A is for Adversity

Unleashing the Power of Authorship: A Journey of Empowerment and Community

This joint episode from the "I Was Born To Do This" podcast (hosted by Keira Brinton) and "A Is For Adversity (hosted by Jen Banks) was recorded shortly after an intensive authoring retreat in Mill Valley, California. The episode features a vibrant discussion with three guests: Trisha Biesinger, Jennifer Banks, and Brooke Anderson, who have just completed writing their books during a five-day group author adventure. The conversation explores the transformative experience of writing in a community, the profound connection with divine inspiration, individual growth through writing, rebranding personal and professional identities, and the supportive environment that fosters creativity and flow. Each author shares insights into their books and the unique messages they aim to convey, deeply rooted in personal life stories and professional expertise. The script emphasizes the importance of authentic community, the challenges and breakthroughs of the writing process, and the broader implications of their work for empowering others, especially women, to find their own voice and message.

Joan of Arc Publishing: https://www.joapublishing.com/

"I Was Born To Do This" Podcast

00:00 Kicking Off the Author Adventure: Excitement and Introductions

#LetYourselfBloom #AuthorAdventure #BookLaunch #WritersOfInstagram #InspirationDaily #ReadMoreBooks #CreativeCommunity #Empowerment

Exploring Identity Through an Acrostic Poem

In this episode, Jen Banks announces she is writing a book titled 'Let Yourself Bloom' set to release in September and hints at an upcoming rebrand. The episode's primary focus is on identity, particularly for mothers trying to maintain their own identity through motherhood. Using the acrostic poem format with the word 'IDENTITY,' each letter is used to highlight an aspect of personal identity such as being Individual, Dynamic, incorporating Everything about you, the concept of Neutrality in self-worth, your Talents, viewing yourself through an Inherent Lens, understanding your Tastes and preferences, and how all of these elements make up You. Jen encourages listeners to reflect on their identities, understand their values, and consider writing their own acrostic poem using their name to explore what makes them unique. The episode wraps up with a thank you to the executive producer and a reminder to check out other podcasts in the network.

00:00 Welcome to My World: Book Writing and Rebranding

#Podcast #Identity #SelfCare #SelfLove #Empowerment #Motivation #Authenticity #SelfDiscovery

Icebergs and Illusions: Navigating Life's Expectations and Realities

In this solo podcast episode, Jen Banks delves into the topic of 'Icebergs and Illusions,' discussing how expectations about having more time, energy, money, influence, and better relationships often don't align with reality. Through personal stories and reflections, the narrative explores the illusions that many people have about improving aspects of their lives, such as thinking one would have more of a resource if circumstances were different. Jen emphasizes the importance of self-work, realistic expectations, and appreciating what one has. Additionally, the iceberg metaphor is used to describe managing visible tasks versus the hidden, larger workload, suggesting a focus on gradual improvement. The episode encourages listeners to reevaluate how they use their resources and to consider their true influence and potential for happiness without holding onto unrealistic expectations.

00:00 Welcome and Solo Episode Preview

#Podcast #MindsetMonday #Illusions #RealityCheck #PerspectiveShift #PodcastLife #ProductivityHacks #BalanceIsKey #MythsDebunked #NewMindset #HiddenTruths #SelfReflection #SelfGrowth #BreakTheIllusion #LiveYourTruth #Authenticity

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---Title: Unveiling Illusions and Icebergs: Navigating Life's Challenges---

In the fast-paced world we live in, it's easy to get caught up in the illusions we create in our minds. We often find ourselves thinking, "I'd have so much time if..." or "I'd have so much energy if...", constructing barriers that hinder us from fully experiencing and embracing the present moment. But as Jen Banks shares in her insightful podcast episode titled "Icebergs and Illusions," these illusions are just that - illusions.

