AskYourselfWhyNot

AskYourselfWhyNot

By Ask Yourself, Why Not ?EducationSelf-Improvement
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AskYourselfWhyNot episodes

  • Are We Delusional or Just Influenced?

    summary

    Jayla and Shaye explore the humorous side of how we romanticize and delude ourselves with trends, supplements, and life expectations, reflecting on personal experiences and societal influences. keywords self-delusion, trends, wellness, supplements, life expectations, humor, personal growth, societal influence key topics Self-delusion and societal trends Humorous reflection on wellness and beauty trends Impact of social media on self-perception guest name

    Titles Are We Delusional or Romanticizing Our Lives? The Funny Side of Wellness Trends and Self-Delusion sound bites "We are fully participating in the protein trend." "I've bought into every supplement, every trend." "We're romanticizing our lives in our 20s." Chapters 00:00 Empower Fest Launch and Updates 02:55 Delusions vs. Romanticizing Life 05:32 Health Trends and Supplements 08:26 Reflections on Youthful Delusions 11:33 Life Changes and Realizations 14:11 Nostalgic Beauty Trends 17:07 Embracing Delusion in Life Planning

    23 min
  • Your Routine Might Be Running You—Let's Fix That
    In this episode, Shaye and Jayla dive into the importance of regularly checking in with your routines to ensure they serve your well-being and happiness. They share practical tips on how to identify habits that may no longer benefit you and ways to make intentional changes for a more fulfilled life. Key Topics:
    • The significance of adapting routines as life evolves
    • Recognizing unhelpful habits and habits that no longer serve you
    • Practical ways to reset during everyday transitions (like in line or while commuting)
    • The role of dopamine and how to get it from healthy, meaningful sources
    • Spring cleaning your mental space and physical environment for mental clarity
    • The importance of connection and intentionality in daily life
    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Introduction to the episode and upcoming Empower Fest event 00:58 - Details about Empower Fest Wheeling on June 27th 02:07 - How to get involved as a vendor, sponsor, or experience station 03:04 - Tips for event sponsorships and ideas like signature drinks or swag 04:30 - The theme of the episode: checking in with routines to see if they still serve us 05:28 - How routines evolve and the importance of adapting them 06:23 - Mindful coffee drinking and managing caffeine intake 07:14 - Using lunch and breaks more intentionally 08:35 - Being present during car rides and waiting in lines, disconnecting from phones 09:54 - Transition moments and how they affect stress levels and productivity 10:20 - Moving through the day without energy or mental space 11:46 - The thriving need for dopamine and avoiding instant gratification 13:00 - The brain's craving for dopamine and healthy ways to meet that need 13:58 - Connection, real food, and physical movement as sources of dopamine 14:27 - Spring cleaning for your mind and environment 15:27 - Over-scheduling and reconnecting with loved ones and yourself 15:54 - Closing encouragement to tune into what benefits your well-being

    Resources & Links:
    • Mark Hyman - Brain and Dopamine (search: "Mark Hyman" on Amazon for related books)
    • Kroger 80 Acre Salad (search your local Kroger for availability)
    Connect with Shaye & Jayla:
    • Instagram
    • Facebook
    16 min
  • Hurt or Fueled? Choosing Growth When Criticism Hits

    Are you tired of feeling hurt or defensive when faced with criticism or insults? In this episode, Shaye and Jayla explore how to recognize, reframe, and leverage negative comments—whether direct or backhanded—to propel your personal and professional growth.

    Key topics:
    • The significance of insults and negative feedback as signals rather than setbacks
    • Personal stories of pivotal moments involving misunderstood or backhanded insults
    • How to use criticism to ignite motivation and prove doubters wrong
    • Recognizing when comments reflect others' limitations versus your potential
    • Strategies for maintaining confidence and setting boundaries amid negativity
    • The importance of reframing "insults" into opportunities for self-awareness
    • Practical ways to handle unwelcome opinions: asking ChatGPT for perspective, talking with friends, or going for a walk
    • The power of self-reflection: understanding why certain remarks sting and how to turn that into growth
    • Overcoming imposter syndrome and societal expectations through resilience and self-trust
    • Cultivating gratitude and redirecting energy into positive action and self-affirmation
    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Introduction to turning insults into growth opportunities 00:28 - Announcing EmpowerFest Wheeling details and engagement opportunities 02:17 - Handling backhanded and unkind comments in personal life and career 03:15 - Overcoming initial feelings of insult during real estate career beginnings 04:40 - How a comment about young motherhood fueled Jayla's motivation 06:00 - Seeing criticism as a reflection of others' limitations, not personal failure 07:17 - Facing COVID-related challenges and asserting confidence in business 08:46 - Using feedback to highlight your competence, not diminish it 10:10 - Acknowledging the power of pushing through perceived limitations 11:33 - Reframing societal labels like "too much" or "all over the place" into assets 12:33 - Recognizing the value in personal routines and boundaries 13:31 - The role of others' perceptions in growth and setting boundaries 15:24 - Self-awareness, apology, and growing from accidental missteps 16:44 - The importance of understanding your communication style and energy 17:40 - Overcoming the narrative of being "too much" and embracing your full self 18:36 - Practical tools: asking ChatGPT for perspective, talking with friends, and physical movement 19:06 - Final thoughts and encouragement to embrace criticism as a growth tool

