A Fresh Story

This episode answers the question: How can I add a workout routine to my life without feeling overwhelmed?

We chatted with Rebecca Stewart, a personal trainer and mobility coach, about simple ways to integrate a workout routine into your life without feeling overwhelmed. Rebecca shared the importance of movement for both physical and mental health, emphasizing the benefits of incorporating strength training and cardiovascular exercise into your routine. She also provided valuable advice on navigating the overwhelming amount of fitness information available online, encouraging listeners to focus on reliable sources and practical, achievable steps.

Rebecca's non-judgmental and shame-free approach to fitness stands out, as she believes that even small amounts of movement can create meaningful improvements in overall well-being. She shared her philosophy of meeting clients where they are, whether through in-person or virtual coaching, and highlighted the flexibility of online training options for personalized fitness support. This conversation is filled with actionable tips and empowering insights for anyone looking to create a sustainable and enjoyable exercise routine.

You can learn more about Rebecca on her Fresh Starts Profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/movementfx-llc

This episode answers the question: What is gut health and how do I make sure my gut is healthy?

We chatted with Amanda Sauceda, a registered dietitian, about the fascinating world of gut health and how to ensure your gut is thriving. Amanda breaks gut health into three key components: digestion, the gut microbiome, and the mind-gut connection. She shares practical tips for boosting gut health, such as increasing fiber intake and incorporating more plant-based foods into your meals. Amanda also emphasizes the role of stress management and mindfulness in supporting the mind-gut connection, offering actionable steps to improve both physical and emotional well-being.

Throughout our conversation, Amanda provides insights into how small changes—like adding seeds to meals or checking in with your emotions—can make a big difference. She also highlights the importance of tuning into your body’s needs and offers guidance for creating a gut-friendly lifestyle. If you’re curious to learn more, Amanda has upcoming live classes and additional resources to help you dive deeper into the connection between gut health and overall wellness.

You can find more about Amanda on her Fresh Starts Profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/the-mindful-gut-llc

This episode answers the question: How can I cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment in my career and personal life?

We chatted with Meg Trucano, a life coach for ambitious women, about cultivating a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment in both career and personal life. Meg shared the importance of finding clarity about what you truly want, rather than simply chasing conventional markers of success. She encouraged looking inward for answers, respecting your authentic desires, and challenging the societal notion that productivity equals self-worth. Meg highlighted the value of pursuing activities that bring joy and fulfillment, even if they don’t generate monetary value, as a way to create a more meaningful life.

Through her long-term coaching programs and clarity intensives, Meg helps clients navigate the challenges of aligning their goals with their true passions. She offers actionable strategies to overcome limiting beliefs and build a life centered on purpose and joy. Whether you're feeling stuck in your career or seeking more balance in your personal life, Meg’s insights provide a supportive and empowering framework for transformation.

You can learn more about Meg on her Fresh Starts Profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/meg-trucano-coaching

Alix Strauss is a trend, culture and lifestyle journalist; an award-winning, four-time published author; and speaker. She is a frequent contributor to the New York Times, among other publications. She is currently on tour with her recently re-issued cult classic novel, The Joy of Funerals which is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

Her other books include: Based Upon Availability (Harper Collins), and Death Becomes Them: Unearthing the Suicides of the Brilliant, the Famous and the Notorious (Harper Collins). She is also the editor of Have I Got a Guy for You (Simon & Schuster), an anthology of mother-coordinated dating horror stories. Her work has been optioned for several TV and film projects. A media-savvy social satirist, she has been a featured lifestyle, travel, and trend writer on national morning and talk shows including ABC, CBS, CNN, and the Today Show. During the past 25 years she has written over 1500 articles. She also writes about relationship, marriage and weddings.

Learn more about Alix Strauss and her work on her website: https://www.alixstrauss.com/

We chatted with Leslie Streeter and Lynne Childress, twin sisters with an unshakable bond, about their experiences growing up as twins and navigating life together. They shared touching stories of their childhood, moving frequently, and the resilience they developed while facing bullies and stereotypes. Central to their story is the strong foundation their parents provided, instilling values of self-worth and perseverance. Leslie and Lynne reflected on the ways their unique upbringing shaped their sense of belonging and the importance of supportive relationships, even during life's most challenging moments.

In this heartfelt conversation, the sisters discussed the complexities of their transition to college, how they’ve supported each other during tragedies, and how humor has helped them navigate tough times. They also delved into the joys of shared interests, their deep admiration for each other, and the special connection between their sons. Wrapping up, they talked about their podcast, Leslie’s book Black Widow, and the enduring strength of sibling relationships. This episode is a beautiful exploration of love, resilience, and the power of family bonds.

