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I used to be the queen of “my way or the highway.” Ask Willie. He’s got the scars to prove it. Not literal scars (don’t call CPS) but emotional ones from surviving the battlefield of our marriage when I was deep in my “I’m right, you’re wrong” era.

Sound familiar? Girl, if you’ve ever found yourself snapping “I’ll just do it myself” while throwing daggers with your eyes at your husband, welcome. You are not alone. And this, my friend, is what we call a power struggle.

Spoiler: It’s not about spelling tests, dinner plans, or which kid forgot their lunch.

It’s about control.
It’s about fear.
And it’s about the childhood baggage we carry like a designer purse we didn’t ask for.

In the beginning of my marriage, Willie and I would joke about upgrading each other. You know, “Lose that butt, and I’m out.” Harmless, right? Until it wasn’t. Until jokes became jabs. Until jabs became low blows. And suddenly, we weren’t laughing anymore. We were lacing up for round ten in the ring.

“I wasn’t feeling safe with him. How could I? Somebody had to be at fault, right?”

The truth is, I didn’t want to be hurt. I didn’t want to feel out of control. And if I could just bulldoze my way through every disagreement with logic, sass, and a killer side-eye, then maybe, just maybe, I wouldn’t have to be vulnerable.

1. You keep score.
   “Last time I gave in, so now it’s his turn.” Girl, this isn’t a tennis match.

Willie and I once argued about our daughter’s spelling test. Not because of the test itself, but because I felt like his relaxed parenting style meant he didn’t care. He felt like my micromanaging meant I didn’t trust him.

We were both wrong. And both kind of right. But mostly just tired of not being heard.

“I never liked to be checked. I wanted him to be checked. But why was it even a battle in the first place?”

Yes, we’re going there. Because the way you argue is probably inherited.

I challenge you: grab a pen. Write down your parents’ names and your partner’s parents’ names. Now write down how they handled conflict. Who was defensive? Who always had to be right? Who pretended everything was fine while slamming cabinet doors?

Now ask yourself: Am I repeating those patterns? Or am I swinging to the total opposite extreme just to avoid becoming like them?

Trust me, the emotional blueprint runs deep—but it’s not permanent.

1. Drop the gloves.
   Seriously. Put ’em down. You’re not in a boxing match—you’re in a marriage.

“It’s not that we were on different teams. It’s that we were yelling so loud, we couldn’t hear that we were both saying the same thing.”

The power struggle isn’t proof your marriage is doomed. It’s proof you both care. But without real communication—without vulnerability—you’re just running in circles, getting dizzy and bitter.

So here’s what I want you to do today:

• Identify your go-to power struggle trap: Is it parenting? Finances? Date night?

And if you’re like, “Okay, Veronica, that sounds great, but how do I even begin?”—I’ve got you.

Head to https://veronicacisneros.org/resources and grab your FREE marriage communication guides. It’s packed with real-life tools that have helped thousands of women just like you actually connect with their partner (without needing a whiteboard or a referee).

You’re not alone. You don’t have to figure this out by yourself. And most importantly, you can stop the fight without losing the fire.

Let’s do this together.

Click here to talk to a therapist. Click here to take my on-demand 4-week course to reignite your marriage and reclaim your identity. Or, click here to explore my on-demand 2-hour workshop to reconnect with your partner.

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Veronica Cisneros, LMFT, helps women stop fighting the same fight on repeat and start truly connecting in their relationships.

A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 12 years of experience, Veronica specializes in helping high-achieving women break out of destructive conflict cycles and build healthier, more connected relationships—without losing themselves in the process.

As the founder of Outside the Norm Counseling, marriage coach, and host of the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica brings a no-nonsense approach to relationship healing. Her clients know—she doesn’t do bandaids. She gets to the root.

Veronica’s guidance blends practical communication tools with deep emotional insight, empowering women to challenge old patterns, repair emotional wounds, and foster real, lasting change in their marriages and families. She’s walked the walk too—with over 25 years of marriage, three daughters, and a thriving career, she knows what it takes to navigate the messiness of love, parenting, and personal growth.

Whether she’s working with couples in her practice or coaching women through relationship burnout, Veronica helps people shift from blame and burnout to clarity, compassion, and collaboration. Her honest, relatable style—and that sharp wit—make her a trusted voice for women ready to stop surviving their relationships and start thriving in them.

Whether you listen to the podcast, join the free Facebook community, or do the Workshop,  you’re in the right place. Let’s do this together!

Did you enjoy this podcast? Feel free to share this podcast on social media! You can also leave a review of the Empowered and Unapologetic Podcast on Apple Podcast {previously iTunes) and subscribe!

The post Power Struggles in Marriage: Why You’re Always Fighting to Be Heard appeared first on Empowered and Unapologetic.

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“You don’t have to stay stuck. And it’s okay to change. God, I’m not the same person I was 20 years ago.” – Rochelle Moffitt

Ladies, I’m just going to say it: If you’ve ever looked around at your life and thought, This can’t be it, then today’s episode of the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast is your permission slip to do something about it.

My guest, Rochelle Moffitt, founder of Tickled Pink – a personal brand agency, knows a thing or two about starting over. After walking away from financial security, not once but twice, and rebuilding her career from scratch as a single mom of three, she didn’t wait for anyone to come save her. She became her own damn hero.

Now, as the founder of Tickled Pink, Rochelle helps ambitious women stop playing small and start building bold, bankable personal brands. And let me tell you, this episode wasn’t just a pep talk: it was a blueprint for any woman ready to rise.

It all starts with a question most of us are afraid to answer: Am I actually happy?

For Rochelle, the wake-up call came when she realized she was ticking boxes (married, career, kids) but feeling completely disconnected. “I was happy, and I was married. The two just didn’t coexist,” she said.

Been there? Me too. I once told myself I was happy because everything looked good on paper. But deep down, I was lying. Rochelle and I both had to confront some tough truths, and here’s the kicker:

“Stop putting it on other people. You can be the damn change.” – Rochelle Moffitt

Let’s talk personal branding. And before you roll your eyes and say, “But I’m not an influencer,”—pause.

Your personal brand isn’t about followers or filters. It’s about how you show up in the world. It’s the energy you bring, the story you tell, and the value you create. It’s what people say about you when you’re not in the room.

Rochelle breaks it down with her SHINE method:

• S – Self: Get clear on what you want and what lights you up.

“If you post once a week on LinkedIn, you’re in the top 1%. So stop consuming, start creating.” – Rochelle Moffitt

I know what you’re thinking. But who am I to show up like that? What if I’m not qualified enough? What if I fail?

That, my friend, is imposter syndrome talking. And Rochelle’s got a finger gesture for it. (No really, she had an entire audience flip the bird to it.)

The truth is, every woman building something from scratch feels the fear. But the ones who succeed? They do it anyway.

“Confidence and momentum mean you don’t have time for imposter syndrome.” – Rochelle Moffitt

And as someone who used to believe I wasn’t ready to leave my hospital job (because “I had more to learn”), I can tell you right now: You’re ready. You’re already doing it. Don’t wait for someone else to validate your value.

Whether you’re stuck in a job that drains you, a relationship that no longer fits, or a life that just feels off, know this: you’re not broken. You’re evolving.

Start small. Take inventory of what brings you joy, what you won’t tolerate anymore, and what’s worth fighting for. Say “no” more often. Say “yes” to you.

