A New Life Story: Emotional Healing & Midlife Transformation for Women

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Sometimes, things happen in childhood that we tuck away so deeply, we convince ourselves they no longer matter. We grow up, move forward, and tell ourselves we’re “over it.” But just because something is buried doesn’t mean it’s healed. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, life delivers a trigger—a situation, a relationship, a loss—that stirs something old and familiar. Suddenly, the emotions we thought were long gone rise like a sleeping giant, demanding our attention. 

This was the very experience of Mindset and Empowerment Coach Olivia Martinez. Olivia appeared to have it all—from a loving family and a successful career to a beautiful home. But behind the polished exterior, she carried a deep, unexplained void. Despite all the boxes being checked, she felt unseen, unloved, and stuck. It wasn’t until life presented her with a breaking point that she realized old wounds from the past were still shaping her present.

Read the full blog post here. 

In this episode, we cover: 

(03:49 - 05:05) Olivia shares the challenges she faced with feelings of not being loved or seen, which led to struggles with self-worth.

(09:06 - 10:14) A pivotal moment that served as a wake-up call, prompting Olivia to confront her anger and the impact it had on her family.

(30:07 - 31:02) The inner child work - uncomfortable but essential for her healing journey. 

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT :

• Episode 3 - How Understanding Your Inner Child Helps You Heal Emotional Wounds with Joan Mwangi
  
  
• Episode 15 - Mindfulness Practices to Heal Childhood Trauma with Rashad Sanders
  
  
• Episode 20 - The Value of Self-Awareness for Breaking Generational Patterns with Alisha Woodall 

FREE RESOURCE: 

The Self-Worth Guide is a free downloadable pdf designed to help individuals build confidence, recognize their inherent value, and develop a positive self-image through practical exercises and empowering insights.

WORK WITH LASHONDA
Explore your emotions and uncover what drives your behavior? Book a free discovery call today. In 20 minutes you’ll learn and practice simple steps you can take to begin your transformation process.

Connect with Olivia
Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.riseupandbe

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(Replay of Episode 2). In this episode I discuss The Adult Chair® Model, a framework integral to my work as a life & emotional wellness coach, as well as a guide I use to educate people through this podcast. 

This episode provides a comprehensive introduction to The Adult Chair® Model to help establish context for the work I do with clients and the aim of this podcast - to help people connect to their authentic self. 

The Adult Chair® Model, crafted by Michelle Chalfant, is a framework where simple psychology meets grounded spirituality. It’s a tool to help process emotions, identify unconscious beliefs and understand the different parts of yourself. 

I begin by sharing my personal story about how I found this methodology and how it changed my life. Then, I explain the Three Chairs: The Child Chair, The Adolescent Chair and The Adult Chair. 

Next, I explain and provide examples of how each chair serves as a unique phase of your life story. 

•  The Child Chair (ages zero and six), a time when your true feelings, emotions and needs are online.
• The Adolescent Chair represents the phase when you begin to develop your own identity, and it's also a time when you begin to protect yourself from rejection. It's common for different personalities to form like the people pleaser, the perfectionist, the controller and more. The Adolescent is usually operating from the past or future.
• The Adult Chair represents your highest self: living in the present moment, dealing with facts and truth over stories and assumptions.

You can expect more in-depth discussions about how to use this model and the tools in future episodes. If this approach resonates with you, let's connect - click the link below and book a free consultation session.
Thank you for tuning in, please Like, Subscribe and leave a rating on Apple Podcasts to help my podcast get discovered by like-minded people. See you next week!

LINKS

About The Adult Chair® - https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/about-the-adult-chair
Work With Me - https://anewlifestory.as.me/schedule.php
Website - https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/anewlifestorycoach

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Connect with LaShonda

Email: [email protected]

Join newsletter: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/newsletter

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In this informational, inspiring and deeply emotional conversation, Emely Rumble, LCSW and founder of Literapy_NYC, shares her personal story of resilience and healing through literature. From growing up with a teen mother and an absent father to discovering the power of bibliotherapy, Emely explores how books can help individuals process grief and trauma. She delves into the intersection of faith, spirituality, and mental health, discussing the importance of a holistic understanding of spirituality. Emely also introduces her upcoming book, Bibliotherapy in the Bronx, and offers insights into the therapeutic potential of literature. Listen to her powerful reflections on reclaiming personal stories and the transformative role of storytelling.

Read the full blog post here. 

In this episode, we cover: 

(17:40 - 18:02) Understanding Bibliotherapy as the intentional use of literature as a therapeutic tool to support emotional healing and self-discovery.

(30:09 - (30:40) Emely discusses how engaging with stories can create a safe space for clients to explore emotions, making it easier to process difficult life events and experiences.

(24:01 - 24:36) The conversation touches on the intersection between spirituality and mental health, emphasizing that both can coexist and that seeking mental health support does not dishonor one's faith.