    Remember, every insult or criticism can be spun into motivation. Your response defines your growth!

    19 min
  • Breaking the Groundhog Day Routine: Small Shifts for a More Exciting Life
    Breaking the Groundhog Day Routine: Small Shifts for a More Exciting Life

    In this episode, Shay and Jayla explore practical ways to break free from the monotony of daily routines and infuse more excitement, awareness, and purpose into everyday life. Whether you're feeling uninspired or just looking for fresh ideas, these tips can help you create more space for joy and growth.

    Key Topics:
    • How our brains operate on autopilot and why routines can feel monotonous
    • Simple ways to introduce novelty, like changing inputs or trying new experiences
    • The power of micro-adventures and local explorations to boost mood
    • How to incorporate intentional focus and mindfulness into daily activities
    • Practical tips for reducing overwhelm by asking for help or delegating tasks
    • Using gratitude, reflection, and perspective shifts to enhance overall well-being
    • Tools and apps, like masterclass and health trackers, to inspire learning and self-care
    • The importance of connection—reaching out to friends and re-evaluating your perceptions
    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Introducing Empower Fest 3.0 and upcoming event details 00:31 - Venue highlights and food vendor updates at Waterfront Hall 01:27 - Experience stations and vendor showcases at EmpowerFest 02:51 - Intentional living and creating space in your day 03:17 - Reflecting on the busy first quarter and finding pauses 04:16 - The concept of "softening" and asking for help 05:14 - The benefits of creating mental and physical space 06:08 - Tips for reducing mental overload and managing nervous system health 07:03 - The idea of brain dump and to-do list management 07:56 - Self-care practices like dressing up or trying new products 08:45 - Using wearables like Aura Ring to understand your body better 10:31 - Eating mindfully and avoiding distractions 11:25 - Micro adventures and local exploration as a way to challenge routines 12:19 - Reframing perceptions and hosting small adventures in daily life 13:44 - Trying new activities, like rollerblading, and discovering new spots 14:43 - Planning future self-care activities and learning experiences 15:36 - Cultivating human connection and reaching out intentionally 16:34 - Shifting perspectives on irritations and challenges 17:31 - Summing up small ways to spark inspiration and gratitude

    Resources & Links:
    • MasterClass
    • Aura Ring
    • Oglebay Park
    • Fort Henry Capital
    • Waterfront Hall
    Connect with Shay & Jayla:
    • Shay on LinkedIn
    • Jayla on Instagram

    Let's embrace small intentional changes to brighten our days and renew our spirit!

    20 min
  • Create Space & Soften: Practical Tips to Reduce Stress and Find Calm

    Summary

    In this episode, Jayla and Shaye explore the importance of creating space and softening in our busy lives. They share practical tips on how to ask for help, declutter your mind, and prioritize mental well-being to enhance overall life balance.

    keywords

    mindset, self-care, mental health, time management, stress relief, empowerment, self-improvement

    key topics

    Creating space in daily life The concept of softening and asking for help Managing stress and nervous system health

    takeaways

    Creating space in your day can reduce stress and improve mental health. Asking for help, like carpooling, can free up mental and physical space. Writing things down or decluttering can help clear mental overload. Recognizing signs of stress, such as acid reflux or sleep disturbances, is crucial. Small acts of doing nothing can significantly improve well-being.

    Titles

    Create Space, Find Calm: Practical Mindset Tips The Power of Softening: How to Reduce Stress and Overload

    sound bites

    "Putting things on paper helps clear mental overload." "Recognize signs like acid reflux as your nervous system in overdrive." "Feel a little better inside by creating space and asking for help."