### The Illusion of Time

### The Energy Exchange

### Money Matters

### The Influence Conundrum

### Relationship Realizations

### Unveiling the Iceberg

As we navigate through life's illusions and icebergs, let's remember that true growth and fulfillment come from within. By embracing authenticity, intentionality, and self-awareness, we can steer our lives in the direction that aligns with our values and aspirations. Join me in uncovering the truths behind the illusions and chipping away at the icebergs that stand in our way.

Until next time,

The True Essence of Motherhood in 2024: Challenges and Joys

Jen Banks dives into the life of a mother approaching Mother's Day, discussing the unpredictability and demanding nature of motherhood in 2024. It humorously outlines a 'job description*' for being a mom, emphasizing the lack of tangible benefits and the never-ending responsibilities, from executive support to janitorial duties, without any financial compensation. Jen encourages mothers to engage in self-care and lean on their support systems to manage the overwhelming task of motherhood. She also touches upon her personal life, mentioning an upcoming book writing project titled 'Let Yourself Bloom' and the importance of taking care of oneself. The episode is intended to uplift and recognize the invaluable, often underappreciated work mothers do, highlighting the extraordinary, yet challenging aspects of motherhood.

*Adapted from 'A Mom Job Description by Abby Chipman'

00:00 Welcome and Personal Updates

#MotherhoodJourney #PodcastCommunity #EmpoweredMoms #AuthorLife #SelfCareSunday #PodcastRecommendation #MomLifeBalance #InspiringWomen

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Great! It seems like you want to draft a blog post based on the script provided. I'll help you put together a cohesive blog post. 

Title: "Embracing Motherhood: A Journey of Self-Care and Resilience"

Body:

Today has been very relaxing for me. A friend offered to give me an essential oils massage. She's practicing giving these and for sure I took her up on that. She said every mom needs a massage. So, this is for you. I'm sure you need to hear this. Go book yourself a massage or have your partner give you one. You deserve one.

I am getting so excited because I write my book the last week of this month. Most people say, Oh yeah, I'm going to write a book this year or, Oh yeah, I've been working on a book, but no, I'm writing my book in a week, the last week of this month. So when I met this, Publisher, I learned that she does these author adventures and also I didn't have to have a manuscript and go find a publisher. She just took me on and I haven't written a word. So, okay, that's a lie. I've also worked on it here and there since I met with her and we've been brainstorming and gathering ingredients, but the bulk of the book will be written in one week and then it'll be published in September. So stay tuned. It's going to be called Let Yourself Bloom.

So as I'm preparing for that, I decided to do this episode and let's consider it the Mother's Day episode because I titled it, How to Be a Mom in 2024. It is a job for sure. And not to say that there's not joy in it because there's joy in jobs. There's other ways to look at it too, but I feel like I was blindsided. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. And not that there's any way to really prepare to be a mom, but I just feel like I saw the highlight reel of everyone's experience and nobody really told me what to expect. And maybe they weren't talking about it, or maybe they were just sharing it with their peers and not someone as young as I was at the time, but I feel like there was a lot more that could have been said to prepare for motherhood, but I digress. 

### The Realities of Motherhood in 2024

This is where we're at and we're making it work. And so here is how to be a mom in 2024. Be sure to expect challenging permanent work in an unstable and unpredictable environment with limited access to basic services. You must possess excellent communication and organizational skills and be willing to work. Variable hours in stressful and often ambiguous conditions, which will include evenings and weekends, and frequent 24 hour shifts on call. Some overnight travel is required, including trips to primitive campsites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in faraway cities. Full planning and coordination of travel for all team members will be your responsibility. Travel expenses are not reimbursed. Executive courier and chauffeur duties are also required. Time off must be requested and approved in advance, with the caveat that during said time off, You remain on call around the clock.

### Being a Superhero Mom

Your responsibilities are virtually unlimited, but they include providing high-level executive support through schedule management, purchase approvals while maintaining budget and peace, as well as event planning, which often requires coordination with external stakeholders. You must be able to pivot away from planned schedule at a moment's notice and effectively communicate changes to team. You must mentally maintain the company calendar, list of inventory shortages, pre-scheduled days off, doctor, dentist, therapy appointments, gift ideas, meal plans for the week, and precise locations of important items. You must manage employee use of company technology, including monitoring consumption, limiting access, and responding to a high volume of requests for access.