And when you’re ready to step into your next chapter, whether that’s launching a business, reinventing your career, or simply reclaiming your power, remember Rochelle’s words:

“Start building a life that you don’t want to run away from.”

You’ve got one life. Make it bold. Make it bankable. And whatever you do, back yourself.

• Join our FaceBook Page – Empowered and Unapologetic

Rochelle Moffitt has built her life and her career on one hard-earned truth: change is hard, but staying stuck is harder.

After navigating two divorces, walking away from financial security twice, and facing the daunting question of what now?, Rochelle realized no one was coming to save her. So, she did what bold women do: she saved herself.

With no job and everything to prove, she started from scratch—turning uncertainty into clarity and building a new career brick by brick. Today, Rochelle is the founder of Tickled Pink, a personal branding agency helping ambitious women stop playing small and start creating bold, authentic brands that open doors and build bankable futures.

But Rochelle’s work is about more than business—it’s about bravery. She knows what it means to rebuild, to pivot, to feel uncertain and still move forward. Her mission is to teach women how to turn their stories and strengths into a platform for success.

Through her agency and signature events like Sip & Share, Rochelle empowers women to step into their next chapter with confidence—helping them ask bigger questions, take bolder action, and make connections that change everything.

Her approach is real, raw, and relentlessly encouraging. Because change is coming either way. Rochelle’s only question is: Will you let it break you—or will you let it build you?

Digital Coordinates:

• https://www.tickledpink.agency

As a leading authority in women’s empowerment and a fierce advocate for building strong networks, Veronica is your go-to guru for turning fears into victories, struggles into strengths, and doubts into boundless opportunities.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 plus years; empowering high-achieving women in business to conquer both professional heights and personal fulfillment. She doesn’t do bandaids!
Veronica has a unique approach to overcoming obstacles and smashing through the glass ceilings that loom over ambitious women. With her arsenal of practical tools, actionable strategies, and unwavering support, Veronica doesn’t just help women succeed in their careers – she helps them thrive in every facet of their lives.

But Veronica’s expertise isn’t just theoretical – it’s personal. With over 24 years of marriage, three daughters, and a soaring career, Veronica embodies the resilience and determination needed to navigate life’s challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Group Private Practice Owner, of Outside The Norm Counseling, Marriage Coach, and the voice behind the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica effortlessly guides women to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Veronica is more than an expert – she’s a partner in transformation, turning mundane relationships into true connections. With her relatable charm and infectious humor, Veronica illuminates the path for women who refuse to settle for anything less than success in both business and relationships. Through practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and her trademark wit, Veronica empowers every woman to cultivate unbreakable bonds without sacrificing their ambitions.

Whether you listen to the podcast, join the free Facebook community, or do the Workshop,  you’re in the right place. Let’s do this together!

Did you enjoy this podcast? Feel free to share this podcast on social media! You can also leave a review of the Empowered and Unapologetic Podcast on Apple Podcast {previously iTunes) and subscribe!

The post What It Really Takes to Reinvent Your Life and Brand with Rochelle Moffitt appeared first on Empowered and Unapologetic.

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Let’s be real… if willpower was enough, I’d be living in leggings with pockets and abs. But here we are, overwhelmed, overtired, and wondering how it’s possible to crush it at work and still feel like a failure by 8 p.m. That’s why I had to bring Dr. Priyanka Venugopal on the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast. She’s a board-certified OB-GYN turned stress and health coach for working moms, and she knows exactly how smart women end up in the Cool Ranch Dorito trap.

Because it’s not a willpower issue. It’s a stress issue. And as someone who teaches other people how to regulate their emotions for a living, let me just say… I needed this conversation.

Dr. Priyanka didn’t just study stress, she lived it. She shared how she went from being a brilliant physician to hitting 200 pounds, feeling disconnected from herself and her body, despite knowing all the science. And that’s when it clicked for her: being smart isn’t enough. If we don’t know how to deal with our emotions, like actually feel them, not snack through them, we end up medicating with food, Netflix, and mindless scrolling.

“If being smart was enough, we’d all be feeling amazing by now.” – Dr. Priyanka Venugopal

And listen, I felt called out. I’ve done the whole “hire the trainer, eat the salad, lose the weight, gain it back” cycle. I’ve tried Ozempic. I’ve convinced myself that being “fine” was enough. But what I hadn’t done? Stopped to ask: What am I really feeling right now? And more importantly, what am I avoiding by diving headfirst into that pint of ice cream or work project or Target run?

One of the biggest takeaways from our conversation? Stress responses aren’t just something we read about in textbooks. They’re real, wired-in patterns, and every high-achieving woman has them.

Dr. Priyanka broke them down like this:

• Fight: You’re angry, defensive, and maybe just a little righteous about your cheesecake.

“These cycles aren’t flaws. They’re survival strategies. You’re not broken. You’re just stressed.” – Dr. Priyanka Venugopal

Knowing your stress response gives you power. It gives you a plan. Instead of beating yourself up for eating the cookies or skipping the gym, you get to understand why you did it and respond differently next time. That’s where the magic is.

The core of Dr. Priyanka’s work is helping women burn stress so they can burn fat. But this isn’t a “drink lemon water and hustle harder” approach. It’s about learning how to rest without guilt. About recognizing that your cravings are often a sign your brain is looking for a break not another diet.

“You don’t need more motivation. You need emotional regulation and a game plan for when life gets messy.” – Dr. Priyanka Venugopal

What I love most? She makes it simple. Step one: put your hand on your heart. Name the emotion. Take a breath. That’s it. It might sound small, but this practice rewires your brain out of survival mode and into a state where you can respond instead of react. And trust me, your scale, your kids, and your nervous system will thank you.

So if you’re tired of being tired, hungry for peace, and ready to break up with the guilt-Dorito loop once and for all, start here. Stress doesn’t have to be your personality. Neither does burnout.

• Join our FaceBook Page – Empowered and Unapologetic

Priyanka Venugopal is a board certified ObGyn physician turned Stress and Health coach for professional working moms. As an overweight physician herself, she found she knew all the information to help improve her health, but was not having any results until she learned how to manage her stress and live a lifestyle that supported her through her stress. She founded Burn Stress, Lose Weight as a side project with no intentions of leaving the practice until she found the impact she was having with women to exceed her medical work and went full time as an entrepreneur.

Priyanka is the host of The Burn Stress, Lose Weight Podcast and founder of The Unstoppable Mom Group, an intimate small group coaching program, where she has cultivated a holistic experience for professional working moms who want to experience a change from the inside out. She teaches skills and mindset tools using science informed strategies to burn fat and stress at the root to help professional women live the life they have worked so hard for and to feel more Unstoppable.

As a mom to two young children, Priyanka understands and connects with women who are trying to manage it all, feel healthy and confident, and need the lifestyle skills and science to back it up.

Digital Coordinates:

• Body Reset Podcast: https://www.burnstressloseweight.com/bodyreset

As a leading authority in women’s empowerment and a fierce advocate for building strong networks, Veronica is your go-to guru for turning fears into victories, struggles into strengths, and doubts into boundless opportunities.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 plus years; empowering high-achieving women in business to conquer both professional heights and personal fulfillment. She doesn’t do bandaids!
Veronica has a unique approach to overcoming obstacles and smashing through the glass ceilings that loom over ambitious women. With her arsenal of practical tools, actionable strategies, and unwavering support, Veronica doesn’t just help women succeed in their careers – she helps them thrive in every facet of their lives.

