidence, and purpose. After a 30-year career at Microsoft—rising from entry-level to executive—Joanne now empowers women to overcome imposter syndrome, people-pleasing, and perfectionism while building authentic leadership presence. She’s especially known for helping women get promoted into senior leadership roles and then kick ass once they’re there—navigating high-stakes environments with emotional intelligence, strategic influence, and unapologetic power. Joanne blends deep empathy with sharp business acumen to help her clients lead boldly, drive impact, and rewrite the rules of leadership.Main Topics Covered:The life-altering impact of motherhood on career paths, especially for women in tech and male-dominated corporate environments.Facing and overcoming gender bias and assumptions about working mothers in the workplace.The challenges and family dynamics of being the primary breadwinner and having a stay-at-home dad partner in the late '90s and early 2000s.Navigating pivotal career decisions, missed opportunities, and the trade-offs of prioritizing family vs. pursuing senior leadership.Advocating for oneself in corporate hierarchies, especially when faced with unfair evaluations or lack of managerial support.The evolution (and limitations) of maternity leave policies and the importance of workplace systems that genuinely support parents.Joanne’s transition from a senior leader at Microsoft to executive and life coaching for women, with a focus on helping others define and achieve their own success.Practical tips for protecting your career trajectory, handling performance reviews, and knowing when (and how) to escalate workplace concerns.Quote from the Episode:"I felt like I had to, like, shake him by the shoulders… How many guys have to have this conversation? That just pisses me off. We have to because, obviously, it’s pretty apparent that we’re having a child." — Joanne GatesTimestamps: [00:00:04] Welcome, Joanne’s location, and adjusting to life in the desert [00:00:46] Childhood winter activities and chasing the sun [00:01:37] Introducing today’s topic: balancing motherhood and career [00:02:29] On generational change—and how much (or little) has shifted for working women [00:03:19] The Covid reset and women leaving corporate roles; Joanne’s new passion for helping women succeed [00:04:24] Joanne’s career start, move to Microsoft in the dot-com era [00:07:21] Early influences, engineering in college, and professional aspirations in a male-driven world [00:11:19] On early career choices, family expectations, and the pressure to decide your future “from a very young age” [00:13:14] Strategic family planning vs. reacting to life—how Joanne and her husband made tough choices [00:17:55] Deciding which parent would stay home, and the financial/logistical realities in a pre-remote work world [00:19:25] The loneliness and community gap for stay-at-home dads [00:22:18] Microsoft’s corporate culture around mothers in the ’90s/early 2000s—assumptions, bias, and policy limitations [00:25:27] The invisible penalty of motherhood: performance reviews, pay, and navigating “fairness” [00:31:10] Maternity leave policies then and now—fears around job security and returning to work [00:36:32] Systemic challenges: why do big companies struggle to change on women and family policy? [00:38:25] Lack of diversity, groupthink, and the value of disruptors in changing corporate culture [00:41:46] How Joanne stayed and thrived at Microsoft, even as most opted out [00:42:03] Major trade-offs: missing opportunities for the sake of family [00:47:06] Facing career setbacks, fighting for promotion, and deciding not to “rage quit” [00:53:12] Tactical advice: documenting your worth, knowing when—and how—to advocate for yourself [00:55:01] Joanne’s mission now: mentoring and coaching women in corporate life [00:56:08] What’s different for working women today, and a special offer for listeners [00:57:27] Lightning round: morning routines, relaxation, and spending on selfABOUT 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—i

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Lilli Bewley about breaking relationship patterns, healing childhood wounds, and rediscovering identity through the lens of love and dating. Calling in from sunny Phoenix, Arizona, Lilli shares her transformative journey as a self-described “cycle breaker,” moving from performing life to authentic alignment and connection. Listeners will gain insight into how childhood experiences shape adult relationships, the power of inner work, and how clarity on needs and self-worth can radically transform one’s dating experience and overall well-being.About Lilli Bewley: Lilli Bewley is a Dating Coach for Finding Love with over 10 years of experience in personal development. She, herself, went from just surviving in life to thriving in love & purpose. Currently, she is helping single & successful women love dating & find true love.Main Topics Covered:The role of childhood patterns and family models in shaping adult relationships and self-worth.Recognizing and breaking unhealthy cycles as a conscious, courageous act—and what it means to be a “cycle breaker.”Moving from high achievement and people-pleasing to inner alignment and authentic identity.The importance and challenges of communicating needs rather than just emotions, especially for women who have experienced trauma or dysfunction.How “performing life” and transactional self-worth show up in dating, career, and family—and the work required to shift toward true fulfillment.Faith, spirituality, and overcoming religious trauma as sources of guidance and healing, regardless of doctrine.Why inner transformation is the foundation for success in dating—and how dating apps can be used as a practice ground for self-awareness and boundary-setting.Lilli’s framework for feminine dating archetypes and the “magnetic woman,” and how understanding these archetypes accelerates healing and connection.Quote from the Episode: “There are parts of us that believe that we have to be bright and shiny, we have to be a certain way, we have to be a certain weight, we have to have a certain number in our bank account. Most women are in this transactional relationship with self, with love, and with performing—meaning, ‘If I’m sexy, then I’ll get love.’”—Lilli BewleyTimestamps: [00:00:04] Amy welcomes Lilli Bewley and asks about her location in Phoenix, AZ[00:01:10] Lilli shares her love for Phoenix’s winter weather and outdoor activities[00:02:10] Pivot to love, relationships, and the theme of alignment and identity[00:03:26] Lilli describes the impact of childhood patterns, early trauma, and the start of her inner healing journey over a decade ago[00:06:25] Moving through high achievement, validation-seeking, and emptiness to see root causes of self-worth issues[00:08:58] Amy and Lilli discuss awareness of recurring patterns and what it means to break cycles, especially as the oldest sibling[00:10:23] Lilli explains her life situation at the turning point—working in corporate America and in an unfulfilling relationship[00:12:10] The nuanced challenge of communication: expressing needs and understanding core wounds[00:14:07] Amy relates mediation and conflict patterns to relationship dynamics[00:16:19] Lilli reflects on her past—chameleon tendencies, people pleasing, feeling unsafe to be herself, and lack of purpose[00:19:45] Lilli describes reaching a glass ceiling and catalyzing transformation with support from books, therapy, and her niece/nephew[00:23:23] Lilli shares her experience of deep crisis and hearing “God’s voice” as a turning point in her healing journey[00:25:58] Spirituality and faith—Lilli’s journey from religious trauma to finding purpose and identity[00:29:52] The concept of performing life versus living in alignment; unpacking transactional worth[00:33:35] Societal pressures and social media—why these cycles persist for younger generations[00:34:41] Transitioning from a corporate job to becoming a dating coach focused on inner transformation[00:35:55] Lilli’s feminine dating archetypes and the “magnetic woman”—attracting healthy love from a place of alignment[00:39:00] Coaching focus and inclusivity—working primarily with women, but on identity and self-first foundations[00:40:21] The role of dating apps, changing patterns, and using apps for practice and self-growth[00:44:45] Lilli’s shoutout to her podcast and quiz; final rapid fire questions on sunrises, Amazon blue blockers, tipping, and gratitudeABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big dif