### The Unsung Heroism of Motherhood

You must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges, such as small gadget repair and stuck zippers. You must be prepared to provide learning and development opportunities in multiple settings and formats with minimal attention spans. Responsibilities also include any janitorial work throughout the facility and meeting the nutritional needs of the team. You are expected to exhibit patience and mental strength to read the same material multiple times a day. Physical stamina to keep up with energetic team members for the entire day. Ability to physically and mentally multitask, often with only one hand. Strong negotiation skills and ability to maintain a professional manner and remain calm while experiencing multiple priorities, stress, sleep deprivation, and sensory overload. 

### Motherhood: An Unpaid Full-Time Job

Meditation skills are preferred. Money management skills are also required. In this position, there is virtually no possibility for advancement and promotion. Your job is to remain in the same position for years without complaining, constantly retraining, and updating your skills so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you. Your team will likely offer minimal feedback related to your performance. Oh yeah, and on the job training is recommended on a continually exhausting basis for everything from process improvements to product development to communication tools, keeping up with training will be at your discretion, and finding training materials is solely your responsibility. 

### The Invaluable Rewards of Motherhood

Be aware that this is a volunteer, unpaid, full-time job. After a number of years, your team will be requesting payments from you. Raises and bonuses will be expected, and a balloon payment is due at the age of 18. When you die, you give them whatever is left, and you will be happy to do so. Benefits of this job include health insurance. None. Dental. None. Disability. None. Retirement or pension? None. Tuition reimbursement? None. Paid holidays? None. Sick leave? None. Stock options? None. Personal growth opportunities, though, are limitless, and hugs? Free for life. It's hard to put a price tag on all of this, but salary.com estimates upwards of $200,000 annually if mothers were to be paid. Can you imagine? Thank you for doing a thankless job, truly. 

### Celebrating the Superheroes Among Us

I know this isn't joking, but really, so much is required, expected, asked of, needed, if you are going to truly be a mother. And it's easy to get bogged down if we dwell on that on a day-to-day basis, but we are doing it. The truly, the only explanation is that we're superheroes, right? And if nobody else tells you this Mother's Day, you are doing a great job. Just as you are, you're enough. I see you, and I'm right there with you in the trenches. We got this. 

We all feel the weight of motherhood in different ways, and we all carry that weight differently. Some of us have better support systems than others, and others have gotten into a good rhythm and routine. But with every life circumstance, things change. We have to find a new normal. We have another child. We move. We have a health condition. It is tough. And like I was talking about earlier, it's a 24/7 job. It really is hard to feel respite and find joy in the journey. 

### Finding Joy in the Journey

But if we collect little moments along the way that bring us joy or we focus on the positive and what's to come, if we find ways to incorporate daily self-care so that we don't feel like we have to escape our lives, but we can tackle it head-on and be okay in the day-to-day, that will help. I remember feeling like my children were extensions of me. They were limbs, as if it were, and it was hard to leave. But as I slowly came back to myself and figured out ways to incorporate those self-care moments, I was much more full and able to bring that version of me back into motherhood. 

I hope you can ask a partner or family member or someone to step in if you truly need that help. I've heard before to ask for support, not for permission. So, I encourage you to find ways to take care of yourself so that you can show up for motherhood. I was going to say so that you can be equal to the task of motherhood, but I don't feel like we'll ever be equal to the task of motherhood. It is very daunting. It's very huge. It is overwhelming if we let it, but if we lean on other people and take it day by day and not get too bogged down in the heart of it, we can find the joy in it. 

Thank you as always to Blane from Ride the Wave Media for the executive production of this episode and podcast. Remember to leave a review if you found it helpful and share it with a friend. Follow me on Instagram at AS for Adversity and stay caught up with all things that are happening here.