    Chapters

    00:00 Empower Fest 3.0 Announcement 03:30 Creating Space in Our Lives 09:51 Softening and Letting Go

    12 min
  • Stop Starting Over: Simple Mindset Shifts That Help You Reset and Move Forward
    Episode Description

    Ever feel like you've "fallen off" and have to start everything over?

    In this episode, Shaye and Jayla talk about a mindset shift that can change the way you approach goals, habits, and personal growth: you don't need to start over — you just need to start again.

    So many people abandon progress because of an all-or-nothing mindset. One missed workout, one off week, one imperfect moment suddenly feels like failure. But growth doesn't disappear because life got messy.

    In this conversation, we explore five powerful mindset shifts that help you reset, refocus, and move forward with more self-trust and less pressure.

    Because real consistency isn't about perfection — it's about returning.

    In This Episode We Talk About

    The "Start Again" Mindset Why missing a habit doesn't erase your progress and how learning to return is the real key to consistency.

    The Stories Your Brain Repeats How the thoughts you rehearse about yourself slowly become your identity — and how changing the narrative can change everything.

    The Energy Audit Why you might feel exhausted even when you're not that busy, and how identifying what drains your energy can help you feel more clear and focused.

    Discipline as Self-Respect Why confidence doesn't come from motivation — it comes from keeping small promises to yourself.

    Stop Borrowing Worry From the Future How overthinking steals peace from the present and why most of the things we worry about never actually happen.

    Ask Yourself, Why Not?

    Why not start again today instead of waiting for Monday?

    Key Takeaway

    Growth isn't built from perfect streaks.

    It's built from the moments you decide to return.

    7 min
  • The "I'm Fine" Trap: Why Women Delay Their Own Health

    Episode Description

    In this episode of Ask Yourself, Why Not?, Jayla and Shaye share reflections from a recent family/soccer team trip to Chile and how stepping outside of daily routines sparked a bigger conversation about women's health.

    So many women are experts at taking care of everyone else — scheduling appointments, managing households, and making sure the people they love are supported. But somewhere along the way, their own health checkups often get postponed.

    This episode is a reminder that preventative care and self-care aren't luxuries — they're essential.

    Shaye and Jayla talk about the mindset behind the "I'm fine" trap, why so many women delay their own medical appointments, and small ways to start treating your health like a priority again.

    Because the truth is: taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you can do for the people who rely on you.

    In this episode we talk about:

    • Why women often put their own health last

    • The "I'm fine" mindset that keeps us from scheduling checkups

    • How travel and stepping outside your routine can shift perspective

    • Simple ways to start prioritizing preventative care

    • Modeling healthy habits for your kids and family

    Key Takeaway

    Your health deserves the same priority as everything else on your calendar.

    Not someday. Not when things slow down.

    Now.

    22 min
  • Small Steps, Big Change: Micro-Habits for Real Life Growth (Mindset Munchie)
    Embracing Bite-Sized Personal Development: How Small Steps Transform Your Growth

    In this episode, Shaye and Jayla discuss the power of small, manageable actions in personal growth and self-development. Perfect for busy minds, they emphasize that you don't need to finish every book or overhaul your entire routine — just taking one page or one action a day can lead to meaningful change.

    Key Topics:
    • The importance of bite-sized content in busy lives
    • How completing all books isn't necessary; focus on snippets that inspire
    • Personal experiences with favorite books like Rhonda Byrne's "Countdown to Riches" and Gabby Bernstein's programs
    • The concept of taking one small, focused action daily inspired by "Atomic Habits"
    • Managing expectations and perfectionism in personal development journeys
    • How mental health benefits from simple, consistent micro-actions
    • The significance of reducing pressure to "do it all" and embracing progress
    • The role of technology apps in facilitating daily growth activities
    • Reflections on past challenges and the power of persistence and small wins
    Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and episode intro: redefining personal growth with small steps 02:20 - Our relationship with self-help books and podcasts: finishing vs. consuming in bite-sized pieces 03:33 - How consuming varied content influences your mindset and persona 04:27 - The challenge of finishing books and embracing incomplete progress 05:49 - Focus on recent practices: Rhonda Byrne and Gabby Bernstein's 21-day programs 06:45 - The benefits of 21-day focus challenges on clarity and manifestation 07:42 - Introducing "The Pivot Year": building confidence with daily small insights 08:41 - Connecting "Atomic Habits" to daily micro-actions for lasting change 09:31 - Actionable tips: taking small steps during anxiety or overwhelm 10:30 - Revisiting the roots of the podcast and the power of consistent manifestation practices 11:18 - Tools and apps to support daily growth and reducing pressure 12:06 - Overcoming perfectionism: doing enough without the stress of "doing it all" 12:36 - Future plans for the podcast: deep dives, community episodes, and growth goals 13:04 - Gratitude for listeners and encouragement to share and support the community