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Susan Hyatt about the realities and myths of diet culture, beauty standards, and the rise of "menopause culture." Broadcasting from Indiana in the Midwest, Susan shares her journey as a life coach and author, unveiling the motivations behind her anti-diet philosophy and the process of publishing her book, "Bear." Together, Amy and Susan candidly explore the evolving influence of social media, the challenge of visibility for women, and how aging and menopause are newly commodified—and what it means to choose self-support instead of self-policing.About Susan Hyatt: Susan Hyatt is a Master Certified Life Coach, Bestselling Author, and TEDx Speaker. She’s on a mission to ignite 'Big Yes Energy' in women everywhere. From boosting your bank account to supercharging your self-confidence, from elevating your energy levels to amplifying your joy, Susan is the go-to expert for women who want more.With 18 years of coaching experience under her belt, Susan has guided thousands of women through their personal revolutions. She's a crusader against diet culture and a vocal advocate for closing gaps – in wages, confidence, and yes, even orgasms.She is also the creator of BARE - a groundbreaking process that’s inspired women all over the world to stop shrinking their bodies and start expanding their lives.Susan's impactful work has graced national TV, leading podcasts, and top magazines including O: The Oprah Magazine, Cosmopolitan, Seventeen, Woman’s World, and Call Her Daddy. Her dedication to women's empowerment and entrepreneurship also earned her a spot as a finalist for the prestigious Athena Award.When she's not hyping up her clients, leading epic retreats, or making a scene, Susan can be found weightlifting, marathon training, globetrotting, or cozying up in her hygge corner. She’s also not shy about advocating for equality at home, regularly reminding her husband about the importance of sharing the "invisible workload," so she can continue to earn big and play big.Main Topics Covered:How Susan’s anti-diet philosophy was born from personal experience and coaching hundreds of women.Navigating the publishing industry: the challenges, rejections, and creative solutions Susan found on her way to releasing "Bear."Unpacking "diet culture," "beauty culture," and "menopause culture"—what these terms mean and how they impact women.The emotional risk and motivation behind becoming a visible voice for body freedom and wellness.The backlash and online criticism women face when sharing their stories—and how to use privilege for advocacy.Aging, menopause, and influencer advice: noticing the parallels between traditional diet culture and new "menopause fixes."The importance of quality information, body intuition, and skepticism amid wellness fads and changing research.Creating sustainable health and strength in midlife, beyond competitive extremes and compliance for its own sake.Building offline and online communities for support and connection in the age of instant digital feedback.Quote from the Episode: "I'm not gonna shut up because I have big boobs and blonde hair and blue eyes. Like, that's ridiculous. And also, like, oh, so the only people who get to speak out about this are the most oppressed, or is this the oppression Olympics? ...I still have experienced these things over here. And there are a lot of women who benefit from me speaking up and telling my story." — Susan HyattTimestamps: [00:00:04] Welcome to Susan Hyatt; Midwest roots and prepping for a winter release [00:01:05] Discussing comfort with cold and extreme weather [00:01:17] The decision to write a book about diet and beauty culture [00:02:06] How coaching women sparked the Bear philosophy [00:03:29] Susan’s publishing journey: self-publishing vs. traditional, agent search, and rejections [00:08:11] The motivation behind pushing through barriers—helping women be free of diet culture rules [00:10:53] Definitions of diet culture, beauty culture, menno culture [00:12:18] The courage to be publicly visible and tell your story [00:13:54] Navigating online backlash—privilege, representation, and “oppression Olympics” [00:19:09] Aging and new forms of diet culture targeting menopause and longevity [00:21:33] Why influencer solutions often mirror old food rules, and the importance of discernment [00:25:51] Responsibility in sharing wellness information and empowering body intuition [00:27:50] Functional strength, quality of life, and rethinking longevity goals [00:32:10] Personal experiences with perimenopause and advocating for health support [00:34:07] Growing up with Southern “nice girl” messaging and the evolution of openness [00:36:55] How to filter wellness information and cope with changing recommendations [00:39:07] Trying different approaches and honoring individual guidance [00:40:59] Consistency over competition in health and fitness routines [00:41:58] Instant feedback culture online a

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Kimberly Brown about navigating major career transitions, the search for authentic self-fulfillment, and the power of mindfulness and meditation in overcoming anxiety. Joining Amy from New York City, Kimberly opens up about leaving behind years of psychoanalytic training in favor of a path rooted in Buddhist-inspired meditation. Listeners will learn how Kimberly’s journey through personal anxiety and professional “wrong turns” led her to a sense of belonging, self-compassion, and a thriving vocation as a meditation teacher.Kimberly Brown is a meditation teacher and author. She leads classes and retreats that emphasize the power of compassion and kindness meditation to reconnect us to ourselves and others. She studies in both the Tibetan and Insight schools of Buddhism and is a certified mindfulness instructor. Her latest book, Happy Relationships: 25 Buddhist Practices to Transform Your Connection with Your Partner, Family, and Friends, was recently released by Rowman & Littlefield. You can learn more about Kimberly at www.meditationwithheart.comMain Topics Covered:Coping with the pressure and expectations to “get it right” in career and education choices.The impact of post-9/11 life changes and the urgent drive for deeper meaning.Why traditional psychoanalysis and diagnostic labels didn’t resonate—and how compassion shifted her approach.Transforming painful anxiety and panic attacks into motivation for personal growth.The science and practice of mindfulness and meditation, including Buddhist perspectives.How belonging and acceptance—both internally and within a community—can heal and empower.Overcoming the belief that something is “wrong” with you and embracing inherent goodness.Building a business and life around self-compassion, meditation, and helping others connect authentically.Quote from the Episode: "I began to feel that there was nothing wrong with anybody. And I don't... that doesn't mean we all have troubles. I just never felt like, well, anybody's really broken, right? We just have our stuff and we have to, you know, take care of it and understand it." — Kimberly BrownTimestamps: [00:00:04] Introduction & warm-up: New York roots, upstate escapes, and favorite flowers[00:02:34] Career change: From HR and psychoanalytic training to questioning the diagnostic process[00:09:02] 9/11 as a catalyst for dramatic life transitions[00:12:07] The essential role of a healing therapist and the inspiration to help others[00:13:31] The drive to return to school, lifelong learning, and giving oneself grace in change[00:17:27] Discomfort with diagnosing mental health, and the story of an authentic therapeutic relationship[00:21:19] Discussion of Freud, medical coding, and the industrial complex of American healthcare[00:26:56] Struggles with professional modality and the need for real human connection[00:30:49] Personal challenges: panic attacks, anxiety, and unexpected traumas[00:34:01] Discovering meditation and mindfulness through yoga and Buddhist centers[00:37:27] Building a new path—belonging, retreats, teaching, and gratitude for healing[00:41:12] The power of acceptance, belonging, and Buddhist teachings in everyday life[00:45:41] Science catches up: neuroscience validates the benefits of meditation and compassion[00:46:39] Inherent capacity for compassion and re-framing cultural narratives around brokennessABOUT 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.GET KIMBERLY BROWN'S SPECIAL OFFER: Free One Month Subscription to my weekly Substack newsletter, Meditation with Heart email [email protected] to redeem this offer.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