(40:05 - 40:26) Emily recommends the book "The Day God Saw Me as Black" by Danielle Thomas, which addresses the importance of reclaiming Christianity from a holistic perspective, particularly for Black Americans.

(62:28 - 62:38) “Bibliotherapy in the Bronx,” is available April 29, 2025.

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT :

• Episode 3 - How Understanding Your Inner Child Helps You Heal Emotional Wounds with Joan Mwangi
• Episode 15 - Mindfulness Practices to Heal Childhood Trauma with Rashad Sanders
• Episode 20 - The Value of Self-Awareness for Breaking Generational Patterns with Alisha Woodall 

WORK WITH LASHONDA

Explore your emotions and uncover what drives your behavior? Book a free discovery call today. In 20 minutes you’ll learn and practice simple steps you can take to begin your transformation process.

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Emely Rumble, Psychotherapist | Bibliotherapist

Order Bibliotherapy in the Bronx

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Connect with LaShonda

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Ever wonder why you feel anxious, shut down, or overwhelmed out of nowhere? In this episode, we explore the powerful connection between your emotions and your nervous system—your body’s built-in stress and safety response system. You'll learn how your nervous system responds to life experiences and how that response shapes your feelings. We’ll also share practical tools to help you regulate your body, calm your mind, and feel more in control. Emotional healing starts here—with awareness and understanding.

Read the full blog post here. 

In this episode, we cover: 

(00:00 - 00:21) Survival mode and its impact on emotional balance.

(05:12 - 08:14) Explanation of the nervous system's role in emotional responses and the concept of neuroception.

(10:02 - 12:02) Discussion on emotional dysregulation, its signs, and how it manifests in both children and adults.

(19:17 - 26:39) Tools for regulating the nervous system, including breathwork, mindfulness, and body awareness techniques.

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT :

• Episode 18 - How Breathwork Can Rewire Your Brain for Better Health with Brittney Hall
• Episode 20 - The Value of Self-Awareness for Breaking Generational Patterns with Alisha Woodall 
• Episode 24 - Creating Space for Emotions: Practical Tips for Personal Growth

FREE RESOURCE: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/self-worth-guide

The Self-Worth Guide is a free downloadable pdf designed to help individuals build confidence, recognize their inherent value, and develop a positive self-image through practical exercises and empowering insights.

WORK WITH LASHONDA

Explore your emotions and uncover what drives your behavior? 

Book a free discovery call today. In 20 minutes you’ll learn and practice simple steps you can take to begin your transformation process.

Connect with LaShonda

Join newsletter: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/newsletter

Support the show

Connect with LaShonda

Email: [email protected]

Join newsletter: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/newsletter

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Balancing career and personal life comes with emotional complexities. Transformative Leadership Consultant and Coach Cherie Caldwell has helped individuals and organizations worldwide resolve internal conflicts, transform high achievers into cohesive teams, and navigate work-life balance effectively. A key to success is reconnecting with oneself to better understand personal needs and emotions, fostering emotional intelligence in the workplace. Learning to manage emotions, build self-worth, set boundaries, and heal childhood wounds is essential to your professional growth.

Read the full blog post here. 

In this episode, we cover: 

(03:56 - 05:11) Coaching individuals through mindset change

(08:00 - 09:36) Team Dysfunction and Socialization

(09:45 - 11:00) Socialization and Mindset

(11:04 - 12:38) Exploring Personal Beliefs and Socialization

(22:30 - 23:03) Dealing with Workplace Trauma

(42:08 - 43:15) Small Steps in Asking for Help

(45:14 - 46:06) Midlife Career Transitions

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT :

• Episode 9 - 5 Strategies for Avoiding Career Burnout with Executive Coach Tabith Njeri
• Episode 11 - Discover Unconscious Beliefs to Transform Your Mindset with Jean Adero

FREE RESOURCE: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/self-worth-guide

The Self-Worth Guide is a free downloadable pdf designed to help individuals build confidence, recognize their inherent value, and develop a positive self-image through practical exercises and empowering insights.

WORK WITH LASHONDA

Explore your emotions and uncover what drives your behavior? 

Book a free discovery call today. In 20 minutes you’ll learn and practice simple steps you can take to begin your transformation process.

Connect with LaShonda

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.lashondawalker.com

Join newsletter: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/newsletter

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

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

Support the show

Connect with LaShonda

Email: [email protected]

Join newsletter: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/newsletter

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us Fan Mail

Are you looking for a safe community of people on their emotional wellness journey? We're curating space. Take the Emotional Wellness Group Survey.

Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or like you’re constantly falling short? You’re not alone. We live in a world that glorifies overworking, over achieving, and always pushing forward—but the reality is, life is messy and complex. The one thing you need when life becomes overwhelming and things don’t go as you planned or expected, is self-compassion. In this episode, learn more about self-compassion, its key components, and simple ways to practice it. This is your time for a much-needed dose of gentleness and care.