But Veronica’s expertise isn’t just theoretical – it’s personal. With over 24 years of marriage, three daughters, and a soaring career, Veronica embodies the resilience and determination needed to navigate life’s challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Group Private Practice Owner, of Outside The Norm Counseling, Marriage Coach, and the voice behind the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica effortlessly guides women to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Veronica is more than an expert – she’s a partner in transformation, turning mundane relationships into true connections. With her relatable charm and infectious humor, Veronica illuminates the path for women who refuse to settle for anything less than success in both business and relationships. Through practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and her trademark wit, Veronica empowers every woman to cultivate unbreakable bonds without sacrificing their ambitions.

Whether you listen to the podcast, join the free Facebook community, or do the Workshop,  you’re in the right place. Let’s do this together!

Did you enjoy this podcast? Feel free to share this podcast on social media! You can also leave a review of the Empowered and Unapologetic Podcast on Apple Podcast {previously iTunes) and subscribe!

The post EU 281: What Is Your Stress Type? A Smarter Way to Balance Life, Work & You with Priyanka Venugopal appeared first on Empowered and Unapologetic.

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Let’s get one thing straight: I love fireworks as much as the next overly scheduled woman running on caffeine and generational trauma. But this Fourth of July, we’re not talking about backyard barbecues and red-white-and-blue jello shots. No, friend. We’re talking about a very different kind of freedom—the kind that comes from laying down your emotional mop and stepping off the hamster wheel of doing the most.

I’m talking about the freedom to not be the CEO of your marriage, your household, your kid’s extracurricular calendar, and your damn group chat.

Because here’s what I know: you are tired. Not just yawn-and-stretch tired. I’m talking the soul-sucked, “Why am I crying while loading the dishwasher again?” kind of tired. You’ve held it together through career curveballs, toddler tantrums, and your in-laws’ unsolicited opinions on everything from screen time to the state of your Tupperware drawer. And somewhere along the way, you stopped being the main character in your own life.

Sound familiar?

Maybe you’ve been calling it “burnout.” Maybe you’ve been calling it “just tired.” But let’s call it what it really is: emotional withdrawal. You know, that thing where your husband hugs you and your body goes stiff like you’re being arrested? Or when your kid spills milk and you feel nothing—not even annoyance—just pure, unfiltered numbness? That’s not you being cold. That’s your nervous system throwing up a ‘closed for business’ sign because it’s been short-circuiting for years.

And the cruel irony? You’re successful. You’ve got the job, the family, the life that looks great on paper. Which means the shame gets louder. You should be grateful, right? But deep down, something is screaming, “I want me back.”

So this Independence Day, I’m not handing you another to-do list or one more journaling prompt. I’m giving you permission. Permission to put the damn armor down.

Independence isn’t waking up at 5AM to meditate and meal prep while everyone else sleeps. It’s not being the last to bed and the first to rise. It’s not a badge of honor to be the last woman standing at the sacrifice of your own sanity.

Independence is saying, “Nope, not doing that,” without a 10-minute apology monologue. It’s giving your kid an iPad so you can sit in silence with a lukewarm coffee and your own damn thoughts. It’s redefining rest as a right, not a reward you have to earn.

So start small. Ten minutes of stillness a day. One non-negotiable boundary (like laying in starfish position and refusing to get up until someone brings you snacks). Ask for help even when your voice shakes. Choose one thing this week that’s just for you—and when guilt shows up, tell it to take a hike.

You are not ungrateful. You’re unfinished. And baby, it’s time to rebuild—you.

Need support? I got you. Head to outsidethenormcounseling.com/resources for free guides that meet you where you are, no shame attached.

Happy Freedom Day, girl. Now go reclaim your damn time.

• Join our FaceBook Page – Empowered and Unapologetic

As a leading authority in women’s empowerment and a fierce advocate for building strong networks, Veronica is your go-to guru for turning fears into victories, struggles into strengths, and doubts into boundless opportunities.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 plus years; empowering high-achieving women in business to conquer both professional heights and personal fulfillment. She doesn’t do bandaids!
Veronica has a unique approach to overcoming obstacles and smashing through the glass ceilings that loom over ambitious women. With her arsenal of practical tools, actionable strategies, and unwavering support, Veronica doesn’t just help women succeed in their careers – she helps them thrive in every facet of their lives.

But Veronica’s expertise isn’t just theoretical – it’s personal. With over 24 years of marriage, three daughters, and a soaring career, Veronica embodies the resilience and determination needed to navigate life’s challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Group Private Practice Owner, of Outside The Norm Counseling, Marriage Coach, and the voice behind the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica effortlessly guides women to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Veronica is more than an expert – she’s a partner in transformation, turning mundane relationships into true connections. With her relatable charm and infectious humor, Veronica illuminates the path for women who refuse to settle for anything less than success in both business and relationships. Through practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and her trademark wit, Veronica empowers every woman to cultivate unbreakable bonds without sacrificing their ambitions.

Whether you listen to the podcast, join the free Facebook community, or do the Workshop,  you’re in the right place. Let’s do this together!

Did you enjoy this podcast? Feel free to share this podcast on social media! You can also leave a review of the Empowered and Unapologetic Podcast on Apple Podcast {previously iTunes) and subscribe!

The post EU 280: Overwhelmed, Burned Out, and Tired of Doing It All: Why Working Moms Don’t Need to Earn Rest to Feel Worthy appeared first on Empowered and Unapologetic.

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Let’s just be real for a minute—if your self-care routine consists of skipping conditioner and hiding from your inbox, you might be doing too much. I know because I’ve been there. And so has today’s guest on the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast: Lindsey Paulson, CEO of LP Consulting, host of the Mess to Mission podcast, and queen of rescuing overwhelmed business owners from the dumpster fire of burnout.

She joined me from inside a tornado warning (Kentucky, y’all) to talk systems, survival, and how to stop doing everything yourself like you’re auditioning for Superwoman… unpaid.

Let’s start with that truth bomb. Lindsay shared how her breaking point wasn’t some big, dramatic moment. It was the slow disappearance of joy.

“I stopped loving my business. I didn’t want to go to the gym. My hair was always in a clip. That’s when I knew.” – Lindsey Paulson

Sound familiar?

Whether you’re running a business, a household, or both (plus maybe a soccer team and a group chat with 83 unread messages), the signs of burnout are often subtle. You’re numbing out on TikTok. You’re irritated for no reason. You’re too tired to care about the thing you built from scratch.

Lindsey’s story hit me hard. Miscarriages. Managing addiction in her family. Parenting three kids. And yet, she didn’t use that as a reason to quit—she used it as a reason to get strategic.

Lindsey didn’t bounce back with vision boards and motivational quotes. She got serious about systems. Her go-to framework? The ADE Method: Automate, Delegate, Elevate.

Here’s how it works:

Identify all the repetitive stuff you do that drains your time and joy. Emailing intake forms, chasing client signatures, manually scheduling everything—gone. Set it up once, and let tech do the heavy lifting.

Lindsey shared how she helped a personal trainer client eliminate onboarding chaos by building a seamless workflow: inquiry form → digital forms → calendar booking → folder integration. Done.

