Unapologetically Wild with Mary Giordano

There's a quiet lie running through so many women's lives. It doesn't sound dangerous. It sounds reasonable. Responsible, even. It sounds like: I'll start when things settle down. After this busy season. Once there's a little more time. In this episode I'm talking about the most dangerous sentence women say to themselves every single day, and why breaking that pattern has very little to do with motivation and everything to do with what you actually believe you're capable of. I'm getting into the three disguises "later" wears and why they're so hard to see through. I'm talking about what the waiting is actually costing you - not in theory, but in real time, in real years. And I'm sharing my own story of spending two years talking myself out of leaving nursing, watching three months turn into eight, and finally making a decision before I was ready, because the waiting was costing me more than the risk. If you've been deferring the thing that keeps showing up in your head at 11pm when the house is quiet, this episode is for you. 🎧 Inside this episode: Why "I'll do it later" is a belief problem, not a scheduling problem The three disguises later wears - responsibility, preparation, and comfort What the waiting is actually costing you Why high functioning women in midlife are especially vulnerable to this pattern Why confidence comes from doing, not from feeling ready Three micro-actions to start breaking the pattern this week 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Check out my Women's Group Trips Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode resonated, send it to a woman who needs to hear it. And message me on IG, tell me what's the one thing you've been putting off the longest. Until next time, Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Listen Again: This episode resonated deeply with listeners the first time it aired, and with so many new listeners joining the show, it felt like a good time to bring it back. Ever catch yourself thinking something like, “I’d love to do that… but I’m not enough”? Not capable enough. Not confident enough. Not ready enough. Most women never say that fear out loud, but it quietly shapes a lot of decisions. It shows up in the opportunities we pass on, the experiences we delay, and the versions of life we assume are meant for someone else. In this episode, we’re unpacking that story. I talk about where the “not enough” narrative actually comes from, how it shows up in everyday decisions, and why waiting to feel ready often keeps women stuck far longer than they realize. Because confidence doesn’t show up first. It shows up after you move. If you’ve ever stood at the edge of something you want and wondered whether you’re capable of it, this conversation is for you. P.S. My Thailand 2.0 2026 women’s group trip just launched (2 early bird spots) If you’ve been craving an unforgettable adventure with incredible women in one of the most vibrant places on earth, this might be the nudge you’ve been waiting for. Spots are limited. 👉 Click here to learn more 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Check out my Women's Group Trips Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode resonated, share it with a friend and bring another woman into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time… Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

This is a replay of one of the most impactful episodes of Unapologetically Wild. Because fear is still the thing so many people point to as the reason they stay where they are. Fear of failure. Fear of judgment. Fear of getting it wrong. But what if fear isn’t actually the problem? What if the real reason you’re stuck has nothing to do with fear, and everything to do with the identity you’ve been reinforcing for years? In this episode, I break down why fear is often just the surface-level explanation, and what’s actually happening underneath it. Because once you understand this, everything changes. Inside this episode: – Why fear isn’t something you eliminate, and why that was never the goal – The deeper reason you hesitate, overthink, and stay where you are – How your identity, not fear, is what determines your decisions – The three steps to shift how you see yourself so you can finally move forward If you’ve been waiting to feel ready, waiting to feel more confident, or waiting for fear to go away, this conversation will challenge everything you’ve been telling yourself. Fear doesn’t disappear. You just stop letting it decide. Resources mentioned: Mind Magic by James Doty 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Check out my Women's Group Trips Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode resonated, send it to a woman who needs to hear it. Until next time, Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Women always feel like they need permission. For everything. And most of us don’t even realize we’re doing it. In this episode, I’m talking about agency - your ability to make decisions about your own life without needing someone else to sign off on them. Where it went, why it’s not your fault, and how to start taking it back. I’m getting into the research on how girls are socialized from a young age to accommodate, defer, and make themselves easier for everyone else, and how that training follows us into careers, relationships, and the way we move through midlife. I’m also talking about why women between 40 and 59 have the highest rates of depression, and why I believe it has everything to do with arriving at freedom we were never taught how to use. And I’m sharing my own experience of leaving my nursing career with no plan and no safety net, and why that was the moment I stopped waiting for permission and started trusting myself instead. If you’ve been waiting for permission to go after what you want, this episode is your reminder that nobody else is coming to give it to you. 🎧 Inside this episode: • The invisible ways women hand over their authority without realizing it • What happens when the roles you built your identity around start shifting • Why midlife is often when your capacity for agency is at its highest • The small decisions that rebuild self-trust - one rep at a time • Why agency isn’t something you lost, it’s something you were trained to stop using 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Check out my Women's Group Trips Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode resonated, send it to a woman who needs to hear it. Message me on IG and tell me - what’s one decision you already know the answer to? Until next time, Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Nobody really talks about this, but there’s a shift that happens to women’s friendships in midlife. Not dramatic. Not explosive. More like a slow fade you don’t notice until one day you realize your world got smaller. In this episode, I’m talking about why friendships thin out as we get older, why most women never replace what they shed, and how easy it is to mistake comfort for alignment. I’m sharing what I’ve witnessed on my trips - women who showed up as strangers and walked away with friendships that expanded how they see themselves and what they believe they’re capable of. And I’m being honest about something I didn’t expect: how watching these women expand changed me too. If your world has quietly narrowed and you’ve told yourself that’s just how midlife works… this episode will challenge that. 🎧 Inside this episode: • Why you can be perfectly content and still be shrinking • The difference between maintenance friendships and expansion friendships • The subtle stories women tell themselves that keep their world small • What happens when women step into environments that challenge them • Why the quality of your relationships predicts your health and longevity Thailand 2.0 is live and the first trip sold out faster than I expected. Grab your spot HERE 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Check out my Women's Group Trips Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode resonated, send it to a woman who needs to hear it. And I’d love to know - when was the last time you were in a room that expanded you? Until next time, Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Soy might be one of the most confusing foods in women's health. Depending on who you listen to, it's either a miracle superfood that will fix everything, or a hormone-disrupting danger that should be avoided at all costs. And when advice feels that extreme, most women do the safest thing they know how to do: they avoid it altogether. In this episode, we cut through the noise. No wellness hype. No fear-mongering. No cherry-picked rodent studies. Just what the actual human research says about soy, women's hormones, breast cancer, menopause, muscle, bone, and heart health, and how to decide if soy makes sense for you. In This Episode, We Cover Where the soy panic actually came from, and why early animal studies were misapplied to women What phytoestrogens really are (and why they don't act like estrogen in your body) What large human studies show about soy and breast cancer risk Whether soy is safe for breast cancer survivors, and what major cancer organizations say Why soy does not disrupt hormones or "flood your system with estrogen" Soy's role in muscle maintenance, heart health, and bone density in midlife What soy can and cannot do for menopause symptoms Why soy works for some women and not others (the equol factor) A practical framework to decide if soy belongs in your diet Key Takeaways Soy foods are not associated with increased breast cancer risk in human studies Soy is safe for breast cancer survivors and may be linked to lower recurrence Soy does not act like estrogen in the body Benefits for heart health, bone, and muscle are modest, real, and individual Soy isn't magic. It's also not dangerous. It's a high-quality plant protein with context-dependent benefits, and whether it makes sense for you depends on your life stage, health history, activity level, and how your body responds. Sources & Research Referenced This episode is based on peer-reviewed human research, including large observational studies, randomized controlled trials, and meta-analyses. Breast Cancer Risk Chen M, et al. Isoflavone Consumption and Risk of Breast Cancer: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients, 2023. Ziegler RG, et al. Migration patterns and breast cancer risk in Asian-American women. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 1993. (PMID 8230262) Breast Cancer Survivors Nechuta SJ, et al. Soy food intake after diagnosis and breast cancer survival. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2012. Shu XO, et al. Soy food intake and breast cancer survival. JAMA, 2009. Zhang Y, et al. Soy intake and breast cancer prognosis. Nutrition & Cancer, 2024. American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR): Soy and Cancer - Myths and Misconceptions. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute & MD Anderson Cancer Center patient guidance on soy foods. Hormones & Estrogenic Effects Messina M, et al. Isoflavones and estrogenic endpoints in postmenopausal women: A systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs. Advances in Nutrition, 2024. Menopause Symptoms Taku K, et al. Effects of soy isoflavones on hot flashes: meta-analysis of 36 clinical trials. Menopause, 2012. (PMID 22433977) Equol & Gut Microbiome Setchell KDR, et al. Equol production and health implications. Gut Pathogens, 2024. Heart, Muscle & Bone Health Sun Q, et al. Tofu intake and coronary heart disease risk. Circulation, 2020. Taku K, et al. Soy isoflavones and bone mineral density: meta-analysis of 52 randomized controlled trials. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 2020. (PMID 31290343) Shanghai Women's Health Study - soy intake and fracture risk. (PMID 16157834) Administration for Community Living (ACL): protein intake guidance for older adults. Additional Evidence-Based Summaries Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health - Straight Talk About Soy American Institute for Cancer Research - Soy and Cancer 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Check out my Women's Group Trips Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist ⚠️ Disclaimer: I'm not a doctor, scientist, or medical expert, I'm your guide, not your prescriber. This podcast is for informational purposes only. I bring you research-backed conversations so you can ask better questions and make informed decisions, not to give you personal medical advice. Always check with a qualified health professional for your own situation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. If this episode was valuable, share it with a friend who's navigating midlife and looking for real, evidence-based guidance. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