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Sabrina Harrison about body image, self-acceptance, and the transformative power of boudoir photography—both behind and in front of the lens. Joining from Westminster, Colorado, Sabrina shares her personal experience of gifting boudoir photos to her husband, which unexpectedly became a journey of reclaiming her own confidence and reshaping her photography business. The conversation explores how images impact self-concept, the realities of postpartum body changes, and actionable strategies to build self-love.About Sabrina Harrison: Sabrina has a degree in photography from the University of Virginia. She moved to Colorado in 2016 with her husband and 2 dogs. She is currently working as a boudoir, retreat, and branding photographer in Westminster, Colorado. Sabrina is a huge reader and personal development junkie. She loves skiing, hiking, tea, tacos, and eclairs. Sabrina is the proud mother of 3 children, 2 bio and 1 bonus. Sabrina is a seasoned expert in confidence coaching and brand strategy, dedicated to empowering individuals to embrace themselves and unlock their potential through art and capturing their true essence behind her lens.Main Topics Covered:How boudoir photography can become an act of self-love and empowerment.The emotional journey of stepping in front of the camera as a photographer, including vulnerability, trust, and letting go of control.The impact of postpartum body changes on confidence and identity, and how photography can help reframe these experiences.Specific techniques for cultivating self-acceptance, including affirmation strategies and mirror work.Challenging social beauty standards and learning to see yourself with compassion.How Sabrina’s personal photo session led her to niche her business and help other women transform their own self-image.The philosophy behind presenting images as a “kinder lens” compared to self-critique.Practical tips for anyone feeling critical or uncomfortable in front of a camera, starting with small steps and mindset shifts.Quote from the Episode: "This is literally looking at myself through a kinder lens than I do maybe in the mirror. And I really wanted to try to create that for other people." — Sabrina HarrisonTimestamps: [00:00:05] — Welcome & introductions; Sabrina shares where she calls home [00:00:30] — Warm-up questions on Valentine’s Day gifts and personal preferences [00:02:18] — Episode focus: the meaning behind boudoir photography and Sabrina’s story [00:02:49] — Sabrina’s roots in photography: family legacy and first camera memories [00:06:10] — The origin story: deciding to gift boudoir photos to her husband after childbirth [00:07:47] — Insights from Rumi: action creates clarity [00:11:00] — What is boudoir photography? Sabrina explains the spectrum of style and comfort [00:12:00] — Facing nerves and the reality of body image post-baby; not being documented in family photos [00:13:13] — Surrendering creative control; empathy for clients’ experience [00:16:06] — How the experience unexpectedly transformed Sabrina’s business [00:17:16] — Shedding mental baggage and embracing new self-love postpartum [00:19:15] — Common body image fears, dysmorphia, and how photography can heal [00:21:25] — Confronting “imperfections” vs. seeing yourself as you are through photos [00:24:37] — Uncovering childhood limiting beliefs and the emotional impact of being photographed [00:28:03] — The ongoing process of building confidence and putting yourself out there [00:29:49] — First impressions of seeing photos: relief, pride, and letting go of old stories [00:31:16] — From personal transformation to business niche: helping others love themselves [00:34:07] — Sabrina’s approach to client self-confidence: mirror work, neutral affirmations, and ask-formations [00:36:10] — Where to find Sabrina Harrison Photography online and details of her free confidence workshop for listeners [00:37:36] — Fun closing questions: travel tips, online shopping, and favorite low-stakes holiday moviesABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: @sabrinaharrisonphotography on InstagramIf 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 Adul

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Brittany Cano about navigating burnout, trauma, and transformation as an ICU nurse during the COVID pandemic. Based in Florida, Brittany shares her shift from hospital nursing to holistic wellness coaching. Listeners will discover insights about nervous system regulation, overcoming grief, and redefining adult identity after major life transitions.About Brittany Cano:Brittany Cano is a Holistic Nurse Coach and wellness expert with over 20 years of nursing experience and a decade of running her own holistic wellness practice. Her work was born from her personal healing journey, transforming shame, perfectionism, and self-criticism into self-compassion, embodiment, and wholeness. Drawing from her background in nursing, somatic healing, and holistic coaching, Brittany helps others reconnect with their bodies, regulate their nervous systems, and reclaim their energy and worth. She is passionate about guiding others to move beyond burnout and live in alignment with their most authentic selves.Main Topics Covered:Facing trauma and burnout as an ICU nurse in New York and Baltimore during the first wave of the COVID pandemic.Navigating cultural contrasts in pandemic response between Northeast cities and Florida.The psychological impact of working in intensive care and why teamwork and humor were survival tools.The move from traditional nursing to holistic wellness coaching—motivated by a desire to focus on prevention, longevity, and emotional well-being.Recognizing burnout through physical symptoms and exploring the deep connection between mind, body, and trauma.Using self-reflection, nervous system regulation, and somatic practices to heal and support others.Overcoming guilt and identity challenges when leaving behind a respected profession for more authentic life and work.Brittany’s approach to holistic healing: biopsychosocial-spiritual, including retreats, coaching, and innovative tools like peptide protocols.Timestamps:[00:00:07] Amy welcomes Brittany & introduces Thanksgiving leftovers conversation[00:01:46] Shifting from holiday talk to Brittany’s pandemic experience as an ICU nurse[00:02:45] Standing out moments from early COVID, patient stories, teamwork, emotional toll[00:05:03] Navigating uncertainty, hazmat suits, and contrasting pandemic cultures in Florida vs. Northeast[00:08:07] Brittany’s holistic wellness side hustle and the motivation to leave bedside nursing[00:09:43] The importance of preventative health and avoiding hospitalization[00:13:02] Early career decisions: psychology dreams, practical nursing choices, and college costs[00:15:01] Grief, personal trauma, and the healing power of holistic coaching[00:18:58] Defining “holistic”—mind, body, social, and spiritual interconnectedness in wellness[00:21:16] Brittany discovers the root of her burnout and GI symptoms, and the need for deeper healing[00:26:27] The challenge of self-awareness during burnout; learning from “rushing woman syndrome”[00:29:59] Ayahuasca experience, trauma healing, and how divine timing guided Brittany’s journey[00:33:33] How pandemic trauma reverberates for healthcare workers and all adults[00:34:28] Key choices: Slowing down, quitting alcohol, retreat to India, and leaving hospital work[00:38:22] Letting go of job identity and security blanket challenges during adult reinvention[00:44:28] Reflections on childhood grief, therapy, and what adults can do for grieving kids[00:48:28] Brittany outlines her holistic coaching offers, retreats, and peptide protocols for healing[00:51:51] Final questions: Morning routines, reading habits, and travel preferencesABOUT 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.GET BRITTANY CANO'S SPECIAL OFFER: Discover Elevated WellBeing Consult:a 45-minute holistic wellness consultation designed to help you gain clarity on what’s draining your energy and what your body truly needs to heal. You’ll receive a guided assessment and compassionate support to uncover the root causes of stress, fatigue, or imbalance. Walk away with personalized insight, practical next steps, and a clear path to elevate your wellBeing. Visit www.HolisticNurseCoaches.com to schedule.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 yo