“Let the internet and technology do the work for you so that you can go be the CEO, not the person drowning in emails.” – Lindsey Paulson

And if you haven’t met Lindsay’s ride-or-die tool, Boomerang for Gmail? Add it to your toolbox now. It follows up so you don’t have to. Because Gary isn’t ghosting you on purpose—he’s just buried like the rest of us.

Here’s the thing—if you’re the CEO and the janitor and the bookkeeper and the social media manager… you’re the problem. (And I say that with love.)

“What can you delegate? Can you get a VA? A bookkeeper? A cleaner who swaps your kid’s clothes out for the right sizes? That’s not lazy—that’s smart.” – Lindsey Paulson

Think about how much more present you could be—at home, at work, with yourself—if you weren’t spending five hours wrestling with QuickBooks or cleaning your baseboards before your cleaning lady arrives.

Once you’ve cleared the clutter (mental and physical), you get to do the work that actually lights you up. This is where you create, lead, and enjoy the business you’ve built. No more survival mode. No more white-knuckling your way through the week.

When Lindsey walked through her miscarriages while still running a business, she learned to shift—not shut down. She didn’t launch during her worst weeks. She pivoted to backend work: emails, SOPs, systems. Quiet, behind-the-scenes productivity that served her business and honored her grief.

And here’s the mic-drop moment:

“I had to stop asking what grief was taking from me, and start asking what I could still do while I healed.” – Lindsey Paulson

That’s a reframe worth writing on your mirror.

If this all sounds like exactly what you need, Lindsey’s got something for you. Her Organize to Optimize Challenge is designed to help you dig out of the chaos before you hit crisis mode.

Think of it as the pre-burnout bootcamp: legal checklists, SOPs you didn’t know you needed, insurance audits (yes, that matters too), and systems that work for you, not against you.

You can find her on Instagram at @linds.paulson, where she’s dropping all the links and running the challenge like the operational goddess she is.

So, if you’re tired of duct-taping your schedule together, if you’re stuck in the hustle with zero joy, if you’re spending more time on TikTok than you are on your business goals—it’s time.

Let’s stop worshipping burnout and start building businesses (and lives) that feel good.

• Join our FaceBook Page – Empowered and Unapologetic

Lindsey Paulson began her operational career with Marriott International in 2012 and is the CEO of LP Consulting. She works within the consulting world to help small businesses and nonprofits implement strategy and create administrative and operational processes. She is active within the St. Jude Children’s Advisory Council and provides value by implementing the A.D.E. method that she has founded. She works alongside CEO’s to ensure they can automate, delegate and elevate their business so they can maximize growth and efficiency within their day to day of their organization. She prioritizes mental health discussions for small business owners to ensure that they can take a mess to a mission and build their business around their life–not their life around their business.

Digital Coordinates:

• https://www.lindspaulson.com

As a leading authority in women’s empowerment and a fierce advocate for building strong networks, Veronica is your go-to guru for turning fears into victories, struggles into strengths, and doubts into boundless opportunities.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 plus years; empowering high-achieving women in business to conquer both professional heights and personal fulfillment. She doesn’t do bandaids!
Veronica has a unique approach to overcoming obstacles and smashing through the glass ceilings that loom over ambitious women. With her arsenal of practical tools, actionable strategies, and unwavering support, Veronica doesn’t just help women succeed in their careers – she helps them thrive in every facet of their lives.

But Veronica’s expertise isn’t just theoretical – it’s personal. With over 24 years of marriage, three daughters, and a soaring career, Veronica embodies the resilience and determination needed to navigate life’s challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Group Private Practice Owner, of Outside The Norm Counseling, Marriage Coach, and the voice behind the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica effortlessly guides women to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Veronica is more than an expert – she’s a partner in transformation, turning mundane relationships into true connections. With her relatable charm and infectious humor, Veronica illuminates the path for women who refuse to settle for anything less than success in both business and relationships. Through practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and her trademark wit, Veronica empowers every woman to cultivate unbreakable bonds without sacrificing their ambitions.

Whether you listen to the podcast, join the free Facebook community, or do the Workshop,  you’re in the right place. Let’s do this together!

Did you enjoy this podcast? Feel free to share this podcast on social media! You can also leave a review of the Empowered and Unapologetic Podcast on Apple Podcast {previously iTunes) and subscribe!

The post EU 279: From Burnout to Boss Mode: How to Automate, Delegate, and Actually Enjoy Life Again with Lindsey Paulson appeared first on Empowered and Unapologetic.

Listen on Apple. Listen on Spotify. Listen on YouTube.

“We’ve been rewarded for being in control. But love, leadership, and joy don’t come from control—they come from presence.” – Francesca Sipma

Let me set the scene: I’m sitting down with Francesca Sipma, founder of HypnoBreathwork®, and about five minutes into the conversation, I’m already contemplating if I should move to Bali, toss my planner in the trash, and just breathe for a living.

Francesca doesn’t just teach breathwork—she lives it. She’s worked with CEOs, celebrities, and now, lucky us, she’s sharing how high-performing women like us can stop white-knuckling our way through life and start leading from a place of clarity, connection, and confidence. And before you roll your eyes thinking this is another “just relax, queen” moment, hold up. This woman brings science, strategy, and real talk.

HypnoBreathwork® is Francesca’s signature blend of breathwork, hypnosis, and visioning that helps people rewire their subconscious in as little as 20 minutes. It sounds like magic, but it’s deeply grounded in neuroscience.

“Breath is the bridge between the head and the heart. When we’re stuck in overdrive, breathwork resets us—and reminds us who we are.” – Francesca Sipma

Here’s the breakdown: You breathe in a cyclical pattern (inhale belly, inhale chest, exhale out), add in some guided hypnosis to root out limiting beliefs, and then visualize the version of yourself who isn’t spiraling over whether your kid’s shoes match. (That’s not just me, right?)

As a therapist, I’ve guided clients through panic attacks, grief, trauma—using every tool in the book. But this? This was different. It wasn’t about thinking your way into healing—it was about feeling your way there. And that, my friends, is where the gold is.

I asked Francesca why so many of us—smart, successful women—crash and burn when it comes to connection. Her answer hit hard.

Because we’re living in our masculine energy. We hustle. We plan. We fix. But intimacy doesn’t respond to checklists. It responds to softness, trust, and presence.

“You can be a boss at work, but if you bring that energy into your relationships, there’s no room for polarity, for play, for love.” – Francesca Sipma

And she’s not saying we need to shrink or dim our light. Nope. What she’s saying is that we need to shift gears. When we walk through the doors of our homes, it’s time to let go of the hyper-control mode and lean into being human. Soft. Messy. Open.

That hit me like a ton of therapy bricks. Because if I’m being honest, there are days when I bring boardroom energy to my marriage and then wonder why I’m not feeling emotionally connected.

Francesca shared how trauma and childhood adversity often build the very traits that make us successful—hyper-independence, overachievement—but those same traits can become walls that keep love out.

In our session, Francesca guided me through a mini breathwork practice and I felt things shift—quickly. Like, dizzy in the best way. The kind of clarity that hits you when you realize your real goal isn’t business expansion… it’s flopping onto the couch with your daughter and laughing until one of you taps out.

Yep. That was my goal. Not a bigger launch. Not more money. More couch flops with my porcupine.

