What happens when you ignore your intuition for too long… and then one day, it refuses to be silenced?
In this powerful episode of Authentic Talks 2.0, host Shanta sits down with Ranae Van Roekel —founder of Connecting to Cope, speaker, and trauma recovery advocate—for a raw and deeply honest conversation about trauma, accountability, and the life-changing moment when your inner voice demands to be heard.
Renae shares her journey of surviving childhood sexual abuse, staying silent for over 30 years, and how unresolved trauma shaped her into a people-pleaser—ultimately leading her down a path that resulted in a federal prison sentence. But this isn’t just a story about the past… it’s about the turning point. The moment when Renae knew—deep in her gut—that what she was participating in was wrong… and made the courageous decision to stop, take responsibility, and face the consequences.
From prison to purpose, Renae opens up about the healing work she began behind bars, the therapist who helped change her life, and how she now dedicates her mission to helping others process trauma, develop healthy coping skills, and reclaim their power. This episode explores:

• The long-term impact of unaddressed trauma
• How people-pleasing can lead to self-betrayal
• The power of listening to your intuition—even when it’s hard
• Accountability, redemption, and second chances
• Life inside prison and the unexpected lessons it brings
• Turning pain into purpose and helping others heal

If you’ve ever ignored your gut, struggled with your past, or wondered if it’s possible to truly start over—this conversation will speak directly to you.
Your intuition is always speaking… the question is, are you listening? 
🔗 Connect with Renae:
Visit Connecting to Cope (https://connectingtocope.com/) to learn more about her work, coaching, and speaking.

Host:
Instagram: @AuthenticTalks2.0 
Email: [email protected] 
Website: www.AuthenticTalks2.com 
Facebook: AuthenticTalks2
Youtube: @authentictalkswithshanta7489 
#traumahealing #listentoyourintuition #trustyourgut #innervoice #personalgrowthjourney #overcomingtrauma
#FaithAndCommunity #AuthenticConnections #SpiritualGrowth #FindYourBelonging

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authentic-talks-2-0-with-shanta--4116672/support.

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of Authentic Talks 2.0, host Shanta sits down with Richard Riccardi—author of The Wandering Worshiper—for a deeply inspiring conversation about faith, belonging, and the true meaning of community. After years of feeling uninspired in his own faith journey, Richard made a bold decision: he would visit 33 different churches across denominations, cultures, and belief systems. What started as a personal challenge quickly transformed into a life-changing experience that reshaped how he views faith, connection, and purpose. Through heartfelt stories, unexpected encounters, and eye-opening moments, Richard shares what he discovered along the way—from being welcomed by strangers in unfamiliar spaces to ultimately finding a place where he truly belonged. His journey reveals that faith isn’t just about tradition or routine—it’s about connection, growth, and showing up for something bigger than yourself. Together, Shanta and Richard explore:

• What it really means to feel disconnected in your faith
• The power of community and why it matters more than ever
• Breaking down barriers between different beliefs and cultures
• Why “church hopping” might lead you exactly where you’re meant to be
• The difference between practicing faith and truly living it

This episode is a beautiful reminder that no matter where you come from or what you believe, we are all seeking the same thing—connection, purpose, and a place to belong. If you’ve ever questioned your faith, felt out of place, or wondered if there’s more to the experience of church and spirituality… this conversation is for you.

Official Website & Direct Contact

• 🌐 Personal website: Richard G. Riccardi Official Website
• 🌐 Book website: The Wandering Worshipper Website

Host:
Instagram: @AuthenticTalks2.0 
Email: [email protected] 
Website: www.AuthenticTalks2.com 
Facebook: AuthenticTalks2
Youtube: @authentictalkswithshanta7489 
#FaithAndCommunity #AuthenticConnections #SpiritualGrowth #FindYourBelonging

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authentic-talks-2-0-with-shanta--4116672/support.

In this deeply moving solo "Podsnack" episode of Authentic Talks 2.0, Shanta invites you into a powerful and honest conversation about what it truly means to reconnect with your authentic self—especially in a world that feels heavy, uncertain, and overwhelming.