In Part I, you heard what creatine is. You saw the research on muscle, brain fog, sleep, and mood. Now comes the practical part: Is it actually safe? Will it make you bulky? Damage your kidneys? And most importantly, how do you decide if it's right for YOU? This is Part 2 of our creatine deep-dive for midlife women. If you haven't listened to Part 1 yet, go back and start there - this won't make sense without the foundation. Today, we're clearing up the myths, walking through the safety data, and giving you a decision framework so you can evaluate whether creatine makes sense for your body, your goals, and your life. This isn't about me telling you what to do. It's about giving you the tools to decide for yourself - based on evidence, not hype. 💡 Key Takeaways from Part 2: ✅ Creatine is one of the most researched, safest supplements available - with decades of safety data in healthy individuals ✅ The "kidney damage" myth is based on outdated case reports - extensive research shows no adverse effects on kidney function in healthy people ✅ You don't need to load, cycle, or overthink timing - 3-5 grams of creatine monohydrate daily is effective for most women ✅ Creatine monohydrate is the gold standard, avoid fancy forms that cost more but aren't proven better ✅ Whether creatine is right for you depends on your training status, goals, diet, sleep quality, and stage of life ✅ An 8-12 week trial with measurable tracking (one physical metric, one mental metric) is the best way to evaluate if it works for you 📚 Research & Resources Cited in Part 2: Safety & Position Stands International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine — Kreider et al., Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2017) Creatine supplementation in women's health: A lifespan perspective — Smith-Ryan et al., Nutrients (2021) Kidney Safety Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Renal Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis — Journal of Renal Nutrition (2019) Effect of creatine supplementation on kidney function: a systematic review and meta-analysis — BMC Nephrology (2025) Additional Resources Examine.com: Creatine — comprehensive evidence-based overview Third-party testing certifications: NSF Certified for Sport, Informed Choice, Creapure For research on muscle, strength, cognition, sleep deprivation, and mood cited in this series, see Part 1 show notes. 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Check out my Women's Group Trips Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist ⚠️ Disclaimer: I'm not a doctor, scientist, or medical expert, I'm your guide, not your prescriber. This podcast is for informational purposes only. I bring you research-backed conversations so you can ask better questions and make informed decisions, not to give you personal medical advice. Always check with a qualified health professional for your own situation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. If this series was valuable, share it with a friend who's navigating midlife and looking for real, evidence-based guidance. Creatine isn't magic, but it might be a tool worth exploring. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Creatine is everywhere right now. TikTok. Instagram. Your wellness group chat. Everyone's talking about it like it's the answer to brain fog, muscle loss, and midlife fatigue. But here's the problem: most of the information out there is either oversimplified, flat-out wrong, or designed for 23-year-old men trying to maximize their bench press. Almost none of it is made for you—a woman in midlife whose body is operating under a completely different set of rules than it was ten years ago. So I spent the last week deep in the research. Not skimming Instagram posts. Not watching influencer hot takes. I read the peer-reviewed studies, the meta-analyses, the systematic reviews—the stuff that doesn't fit into a 60-second reel. And here's what I found: creatine isn't just for muscle. It's a cellular energy substrate that supports both physical and cognitive function. And the populations who might benefit most? Older adults. Vegetarians. People under chronic stress or sleep deprivation. In other words: a lot of us. This is Part 1 of a 2-part series. Today we're covering what creatine actually is and what the research shows. Next Tuesday (February 3rd), Part 2 tackles myths, safety, and how to decide if it's right for you. 🎧 In Part 1, we cover: What creatine actually is—and why it matters for midlife women How the ATP-phosphocreatine system powers both muscle and brain Why women tend to have lower creatine stores (and why that matters) The difference between endogenous creatine, dietary creatine, and supplementation Why being in midlife changes everything How estrogen decline accelerates muscle loss Why recovery takes longer—and what creatine might do about it The connection between sleep deprivation and cognitive performance Why brain fog might be partly an energy problem What the research actually shows: Strength & muscle: Meta-analyses show creatine + resistance training significantly improves lean mass and strength in postmenopausal women Cognition & memory: Emerging evidence for memory, attention, and mental fatigue—especially under stress or sleep deprivation Mood: Preliminary but compelling studies show creatine may enhance antidepressant response in women with depression Brain fog: We're extrapolating here—no direct studies on menopausal brain fog yet, but the related evidence is promising Where the evidence stands What's solid vs. what's promising vs. what's still uncertain Why transparency matters more than hype 💡 Key Takeaways from Part 1: ✅ Creatine is a naturally occurring compound your body already makes—supplementing just tops up your stores from ~70% to ~100% ✅ The evidence for muscle preservation and strength is strong—especially when paired with resistance training ✅ The evidence for cognitive support is moderate but promising—particularly for women under chronic stress or sleep deprivation ✅ Vegetarians, women who've lost muscle, and those dealing with fragmented sleep often see the most dramatic responses ✅ Creatine + resistance training is the real power move—consistency matters 📚 Research & Resources Cited in Part 1: General Creatine Science International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: creatine supplementation and exercise — Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2017) Creatine supplementation in women's health: A lifespan perspective — Smith-Ryan et al., Nutrients (2021) Midlife, Menopause & Muscle The musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause — Climacteric (2024) Can Taking Creatine Help Women Stay Healthy as They Age? — University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Strength, Lean Mass & Functional Performance Meta-Analysis on Creatine Ingestion Strategies for Lean Tissue Mass and Strength in Older Adults — Candow et al., Nutrients (2019) A 2-yr Randomized Controlled Trial on Creatine Supplementation during Exercise for Postmenopausal Bone Health — Chilibeck et al., Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise (2023) Cognition, Memory & Brain Health The effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive function in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis — Frontiers in Nutrition (2024) Effects of creatine supplementation on memory in healthy individuals — Psychopharmacology (2022) Sleep Deprivation & Cognitive Performance Effect of creatine supplementation and sleep deprivation on cognitive and psychomotor performance, mood state, and plasma concentrations of catecholamines and cortisol — McMorris et al., Psychopharmacology (2007) Mood, Depression & Mental Health Oral Creatine Monohydrate Augmentation for Enhanced Response to SSRIs in Women With Major Depressive Disorder — Lyoo et al., American Journal of Psychiatry (2012) Menopause & Brain Fog Menopause and cognitive impairment: A narrative review of current knowledge — World Journal of Psychiatry (2021) 🔜 Coming in Part 2 (February 3rd): Myths debunked (bulky fears, kidney damage, "just water weight") Safety data from decades of research Dosing, timing, form—what ac