What’s wild is how quickly breathwork helped me see that. It wasn’t hidden. It was just buried under hustle, noise, and a to-do list that doesn’t actually reflect my values.

So I had to ask myself: Does my calendar match the life I say I want?

And that question has lived in my brain ever since.

This episode reminded me (and I hope it reminds you too) that healing doesn’t have to be a whole dramatic life overhaul. Sometimes it’s just a few minutes of breathing with intention. Getting out of your head and back into your body. Asking your intuition, what’s the next best step? And then trusting it.

So if you’re the woman who’s crushing it in her career but secretly feeling disconnected from joy, intimacy, or peace—you’re not alone. And you’re not broken.

You’re just overdue for a reset.

And maybe… just maybe… it starts with one inhale. Then another. Then a really honest exhale.

Want to Try It Yourself?
Download Francesca’s app Mastery—it’s like having a nervous system tune-up in your pocket. Seven-day free trial. Three-minute sessions. No excuses.

And if you’re really ready to dive deep? Book the damn ticket to Bali. Francesca’s hosting her next retreat in July and let me just say: this woman doesn’t do mediocre. Energy healers, luxury villas, and breakthroughs guaranteed.

Breathe, beautiful.
You don’t need to fix everything. You just need to reconnect. And maybe that starts by asking: Does the life I’m building reflect the woman I want to be?

Let’s get you aligned—with your breath, your truth, and your badass self.

• Join our FaceBook Page – Empowered and Unapologetic

Francesca Sipma is the author of Unblock Your Purpose: Breathwork, Intuition, and Flow State. She is the founder and CEO of Mastry and the creator of HypnoBreathwork®.

Francesca spent a decade at top ad agencies in New York City, leading global campaigns for brands like Google, Marriott, and Bacardi. After chasing an insatiable lifestyle, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery through Bali, India, and Peru, where she pioneered Hypnobreathwork® – a revolutionary method that blends breathwork, hypnosis, and visualization to help high performers break through subconscious blocks and access peak performance and purpose.

Today, Francesca works with C-suite executives, top producers, celebrities, artists, and athletes, guiding them to their intuitive edge and highest potential. She has led sessions for companies like Deloitte, Athletic Brewing, and Staples. Her work has been featured in Fast Company, Forbes, Entrepreneur, Bloomberg, and Inc.

Digital Coordinates:

• https://francescasipma.com

As a leading authority in women’s empowerment and a fierce advocate for building strong networks, Veronica is your go-to guru for turning fears into victories, struggles into strengths, and doubts into boundless opportunities.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 plus years; empowering high-achieving women in business to conquer both professional heights and personal fulfillment. She doesn’t do bandaids!
Veronica has a unique approach to overcoming obstacles and smashing through the glass ceilings that loom over ambitious women. With her arsenal of practical tools, actionable strategies, and unwavering support, Veronica doesn’t just help women succeed in their careers – she helps them thrive in every facet of their lives.

But Veronica’s expertise isn’t just theoretical – it’s personal. With over 24 years of marriage, three daughters, and a soaring career, Veronica embodies the resilience and determination needed to navigate life’s challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Group Private Practice Owner, of Outside The Norm Counseling, Marriage Coach, and the voice behind the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica effortlessly guides women to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Veronica is more than an expert – she’s a partner in transformation, turning mundane relationships into true connections. With her relatable charm and infectious humor, Veronica illuminates the path for women who refuse to settle for anything less than success in both business and relationships. Through practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and her trademark wit, Veronica empowers every woman to cultivate unbreakable bonds without sacrificing their ambitions.

Whether you listen to the podcast, join the free Facebook community, or do the Workshop,  you’re in the right place. Let’s do this together!

Did you enjoy this podcast? Feel free to share this podcast on social media! You can also leave a review of the Empowered and Unapologetic Podcast on Apple Podcast {previously iTunes) and subscribe!

The post EU 278: Why High-Achieving Women Struggle in Love (and What Breathwork Has to Do With It) with Francesca Sigma appeared first on Empowered and Unapologetic.

Listen on Apple. Listen on Spotify. Listen on YouTube.

If you’ve ever Googled “how to stop spiraling” while eating trail mix with one hand and texting your teen’s principal with the other—this episode is for you.

I sat down with Danita Young, a transformation coach and 20-year health expert who is not here for the hustle culture, fake positivity, or diets that leave you eating air and regret. She’s flipping the script on everything we think we know about anxiety, weight loss, and control—and sis, you’re going to want to take notes.

Let’s dive into what she said that blew my mind—and might just reset yours.

“Anxiety is your bodyguard. It’s not trying to ruin your life—it’s trying to keep you alive.” — Danita Young

According to Danita, most of us are walking around with our nervous system in full DEFCON 1. That means we’re stuck in fight, flight, or freeze—not because we’re broken, but because our survival brain is running the show.

Here’s what blew my mind: anxiety doesn’t show up to mess with us. It shows up because it thinks we’re in danger. And whether that danger is a toxic relationship, the fear of launching a business, or just the toddler’s silence (you knowsomething’s up)—your body sees it all as a threat.

Instead of fighting your anxiety, Danita suggests you actually talk to it. Yep, like a weirdo. (A weirdo who gets results.)

Try this:
“Hey, I know you’re trying to keep me safe. But I promise, making this career move—even though it’s unfamiliar—won’t kill me. You can relax.”

Danita breaks it down with actual neuroscience, not just Pinterest mantras. She dives into the roles of the amygdala, basal ganglia, and something called the reticular activating system—basically, the bouncers of your brain deciding what gets in and what sets off the alarm bells.

And yes, trauma and generational anxiety get a seat at the table here too. Whether it’s passed down from grandma or picked up from life’s curveballs, our body learns to live in fear—even when we’ve outgrown the danger.

“If you’ve been raised around anxious people, it becomes familiar to worry. That’s not a personality trait—it’s a pattern.” — Danita Young

High-achieving women (hi, us) love a checklist. So here’s what Danita recommends you actually track—because it’s time to measure your progress by more than your inbox or pant size.

1. Your Emotional Frequency
   Google “emotions measured by frequency.” Find where you live most of the time (guilt? stress? joy?). Multiply your awareness by three, divide by the need to be perfect, and you’ve got your emotional baseline.

“If you’re constantly working harder and still feel stuck, you’re probably out of alignment. It’s not about more effort—it’s about better direction.” — Danita Young

Danita’s advice? Get out of insanity loops (you know, the ones where you try harder, crash harder, and still feel behind). Start patching the leaks: perfectionism, people-pleasing, saying “yes” when your soul is screaming “no.”

Then? Celebrate the hell out of your wins.

No, seriously. Don’t wait until you “earn” rest. Danita swears by this because joy is fuel, not a reward. And if you don’t celebrate becoming her—the version of you who sets boundaries and breathes easily—she might never fully show up.

Danita’s take on lasting fat loss? Stop trying to go back to the old you. That girl’s gone. You’re becoming someone new—someone who doesn’t crash diet or need a gold star for skipping dessert.

Here’s the kicker: Your subconscious might be secretly scared of the new you. Maybe she’s afraid of being seen. Maybe she’s been hiding behind the weight to stay “safe.” Either way, she’s not lazy—she’s protective.

And when we bring that truth into the light? We stop the sabotage cycle.