This episode, The Powerful Self, is not about hustle, pushing through, or pretending everything is okay. Instead, it’s a gentle yet grounding reminder that who you are goes far beyond your pain, your past, or the circumstances surrounding you. Shanta explores the idea that while life’s challenges shape your story, they do not define your identity. Through raw reflection and heartfelt encouragement, you’ll be guided to look beneath the noise, the fear, and the labels, and reconnect with the unbroken version of yourself that has always been there.

This episode dives into resilience, purpose, human connection, and the quiet strength of simply continuing to show up—even when you’re barely holding on. Shanta also shares practical tools and intentional practices to help you stay grounded, including journaling, self-care rituals, and mindful creativity. You’ll walk away with a simple yet powerful exercise designed to help you rediscover who you are at your core. If you’ve been feeling lost, overwhelmed, or questioning your place in the world, this episode is your reminder: you matter, your presence is powerful, and your story is still unfolding.
✨ You are not alone.
✨ You are still here for a reason.
✨ You are the powerful self. Tune in, take a breath, and begin the journey back to you.

Zen In The Forest: https://a.co/d/04qKxt8e
Healing My Inner Child Journal: https://a.co/d/0gZnQhM8

Host:
Instagram: @AuthenticTalks2.0 
Email: [email protected] 
Website: www.AuthenticTalks2.com 
Facebook: AuthenticTalks2
Youtube: @authentictalkswithshanta7489 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authentic-talks-2-0-with-shanta--4116672/support.

In this powerful episode of Authentic Talks 2.0, host Shanta speaks with Nicole Johnston—TEDx speaker, author, and executive leadership coach—for an eye-opening conversation about the taboo topics women are often taught to avoid… but absolutely need to talk about. From money and salary negotiation to workplace dynamics, burnout, and the invisible mental load, Nicole shares real-world insights from her 30-year career in corporate leadership. Together, they unpack how silence around these topics can cost women not only confidence—but millions over a lifetime. Nicole breaks down why women are less likely to negotiate, how workplace norms quietly reinforce inequality, and what it truly takes to advocate for yourself in environments that weren’t designed with you in mind. She also dives into the importance of storytelling, mentorship, sponsorship, and setting boundaries that protect your time, energy, and well-being. This episode is not just a conversation—it’s a wake-up call and a toolkit. If you’ve ever felt overlooked, overworked, or unsure how to speak up for what you deserve, this one is for you. ✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why not negotiating your salary can cost you long-term
• The truth about the “mental load” and how it impacts women
• How to confidently tell your story and own your value
• The difference between mentors, coaches, and sponsors—and why you need all three
• Practical ways to set boundaries and avoid burnout
• Why self-care goes beyond bubble baths—and includes financial and mental well-being

Nicole’s book, Taboo Topics: Things Women Should Talk About But Don’t, is a must-read guide filled with actionable steps to help you grow, advocate for yourself, and step fully into your power. 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and start the conversations that can change everything.

Nicole's Information:
https://innatepower.coach/

Host:
Instagram: @AuthenticTalks2.0 
Email: [email protected] 
Website: www.AuthenticTalks2.com 
Facebook: AuthenticTalks2
Youtube: @authentictalkswithshanta7489 
#WomenEmpowerment #TabooTopics #WomenInBusiness #CareerGrowth #FemaleLeaders

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authentic-talks-2-0-with-shanta--4116672/support.

In this insightful episode of Authentic Talks 2.0, host Shanta sits down with leadership consultant and author Crispin Thompson, founder of The Leadership Studio, for a powerful conversation about leadership, emotional intelligence, and overcoming imposter syndrome.With more than 30 years of experience in the tech industry — including over two decades at Hewlett-Packard — Crispin shares how his own career challenges, failures, and mentorship experiences shaped his passion for helping leaders grow.