Read the full blog post here. 

In this episode, we cover: 

(02:54 - 03:05) Introduction to the concept of self-compassion and its importance in personal healing.

(05:04 - 05:15) Definition of self-compassion as treating yourself with kindness, patience, and understanding.

(06:40 - 06:50) Overview of the three components of self-compassion: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness.

(09:10 - 09:20) Discussion on how practicing self-compassion interrupts the cycle of self-judgment.

(12:03 - 12:14) Explanation of how self-compassion helps develop emotional resilience.

(15:05 - 15:16) Practical ways to practice self-compassion, including changing inner dialogue and taking self-compassion breaks.

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT :

• Episode 16 - How to Connect to Your Emotions to Understand Your Needs
• Episode 24 - Creating Space for Emotions
• Episode 32 - Understanding the Ego

FREE RESOURCE: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/self-worth-guide

The Self-Worth Guide is a free downloadable pdf designed to help individuals build confidence, recognize their inherent value, and develop a positive self-image through practical exercises and empowering insights.

WORK WITH LASHONDA

Explore your emotions and uncover what drives your behavior? 

Book a free discovery call today. In 20 minutes you’ll learn and practice simple steps you can take to begin your transformation process.

Connect with LaShonda

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.lashondawalker.com

Join newsletter: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/newsletter

Support the show

Connect with LaShonda

Email: [email protected]

Join newsletter: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/newsletter

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us Fan Mail

We're create a safe space for community healing, growth and self-discovery? Share what you want to learn in our survey. 

There’s a complex connection between our ego, emotions, and the fear-driven responses we develop throughout life - particularly during our adolescent phase of life (age 7-25). Drawing on the Adult Chair® Model, this episode focuses on how protective patterns formed during our formative years can hinder growth in adulthood. Learn practical insights to understand your emotional reactions and begin identifying and changing outdated beliefs and patterns of behavior.

Read the full blog post here. 

In this episode, we cover: 

(05:05 - 05:16) Explanation of The Adult Chair® Model and its three metaphorical chairs.

(07:03 - 07:14) Introduction to the ego and its role in personal identity.

(10:01 - 10:11) Discussion on how childhood beliefs can hinder adult life.

(11:05 - 11:15) Explanation of fear and control as signs of the ego's influence.

(13:11 - 13:22) Discussion on the impact of old beliefs on adult behavior.

(14:36 - 14:46) Importance of recognizing and challenging old beliefs.

(17:23 - 17:33) Explanation of how subconscious stories influence adult behavior.

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT :

• Episode 1 - The Adult Chair®: A Simple & Practical Tool for Your Emotional Healing Journey
• Episode 2 - How to Use Simple Tools to Uncover Your Unconscious Beliefs and Discover Your True Self
• Episode 19 - Understanding Your Ego: How Your Past Shapes Your Present

FREE RESOURCE: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/self-worth-guide

The Self-Worth Guide is a free downloadable pdf designed to help individuals build confidence, recognize their inherent value, and develop a positive self-image through practical exercises and empowering insights.

WORK WITH LASHONDA

Explore your emotions and uncover what drives your behavior? 

Book a free discovery call today. In 20 minutes you’ll learn and practice simple steps you can take to begin your transformation process.

Support the show

Connect with LaShonda

Email: [email protected]

Join newsletter: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/newsletter

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us Fan Mail

The Season 3 finale offers a thoughtful reflection on navigating the transformative emotions of midlife. It recaps the empowering discussions on managing stress, understanding midlife emotions, practicing somatic meditation, setting boundaries, and more. Highlights include inspiring listener stories from around the globe, demonstrating how small, intentional steps can lead to profound growth and emotional wellness. Learn practical on starting where you are, with a focus on embracing even minimal effort, such as 3% progress, as a meaningful step forward. You’ll learn how managing emotions can transform relationships by fostering greater awareness and compassion. As the year draws to a close, the importance of rest is explored, inspired by the quiet lessons of winter. A calming guided practice provides listeners with a moment of connection, and a new "Send Us A Text" feature offers direct access to support. This episode encourages listeners to approach their emotional wellness journey with intention, one step at a time.

Read the full blog post here. 

In this episode, we cover: 

(00:00 - 00:10) Introduction to the concept of showing up for yourself and the importance of small steps in emotional wellness.

(03:38 - 04:10) Sarah's success story about setting boundaries with her family and the freedom it brought her.

(10:43 - 11:25) Discussion on the significance of setting boundaries as a means of empowerment and fostering healthier relationships.

(18:31 - 19:14) Key takeaways on starting small, listening to your body, and the importance of setting boundaries with love for emotional wellness.