    Resources & Links:

    • Atomic Habits by James Clear
    • Rhonda Byrne's Countdown to Riches
    • Gabby Bernstein's 21-Day Manifestation Challenge
    • James Clear Podcast with Mel Robbins
    • Your Favorite Meditation & Journaling App

    Connect with Shaye & Jayla:

    • Instagram
    • Website (if applicable)

    Note: Remember, small consistent actions create profound long-term results. Don't stress over finishing everything — just showing up with a little effort each day is enough.

    13 min
  • The February Slump Is Real: Small Wins & Habits That Actually Stick

    Feeling stuck in the February doldrums? You're not alone — and you're definitely not failing.

    In this episode, Shaye and Jayla unpack why motivation dips after January, how winter affects energy and mood, and why building small, consistent habits matters more than waiting to "feel ready."

    This is your permission slip to reset without guilt, stop chasing perfect discipline, and start focusing on simple actions that actually build confidence and momentum.

    Because real change doesn't come from overhauling your life. It comes from small wins — repeated consistently.

    Quick note: We're no longer numbering episodes. Think of AYWN like a drop-in conversation — not a series you have to keep up with.

    Jump in wherever you are. No catching up required. No pressure to listen to everything. Just press play on what resonates today.

    What we talk about:
    • Why February can feel heavy (and why that's normal)

    • Seasonal mood shifts and their impact on motivation

    • Dopamine, momentum, and the science behind habit-building

    • Why habits and discipline matter more than motivation

    • Scaling goals so they feel doable instead of overwhelming

    • Creating small daily actions that build self-trust

    • Resetting routines without shame or "starting over"

    • Practicing self-compassion when consistency feels hard

    • Simple strategies for movement, mindfulness, and energy

    • Celebrating progress instead of waiting for perfection

    Resources mentioned:
    • Atomic Habits — James Clear

    • Pomodoro Technique

    • Seasonal Affective Disorder education + awareness resources

    Why Not Nudge of the Day:

    Get curious about your habits today. Not judgmental — curious.

    What's working? What feels heavy? What's one tiny shift that could make things easier?

    Connect with us:

    Follow along + stay in the community:

    Facebook

    @askyourselfwhynot_podcast

    askyourself-whynot.com

    Big change happens through small, consistent action.

    Share this episode with a friend who might need a reminder: You don't need to start over. You just need one small win today.

    29 min
  • Episode 217: Keeping the Magic Alive (Even When Adulting Hits Hard)

    Keywords

    holiday spirit, Christmas magic, self-care, festive traditions, mindfulness, family activities, joy, intentional living, holiday rituals, simplifying celebrations

    Summary

    In this episode of the Ask Yourself Why Not podcast, hosts Shaye and Jayla explore how to embrace the holiday spirit as adults. They discuss ways to create personal magic during the holidays, emphasizing the importance of small rituals, fun activities, and self-care. The conversation highlights the need to simplify holiday celebrations and prioritize joy, allowing listeners to enjoy the season without feeling overwhelmed.

    Takeaways

    Christmas magic feels different as an adult.

    You are the magic of the holidays.

    Focus on small rituals to enhance holiday spirit.

    Choose fun activities that bring joy.

    Celebrate every day as if it's your favorite day.

    Don't overthink gift-giving; it's the thought that counts.

    Simplify holiday preparations to reduce stress.

    Prioritize self-care during the busy season.

    Make space for joy to find you.

    Choose your joy on purpose this holiday season.

    Titles

    Rediscovering Holiday Magic as Adults

    Creating Your Own Christmas Spirit

    Sound bites

    "You are the magic."

    "Choose fun, have more fun."

    "Make it merrier, Jayla."

    Chapters

    00:00 Embracing Holiday Spirit

    00:58 Finding Magic as Adults

    02:47 Creating Cozy Rituals

    05:02 Choosing Fun and Joy

    06:53 Making Life Festive

    07:47 Simplifying Holiday Preparations

    08:42 Prioritizing Self-Care

    12 min

About AskYourselfWhyNot

From the publisher's feed

Ask Yourself Why Not is a feel-good personal growth podcast where two friends share what they're learning from self-help books, podcasts, and their community and talk through how it actually shows up in real life.