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Honing In On Intimacy w/ Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife

In this episode, Jen engages in a compelling dialogue with Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, an LDS sex therapist, to delve into topics of sexuality, intimacy, and identity. Dr. Finlayson-Fife shares insights into her unique approach to enhancing intimacy in relationships, the impact of personal identity on sexual dynamics within marriage, and the challenges couples face in fostering a deeply connected sexual relationship. Key discussions include the significance of confronting personal and relationship adversities, understanding the role of honesty and integrity in intimate connections, and strategies for overcoming obstacles to sexual intimacy. Dr. Finlayson-Fife also touches upon her personal journey, including confronting the challenges of parenting a child on the autism spectrum and how such experiences shape personal growth and values. Additionally, she highlights available resources, including her online courses, podcast 'Room for Two,' and her participation in broader discussions on authentic leadership and overcoming societal 'shoulds.'

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Today's Special Guest

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Navigating Adversity and Finding Intimacy: A Deep Dive with Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife

In a world where challenges can refine our character and relationships, the journey to understanding intimacy and overcoming adversity is a pivotal one. In a recent podcast episode, I had the enlightening opportunity to sit down with Dr. Jennifer Finlayson Fife, an LDS sex therapist known for her insightful perspectives on sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. Our conversation delved into the depths of identity, core values, and the transformative power of facing adversity head-on.

### Unveiling Intimacy Through Identity

Dr. Jennifer Finlayson Fife highlighted the intrinsic connection between identity and intimacy. She emphasized how our sense of self and willingness to be vulnerable play a crucial role in fostering deep connections with our partners. The ability to be truly knowable and to know our partners, even in moments of discomfort, is key to developing authentic intimacy.

### Confronting Adversity: A Path to Growth

One of the most impactful aspects of our conversation was Dr. Finlayson Fife's reflection on personal adversity and its role in shaping her journey. She shared a poignant story of her experience with her child being diagnosed with autism, which brought forth deep-seated insecurities and fears related to success and validation. Through this adversity, she confronted her own need for validation through her children and faced the choice to embrace acceptance and love over shame and fear.

### The Complexity of Overcoming Sexual Challenges

As a sex therapist, Dr. Finlayson Fife shed light on the obstacles that can inhibit sexual relationships and functioning in marriages. She addressed the role of sexual shame, the importance of self-revelation in intimacy, and the courage required to navigate challenges together as a couple. Her insights highlighted the need for honesty, humility, and a willingness to confront discomfort in order to foster healthy sexual relationships.

### Strengthening Relationships Through Adversity

While adversity can present significant challenges, Dr. Finlayson Fife emphasized that it can also pave the way for greater strength and resilience in relationships. By facing adversity head-on, couples have the opportunity to rebuild and grow together, creating a more intimate and vibrant partnership. She stressed the importance of handling adversity with grace, honesty, and a willingness to learn and evolve.

### Embracing Growth and Authenticity

In closing, Dr. Jennifer Finlayson Fife shared a powerful mantra that encapsulates the essence of her work and philosophy: "What you most need is hiding in places you least want to look." This profound statement serves as a reminder of the transformative power of facing adversity, embracing vulnerability, and seeking growth even in the most challenging circumstances.

In conclusion, my conversation with Dr. Jennifer Finlayson Fife was a profound exploration of the intersections between identity, intimacy, and adversity. Her insights and reflections offer valuable lessons on navigating challenges, fostering deep connections, and embracing growth in relationships. To learn more about Dr. Fife's work and courses, visit her website at finlaysonfife.com and explore the transformative power of intimacy and self-discovery.

Graceful Resilience w/ Kyrie Blaney

This podcast episode captures a conversation between Jen Banks and Kyrie Blaney, the host of 'The Confident Mompreneur' podcast, where they discuss a range of topics including personal growth, overcoming adversity, entrepreneurship, mental health, and the importance of community and vulnerability. Kyrie shares her journey through difficult life experiences, including coping with an abusive relationship, mental health challenges, and her passion for helping women find confidence. The episode emphasizes the power of storytelling, support among women, and the significance of being authentic and vulnerable in creating connections and building communities.