We also talked relationships. Spoiler alert: Women crave emotional intimacy, not just the “how was your day” autopilot talk.

If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your partner even when everything looks good on paper—it might be because you haven’t articulated what actually makes you feel seen.

Danita put it beautifully: “When I finally said, ‘I just need you to hold space while I’m a tornado of emotion,’ everything changed.”

Yep. Same.

Your nervous system holds the keys to more than you think—peace, health, confidence, even connection. And while your to-do list is impressive, your calm isn’t something to earn. It’s something to reclaim.

Ready to start? Danita’s free masterclass, Three Secrets from a 20-Year Health Expert, is waiting for you at alignwithdanita.com. And if you’re really ready to stop spiraling and start stepping into the calm, confident version of yourself? Book a free assessment with her at callwithdanita.com.

Your bodyguard (aka anxiety) might freak out—but you’ve got this.

• Join our FaceBook Page – Empowered and Unapologetic

Danita Young is a powerhouse transformational coach and cognitive performance expert who’s helped thousands of women break through anxiety, stress, and limiting beliefs to unlock their full potential. As the founder of Align, a proven system that rewires the nervous system for lasting change, and Metabolism Makeover, a revolutionary program for sustainable fat loss, Danita is redefining what it means to feel strong—from the inside out.

With over $15 million in sales and a fiercely loyal community of over 350,000 women, Danita is more than a coach—she’s a movement. She’s an 8-year entrepreneur, certified personal trainer, and nationally qualified bikini competitor who brings real science, real strategy, and zero fluff to every conversation.

Danita is the founder of the women-owned, women-run brand Booty Bands®, and her mission is simple: help women regulate their nervous systems, reconnect with their power, and radically transform their lives—without hustle, shame, or perfectionism.

Digital Coordinates:

• Women Owned, Women Run  https://bootybands.com

As a leading authority in women’s empowerment and a fierce advocate for building strong networks, Veronica is your go-to guru for turning fears into victories, struggles into strengths, and doubts into boundless opportunities.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 plus years; empowering high-achieving women in business to conquer both professional heights and personal fulfillment. She doesn’t do bandaids!
Veronica has a unique approach to overcoming obstacles and smashing through the glass ceilings that loom over ambitious women. With her arsenal of practical tools, actionable strategies, and unwavering support, Veronica doesn’t just help women succeed in their careers – she helps them thrive in every facet of their lives.

But Veronica’s expertise isn’t just theoretical – it’s personal. With over 24 years of marriage, three daughters, and a soaring career, Veronica embodies the resilience and determination needed to navigate life’s challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Group Private Practice Owner, of Outside The Norm Counseling, Marriage Coach, and the voice behind the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica effortlessly guides women to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Veronica is more than an expert – she’s a partner in transformation, turning mundane relationships into true connections. With her relatable charm and infectious humor, Veronica illuminates the path for women who refuse to settle for anything less than success in both business and relationships. Through practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and her trademark wit, Veronica empowers every woman to cultivate unbreakable bonds without sacrificing their ambitions.

Whether you listen to the podcast, join the free Facebook community, or do the Workshop,  you’re in the right place. Let’s do this together!

Did you enjoy this podcast? Feel free to share this podcast on social media! You can also leave a review of the Empowered and Unapologetic Podcast on Apple Podcast {previously iTunes) and subscribe!

The post EU 277: How to Calm the Hell Down Without Meds, Diets, or 5 AM Bootcamps with Danita Young appeared first on Empowered and Unapologetic.

Listen on Apple. Listen on Spotify. Listen on YouTube.

“If you feel like you have to post, don’t log in. Because you’re not putting out energy anyone wants to engage with.”

Let’s get real: running social media as a business owner or ambitious woman feels a lot like trying to work out while someone throws Goldfish crackers at you and yells “engagement matters!” from across the room. Add motherhood, a marriage, or literally any attempt at self-care into the mix, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for burnout with a side of ‘why am I even doing this?’

But here’s the truth bomb that Rachel Adams Lee dropped on the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast: You can grow a real, loyal audience on Instagram without selling your soul, faking perfection, or posting 17 reels a week. You just need the right system—and a lot less noise.

Here’s how this powerhouse mama of (soon-to-be) four built an audience of thousands while building a seven-figure business and a healthy marriage. Grab a snack, sis—we’re doing this together.

Those perfectly branded podcast graphics? The ones with your headshot, cute fonts, and beige-pink color scheme? Instagram sees those and screams “AD!” Then it shoves them straight into algorithm purgatory.

Instead, Rachel’s advice? Get real. Post your face. Your messy bun. Your kid’s toy in the corner of the frame. Show up like you would on a Zoom call with your best friend—vulnerable, a little unfiltered, and 100% you.

“People don’t connect with perfection. They connect with personality.” – Rachel Adams Lee

Let’s talk about the thing your social media team probably missed: THE HOOK. That first 2 seconds that either stops the scroll—or sends people back to watching dog videos.

No more “Start saying no to the noise.” What does that even mean? Instead, try:

• “3 Boundaries That Saved My Marriage”

The formula? Clarity + Curiosity + Value = Click-worthy. This is non-negotiable.

If you’re posting and ghosting, don’t expect a flood of likes. Instagram is a two-way street, not a stage where you drop a mic and walk off. Rachel’s go-to tactic?

The 555 Rule:

• 5 minutes before you post: Comment on 5 people’s posts with 5+ words

Boom. More eyes on your content. More real engagement. More people actually seeing your brilliance.

Here’s the mistake we all make: We only talk about our work. But your audience? They’re following you for who you are, not just what you sell.

Rachel’s framework: pick five content pillars. Hers are:

1. Real estate & entrepreneurship

Only ONE pillar is your job. The rest is your life—your real life. That’s the magic.

“People might find you because of what you do—but they stay because of who you are and how you make them feel.” – Rachel Adams Lee

Post first thing in the morning (yes, before the chaos of cereal and carpool begins). No, not through Hootsuite or Planoly. The algorithm hates third-party apps. Post manually.

Then, walk away. Your contribution is out there. Now go live your actual life, sis. You’re not a content robot—you’re a badass building a business and raising tiny humans.

If your bio looks like a Choose Your Own Adventure novel with 8 different links—no one’s clicking anything. Use StanStore, the $29/month miracle that hosts your freebies, podcast links, and lead magnets all in one place. Bonus: it automates your replies when people comment keywords like “top10” or “freebie.”

Efficiency? Check. Lead generation? Double check.

Rachel’s final mic drop? If you want to build your business (or audience) fast, you have to show up. Not your assistant. Not AI. YOU.

So yes, you can get 1,000 real followers in a month—if you’re willing to be authentic, strategic, and just a little more visible than you are comfortable with. It’s not about chasing clout. It’s about creating connection.

If you’re still trying to figure out how to show up online without burning out or disappearing into Canva-induced rage, take Rachel’s advice: Educate. Entertain. Add Value. And maybe stop trying to look perfect while doing it.

You’re not here to impress—you’re here to impact.

Ready for the real glow-up?
Follow Rachel Adams Lee on Instagram @racheladamslee and grab your spot in her free masterclass: How to Add a $40K Income Stream Without Working More Hours.

And if you loved this post, don’t forget to share it with your business bestie. We’re in this together. 