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Colette Fehr about marriage, divorce, and the impact of family dynamics on adult relationships. Based in Orlando, Florida, Colette candidly shares her journey from growing up in a traditional, conflict-filled New York household to navigating her own early marriage, divorce, and eventual career as a couples therapist. Listeners will gain insights into how childhood experiences unconsciously shape relationship choices, why emotional disconnection—not conflict—is a leading destroyer of marriages, and how to have the difficult conversations that lead to lasting love.About Colette Fehr:Colette Jane Fehr is a licensed psychotherapist and nationally recognized relationship expert. She’s the author of The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations That Create Secure, Lasting Love, coming out February 2026 from Putnam and Penguin Random House. Colette co-hosts the hit podcast Insights from the Couch: Real Talk for Women at Midlife and Love Thy Neighbor: The Relationship Show, and her TEDx talk Secrets of a Couples Therapist was selected as a TED Editors’ Pick.Main Topics Covered:How childhood family dynamics, including loud conflict and divorce, shape unconscious patterns in adult relationships and marriageThe myth that successful relationships are free of conflict, and why learning to handle conflict constructively is essentialColette’s experience of getting married young, going through divorce, and raising children—often counter to her peer group’s expectationsThe societal and generational stigmas around divorce, especially for women, and why leaving can be the healthiest choiceThe journey from “good girl” people-pleasing and self-abandonment to finding one’s voice and boundaries in relationshipsRecognizing fawning and people-pleasing as trauma responses—and the path to unlearning them for healthier loveThe importance of seeking skilled, specialized couples therapy (including discernment counseling) and not all therapists are equally equippedColette’s book "The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations That Create Secure, Lasting Love," with practical tools for women to confidently express their needsQuote from the Episode: "The number one factor that destroys relationships is emotional disconnection. Not arguing, not having differences, not even infidelity. It’s disconnection." — Colette FehrTimestamps: [00:00:06] Introduction and guest welcome; Colette shares her New Yorker roots and years in Orlando, Florida[00:00:43] What Colette loves about Orlando: eternal sunshine and multiculturalism[00:01:02] Introducing today’s topic: marriage and divorce[00:01:21] Colette’s personal history: two marriages, one divorce[00:01:45] Early marriage story—married at 24, divorced at 31, balancing motherhood and changing social circles[00:04:13] How parents’ marriage and conflict modeled relationship dynamics for Colette[00:06:51] The myth of “no conflict” in healthy relationships and the real importance of constructive communication[00:08:37] How Colette’s childhood influenced her career choice as a therapist[00:10:55] The cultural stigma of divorce in Irish Catholic New York during the 1980s[00:13:01] Research on divorce: why co-parenting quality, not marital status, predicts child well-being[00:15:07] Divorce as a part of social change: women initiating divorce and the evolving expectations of marriage[00:16:55] How early family wounds and societal narratives unconsciously shaped Colette’s partner choice[00:18:32] Unpacking the unconscious versus lessons learned only through experience[00:21:01] The “representative” self in courtship versus the reality of living together[00:22:14] Colette’s road to becoming a couples therapist after a bad counseling experience[00:27:43] The pitfalls of seeking therapy only at the “brink of divorce” and losing one’s voice in marriage[00:28:44] People-pleasing, trauma, fawning, and self-abandonment explained[00:31:51] Strategies to shift from survival (fawning) to authentic communication[00:32:15] Who Colette told first about her decision to divorce, and the resulting social fallout[00:34:31] Colette’s professional platforms: her podcasts, radio presence, TEDx talk, and new bookColette’s TedX Talk can be found here:https://youtu.be/8tSUOB2yEd0?si=XdHPdEwuSJeyzkRvWebsite: https://www.insightsfromthecouch.org/Book: The Cost of Quiet https://bookshop.org/a/87491/9780593852743ABOUT 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 experienc

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Holly Bot about the dramatic realities of incarceration, stigma, and transformation following a prison sentence. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Holly shares her deeply personal story of serving eight years in prison, the personal and social challenges she faced, and the path toward self-forgiveness and growth. The conversation explores how shame, desperation, and loneliness can lead to life-altering decisions—and how humility, faith, and compassion became central to Holly’s journey beyond incarceration.Holly Bot is a speaker, author and IT professional living in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Above all she treasures her roles as wife and mother. She is the author of From Surviving to Living, a memoir of her prison experiences.Main Topics Covered:The hidden realities and emotional shock of the criminal justice process, from arrest to sentencing to prison life.Generational and cultural stigma around women, motherhood, and criminal behavior—and its ripple effects on family and identity.Mental health, burnout, and the consequences of isolation, particularly for mothers and caregivers in crisis.How shame, secrecy, and lack of support can escalate risky decisions—and what ignoring “red flags” can look like in real life.The complex, lasting stigma of being labeled a felon or sex offender, including public perception and daily-life limitations post-release.Holly’s revelations in self-identity, humility, and personal growth through faith while incarcerated.The role of compassion—for oneself and others—when reckoning with past mistakes and striving to help others avoid similar pain.Candid discussion of re-entry into society, employment challenges, and creating hope for those affected by incarceration.Quote from the Episode:“I created my most worst nightmare and then was forced to live it out. The stigma is real. I think that any prison sentence is a life sentence, even if you only served a year on the facility, because you are a felon forever.” — Holly BotTimestamps: [00:00:05] Warm-up questions and introduction; Holly’s home in Minneapolis[00:01:14] Setup of today’s dramatic conversation about incarceration[00:02:07] Holly explains the lead-up and facts about her crime and sentencing[00:06:39] Life before prison: family background, isolation, and mounting emotional stress[00:12:53] Examining the motivations, confusion, and factors leading to life-altering choices[00:18:43] The power of loneliness and unmet validation; lack of support network[00:23:42] How desire to be seen and desperate problem-solving played into criminal behavior[00:27:02] What prison was really like for women in Minnesota[00:30:41] Finding humility, faith, and inner change during incarceration[00:37:01] Stigma, public shame, and how Holly’s crimes affected her children and family[00:43:07] Lasting consequences of a felony conviction and life post-release[00:46:13] Employment, transparency, and reintegration into the community[00:48:27] Why Holly wrote her book—to give others hope earlier in the healing process[00:51:13] Compassion, self-forgiveness, and understanding others’ pain[00:52:19] Book information and a special offer for listeners[00:53:06] The final three rapid-fire questions—morning routines, online shopping, and lottery dreamsABOUT 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.GET Holly’s Book: From Surviving to Living https://bookshop.org/a/87491/9781257952328If 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.comIf you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.cap

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Lindsey Tague about the realities and transformations of embracing a full-time nomadic lifestyle. Based out of New York but self-described as a true global citizen, Lindsey shares her journey from corporate burnout to launching a freelance business and ultimately untethering herself from a traditional home. Listeners will gain honest insights into the logistics, myths, emotional shifts, and practicalities of going nomadic, including how Lindsey balanced work, travel, safety concerns, and building a remote community.About Lindsey Tague :Lindsey Tague is a freelance content marketing consultant, brand storyteller, Substack creator of "A Life By Design", and a full-time digital nomad currently based in Mexico City. My passion besides latin dancing is to inspire others to break free from the matrix to discover what their life by design looks like.Main Topics Covered:Breaking free from corporate burnout and launching a location-independent freelance business.Overcoming fears, family risk narratives, and the myths around solo travel for women.The critical importance of connecting to one’s “why” when setting (and sustaining) ambitious life goals.Step-by-step logistics of transitioning from a stable home base to global nomadism: moving out, purging belongings, managing storage, and letting go of a car.Navigating finances, location choices, and the realities of working while traveling abroad—especially the time zone challenge between US and Europe.Methods for building connection and finding community on the road—Facebook expat groups, WhatsApp chats, and hostel culture.Evolving travel rhythms: shifting from rapid destination hopping to longer stays and considering where to potentially “set down roots.”The creation and philosophy behind Lindsey’s “Life by Design” substack, and her new offer to help other women build their own sustainable nomadic lifestyles.Quote from the Episode: "You cannot plan this lifestyle. Even just the transition, the leap... you can say, I’ll pick where I want to go and for how long, but the logistics and figuring things out, you don’t know what it’s going to be like until you’re there." — Lindsey TagueTimestamps: [00:00:06] Introduction & Lindsey’s nomadic definition of “home” [00:01:03] Lindsey’s strategy for sticking with big goals—connecting to “why” [00:02:14] Origin of the travel dream and decision-making process [00:05:41] Leaving corporate, working at a startup, and burnout triggers [00:08:32] Laid off, starting a freelance business, and monetizing skills [00:12:24] Pandemic timeline, moving out, and managing belongings [00:14:45] Logistics: purging, storage unit, selling furniture, and handling a car [00:19:06] Anticipated myths and fears, especially about safety and money [00:21:19] First step: solo travel to Tulum, Mexico, and lessons learned [00:23:44] Work-life balance and time zone tips for digital nomads [00:29:13] Building community while traveling—Facebook groups, WhatsApp, and hostels [00:32:22] Shifting travel rhythms and the search for belonging [00:34:25] Lindsey’s evolution: freelance business, substack, and new coaching offer [00:37:40] Rapid fire: making new places feel homey, travel hacks, and favorite books [00:41:31] Closing thoughts and where to find Lindsey’s resources and special offerFind Lindsey Tague on Substack: https://lindseytague.substack.com/p/a-life-by-design-and-what-five-yearsABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: Find Lindsey Tague on Substack: https://lindseytague.substack.com/p/a-life-by-design-and-what-five-yearsIf 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 offe