For more info visit: https://www.theconfidentmompreneur.com/

https://aisforadversity.com/

#Inspiration #WomenSupportingWomen #Entrepreneurship #Empowerment #PodcastLife #SelfCare #PersonalGrowth #WomenInBusiness #OvercomingAdversity #ConfidenceBoost

00:00 Welcome and Personal Updates

Feng Shui, Personal Strengths, and Navigating Adversity with Tina Falk

This podcast episode features an interview with Tina Falk, a Feng Shui master with years of experience and deep knowledge in the practice. The host begins with updates and an invitation for listeners to follow her on Instagram and announces her upcoming book. Tina shares her personal journey, moving from the Twin Cities to Utah and discovering her strengths with the help of her family and colleagues, emphasizing integrity, being a doer, and wisdom. She also reflects on wearing the hats of a teacher, student, and grandmother, and the core value of gratitude in her life. A significant part of the conversation covers Tina's personal challenges, particularly her revelations regarding her father's behavior, leading her to understand his narcissistic personality disorder. Tina then dives into her work in Feng Shui and Chinese astrology, explaining how these practices have shaped her career and personal philosophy. She discusses her role as both a practitioner and a teacher, highlighting how Chinese astrology assists individuals and businesses in understanding personalities and environments for better harmony. The podcast wraps up with Tina sharing insights about living beyond extremes, advocating for a balanced approach to life, and leaving listeners with thoughts on gratitude and choice in perspective.

00:00 Welcome and Podcast Introduction

Overcoming Adversity with Amanda McCombs: Teaching, Pageantry, and Personal Triumphs

This podcast episode features an inspiring interview with Amanda McCombs, a first-grade teacher, Mrs. Daybreak, and a contestant in the Miss Utah America pageant. Amanda shares insights into her life, discussing the joys and challenges of being a part of a blended family, her journey through the adversity of a shingles diagnosis that led to significant sensory sensitivities, and the tragic loss of her mother. Despite these hardships, Amanda talks about finding strength and solace in her roles as a teacher and pageant participant, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, self-care, and overcoming societal expectations. The conversation also covers Amanda's favorite indoor and outdoor activities, her core values, and how the upcoming Miss Utah America pageant has become a platform for her to connect with and support other women. The episode is a testament to resilience, community, and the transformative power of facing adversity head-on.

PodcastEpisode #InspiringStories #ResilienceJourney #Vulnerability #Strength #Adversity #TeacherLife #MrsDaybreak #Resilience #Courage #OvercomingChallenges #GrowthMindset #AdversityIntoStrength #BloomInAdversity #Empowerment #PositiveVibes #HopeAndStrength #SelfDiscoveryJourney #ResilienceInAdversity #EmbraceGrowth #PowerOfStorytelling #Connection #InspiringTruths #StrengthWithin #Determination #PowerfulStories #ResilienceChat #EmpowermentStories #CourageousHearts

00:00 Welcome to the Podcast: A Bright Spot in Your Day

A Is For Adversity presents an encore presentation of the International Women's Day panel made up of Daybreak residents.

Empowering Women: International Women's Day Roundtable Discussion

This episode on Ride The Wave Media is a powerful roundtable discussion hosted by Becks Nielsen and Jen Banks on International Women's Day. The podcast convened women from various walks of life including real estate, entertainment, coaching, birth doula services, aerospace, and retail. They highlighted their unique experiences and emphasized the significance of women supporting each other. The discussion covered a range of topics including challenges faced during motherhood, their professional journeys, and the importance of maintaining individual identity. A key takeaway was that sharing personal stories and experiences foster empathy and connection, giving strength to others in their respective journeys.

Support: Made Mindful International Women's Day

Special Thanks to Utah Hustler's Podcast

#IWD2024 #empowerment #womansjourney #motherhoodmagic #girlboss #womanempowerment #internationalwomensday #girltribe #radiodaybreak #RealWomenRealstories

00:00 Introduction and Panel Presentation