Listen in this week as Jill brings us back to episode 158 of the podcast in which she shares some personal reflections on codependency, using her experience with chickens as a powerful metaphor. After her podcast gained significant success, ranking in the top 100 out of 2 million shows, Jill discusses a truly humbling moment when she forgot to record an insightful episode, leading her to contemplate the deeper lessons in her life!

She begins by recounting her journey of raising chickens on her 30-acre property in rural Indiana. Through funny and touching stories about bonding with her chickens, Jill explores how her care for them mirrors her tendency to neglect her own needs. This connection serves as a lens for understanding codependency, particularly her struggle with feeling responsible for others' happiness, including her children.

As she learns to care for her chickens without overextending herself, Jill uncovers a critical truth, which is that we often take on others' burdens, believing that we can shield them from pain, with the reality being that this only prolongs their lessons and reinforces our own patterns of guilt. By stepping back and allowing her chickens – and, of course, by extension, her loved ones - to face their challenges, Jill gains clarity on how to foster self-worth and set healthy boundaries.

Tune in for a blend of lighthearted anecdotes and profound insights in this episode, as Jill encourages everyone to reflect on their own relationships and personal growth. Through her honest storytelling, Jill invites us to examine how we care for ourselves and others, while embracing the important lessons that life presents!

Show Notes:

[01:16] - While attending a local event, Jill was pleasantly surprised to be recognized by podcast listeners, reminding her of its global audience. [04:18] - Reflecting on recent interactions, Jill feels reassured that her podcast is making a positive impact, and she takes a moment to thank listeners. [06:27] - Jill highlights the importance of sharing your passion and building community, stressing that asking for feedback is key. [08:28] - Jill recalls a humbling moment when she realized that she hadn’t hit record on an important episode. [10:30] - Jill's interest in codependency ties back to a conversation that sparked her long-standing dream of raising chickens. [12:51] - Sharing a lighthearted story, Jill describes caring for a family's chickens, which eventually led her to get her own flock. [15:48] - We learn that Jill ordered six hens but felt anxious holding them, fearing that they wouldn’t imprint on her. [18:31] - Jill realizes that caring for her chickens reflects her own self-care. [20:55] - Neglecting her chickens mirrors Jill's self-neglect, triggering guilt but guiding her toward healing. [23:55] - Jill touches upon how her guilt from neglecting her chickens mirrors childhood experiences and self-care struggles. [26:34] - Jill's self-worth hinges on others' well-being, echoing patterns from her parents' arguments. [29:29] - Healing from codependency involves grounding, setting boundaries, and embracing solitude without distractions. [31:22] - Raising chickens taught Jill valuable lessons, including self-forgiveness after losing baby chicks. [34:19] - Jill touches upon how she witnessed aggression among her chickens, leading to a rooster's death. [36:40] - A mother’s happiness is influenced by her child's sadness, an unhealthy notion. [38:52] - Jill's guilt stems from wanting to save others, delaying necessary lessons. [41:11] - Establish personal boundaries to feel safe and connected to your inner self. [44:19] - Prioritize self-care to authentically empathize and nurture others!

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