It’s January - which means everyone’s talking about resolutions. What they’re cutting out, fixing, or finally going to “get right” this year. But if you’re being honest… most resolutions don’t last. And it’s not because you’re lazy. It’s because your brain is wired to stay comfortable, not evolve. In this episode, I’m breaking down why resolutions fail, what Quitter’s Day really says about the way we approach change, and why motivation is a terrible plan for building a new life. Instead of chasing the “new year, new you” fantasy, I’m sharing what I do instead: choosing a word + a feeling for the year, and using that as a filter for how you live, decide, and show up. This year, my word is flexible. Not “cute yoga girl” flexible - real-life flexible. In my body, my mindset, and the way I move through hard seasons without snapping. If you’re tired of starting over every January… this episode is your reality check. 🎧 In this episode, we talk about: Why your brain fights change (even when you want change) What Quitter’s Day reveals about the way most people set resolutions Why motivation always fades — and what actually works instead The difference between forcing change and building identity How choosing a feeling (instead of a list of rules) changes everything My word for the year: flexible — and what that means in real life 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Check out my Women's Group Trips Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode was valuable, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Why does the “most wonderful time of the year” make so many women want to hide in their car with coffee? Because the minute November hits, the world forgets how to function - traffic triples, parking lots turn into demolition derbies, and everyone’s pretending they’re fine while quietly losing it. In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s really behind holiday burnout - the pressure to make it perfect, the invisible mental load women carry, and how to protect your energy without guilt. We’ll talk about: 🌪️ Why women end up managing everyone’s emotions during the holidays (and how to stop) 🧘 How to protect your peace and stay grounded when everything feels chaotic 🙅‍♀️ Boundaries - saying no without apology and doing less without the guilt 💫 Microshifts that help you feel calm, centered, and present - no Pinterest perfection required ❤️ My personal story of losing my dad just after Christmas, and how I turned that loss into a yearly celebration of his life with my mom - yes, we even bring his mini urn along for the ride This episode is about slowing down, dropping the “shoulds,” and redefining what wonderful really means... for you. Because peace doesn’t show up when everything’s done. It shows up when you stop trying to earn it. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to: Protect your peace during the holidays Release the pressure to make it perfect Redefine joy, presence, and connection on your own terms If the holidays make you feel more frazzled than festive, this episode will help you breathe again, and maybe even enjoy the season this time around. 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Check out my Women's Group Trips Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode was valuable, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, who the hell is that person staring back at me? Not just your reflection, but the woman behind it. For years, maybe decades, you’ve been everything for everyone else - the mom, the partner, the friend, the employee, the dependable one. You built your life around everyone else’s needs, and now that the noise has quieted - the kids are grown, the job’s winding down, the house feels still - you’re left wondering… who am I now? This week’s episode dives into that identity shift so many women experience in midlife, the one no one talks about. We’ll unpack: How we lose ourselves piece by piece without realizing it Why “starting over” isn’t really the point - it’s about remembering who’s underneath How to rediscover what actually lights you up (without chasing who you used to be) And the real reason this season of life can be the most freeing one yet If you’ve been feeling lost, disconnected, or unsure of who you are beyond your roles, this episode is for you. Because you haven’t lost yourself, you’ve just been buried under years of doing, caring, and carrying everyone else. It’s time to meet you again. 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Check out my Women's Group Trips Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode was valuable, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Have ever eaten dinner alone? Gone to a movie by yourself? Taken a trip solo - not because you had to, but because you chose to? Most women say they want “me time,” but the second they get it, they reach for their phone. Because silence feels uncomfortable. Stillness feels unproductive. And being alone in public? That feels downright awkward. But what if that discomfort isn’t the problem, what if it’s the doorway? In this episode, we’re talking about why being alone feels so foreign in a world that’s constantly connected, and what that discomfort is really trying to tell you. You’ll learn how to stop filling every quiet moment, how to actually enjoy your own company, and how solitude can help you reconnect to your own voice again — the one that gets buried under everyone else’s opinions, expectations, and noise. This isn’t about being single. It’s about being self-connected. It’s about realizing that “alone” doesn’t mean lonely, it means free. So if you’ve been afraid to slow down, to sit with yourself, or to take that solo day you keep putting off, this one’s for you. And if you’re craving more moments that help you reconnect with yourself, surrounded by women who get it, I have a few adventures coming up in 2026 that might be exactly what your soul needs. ✨ Women’s Trips 🗻 Alaska: June 30 – July 6 (sold out - waiting list) ⛰️ Machu Picchu: October 12 – 19 (13 spots left) 🌴 Thailand: November 29 – December 6 (4 spots left) Each trip is designed to push you outside the noise, bring you back to yourself, and remind you that you’re capable of more than you think. 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Check out my Women's Group Trips Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode was valuable, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