• Join our FaceBook Page – Empowered and Unapologetic

Meet Rachel Adams Lee! She is a small town girl making moves! Top 1000 Realtor in the US, multi-passionate entrepreneur & a boy Mama of 3. She runs multiple 6&7 figure companies with her hubby and lives life on their terms! She loves helping others tap into their true potential and build the business of their dreams. Facts: Positivity is her jam. You can find her snuggled on the couch in yoga pants, hair in a messy bun with her laptop! She is 5ft tall, love all things social media, obsessed with having a healthy marriage, and thinks Nutella should be its own food group!

Digital Coordinates:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racheladamslee/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RACHELADAMSLEE

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/racheladamslee

Real Estate Website: http://www.RachelAdamsLeeGroup.com

Coaching Website: http://www.LevelUpCoachingco.com

As a leading authority in women’s empowerment and a fierce advocate for building strong networks, Veronica is your go-to guru for turning fears into victories, struggles into strengths, and doubts into boundless opportunities.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 plus years; empowering high-achieving women in business to conquer both professional heights and personal fulfillment. She doesn’t do bandaids!
Veronica has a unique approach to overcoming obstacles and smashing through the glass ceilings that loom over ambitious women. With her arsenal of practical tools, actionable strategies, and unwavering support, Veronica doesn’t just help women succeed in their careers – she helps them thrive in every facet of their lives.

But Veronica’s expertise isn’t just theoretical – it’s personal. With over 24 years of marriage, three daughters, and a soaring career, Veronica embodies the resilience and determination needed to navigate life’s challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Group Private Practice Owner, of Outside The Norm Counseling, Marriage Coach, and the voice behind the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica effortlessly guides women to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Veronica is more than an expert – she’s a partner in transformation, turning mundane relationships into true connections. With her relatable charm and infectious humor, Veronica illuminates the path for women who refuse to settle for anything less than success in both business and relationships. Through practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and her trademark wit, Veronica empowers every woman to cultivate unbreakable bonds without sacrificing their ambitions.

Whether you listen to the podcast, join the free Facebook community, or do the Workshop,  you’re in the right place. Let’s do this together!

Did you enjoy this podcast? Feel free to share this podcast on social media! You can also leave a review of the Empowered and Unapologetic Podcast on Apple Podcast {previously iTunes) and subscribe!

The post EU 276: How to Get 1,000 Real Followers on Instagram in One Month (Without Selling Your Soul or Your Sanity) with Rachel Adams Lee appeared first on Empowered and Unapologetic.

Listen on Apple. Listen on Spotify. Listen on YouTube.

Let me tell you something—there are women who walk into a room and command it, not with a shout but with the quiet authority of someone who’s been through hell, built the ladder, and climbed out. Marie Newman is one of those women.

When I sat down with Marie—former Congresswoman, nonprofit CEO, badass mom, and the author of A Life Made From Scratch—I knew this conversation wasn’t going to be fluffy. It was going to be real. And I don’t do surface-level, especially not with women who know what it means to carry the weight of a career, a family, and the occasional internal existential spiral.

So if you’ve ever felt like you’re juggling ALL the things—career, kids, marriage, dreams, the broken dishwasher—you’re not alone. And this one’s for you.

Marie’s motto is one part genius, one part survival guide. Too many of us wait for the “right time” or the “perfect opportunity” or for someone to hand us permission. Newsflash: No one’s handing out golden tickets to balance or fulfillment. Most of the time, we have to build the damn thing ourselves—with whatever ingredients we’ve got lying around.

Marie did this when her son was being bullied and the school had no system in place. Instead of spiraling or switching zip codes, she created a full-on anti-bullying program. From scratch. That one moment sparked a national movement, a bestselling book, and a nonprofit.

Lesson? That little whisper in the back of your mind—the one that keeps tugging at you? It’s not background noise. It’s the blueprint.

Let’s talk about relationships—the good, the complicated, and the what the hell is happening ones.

Marie opened up about the very real strain success can put on a marriage. As a Congresswoman, she was everywhere—CNN, MSNBC, headlines, stages. And while her husband supported her fully, he still felt… invisible.

Here’s the kicker. He wasn’t jealous. He just missed her. Missed being seen. Missed being part of her world. And that’s a nuance a lot of us miss when we’re sprinting toward the next goal.

“Feeling left out is not the same as jealousy. It just means they’re not getting enough of you.” – Marie Newman

Marie didn’t fix it with flowers or a date night. She fixed it with vulnerability. A trip to Asheville. A year’s worth of hard conversations. And owning the hard truth: she had tuned out the very person she loved most.

If you’re anything like me (or basically every woman I’ve ever worked with), you’ve had those what is my life moments. The ones where burnout has you googling “how to move to Portugal” or fantasizing about becoming a barista just for the simplicity of it.

Marie gets it. She’s lived it. And she’s still standing. Not perfectly. Not without screw-ups. But she reminds us that bad days don’t disqualify you from greatness.

“Hand to God, you can always do better another day. Just hold on to that.” – Marie Newman

And for those of you navigating family mental health challenges on top of everything else? Marie sees you. She’s been there—with a husband and children managing depression and trauma. Her advice?

Take breaks. Real ones. The world won’t crumble if you go get sushi with your best friend.

So what are the real-deal tools that helped Marie build her career, stay married, and keep fighting for equity?

1. Mentorship
   Have one. Be one. Learn from people 10 steps ahead. Help those 10 steps behind. Boom. Full circle.

“Most people can handle anything. They just don’t know it yet.” – Marie Newman

So if you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or like your life is missing something and you can’t even name it—take a breath. Tune into that whisper. That idea. That dream. The one that keeps getting louder.

Because maybe it’s not that you’re lost. Maybe it’s just time to build something new.

From scratch.

• Join our FaceBook Page – Empowered and Unapologetic

Marie Newman is a former congresswoman, nonprofit CEO, marketing executive, author of When Your Child Is Being Bullied: Real Solutions, antibullying activist, former Moms Demand Action spokesperson and national LGBTQ+ advocate. In addition to those roles, she is a mom of two adult children, consultant and podcaster. Marie is known for building movements and solving the toughest problems. Her next book, a memoir, will be released in March of 2025, A Life Made From Scratch. Her motto has always been, when you do not see the solution you desperately need, make it from scratch!

Digital Coordinates:

https://www.marienewmanstudio.com

https://www.facebook.com/MarieNewmanIL06

https://www.instagram.com/repmarienewman

https://bsky.app/profile/marienewman.bsky.social

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marie-newman-b31807

As a leading authority in women’s empowerment and a fierce advocate for building strong networks, Veronica is your go-to guru for turning fears into victories, struggles into strengths, and doubts into boundless opportunities.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 plus years; empowering high-achieving women in business to conquer both professional heights and personal fulfillment. She doesn’t do bandaids!
Veronica has a unique approach to overcoming obstacles and smashing through the glass ceilings that loom over ambitious women. With her arsenal of practical tools, actionable strategies, and unwavering support, Veronica doesn’t just help women succeed in their careers – she helps them thrive in every facet of their lives.

But Veronica’s expertise isn’t just theoretical – it’s personal. With over 24 years of marriage, three daughters, and a soaring career, Veronica embodies the resilience and determination needed to navigate life’s challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Group Private Practice Owner, of Outside The Norm Counseling, Marriage Coach, and the voice behind the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica effortlessly guides women to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Veronica is more than an expert – she’s a partner in transformation, turning mundane relationships into true connections. With her relatable charm and infectious humor, Veronica illuminates the path for women who refuse to settle for anything less than success in both business and relationships. Through practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and her trademark wit, Veronica empowers every woman to cultivate unbreakable bonds without sacrificing their ambitions.