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Mary Alice Stephens about her journey from high-functioning alcoholic housewife to sobriety and self-acceptance. Based in Marin County, California, Mary Alice Stephens shares candid reflections on growing up in a family with a deep culture of drinking, how alcohol shaped her adult social and professional life, and the pivotal moment that led to quitting for good. This conversation is packed with insights for anyone sober-curious, struggling with social anxiety, or navigating recovery—highlighting the emotional transformation and lasting inner peace Mary Alice discovered on the other side of addiction.Mary Alice Stephens is a creative nonfiction storyteller. A former television writer-producer for HGTV, Food Network, and other media outlets, Mary shares her powerful story of alcoholism, recovery, and starting life anew at 45 in her debut book, Uncorked: A Memoir of Letting Go and Starting Over, which was an Amazon #1 new release in both alcoholism recovery and midlife self-help. She earned her Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from Dominican University of California and lives in Northern California.Main Topics Covered:Family dynamics and the impact of generational drinking culture on identity.The connection between alcohol use and social anxiety, especially in adolescent and young adult years.Why high-functioning alcoholism often goes unseen and unaddressed.The emotional patterns underlying compulsive drinking and attempts to “fit in.”How motherhood, social circles, “wine o’clock” culture, and marketing influence women’s relationship with alcohol.The myth of needing alcohol for fun, relaxation, and connection.Breaking through denial: recognizing the “noise” and compulsion around drinking.Mary Alice’s turning point—her emotional “bottom” moment—and the first steps she took towards sobriety.The role of AA, supportive friendships, and the shift to genuine self-acceptance.What life after drinking really looks like: socializing, cravings, and building authentic peace.Quote from the Episode: "It was the first time that I thought quitting would bring relief." — Mary Alice StephensTimestamps: [00:00:05] Welcome and intro; Mary Alice’s Marin County roots[00:00:55] Mary Alice’s approach to planning and organization; past career as a producer[00:01:29] The fabric of family drinking—Irish Catholic traditions and first encounters with alcohol[00:03:54] Family sobriety “lore,” exposure to addiction, and role models[00:05:06] Alcohol as a social coping strategy—high school, college, TV & advertising industry culture[00:07:21] Early awareness of problem drinking; risky behavior and denial[00:08:26] Serious consequences: breaking her back while drinking abroad, denial, and hiding issues[00:09:35] The “happy drunk” vs. other archetypes, and why her habits flew under the radar[00:11:28] Drinking as self-medication—connection, anxiety reduction, grief, loneliness[00:13:24] Childhood social anxiety, disconnection, and perceptions of ease in others[00:16:37] Facing what quitting means—social isolation, mom groups, and the grip of habit[00:21:18] Emotional bottom: blackout in front of kids and the decision to quit[00:23:53] Turning to AA and finding help through community[00:25:00] Understanding alcoholism as compulsion and internal noise[00:27:16] Double standards and gender roles—women, moms, and the marketing of alcohol[00:30:19] The real first step towards sober living[00:32:23] Relief and internal transformation—moving away from shame, anxiety, and mom judgment[00:33:31] Life after alcohol—socializing, cravings, what changes[00:34:46] Favorite sober beverages and handling social situations[00:36:46] Comparing 2010 drinking days to life now—contentment and inner peace[00:38:25] Mary Alice’s book, memoir details, and listener special offer[00:39:25] Fun lightning round—potluck dish, favorite books, self-care splurges, and final goodbyesFree copy of the book to the first person who messages Mary at her instagram account. @maryalicestephenswritesABOUT 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. Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring th

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with D'Layne Benson about navigating burnout, self-abandonment, and the transformative power of breathwork for overwhelmed women. D'Layne shares her journey from the ski resort town of Haley, Idaho, highlighting the impact of over-functioning as a nurse, the emotional toll of family demands, and the personal reckoning brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. This conversation is packed with actionable insight on nervous system regulation, finding joy, and creating boundaries—key lessons for anyone feeling stretched too thin.D'Layne Benson is a former nurse turned nurse coach and breathwork facilitator, devoted to helping perfectionist, people-pleasing, and overachieving women move from overwhelm to balance, joy, and self-acceptance. Based in Idaho, she draws on her own experience of burnout, family caregiving, and personal growth to support women in uncovering their patterns and building tailored strategies for healing. D'Layne offers both group breathwork classes and one-to-one coaching, specializing in trauma-informed, transformative methods for nervous system regulation.Main Topics Covered:Caring for others vs. caring for yourself: How self-abandonment develops and shows up in high-achieving womenThe realities of burnout as a nurse in rural and pandemic-era IdahoUnderstanding the freeze response and nervous system dysregulation beyond “fight or flight”Breaking patterns of people-pleasing and perfectionism, especially at midlifeThe intersection of personal upheaval (career, health, family illness) and hormonal changes (perimenopause)How breathwork can foster insight, healing, and tangible emotional releaseSteps for moving from overwhelm to joy: list-making, boundaries, and intentional transitionsThe value of finding fun, building presence, and redefining achievement beyond productivityQuote from the Episode: "I was trying to control my husband, I was trying to control my stepson, I was helicopter momming him, I was trying to control my in-laws, I was trying to control my parents. I was trying to control every aspect of life. ... While I felt the control was giving me safety, it was actually the thing that was keeping me from living a beautiful life and thriving." — D'Layne BensonTimestamps: [00:00:06] Welcome to The Art of Imperfect Adulting; D'Layne’s Idaho mountain home[00:01:21] Motivation and how to find the fun in tough projects[00:02:55] List-making, overwhelm, and the power of single-task focus[00:05:33] Life before the pandemic: nursing, family setup, and being “the rock”[00:09:44] Family relationships: husband’s brain injuries, stepson, and self-development[00:14:13] Everything collapsing: pandemic stress, family illness, perimenopause[00:19:34] Why nursing and “helping” became an identity; childhood patterns of achievement and abandonment[00:26:50] Freeze response explained: hidden anxiety in high-performing women[00:32:11] Journey to breathwork: when self-help shifted from helping others to herself[00:39:29] Breakthrough in breathwork: realizing control and safety patterns[00:43:11] Explaining transformative breathwork vs. “just taking a deep breath”[00:47:34] What life looks like now: presence, intention, and happiness after transformation[00:51:27] D'Layne’s current work, virtual breathwork classes, and where to find her[00:54:24] Special listener offer: free live breathwork class (code: imperfectadulting)[00:54:10] Final lightning round: streaming apps, grocery cravings, best social media buy[00:56:06] Closing thank you and reflection on the episodeABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: [Guest Name]'s website and social media linksGET D’Layne Benson’s SPECIAL OFFER: Free Virtual Transformative Breathwork Class Use code IMPERFECTADULTING at checkout to join one live breathwork class of your choice — completely free. https://linktr.ee/dlaynebensonwellness?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=16708a11-6fed-4dc3-a19c-a46b7ad33c66Join the conversation on social. Find the Art of Imperfect Adulting on Instagram @theartof_imperfect_adulting YouTube @imperfectadulting and TikTok @imperfectadultingIf 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 inv