You’ve been told your whole life the secret is balance. Work-life balance. Balanced schedule. Balanced everything. But if balance really worked… why are so many women still exhausted, guilty, and feeling like no matter how much they do, it’s never enough? Here’s the truth: balance doesn’t give you peace, it gives you pressure. And the harder you chase it, the more fractured you feel. In this episode of Unapologetically Wild, I’m breaking down: Why balance is bullsh*t and why it sets you up to fail The hidden emotional cost of chasing balance: guilt, shame, and living small What you can chase instead if you want actual freedom and peace Three simple questions that will shift you out of guilt and into something better If you’ve ever gone to bed thinking, “I did so much today, but it still wasn’t enough,” this episode is for you. 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode was valuable, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

What if the version of you that isn’t "all in" is still exactly what you need to move forward? In today’s raw and powerful episode, I’m flipping the script on perfection, consistency, and the lies we’ve been fed about what it takes to really make progress. You’ll learn why aiming for 100% is secretly sabotaging your results, why starting over all the time keeps you stuck, and how the 80% zone is where true change actually happens, the kind of change that lasts. This episode is a wake-up call for every woman who’s ever ghosted herself because she couldn’t keep up with a plan that didn’t fit her real life. It’s not about doing more. It’s about doing it differently. In this episode, we’ll cover: The real reason perfection keeps you from making progress Why showing up a little still rewires your brain for self-trust The difference between “discipline” and identity How to know when you’re in a dip, not a downfall What it looks like to build consistency without burning out You’ll walk away with a new definition of success - one that leaves room for the messy, unpredictable, very human version of you. And a reminder that your 40% still counts. 🎯 Journal prompt to take this deeper: Where in your life have you been chasing perfection instead of progress? What would 80% look like — and feel like — if it was enough? 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode was valuable, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

This one’s a full-on travel prep episode. As you’re hearing this, I’m just getting home from hosting my third women’s group trip which took place Banff - Canada! But just a few months ago, I was across the globe in Bali with another incredible group of women. Between those two trips, and over a decade of international travel, I’ve learned a lot of things the hard way. So today, I’m walking you through the exact steps I take before every international trip... from what to pack to what to download to what to leave the hell behind. This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being prepared enough to actually enjoy the experience. ✈️ What we cover: ✅ The documents no one thinks about (and how I store them) 💳 What I do with my money, cards, and cash before I leave 📲 How I use tech + eSIMs to stay connected abroad 🧼 What’s always in my personal care kit 💊 Health and safety prep (including the emergency coverage I swear by) 🧳 My carry-on setup + how I actually packed for Bali vs. Banff 📷 My gear recs for content creators—and why I ditched the DSLR ⏳ My 7-day countdown: what I double-check, download, and prep before takeoff 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: 📝 Download the Free International Travel Checklist Grab the full checklist with everything I mentioned (so you don’t have to take notes): 👉 GET IT HERE 🥾 My Gear Closet (links to all my favorite things) 👉 https://app.rockporch.com/Profile/unapologeticallywild 🌍 U.S. State Department Country Info & Travel Advisories 👉 https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html 📬 Register Your Trip with STEP (U.S. Citizens) 👉 https://step.state.gov 💊 Check Medication Legality Abroad 👉 https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html 🚘 Driving + Auto Insurance Abroad (IDP Info) 👉 https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/transportation/driving-and-road-safety-abroad.html 💱 XE Currency App 👉 https://www.xe.com/apps/ 📶 Airalo eSIM Data Plans 👉 https://app.rockporch.com/mlink/943?userId=140054 🩺 Medjet Emergency Evacuation Coverage 👉 https://www.medjet.com 💬 Let’s Stay Connected: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode was valuable, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Ever looked around and thought, “I should be further along by now”? This episode is the reminder you didn’t know you needed. We’re unpacking the shame spiral that comes with feeling “behind” in your career, your relationship status, your bank account, or your purpose, and calling out the timeline lie that’s been running the show. Because midlife isn’t a crisis. It’s a reset. A return. A rebellion against everything you were told you “should” want. In this episode, I share what it really looked like to walk away from a 13-year nursing career at 42 with no backup plan, no blueprint - just a gut-deep knowing that I couldn’t keep living on autopilot. And the truth? The scariest part wasn’t starting over. It was letting go of the life that no longer fit. We talk about: Why “catching up” is a trap that keeps you stuck How to redefine progress when there’s no external proof What it means to sit in the messy, uncomfortable in-between How to trust yourself when the clarity isn’t there yet Tangible steps to start moving forward without needing a full plan This isn’t a feel-good moment. It’s a turning point. So if you’re in the fog right now... questioning everything, second-guessing your choices, unsure what comes next - you’re not behind. You’re rebuilding. And that changes everything. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

There’s a reason so many women don’t feel confident, and it has nothing to do with being fearless, ready, or more disciplined. In this episode, I’m breaking down the one truth about confidence most people never tell you: Confidence isn’t a feeling you wait for. It’s self-trust — on repeat. We’re talking about: Why confidence starts with keeping the promises no one else sees How we chip away at our own belief by ghosting ourselves Why women who seem “confident” have just built a better track record with themselves What it looks like to rebuild trust without perfection And how five minutes of follow-through can rewrite your entire story This episode isn’t about hype. It’s about real momentum — the kind that comes from doing the thing scared and showing up when it would be easier to bail. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Ever caught yourself thinking… “I’d love to do that, *but I’m not _____ enough”? Strong enough. Brave enough. Outgoing enough. Young enough. Just… enough. This episode is about that exact fear — the one most women don’t say out loud, but carry around like a quiet weight. We’re diving into: Where that “not enough” story actually comes from How to spot the ways it shows up in your decisions What really happens when you stop waiting to feel “ready” and choose yourself instead The ripple effect that saying yes has on every part of your life If you’ve been standing at the edge of something you want, wondering whether you’re worthy of it… this one’s for you. P.S. My Thailand 2026 group trip just launched, and if you’ve been dreaming of an unforgettable adventure with incredible women in one of the most vibrant, soulful places on earth… 💥 This is your sign. Spots are limited. CLICK HERE to learn more! CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