Whether you listen to the podcast, join the free Facebook community, or do the Workshop,  you’re in the right place. Let’s do this together!

Did you enjoy this podcast? Feel free to share this podcast on social media! You can also leave a review of the Empowered and Unapologetic Podcast on Apple Podcast {previously iTunes) and subscribe!

The post EU 275: Build It From Scratch: What Women Like Us Do When the System Fails appeared first on Empowered and Unapologetic.

Listen on Apple. Listen on Spotify. Listen on YouTube.

We’ve all heard the saying “heal the root, not just the symptom,” but what does that actually look like in practice—especially when you’re juggling motherhood, marriage, a business, and a past full of trauma?

In this episode of the Empowered and Unapologetic Podcast, I sat down with Melissa Hiemann, co-founder of The Centre for Healing and creator of Root Cause Therapy. Her journey? Let’s just say it’s the kind of story that makes you pause, breathe, and realize your pain doesn’t have to define your future.

Melissa went from being a quiet, bullied child, growing up in unstable homes with emotionally unsafe environments, to navigating addiction and trauma as a young adult—and ultimately building a multi-million-dollar healing company that’s changing lives all over the world.

Here’s what I learned from our conversation—and what every high-achieving woman should know about breaking cycles, finding balance, and building a life rooted in intention.

Melissa’s turning point came in her twenties when, after years of numbing with substances, she found herself on a personal development path and eventually discovered therapy. But it wasn’t until she developed Root Cause Therapy that everything clicked into place.

Think of it like this: Traditional therapy often trims the weeds—your behaviors, your negative thoughts, your patterns—but Root Cause Therapy digs deep into the soil. It works with both the mind and the body to uncover the real source of emotional pain: childhood trauma, generational wounds, pre-verbal experiences. It goes where words alone can’t reach.

“We’re not just doing talk therapy,” Melissa said. “We go into the soma, into the body, and do the work where the trauma lives.”

Let’s be real—healing isn’t supposed to be comfortable. Root Cause Therapy isn’t a spa day. It’s the emotional equivalent of deep cleaning a wound so it can finally heal. And yes, it can be intense. But when you stop trying to fix the surface and start healing the source, that’s where transformation lives.

Melissa shared that she’s seen clients break lifelong addiction patterns—not because someone told them to quit, but because the need to escape disappeared once the root trauma was healed. When you stop needing to numb, you start living.

As a mother and business owner, Melissa knows what it means to balance big dreams with tiny humans. And like many of us, she had to learn the hard way that “doing it all” can come at the cost of presence and peace.

When her son was born, she realized she wasn’t living the values she taught—conscious parenting, attachment, presence. So she and her partner made a radical shift: they took their clinic online, redesigned their entire business, and started working less… while making five times more.

The lesson? You don’t have to choose between motherhood and impact. But you do have to get intentional.

“I thank my son every day,” Melissa said. “He forced me to think differently. To make our business model match our values.”

Melissa dropped some serious wisdom when she reminded us that our nervous systems are always scanning for safety. That means your kids, your clients, your coworkers—they’re not just listening to your words. They’re feeling your energy.

If you’re dysregulated, overwhelmed, or running on fumes, people can feel it—even if you think you’re holding it all together.

Regulation is your power source. And it starts with you.

Melissa works with countless high-achieving women and entrepreneurs, and the same limiting beliefs show up again and again:

• “I have to work harder to earn more.”

These aren’t just mindset issues—they’re trauma echoes. Maybe you grew up watching people with money be judged. Maybe gifts came with strings attached. Maybe no one ever taught you how to just be without performing.

The beauty of Melissa’s work is that it doesn’t just help people reframe these beliefs. It helps them release them from the body, for good.

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’re barely holding it together—start by getting clear on your vision. Melissa encourages all of us to be just a little “delusional,” in the best way. Close your eyes and imagine:

• What would my life look like if everything aligned?

Then, hold that vision close. Make decisions from that place. Let every step move you closer to the life you want, not the one you’re repeating out of habit.

“You don’t have to know how,” Melissa reminded us. “You just have to know where you want to go.”

Melissa didn’t build her business by having all the answers. She started with sticky notes on a wardrobe and recorded her first course while breastfeeding. Her message to women with a dream?

You already have everything you need. That wisdom in your head? That passion in your heart? Someone out there is waiting for it.

Start small. Automate what you can. Ask for help. And remember: done is better than perfect.

Melissa is currently working on her second book—a deep dive into Root Cause Therapy—and continuing to expand her free and paid educational programs worldwide. And she’s still figuring out how to make space for writing without being interrupted by a toddler every five minutes.

If you’re curious to explore more, Melissa offers a series of free trauma-informed courses at thecentrefohealing.com.

Melissa’s story is proof that no matter where you come from—no matter how low the rock bottom—healing is possible. Success is possible. Joy is possible. But it starts by getting honest about what’s holding you back, and then deciding that you’re ready to let it go.

“You’ve got an inner genius underneath all those layers,” she said. “You just have to take the next right step.”

And that, my friend, is your invitation.

If this episode spoke to you, share it with a fellow mom, coach, or dreamer who needs to hear that she is not too broken, too late, or too overwhelmed to change her life.

You are the root. You are the healer. You are the revolution.

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As the cofounder and director of The Centre for Healing, Melissa Hiemann specializes in helping practitioners, therapists, healers and coaches learn life-changing, transformative methods while creating a thriving business for themselves. She is the creator of Root-Cause Therapy, a powerful method that addresses the underlying causes of addiction and mental health issues. Melissa’s passion for mental health and alternative healing stems from her own lived experience and extensive self-study. She believes that everyone has the potential to reach their full potential, achieve their goals, and create positive change in their lives and the world.

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As a leading authority in women’s empowerment and a fierce advocate for building strong networks, Veronica is your go-to guru for turning fears into victories, struggles into strengths, and doubts into boundless opportunities.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 plus years; empowering high-achieving women in business to conquer both professional heights and personal fulfillment. She doesn’t do bandaids!
Veronica has a unique approach to overcoming obstacles and smashing through the glass ceilings that loom over ambitious women. With her arsenal of practical tools, actionable strategies, and unwavering support, Veronica doesn’t just help women succeed in their careers – she helps them thrive in every facet of their lives.

But Veronica’s expertise isn’t just theoretical – it’s personal. With over 24 years of marriage, three daughters, and a soaring career, Veronica embodies the resilience and determination needed to navigate life’s challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Group Private Practice Owner, of Outside The Norm Counseling, Marriage Coach, and the voice behind the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica effortlessly guides women to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Veronica is more than an expert – she’s a partner in transformation, turning mundane relationships into true connections. With her relatable charm and infectious humor, Veronica illuminates the path for women who refuse to settle for anything less than success in both business and relationships. Through practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and her trademark wit, Veronica empowers every woman to cultivate unbreakable bonds without sacrificing their ambitions.

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The post EU 274: Healing from the Inside Out: Uncovering the Root Causes of Your Stress and Struggles with Melissa Hiemann appeared first on Empowered and Unapologetic.