This episode answers the question: How do I stop hating myself in photos?!

We chatted with Terrie Alfieri, a talented visual storyteller and photographer, about how to love the way you look in photos. Terrie highlights the importance of self-love and confidence as the foundation for appreciating your photos. She encourages focusing on what you love about yourself instead of fixating on perceived flaws and reframing how you think about your appearance. According to Terrie, the photography experience itself plays a vital role, as feeling comfortable and connected during the session can transform how you view the final images.

Terrie also shared her passion for capturing meaningful connections through her work. Specializing in documenting families, milestones, empowerment sessions, and events, she offers personalized photo experiences designed to celebrate individuality and unique stories. Whether you're looking to mark a special occasion or simply feel more empowered in front of the camera, Terrie’s insights are sure to inspire you to embrace your beauty and cherish your moments.

You can learn more about Terrie on her Fresh Starts Profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/terrie-alfieri-photography

This episode answers the question: Are there specific mindfulness or meditation techniques that can help me stay present and grounded amidst life's challenges?

We chatted with Jo-Anne Suriel, an energy healer, about how mindfulness and meditation techniques can help us stay grounded amidst life's challenges. Joanne introduced singing as a surprisingly powerful practice to reconnect with our bodies and activate our energetic centers. She shared how intentional practices like singing meditations can be incorporated into our daily lives, providing immediate grounding and clarity. Jo-Anne also highlighted the biological benefits of singing, including its ability to balance the nervous system and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Beyond her insights on singing, Jo-Anne explained how she integrates this practice into her energy healing sessions, combining energetic well readings, reiki, and sound healing for a transformative experience. Whether working one-on-one or in groups, Jo-Anne often ends her sessions with singing to help participants feel centered and present. Her unique approach demonstrates how simple mindfulness practices can profoundly impact our emotional and energetic well-being.

Learn more about Jo-Anne on her Fresh Starts Profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/energetic-well

This episode answers the question: I have a lot of sentimental items. How can I keep them organized without sacrificing space?

We chatted with Kat Green, an ADHD organizing specialist, about how to manage sentimental items without sacrificing space. Kat shared practical tips for decluttering and identifying essentials first, then creatively displaying sentimental items, like using shadow boxes or other decorative methods. Her approach emphasizes simplifying your home to reduce overwhelm while making room for creativity and peace of mind.

Kat also discussed the decision-making process for determining what to keep and what to let go of, encouraging intentional choices based on purpose and available space. For those navigating the challenges of organization, especially with ADHD, Kat’s coaching services provide tailored support to create systems and routines that truly work. If you're ready to embrace both nostalgia and organization, Kat's insights are a great starting point.

You can learn more about Kat Green on her Fresh Starts Profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/badass-homelife-llc

This episode answers the question: Are there any energy healing modalities or practices that can help me feel more aligned and connected?

We chatted with Candice Erickson-Perham, an energy healer, about how energy healing practices can help you feel more aligned and connected. She explained how emotional blockages and unprocessed feelings often manifest as physical pain, and how energy healing can release these trapped emotions to promote both emotional and physical well-being. Candice emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong connection between the heart and body for overall harmony and shared practical ways energy healing can clear pathways to a healthier, more balanced life.

Candice also discussed the need for energy hygiene, particularly for healers and empaths, to avoid absorbing the energy of others. She highlighted how regular energy practices can foster resilience and alignment while offering insights into her remote healing sessions. If you're seeking ways to process emotions and improve your sense of connection, Candice’s approach provides a thoughtful and transformative perspective.

You can learn more about Candice Erickson-Perham on her Fresh Starts Profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/indiglow-soul

This episode answers the question: How much money do I need in my emergency fund?

We chatted with Janice Berner, a CPA and comprehensive financial planner, about the vital role emergency savings play in building financial security. Janice shared practical advice on why an emergency fund is essential to navigate unexpected challenges like job loss, medical expenses, or divorce. She explained that the ideal amount for an emergency fund varies based on factors like job stability and personal needs, and she emphasized the importance of prioritizing this savings goal before tackling other financial objectives.

Janice also provided actionable tips for managing emergency savings effectively. She recommended keeping these funds in a separate account to avoid accidental spending and setting up automatic monthly transfers to make saving a consistent habit. Additionally, she encouraged exploring high-yield savings accounts to maximize interest earnings on your emergency fund. Whether you're starting from scratch or enhancing your financial foundation, Janice’s insights are a must-listen for anyone looking to safeguard their future.

You can learn more about Janice Berner on her Fresh Starts Profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/janice-berner