10 women. Ages 27-69 One life-changing week. This isn’t a vacation recap - it’s a behind-the-scenes look at what really happens when women stop waiting, get on the plane, and say yes to the thing that scares the hell out of them. In this episode, you’ll hear directly from the women who came on my most recent Unapologetically Wild retreat in Bali. What they were afraid of, what almost kept them from coming, and how this experience cracked them open in ways they didn’t see coming. You’ll hear the truth, the self-doubt, the “what ifs,” the hesitation, and the moment everything shifted. Because this isn’t just about Bali. It’s about freedom. And what happens when you stop asking for permission and start choosing yourself, even if you're scared. Whether you’ve been dreaming of a trip like this or just want to feel like you’re not the only one who second-guesses herself… this one’s for you. 🔥 We cover: The most common fears women had before saying yes What made them book the trip anyway How strangers became chosen family The power of showing up scared Why this kind of transformation sticks 💻 Want to join the next trip? Spots for Banff National Park (Aug 8–13) are almost full. 👉 LEARN MORE HERE 💌 Be the first to hear about future trips + free resources: Fill out my 2 min trip survey -> HERE 👇 Let this episode be your sign. Because if these women can do it scared… so can you. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Ever notice how the second life veers off script, your whole mood shifts with it? In this episode, I’m coming to you from Bali (yep, still pinching myself) with some real talk about expectations—how they quietly hijack your presence, mess with your energy, and keep you stuck chasing a version of life that doesn’t actually exist. I’ll share why some of the most powerful moments of my life happened because the plan fell apart—not in spite of it. And why letting go—of the timeline, the checklist, the need for it to be perfect—might just be the most freeing thing you do all year. We’re talking: What to do when your carefully laid plans fall apart How to bend without breaking (and why that’s real strength) The trap of rigid expectations and how they block joy My own behind-the-scenes fail before Bali (yep, I missed two podcast episodes—on purpose) This isn’t about giving up on your vision. It’s about trusting that the magic lives in how you meet the moment—not how well it follows the plan. Press play and let’s talk about what it really means to live wild, grounded, and free, no matter what life throws at you. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

If someone followed you around all day and talked to you the way you talk to you… Would you call them supportive? Or would you slap them? Because most of us wouldn’t let a stranger say half the sh*t we say to ourselves—and yet we let it slide when it’s coming from inside our own head. This episode is your wake-up call. We’re not sugarcoating it. We’re going all in on the damage of negative self-talk, where it actually comes from, and how to stop being your own worst enemy. You can’t talk to yourself like sh*t and expect to rise. It’s time to shift the voice—and become the one who’s got your own back. 🔥 Inside This Episode: Why your inner critic isn’t just annoying—it’s rewriting your story The sneaky ways we internalize shame, fear, and "be small" messaging A raw breakdown of how to actually shift your inner voice Steps to rebuild self-trust (and stop breaking promises to yourself) What Ted Lasso and trauma have in common (yep, we went there) 🎧 Whether you’ve been stuck in a shame spiral or just need a real conversation about mindset that doesn’t feel like toxic positivity, this episode is your sign. 🧠 Reflection Prompt: What’s one lie your inner critic keeps repeating— and what’s the truth you’re ready to believe instead? Say it. Write it. Let it land. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

We’ve all been handed a script for how life should look: Get married. Have the kids. Climb the ladder. Be grateful. Be good. And don’t rock the boat. But what if that script never fit you in the first place? In this episode, I’m calling out the quiet ways we abandon ourselves trying to meet expectations we never agreed to and what happens when we stop living for the “shoulds” and start living for what actually feels aligned. I’ll share the real reason I never followed the traditional path, what I might have missed out on if I had, and why questioning the status quo might just be the most honest thing you’ll ever do. This one is honest, direct, and a wake-up call if you’ve been living on autopilot. In this episode, we talk about: Why “should” is fear dressed up as logic How I avoided a life that looked good on paper but felt like a trap What happens when you start asking what you actually want One small way to start unlearning the shoulds today CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

Sometimes the most important thing you can do… is pause. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on a chapter that’s been anything but easy. After months of living in a low-grade state of survival - navigating Phoebe’s health, abandoning my routines, and feeling completely disconnected from myself, I finally stepped away. Five days in a luxury treehouse tucked into the Colorado mountains gave me the breathing room I didn’t even know I needed. This wasn’t a trip to “reset” or come back with a 20-step morning routine. It was a return to presence. To myself. To stillness. Inside this episode: Why even the tools you know work fall away in survival mode The cost of constantly being “on” - even for someone who teaches this work What burnout really looks like (hint: it’s not always obvious) How five quiet days in nature helped me shift back into my body and remember who I am What I’m rebuilding now, and how I’m doing it differently If you’ve felt disconnected, overwhelmed, or like your world’s gotten small lately, this one’s for you. And, you don’t need a luxury treehouse in the mountains to feel like yourself again. But you do need space, whatever that looks like for you. If you are curious about where I stayed (because yeah, it was incredible), you can check it out HERE CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

You keep thinking you’re just “bad at time management.” Or that you just need to get your sh*t together. It's not just a bad habit. Procrastination is the invisible cage you keep locking yourself inside while telling yourself you’re “just busy.” This episode isn’t about beating yourself up. It’s about finally understanding what’s actually happening underneath the stall... and how to start breaking the cycle before it becomes your identity. Inside this episode: 🔥 Why procrastination isn’t laziness (and what it really signals) 🔥 How shame, chaos, and perfectionism wire you into self-sabotage 🔥 What to do when you know better… but still can’t move 🔥 How to shift the story you're living in without waiting for panic to push you You don’t need a better planner. You need to stop living like you have unlimited chances. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

You keep waiting for the spark. The fire. The feeling that finally makes it all click. But here’s the truth: Motivation isn’t the fuel, it’s the reward. And if you’re sitting around waiting to feel ready, you’ll stay stuck in the same cycle you keep saying you want to break. This episode is a callout and a reset. Because your problem isn’t laziness, inconsistency, or lack of discipline It’s your relationship with discomfort. Inside this episode: 🔥 Why motivation is unreliable (and what to chase instead) 🔥 The real reason you keep stalling on the things that matter 🔥 What to do when you “know better” but still don’t move 🔥 How to rewire your identity through small action (without needing a pep talk) It’s not about hustling harder. It’s about acting like someone who finally f*cking means it. Let’s go. 🛠️ Stuff I mentioned: • The visual productivity timer I’m using to shift my focus without my phone → GET IT HERE CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. Until next time... Stay Wild ⛰️💫🌵