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Joanna Lilley about supporting young adults who are struggling in college and navigating transitional moments in early adulthood. Joanna, based in Traverse City, Michigan, shares her experience as a therapeutic consultant working with students who step away from college, as well as the challenges faced by their parents. Joanna offers actionable insights for parents navigating this stage, highlights the developmental shifts in emerging adulthood, and discusses her journey from higher education to entrepreneurship.About Joanna Lilley: Since 2016, Lilley Consulting has been helping young adults (18+) find mental health, substance use, and wellness resources.  Joanna dedicates herself to working solely with emerging adults who unravel in college or aren’t thriving in adulthood. She also hosts the “Success is Subjective” podcast, which can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio.Main Topics Covered:The realities and pressures facing college students—including mental health, substance use, and identity formation.Why stepping away from college isn't a failure, and how families can reframe this experience for growth.The impact of technology and social media on young adult connection, comparison, and wellbeing.How parents can support their young adults with boundaries, communication, and community—especially when navigating house rules and independence.Joanna’s story: The pivotal moment when a student asked for direct help and how it led her to launch her consulting practice.Why stigma, secrecy, and “highlight reel” culture make it difficult for families to seek support when young adults struggle.The business side of helping families: Joanna’s role as a therapeutic consultant, speaking to both parents and young adults as distinct clients.The importance of community for parents of young adults—resources, vulnerability, and how to find safe spaces.Quote from the Episode: “It really begins with a reflection. Last year, how did things go? What are the areas that I want to work on? ... It starts with the reflection first and foremost to get that baseline and then identify kind of the visioning for change for the future.”— Joanna LilleyTimestamps: [00:00:06] Amy greets Joanna Lilley, who calls Traverse City, Michigan home. [00:01:19] Joanna discusses her approach to fresh starts rooted in self-reflection. [00:02:39] Joanna explains her former role as a college success coach and involvement in a suspension deferral program for students with substance issues. [00:04:37] Joanna describes her non-linear path into higher ed and passion for supporting young adults. [00:09:58] Joanna defines her current practice: helping “stepping away” college students—and why college isn’t for everyone. [00:12:21] The perfect storm facing today’s young adults: autonomy, connection, and the impact of tech and social media. [00:19:35] Tips for parents: shifting to a “parenting young adults” mindset, setting collaborative house rules. [00:23:50] The vulnerability and isolation of parents whose children struggle; finding supportive communities. [00:25:29] Joanna’s “lightning bolt” moment—helping a student who had been suspended and how institutional limitations inspired her business model. [00:31:01] Joanna navigates the intersection of service and entrepreneurship, helping parents and young adults. [00:39:20] Joanna’s official business description, what therapeutic consulting looks like, and how to get in touch. [00:41:26] Fun Questions: Joanna shares her passion for metalsmithing and a joyful home improvement. [00:44:29] Closing thanks and episode wrap-up.Connect with the guest: https://lilleyconsulting.com/ 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 lin

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Penny Rose about the wild adventure of downsizing, embracing nomadic living, and designing a work-life balance fueled by intention and financial freedom. Penny shares her journey from a packed 1,640 square foot “sticks-and-bricks” house to 250 square feet on wheels, revealing the joys, logistical hurdles, and inner mindset shifts that paved the way for her and her husband’s life on the road.About the Guest:Penny is a CPA who helps multi-six-figure creative business owners gain financial confidence, make fearless decisions, and unlock the freedom they crave. Her journey began not in a business school, but in a high-stakes, freedom-limiting career as a forensic accountant at the FBI. While chained to a traditional office, she knew that to achieve true location and time freedom, she had to build a bulletproof financial system for her own remote business. She successfully created that system, and it became her escape plan.Main Topics Covered:Why Penny and her husband downsized and chose the RV lifestyle—including insurance headaches and financial motivations.The planning, mindset, and logistical challenges of letting go of stuff, brick-and-mortar commitments, and local ties.Emotional resilience in the face of change and feedback from friends/community.The nuts and bolts of RV living: creating new traditions, maintaining community remotely, and the realities of “traveling too fast.”Domiciling in Florida and the tax/legal intricacies for nomads and creators.How Penny’s business “Penny in Your Pocket” supports influencers and travel creators with sound financial strategy—and her new micro podcast and online course for beginners.Quote from the Episode:“We obviously weren't using our space for very much besides storing stuff, stuff that we couldn't even get to... Once I met someone, I'm not only maintaining contact, I'm growing the community as I meet more people.” — Penny RoseTimestamps: [00:00:05] Welcome & where Penny calls home (Orlando, FL—and half the year on the road)[00:01:11] New Year’s traditions and Jeep culture[00:02:43] First RV night: breaking free at the end of 2019[00:03:26] Dreaming, planning, and facing “sticks and bricks” hassles[00:07:52] Financial and emotional motivation for hitting the road[00:09:00] How much stuff? Merging homes and the problem of “too much”[00:10:59] Cutting other ties—work, clubs, church, and setting a departure deadline[00:13:23] Early retirement timing and the role of benefits[00:17:12] Downsizing method and COVID-era logistics; avoiding the storage unit trap[00:20:13] Emotional vs. logistical challenge of letting go[00:22:59] Community response: safety concerns, admiration, and surprise[00:26:41] RV travel rhythm: “living” vs. “touristing,” building connection across states[00:31:13] Domiciling 101: Florida, Texas, South Dakota, and tax homes[00:34:43] Maintaining community online and in-person as a nomad[00:37:56] Boundaries while working and traveling; not “traveling too fast”[00:41:01] RV park favorites and growing new traditions[00:43:58] How Penny’s work supports creators staying on the road[00:46:53] Penny’s new micro podcast and online course for influencer finances[00:51:31] Favorite RV kitchen gadget—a countertop dishwasher![00:53:27] Podcast recommendation: Ramit Sethi’s Money for Couples[00:54:14] What makes RV life “homey”: a cherished quilt from Penny’s grandmotherConnect with the Guest:Website: https://pennyinyourpocketcpa.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.