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT :

• Episode 24 - Creating Space for Emotions: Practical Tips for Personal Growth
• Episode 25 - Breaking the Cycle: How to Control Ruminating Thoughts for Better Mental Health 
• Episode 26 - How Your Beliefs Affect Stress Hormones: Tips for Feeling Safe in Your Body 
• Episode 27 - Understanding Perimenopause: Navigating Emotional and Physical Changes

FREE RESOURCE: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/self-worth-guide

The Self-Worth Guide is a free downloadable pdf designed to help individuals build confidence, recognize their inherent value, and develop a positive self-image through practical exercises and empowering insights.

WORK WITH LASHONDA

Explore your emotions and uncover what drives your behavior? 

Book a free discovery call today. In 20 minutes you’ll learn and practice simple steps you can take t

Support the show

Connect with LaShonda

Email: [email protected]

Join newsletter: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/newsletter

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us Fan Mail

Boundaries are often misunderstood as selfish, but they’re one of the most empowering ways to protect your emotional wellness and create healthier relationships. In this episode, explore five strategies for setting boundaries, grounded in the Adult Chair® Model. Learn how to communicate assertively, set consequences, say no without guilt, and build resilience when faced with resistance. Boundaries aren’t about controlling others—they’re about teaching people how to treat you while fostering trust and mutual respect. When you set and maintain boundaries, you honor yourself, protect your energy, and create space for deeper, more fulfilling relationships. 

Read the full blog post here. 

(00:00 - 01:14) Introduction to the importance of setting boundaries for healthy relationships and personal growth.

(02:08 - 02:30) Boundaries are not selfish, but rather a way to inform others how to treat us.

(10:08 - 12:04) Getting clear on your needs and recognizing the importance of self-awareness in boundary setting.

(19:04 - 20:17) The significance of learning to say no and how it relates to self-respect and authentic relationships.

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT :

• Episode 10 - Setting Boundaries: Your Guide for a Balanced and Fulfilling Life
• Episode 28 - The Power of Somatic Healing Techniques: A Guide to Emotional Healing and Wellness with Karena Neukirchner

FREE RESOURCE: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/self-worth-guide
The Self-Worth Guide is a free downloadable pdf designed to help individuals build confidence, recognize their inherent value, and develop a positive self-image through practical exercises and empowering insights.

WORK WITH LASHONDA
Explore your emotions and uncover what drives your behavior? Book a free discovery call today. In 20 minutes you’ll learn and practice simple steps you can take to begin your transformation process.

Favorite Resources For Setting Boundaries 

Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control of Your Life 

Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself 

Support the show

Connect with LaShonda

Email: [email protected]

Join newsletter: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/newsletter

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Send us Fan Mail

The holiday season is often painted as a time of joy, connection, and celebration—but let’s be real, it can also be one of the most emotionally triggering times of the year. From old family dynamics and personal boundaries being tested, to the overwhelm of social expectations, this season can leave you feeling drained and out of balance. The good news? There are simple, practical ways to navigate these challenges while protecting both your emotions and your energy. In this episode, you’ll learn five empowering tips to help you stay grounded and calm during the holidays and any time of year. Using the Adult Chair® Model as our foundation, we’ll explore how to decline invitations that don’t align with your energy, set time limits for gatherings, center yourself before events, and even leave uncomfortable situations. These strategies are your guide to not just surviving the holiday season, but thriving through it. Tune in for a healthier, more empowered approach to managing emotional triggers!

Read the full blog post here. 

In this episode, we cover: 

(01:24 - 01:35) Overview of the Adult Chair® Model, explaining the three states of being: the Child Chair, the Adolescent Chair, and the Adult Chair.

(02:07 - 02:17) Why the holidays can be triggering, including old dynamics and expectations that resurface during family gatherings.

(05:26 - 05:36) Learn how declining invitations that don't align with your energy is a form of self-care.

(10:06 - 10:16) How grounding yourself before arriving at any holiday event can help regulate your emotions and shield your energy.

(19:08 - 19:30) Recap of the five tips for managing emotional triggers and protecting energy during the holidays.

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT :

• Episode 5 - Easily Manage Triggers: A Step-by-Step Guide to Emotional Healing and Growth
• Episode 10 - Setting Boundaries: Your Guide for a Balanced and Fulfilling Life
• Episode 14 - How to Align Your Intentions with Your True Self

FREE RESOURCE: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/self-worth-guide

The Self-Worth Guide is a free downloadable pdf designed to help individuals build confidence, recognize their inherent value, and develop a positive self-image through practical exercises and empowering insights.

WORK WITH LASHONDA

Explore your emotions and uncover what drives your behavior? 

Book a free discovery call today. In 20 minutes you’ll learn and practice simple

Support the show

Connect with LaShonda

Email: [email protected]

Join newsletter: https://www.anewlifestorycoaching.com/newsletter

Website | Facebook | Instagram