This episode isn’t about morning routines, mindset shifts, or microshifts. It’s about my dog. My almost 14-year-old yellow lab, Phoebe. My trail companion, road trip partner, rock-diving enthusiast, and soul dog. And what happens when the one who’s always held space for you, suddenly needs you to hold space for them. In this personal and emotional episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what’s been going on behind the scenes these past few months. It’s a story I haven’t told until now. We’re talking terrifying respiratory episodes, multiple vet visits, near-death moments, a full workup at CSU, and the decision between two very different surgeries. But it’s also about listening to your gut. Pausing when you need to. And what it means to choose presence...especially when it’s inconvenient. 💬 In this episode, I share: 🐾 What laryngeal paralysis (Lar Par) is and how it affects senior dogs - especially Labs 🐾 Early warning signs I missed with my last lab, Zoe 🐾 The day Phoebe collapsed in the backyard and I thought it was the end 🐾 What made me stop working, traveling, and creating 🐾 How I chose between tie-back surgery and a silicone stent 🐾 Why this gave Phoebe a second chance and me a whole new perspective This one’s for the dog lovers. The caretakers. The ones who’ve hit pause not because they’re stuck, but because they’re showing up for what matters most. 🩺 RESOURCES MENTIONED: Lar Par Facebook Support Group Slow Water Bowl on Amazon Laryngeal Paralysis Supplement Package Respiratory Tonic Elk Velvet Antler This episode is real. It's raw. And it’s proof that sometimes the bravest thing you can do… is pause everything and then come back. 🎧 If this resonated, share it with a fellow dog mom, leave a review, or hit follow. Your support means everything. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (my weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If you enjoyed this episode: Post it to your stories and tag me @liveunapologeticallywild Let’s get this message out to more dog lovers! Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

You know that version of you you keep saying you want to become? She’s not waiting for perfect. She’s counting on you to stop playing small...now. In this raw, no-BS episode, we’re digging into the sneaky ways we hold ourselves back - not with massive failures, but with quiet avoidance, scrolling, self-doubt, and delay. Because here’s the truth: Every time you choose comfort over courage, you abandon the future you. If you’ve ever said: ✨ “I just need to figure it out first…” ✨ “I’ll go all in when things settle down…” ✨ “I know I’m capable of more, I just don’t know where to start…” This episode is your wake-up call. 🎯 In this episode, we’ll cover: What playing small actually looks like (it’s not always obvious) The hidden cost of shrinking back—and what it’s really stealing from you How to get clear on how you want to feel, not just what you want What it means to embody your future self now (without overhauling your life) One powerful mindset shift that will help you stop waiting and start moving CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (my weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode shook something loose in you, share it with a friend. Post it to your stories and tag me @liveunapologeticallywild Let’s get this message to more women who are ready to live wide awake. Until next time... Stay wild ⛰️💫🌵

How much time have you lost spiraling over things that haven’t even happened? Worry feels like it’s helping, but the truth is, it’s just keeping you stuck in survival mode. In this episode of Unapologetically Wild, we’re calling out worry for what it really is: 🛑 An illusion of control. 🛑 A pattern that robs you of peace. 🛑 A habit that paralyzes instead of prepares. I’ll share a personal story that brought this home for me (yep, it involves camping, my bank account, and a tattoo on my ribs), plus I’ll walk you through powerful microshifts you can use the next time your brain starts spinning. 🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn: Why worry feels productive, but actually burns you out The sneaky way worry convinces you you’re “being responsible” A powerful mindset shift I learned from my parents (that changed my life) The difference between preparation and mental chaos A simple tool to interrupt the worry spiral and ground your energy How to identify what worry is really trying to tell you What to do when you can’t control the outcome—and how to reclaim your power anyway My favorite microshifts to shift from fear to action 📝 This episode is for you if… You constantly feel anxious about things that might happen You overthink, overanalyze, and spiral in “what ifs” You’re mentally exhausted and just want some damn peace You’re ready to stop letting fear run the show 💡 This Week’s Challenge: The Worry Journal I’ll guide you through a super simple practice to track your worry, interrupt the loop, and create space for aligned action (or presence) instead. Because your energy is sacred. And your future self doesn’t have time for this loop. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Bali 5/25 & Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. 🔥 Stay wild

First, let’s take a moment to celebrate hitting 10 episodes! 🎉 Thank you for tuning in, sharing, and showing up for this podcast, I couldn’t do it without you. Think you’re struggling with consistency? Let me flip that belief on its head because you’re already consistent… just not in the way you think. In this episode, I’m breaking down the truth about consistency, why you’re not actually “inconsistent,” and how the habits you repeat every day, whether helpful or not, are shaping your identity and your outcomes. We’ll also talk about the concept of casting votes for your identity, something inspired by Atomic Habits by James Clear, and how misdirected consistency might be keeping you stuck without you even realizing it. If you’ve ever said: “I just need to be more consistent with working out.” “I wish I could eat healthy and stick with it.” “If I could just stay consistent, everything would finally fall into place…” This one’s for you. Because your problem isn’t consistency—it’s where your consistency is showing up. 🎧 In this episode: Why you’re more consistent than you think What “misdirected consistency” is and how it shows up in your daily life The identity loop you’re reinforcing (without realizing it) Why motivation is total BS and why systems matter more A shoutout to Atomic Habits and the “casting votes” concept One small mindset shift to help you redirect your consistency toward what actually matters 📘 Referenced in this episode Atomic Habits by James Clear – jamesclear.com/atomic-habits CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. 🔥 Stay wild

How many times have you told yourself you just need to find your purpose - like it’s some missing puzzle piece waiting to be discovered? What if I told you that’s the very thing keeping you stuck? In this episode of Unapologetically Wild, we’re flipping the script on everything you’ve been taught about purpose. Because the truth is, purpose isn’t something you find. It’s something you create. If you’ve ever felt like you’re falling behind, waiting for clarity, or stuck in the figuring it out phase, this episode will change the way you think about purpose forever. By the end, you’ll learn: ✔️ Why the pressure to “find” your purpose keeps you stuck ✔️ How to stop overthinking and start moving toward a meaningful life ✔️ The small, daily choices that actually create a sense of purpose ✔️ Why waiting for the “right time” is keeping you from living fully ✔️ The simple shifts that will help you align your life with what matters to you 📍 Ready to take action? Join me in Bali for a life-changing adventure designed to help you step out of your day-to-day routine and into something bigger. The deadline to register is April 1st! CLICK HERE to learn more and let’s make it happen. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Bali 5/25 & Banff 8/25 Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. 🔥 Stay wild