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Laura Ericson about the bold journey of leaving a secure career to build an adventurous life and business around world travel. From her base in Eau Claire, Wisconsin (when she's actually home!), Laura details her transformation from director at a technical college to the founder of a thriving group travel company, designing immersive cultural experiences for curious adults. Listeners will walk away inspired by Laura’s candid perspective on divorce, navigating uncertainty, and the practicalities (and emotion) of starting over to pursue a more aligned and exciting life.About Laura Ericson:Laura Ericson is the founder of Laura Ericson Group Trips, a boutique travel company specializing in transformational experiences to off-the-beaten-path destinations like Morocco, India, Kenya, and Cuba. After spending 14 years in higher education leadership, she made the leap to entrepreneurship at 34, turning her post-divorce wanderlust into a business that has taken over 230 travelers to 9 countries. Laura believes in "Type 2 Fun"—those experiences that might suck in the moment but become your best stories later—and is passionate about responsible travel that gives back to local communities. She lives in Wisconsin (yes, really) and has a concerning habit of getting travel tattoos in foreign countries despite swearing she won't after each one.Main Topics Covered:Rethinking New Year’s resolutions: why personal growth isn’t tied to the calendar.The realities and misconceptions of technical colleges vs. four-year universities—and the impact on careers and debt.How divorce, solo travel, and the pandemic sparked Laura’s business transformation.Recognizing when you’re “playing it safe” in life—and how to awaken your adventurous spirit.The emotional process of leaving a secure job for entrepreneurial uncertainty.Overcoming fear: taking real steps (not just dreaming) toward career change.Building community and belonging for solo travelers craving authentic, meaningful adventure.Tangible travel hacks for life on the road—from luggage scales to navigating lost bags.Quote from the Episode: “A lot of people who get divorced, like, see it as the end of their life. I see it as the end of your life as you know it and the opportunity to start over.” — Laura EricsonTimestamps: [00:00:06] Welcome & Laura’s rare appearance at home in Eau Claire, WI[00:00:35] New Year’s resolutions and perpetual goal-setting[00:02:29] Laura’s 14-year career in higher education and the decision to leave[00:03:42] The gap between studying and career path; value of technical college[00:13:21] Major life change: divorce, personal transition, and the pandemic’s impact[00:18:38] Rediscovering adventure through solo travel—and launching a group travel business[00:33:08] The logistics and fear of quitting a stable job[00:35:03] The power of the “decision moment” in career change[00:41:20] Starting a business with nothing but a passion for travel[00:46:36] What Laura Ericson Group Trips is—and who it serves[00:49:29] Favorite travel hacks, books, podcasts, and travel mishapsJoin 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 Lesley Jones about the journey of ditching alcohol and embracing sobriety without waiting for a traditional "rock bottom." Lesley offers candid insights on redefining what it means to have a problem with drinking, the invisible emotional battles behind high-functioning adulthood, and how choosing sobriety has transformed her sense of peace and purpose. The episode provides real strategies for navigating social situations as a non-drinker and explores the power of community support, including Lesley's own work building connections through storytelling.About Lesley Jones: Lesley Jones lives in Dayton, Ohio where she is a wife, mother or 3, writer and entrepreneur. She filled up with cocktails for a very long time, and now she fills up with connection. Lesley is the founder of Traveling Pendants, a jewelry-plus-tech company built on the belief that no one should feel alone in their journey. What began as a simple pendant passed among family members during times of illness has grown into a patent-pending digital storytelling platform where every pendant holds real stories of strength, resilience, and connection. Each time a pendant is worn and shared, its story log grows—creating a living chain of human connection.Main Topics Covered:Redefining "rock bottom" and why waiting for loss is a misconception in recovery.The role of New Year's resolutions and personal motivation in lasting change.Recognizing the emotional and mental weight of addiction—even in high-functioning lives.Sober curiosity, societal judgments, and shifting cultural norms around drinking.Strategies for handling anxiety and stress without substances.Navigating social situations and relationships while staying alcohol-free.The importance of support communities, connection, and sharing your story.Lesley’s entrepreneurial journey: creating Traveling Pendants to foster strength and connection.Quote from the Episode: "I always say quit before you lose because I hate losing. So I did the quitting before I did the losing." — Lesley JonesTimestamps: [00:00:04] Welcome & Lesley’s Ohio roots [00:00:38] New Year's resolutions and how they sparked Lesley's sobriety journey [00:01:53] Discussing the January cultural “reset” and indulgence cycles [00:03:09] Early relationship with alcohol, experimenting with sobriety, and family context [00:05:19] Breaking down the “rock bottom” myth and personal definitions of loss [00:07:05] Misconceptions that keep people stuck and the invisible cost of shame [00:08:38] Making the choice before crisis—internal motivation versus societal expectation [00:10:27] The danger of comparing drinking habits, self-negotiation, and feeling out of control [00:13:01] The mental energy devoted to planning and thinking about drinking [00:14:01] Parallels between food noise, invisible struggles, and substance habits [00:16:07] Why early change leads to easier recovery (“stage zero” analogy) [00:17:46] Why some people with extensive losses may still struggle to quit [00:19:51] Lesley’s turning point: community support and the “not yet” lesson [00:22:45] Reframing sobriety support as a positive group experience [00:25:11] Practical strategies for sober socializing and beverage choices [00:27:43] How sobriety transformed Lesley’s inner life, anxiety, and relationships [00:31:10] Connection between quitting drinking and reduced anxiety [00:33:27] Compassion, motivation, and the underlying drivers of addiction [00:34:45] Shame, invisible struggles, and the cost of high-functioning addiction [00:36:17] Lesley’s vulnerable story of using alcohol to cope with anxiety as a teen athlete [00:40:22] About Traveling Pendants: fostering connection and story-sharing for strength [00:42:03] Special offer for listeners: Traveling Pendants discount [00:43:33] Rapid fire fun questions: morning routines, favorite podcasts/books, and teen bedroom postersSpecial offer for podcast listeners 20% off entire purchase at www.travelingpendants.com Use the code Imperfect to get that deal.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? Jo

Happy New Year from your host, Amy Stone. This is a short introduction to season 2 of The Art of Imperfect Adulting. The purpose of this new short audio trailer is to wake up your podcast feed and let the robots know that new episodes are coming soon. Yay for technology! The mission of the show as we begin 2026 is to amplify voices of individual experience. Fresh and fun interviews coming up next.

Amy Stone, host of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, wraps up her milestone year with episode #178, reflecting on launching the show in January 2025sharing honest lessons learned as a creator in the world of imperfect adulting and personal growth.Topics Amy babbles about in this episode include:• Amy’s heartfelt gratitude for listeners, supporters, and guests—plus a special shoutout to her running buddy Pepe• Behind-the-scenes recap: Amy shares top episodes (Devon Adrian, Jane Epstein), unexpected growth, and podcast milestones• Real talk: Honest reflections on guest feedback, bloopers (like the infamous misspelled name and broken Apple Podcasts link), and what it’s really like running every part of the show herself • Behind-the-scenes insights on finding community, guest surveys, and what’s next as she builds her production team.📧 Join Amy's email list for the real inside scoop: This is where Amy shares what she's working on, where she'll be, and how to work with her www.imperfectadulting.com🎧 If you're looking for the audio podcast you can find links here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/listen💭 What’s the biggest imperfect lesson you learned this year? Drop your thoughts below!#ImperfectAdulting #PodcastBehindTheScenes #RealStories #PersonalGrowth #LifeTransitions #WomenCreators