If there’s one thing the outdoors has taught me, it’s that real confidence doesn’t come from knowing—it comes from doing. We spend so much time trying to prepare. We read the books, we listen to the podcasts, we Google ourselves into oblivion—convincing ourselves that if we just gather enough information, we’ll finally feel ready. But here’s the truth: you don’t build confidence by thinking about it—you build it by stepping into the unknown and proving to yourself, over and over, that you can handle it. Mother Nature doesn’t wait for you to feel ready. She throws you into the moment and forces you to trust yourself. And that’s why she has been my greatest teacher. In this episode, I’m sharing: 🌿 Why trust isn’t something you start with—it’s something you build 🔥 How fear isn’t a stop sign—it’s proof you’re growing 🚐 The time I pushed my RV (and myself) to the limit 💡 The biggest lesson that changed the way I see my own capability Because the biggest lessons in life? They don’t come from books or waiting until you feel ready. They come from experience. From stepping into adventure, into the wild, and into the unknown. Ready to Step Outside Your Comfort Zone? If you’ve been craving adventure—the kind that challenges you, expands you, and reminds you exactly what you're capable of—this is your sign to say YES. 🌴 Bali (May 22-29): Immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, deep connection, and the kind of experiences that awaken something deep inside you. Deadline to register April 1, 2025! 🏔 Banff (August 8-13): A rugged, awe-inspiring adventure that will push you beyond what you thought possible - and leave you stronger for it. 📍 Join the adventure: https://trovatrip.com/host/profiles/mary-5cma2 Spots are limited—if you feel the pull, don’t ignore it. 💫 CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist If this episode hit home, share it with a friend and let’s bring more women into this wild, unapologetic space. 🔥 Stay wild

If “I’m sorry” is practically your default response, this episode is for you. Women have been conditioned to shrink themselves—to soften their words, cushion their presence, and apologize for simply existing. But every unnecessary “I’m sorry” chips away at your confidence and reinforces the belief that you should be the one adjusting. In today’s episode, we’re diving into: 🔥 Why over-apologizing is more than just politeness—it’s conditioning 🔥 A Costco moment that made me really see how often women do this 🔥 How apologizing too much impacts your confidence, career, and relationships 🔥 The simple language shifts that help you stop saying “I’m sorry” (when you don’t need to) If you’ve ever caught yourself apologizing for no reason, this is your wake-up call. What You’ll Learn ✅ Why women over-apologize (and how to break the habit) ✅ The sneaky ways we shrink ourselves without realizing it ✅ Easy swaps to replace “I’m sorry” with confidence and clarity ✅ A simple challenge to help you retrain your brain How to Stop Over-Apologizing 1️⃣ Notice when you say it – Just pay attention. No need to change it yet. 2️⃣ Ask yourself if it’s necessary – Are you actually in the wrong, or just filling space? 3️⃣ Swap it out – Try: 🔹 “Sorry I’m late” ➡️ “Thanks for waiting.” 🔹 “Sorry to bother you” ➡️ “Do you have a moment?” 🔹 “Sorry for the mistake” ➡️ “I appreciate your patience.” Your Challenge 📌 For one day, track how often you say “I’m sorry.” 📌 Swap it out when it’s unnecessary. 📌 Notice how it changes the way you feel. Because you were never too much—you were just taught to believe you were. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles (weekly newsletter) Check out my Women's Group Trips Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist 🎧 If this episode resonated with you, take a screenshot, tag me, and let me know your biggest takeaway! And if you’re loving the podcast, leave a review -it helps so much!

At 19, I had my first panic attack—and I was convinced I was dying. That moment led me down a path I never saw coming. A doctor handed me a prescription, but what really changed my life? Meditation. And before you roll your eyes or think, I can’t meditate because my mind won’t shut up—this episode is for you. Because meditation isn’t about clearing your mind, sitting still for 30 minutes, or achieving some mystical Zen state. It’s about training your brain to stop running on autopilot and helping you break free from stress, overwhelm, and overthinking. In this episode, we’re diving into: ✅ How meditation literally rewires your brain (and the science behind it) ✅ The biggest myths that hold people back (hint: you don’t have to clear your mind) ✅ How to start meditating in just two minutes a day (yes, really) ✅ Different types of meditation (because it’s not all sitting on a cushion) ✅ How I completely stopped overthinking (and how you can, too) Because if you’ve ever laid in bed at night, stuck in your head, spiraling about something you said, what you should’ve said, or what so-and-so meant when they didn’t text you back—this is for you. By the end of this episode, you’ll have everything you need to make meditation part of your life—without making it complicated. Resources & Mentions: 📌 The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle – A deep dive into mindfulness, presence, and how most stress comes from worrying about the past or future instead of being in the moment. Meditation Apps: 📌 Insight Timer – Free meditation app with guided sessions, ambient sounds, and courses. 📌 Headspace – Perfect for beginners with structured programs that make meditation feel doable. 📌 Calm – Great for stress relief, sleep meditations, and mindfulness. 📌 Waking Up (by Sam Harris) – A deeper dive into mindfulness, meditation, and the philosophy behind it. 📌 Simple Habit – Quick meditations for busy people—designed for specific moments in your day. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles Check out my Women's Group Trips Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist 🎧 If this episode resonated with you, take a screenshot, tag me, and let me know your biggest takeaway! And if you’re loving the podcast, leave a review -it helps so much!

What if fear isn’t what’s actually holding you back? You tell yourself you’re afraid—of failure, of judgment, of taking the leap. But what if that’s not the real reason you’re still playing small? What if fear is just a convenient excuse to keep you from facing something deeper? In today’s episode, I’m breaking down why fear isn’t the real problem—and what actually is. We’re talking about: 🔥 The hidden reason you keep hesitating (and why “overcoming fear” isn’t the answer) 🔥 How your identity is the real thing keeping you in the same cycle 🔥 The three-step process to rewrite your narrative and finally take action 🔥 How to make decisions from the version of you who already has what you want If you’ve ever felt stuck in the same loop of “I can’t” / “I’m not ready” / “What if I fail?”—this episode is going to call you out and call you up. 🚀 Ready to stop waiting and start moving? Let’s fkn go. If this episode hit home, let me know! Tag me on Instagram @liveunapologeticallywild and share your biggest takeaway. And if you haven’t already—subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support is what keeps this podcast going! 🔥 No more waiting. No more overthinking. You already know what to do. Now go do the fkn thing. Resources mentioned: Mind Magic by James Doty CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles Check out my Women's Group Trips Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist

Hey friends, today’s episode is about to hit deep. If you’ve ever found yourself bending over backward for people who wouldn’t even lean for you, this is for you. If you’ve ever said yes when you really meant hell no—this is for you. If you’ve been taught that being nice means sacrificing your own well-being—this is for you. In this episode, we’re breaking down: ✅ Where people-pleasing actually comes from (spoiler: it’s deeper than just wanting to be “nice”) ✅ Why saying no feels so damn hard—and exactly how to change that ✅ How to set boundaries without feeling like an asshole ✅ How to reclaim your energy, your time, and your f*cking sanity Here’s the truth: People-pleasing isn’t about kindness—it’s about fear. Fear of rejection. Fear of disappointing others. Fear of being seen as selfish. Fear of losing love. But at what cost? 💥 Every time you say yes when you really want to say no, you are betraying yourself. 💥 Every time you prioritize everyone else’s comfort over your own well-being, you are reinforcing the belief that your needs don’t matter. 💥 And every time you keep pouring into people who never pour back? That’s not a friendship. That’s a transaction. This stops today. By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly how to stop over-explaining, apologizing, and justifying your boundaries—and instead, confidently say NO without guilt. And here’s your challenge: ✨ Say NO to something this week. ✨ Use one of the responses I share in this episode. ✨ Then pay attention—how does it feel? Who respects it? Who doesn’t? Because the more you start choosing yourself, the more you start living on your own terms. This is the wake-up call you’ve been needing. So grab your coffee or tea, lace up your shoes for a walk, or just take a deep breath—because this episode is about to change the way you show up for yourself. If this episode hit home, let me know! Tag me on Instagram @liveunapologeticallywild and share your biggest takeaway. And if you haven’t already—subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support is what keeps this podcast going! 👉 Let’s keep this conversation going—because you don’t need permission to take up space. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles Check out my Women's Group Trips Connect with me on Instagram Follow me on Substack Subscribe to my Spotify Playlist

Welcome back to Unapologetically Wild! Before we dive in, I’ve got some exciting news—thanks to all of your amazing feedback, I’ve decided to start posting weekly instead of every other week. That means you can tune in every Tuesday for a brand new episode! Now, let’s talk about that restless, nagging feeling of being stuck. You know the one—where life feels like Groundhog Day, like you’re pressing the gas and the brake at the same time, revving the engine but going nowhere. You’re busy. You’re checking all the boxes. And yet, it still feels like nothing is actually moving forward. If you’ve been wondering: 🚨 Why do I feel stuck, even when I try to change? 🚨 Why do I start things but lose momentum? 🚨 Why does my brain fight me every time I try to step outside my comfort zone? Then this episode is for you. In This Episode, We Cover: Why feeling stuck isn’t a life sentence—it’s a signal How your nervous system & dopamine keep you trapped in the same cycle The difference between real movement & chasing the next high How microshifts create real, lasting change The power of curiosity to shake things up The key to making external & internal shifts that actually stick A Journal Prompt or Reflection 📖 Try This: Take five minutes today and ask yourself: 👉 Am I actually moving forward, or just keeping myself busy? 👉 What’s one small action I can take today to create real momentum—without waiting for the “perfect” moment? Write down your thoughts and make a commitment to take that next step. CONNECT WITH ME: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles Check out my Women's Group Trips Instagram Substack

Welcome to the second episode of Unapologetically Wild! In this episode, we’re getting into what it really means to "do the fk'n thing"—not with fearlessness or a perfectly laid-out plan, but by showing up messy, scared, and uncertain, and taking action anyway. I share my personal journey of leaving a stable career, buying an RV (without a clue how to use it), and proving to myself what’s possible when you trust your gut and start taking bold steps -- but to be wild, you don't need to do all that! I share all about the mental traps that keep us stuck—like perfectionism, fear of judgment, and waiting to feel “ready”—and break them down with 5 actionable strategies to help you take the first step toward the life you want. Spoiler alert: Confidence doesn’t come before action—it comes from it. Plus, hear about the science of fear, how to flip the script when self-doubt creeps in, and why your future self will thank you for making bold moves today. In this episode: Why waiting for “ready” is keeping you stuck—and how to move forward anyway. How to take micro shifts instead of overwhelming leaps. The power of asking, “What’s the worst that could happen?” Why clarity comes from doing, not planning. How to reframe fear and focus on what’s possible. Take Action: Make your “badass list.” Write down all the bold, amazing things you’ve already done and keep it handy for moments of doubt. Resources mentioned: Mind Magic by James Doty Connect with me: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles Check out my Women's Group Trips Instagram Substack

Welcome to the very first episode of Unapologetically Wild! Today’s episode is extra special as I launch this podcast on what would have been my dad’s 85th birthday. He taught me to live unapologetically wild, to trust myself, and to figure life out by doing—not waiting. In this episode, I’m sharing the moments, lessons, and leaps that led me here. From learning how to change a tire on I-95 at 16 to quitting a 13-year nursing career to live life on my terms, my journey has been anything but conventional. Through all the twists and turns, the fears and failures, I’ve learned that you don’t need the perfect plan to create a life you love—you just need to be willing to take the first step. If you’ve ever felt stuck, scared, or unsure about your next move, you’re in the right place. In this episode: How my dad inspired the Unapologetically Wild mindset. The value of figuring life out by doing—not waiting. Why taking action (even when scared) is the key to growth. How I left nursing, bought an RV, and started a business from scratch. Why living unapologetically wild doesn’t require a grand leap—it can start with small steps. Take Action: What’s one small step you can take today toward the life you want? It doesn’t have to be perfect or planned—just start! Connect with me: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles: https://bit.ly/ua_wild_chronicles Women's Group Trips: https://trovatrip.com/host/profiles/mary-5cma2 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liveunapologeticallywild/ Substack: https://substack.com/@liveunapologeticallywild

Every day, you have a choice: to stay where you are or to step into a life of greater vitality, alignment, and growth. Unapologetically Wild is for women who are ready to take control of their lives, prioritize their well-being, and explore what’s possible when they embrace change, intention, and a sense of adventure. I’m Mary Giordano, a former nurse who left a 13-year career to pursue a life of freedom, exploration, and intentional living. Through reflections on mindset, health, travel, and outdoor adventure, I’ll share stories and insights that inspire meaningful change. Whether it’s building healthier habits, stepping out of your comfort zone, or discovering new places and perspectives, this podcast is designed to inspire you to create a life that feels authentic, purposeful, and fulfilling. It’s about showing up, doing the fkn thing, and realizing it’s not the mountains you climb, but the willingness to take the first step—messy, scared, and unapologetically wild. Connect with me: Subscribe to UA Wild Chronicles: https://bit.ly/ua_wild_chronicles Women's Group Trips: https://trovatrip.com/host/profiles/mary-5cma2 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liveunapologeticallywild/ Substack: https://substack.com/@liveunapologeticallywild