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Austin, Texas-based Megan Okonsky about the realities of letting go of “dream plans,” adulting without a roadmap, and how turning disappointment into adventure can lead to unexpected personal and professional rewards. Megan shares her journey from college graduation and Peace Corps rejection to two years of solo international travel, eventually making a home and career.About the Guest:Megan Okonsky is a professional ghostwriter specializing in memoirs and business books. After pivoting from a degree in public relations and missing out on her Peace Corps dream, Megan spent her early 20s traveling solo through Europe, Southeast Asia, Australia, and South America, all while building her writing career. Her work now helps entrepreneurs and everyday heroes share their stories with the world.Main Topics Covered:Facing rejection and disappointment after college graduationApplying to the Peace Corps and adapting when plans don’t work outSolo travel: Couchsurfing, working abroad, and building resourcefulnessProfound shifts that come with life on the road—and choosing to come homeStarting a freelance writing career on Upwork, turning travel experiences into professional growthThe realities and safety considerations of solo travel, especially for womenHow Megan became a ghostwriter, what ghostwriting involves, and why sharing stories mattersThe importance of community, support systems, and self-discovery in early adulthoodQuote from the Episode:“I decided after two years that I didn’t want to do all of this alone anymore. … I wanted a community. I wanted people to share the memories with.” — Megan OkonskyTimestamps: [00:00:06] Welcome & intros; Megan’s home base and holiday travel talk[00:03:33] Megan’s Peace Corps dream—where it came from[00:06:53] Navigating college and career indecision[00:12:29] Peace Corps rejection and grappling with an uncertain future[00:18:34] How travel became the new plan—finances, flights, and backpacking[00:24:44] Summer trip turns into two years abroad: couchsurfing, hostels, and working[00:34:58] Moving home, searching for community, and planning for the future[00:36:37] Solo travel safety, challenges, and lessons learned[00:45:32] Megan’s ghostwriting career—what she does and who she helps[00:49:56] Lightning round: favorite meal, book recommendation, and running shoesSpecial Offer from the Guest:Megan is offering a complimentary 30-minute discovery call to podcast listeners interested in memoir or business ghostwriting. Mention TAOIA when you book via her website at https://www.meganokonsky.com  for priority scheduling.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/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 Los Angeles- based Missy Toy Ozeas about the transformative journey from people-pleasing and hiding one’s true self to embracing intuition and stepping fully into a new life purpose. Missy shares her story of leaving a decades-long television career after a powerful intuitive message, the challenges of honoring inner guidance after a lifetime of masking, and how synchronistic events shaped her new path as a healer helping others break through limiting beliefs.About the Guest:Missy Toy Ozeas is a highly skilled energy healer and intuitive channel dedicated to helping visionary leaders and change-makers step into their full power by releasing limiting beliefs, trapped emotions, and generational patterns.As an intuitive guide with certifications in the Emotion Code, Body Code, Belief Code, spiritual life coaching and more, Missy has led thousands of sessions helping people live the lives they’ve always dreamed of. Her clients include wellness coaches, entrepreneurs, artists, Hollywood creatives and more.Main Topics Covered:Navigating midlife transitions—career burnout, empty nesting, and “the shoulds” of adulthoodHearing an intuitive message and unraveling lifelong patterns of people-pleasing and maskingThe role of meditation and self-inquiry in discovering one’s true pathOvercoming the fear of judgment from family and communityWhat energy healing really means—from a practical and scientific perspectiveUnderstanding synchronicity and following signs toward purposeful changeWorking with beliefs, intuition, and inherited energy to achieve breakthroughsThe challenges and gifts of coming out as an intuitive and healer after a conventional upbringingQuote from the Episode: "I think that we often ignore it’s like the little itch, that little thing. Because...the universe is always wanting us to expand and to grow. I mean, life is about growing and expanding. And if we’re not doing that, it will start small, like, hey, Missy, you know, check something else out...But if I’m not listening, if I’m not taking action, it’s going to get louder and it’s going to get louder." — Missy Toy OzeasTimestamps: [00:00:04] Welcoming Missy Toy Ozeas & where she calls home[00:00:46] The “shoulds” and the pressures of the holiday season[00:01:47] Hearing the voice: “You are a healer”[00:04:49] How intuition showed up—clairvoyance, not clairaudience[00:05:27] What life looked like before the shift—career in TV, motherhood[00:07:54] Childhood dreams & hiding parts of her identity[00:12:23] Growing up Chinese American in a white neighborhood; learning to mask[00:18:50] The impact of hearing the voice and what changed next[00:21:25] Synchronicities & finding her first energy healing teacher[00:22:50] What is an energy healer? Explaining energy fields, beliefs, and her work[00:27:19] Client stories about inherited beliefs and breakthroughs[00:28:01] The reaction from family, friends, and community[00:29:58] What Missy does today & ways to connect[00:31:55] Rapid fire: favorite food, moon colonies, and driving[00:33:59] ClosingSpecial Offer from the Guest:Unlocking Abundance - $190.  Unlocking Abundance is a self-paced program that helps you release hidden energetic blocks and rewire limiting beliefs so you can confidently attract more wealth, freedom, and joy into your life.  For your listeners I'm offering 50% off the price of the program.  (It will be $95 with the discount.) Use the code IMPERFECT at checkout.  Here is the direct link to the Unlocking Abundance sales page:  https://www.missyenergyhealing.com/UnlockingAbundanceNote 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 FMWebs

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Texas-based Claudette Fette about raising her son Aaron through schizoaffective disorder, the complexities of finding proper support, and the painful realities of imperfect systems and desperate decisions. This frank, compassionate conversation explores multi-generational trauma, the struggle for diagnosis, and the human side of surviving—and learning from—the unexpected path of parenting a child with serious mental illness.About the Guest:Claudette Fette is an occupational therapist, university lecturer, and lived-experience mental health advocate based in North Texas. After decades spent navigating systems for her son Aaron, Claudette became committed to sharing their story and promoting evidence-based approaches in both family and school settings. She is co-author of "No Saints Here: A Cautionary Tale of Mental Health, Illness and the Cost of Ignorance in the Lone Star State," a memoir written with Aaron chronicling their struggles, lessons, and hope.Quote from the Episode:"Guilt is not as useful. So if it does something, if it helps motivate me to get Aaron's story out there and talk about things in public that I wouldn't otherwise want to have talked about, then it is useful. If it doesn't motivate something that helps, can you really afford it?" — Claudette FetteMain Topics Covered:Raising a child with schizoaffective disorder and multi-layered traumaHow lack of resources and inadequate systems lead families to extreme decisionsThe impact of early childhood adversity, school struggles, and misdiagnosisWhy behavioral approaches can be harmful when mistaken for mental illnessThe realities of abusive residential treatment programs and lost trustThe power of wraparound services, restorative justice, and strength-based modelsNavigating judgment, isolation, and the need for supportive family networksLessons for advocacy, compassion, and building mental health literacyTimestamps:[00:00:07] Welcome and Claudette’s home in North Texas[00:01:10] Holiday challenges for big families[00:02:07] Aaron’s story: early adversity, childhood hallucinations, and lack of parental readiness[00:06:01] Schizoaffective disorder diagnosis and unique challenges in school[00:16:31] Resource scarcity and "moving for specialized care"[00:17:20] Early behavioral challenges vs. underlying mental illness[00:25:04] Misdiagnosis and medical pathways: ADHD to acute residential care[00:31:51] Straight—abusive institutional “treatment” and the aftermath[00:35:16] Aaron living on the streets and “hopping trains”[00:41:23] Magical thinking: what would have helped[00:47:15] Isolation, judgment, and coping as a parent[00:50:49] Sharing Aaron and Claudette’s story through their book[00:58:35] Claudette’s personal life, entertainment, and ideal vacationSpecial Offer from the Guest:Claudette invites listeners to explore her and Aaron’s book, "No Saints Here," offering authentic, practical insight into family mental health. For podcast listeners, she extends an offer to connect and share resources, stories, and support. Order on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/a/87491/9781965766064Note 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 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 place

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