Today, he works with individuals and organizations to bridge the gap between potential and performance, helping leaders develop confidence, communication skills, and the emotional intelligence needed to lead effectively.Together, Shanta and Crispin explore what imposter syndrome really looks like in the workplace, why even successful leaders struggle with self-doubt, and how learning to reflect inward can help people grow into stronger, more confident leaders.The conversation also dives into the evolving role of leadership in a rapidly changing world shaped by artificial intelligence, and why human connection, empathy, and emotional awareness are becoming more valuable than ever.Listeners will walk away with practical insights on recognizing self-doubt, strengthening leadership skills, and embracing growth — both personally and professionally.In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• The truth about imposter syndrome and why so many leaders experience it
• Why emotional intelligence is essential for effective leadership
• How AI is changing the future of work and leadership
• Practical ways to build confidence and self-awareness as a leader
• The importance of mentorship, introspection, and continuous growthWhether you’re leading a team, growing in your career, or simply looking to become a more confident version of yourself, this episode offers valuable perspectives on what it really means to lead in today’s world.

More on Chrispin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/crispinthompson/
https://leadership-studio.com/
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FXVWXTC4?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_255YZVJZPYDQFHAHQH1F&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_255YZVJZPYDQFHAHQH1F&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_255YZVJZPYDQFHAHQH1F&bestFormat=true

Host:
Instagram: @AuthenticTalks2.0 
Email: [email protected] 
Website: www.AuthenticTalks2.com 
Facebook: AuthenticTalks2
Youtube: @authentictalkswithshanta7489 
#LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #ImposterSyndrome #AuthenticLeadership #PersonalGrowth

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authentic-talks-2-0-with-shanta--4116672/support.

What if the worst thing that ever happened to you became the very thing that finally woke you up? In this powerful episode of Authentic Talks 2.0, host Shante sits down with the remarkable Terry Tucker — author, speaker, former SWAT hostage negotiator, and 14-year cancer warrior — for a conversation that will shift the way you see your life, your purpose, and what it truly means to be alive. Terry was given two years to live in 2012. He has since had his foot amputated, his leg amputated, battled lung tumors for over four years, and recently completed a groundbreaking cancer immunotherapy treatment. And yet — he is one of the most joyful, purposeful, and deeply grounded human beings you will ever hear speak. In this episode, Terry and Shante dive deep into:

• 💡 How to turn a death sentence into a life sentence
• 🎯 How to find your purpose without needing a crisis to wake you up
• 🚫 The lie society has been selling us about success, self-worth, and what really matters
• 📖 Terry's powerful new book Four Truths and a Lie and the Alexander the Great story that will change how you think about wealth
• 🤝 Why human connection is the missing ingredient in so many people's lives
• 💪 How adversity doesn't break us — it actually builds us stronger at the broken places
• ⏳ A decade-by-decade framework for discovering what you were born to do

Whether you are walking through a hard season right now, feeling stuck and uninspired, or simply searching for more meaning — this episode is your reminder that your purpose is already calling your name. You just have to answer. Terry's wisdom is quiet, steady, and deeply powerful. This is one of those conversations you will find yourself coming back to. 🔗 Get the book: Four Truths and a Lie — available on Amazon and wherever books are sold. 📲 Connect with Terry Tucker: Links in show notes. If this episode moved you, please share it, leave a review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode of Authentic Talks 2.0.

Terry Tucker —
Website 🖥️ www.motivationalcheck.com Books on Amazon 📚 Four Truths and a Lie → https://www.amazon.com/Four-Truths-Lie-Ancient-Purpose/dp/B0FPMG37DF
📚 Sustainable Excellence → https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GLGVTVS
Social Media 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/sustainableexcellenceauthor
 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/motivationalcheck 💼 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-tucker-9b5605179
🐦 X (Twitter) → https://x.com/terrytucker2012
 ▶️ YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl2CUA6R1zP2ZcjzhzGKWkQ


Host:
Instagram: @AuthenticTalks2.0 
Email: [email protected] 
Website: www.AuthenticTalks2.com 
Facebook: AuthenticTalks2
Youtube: @authentictalkswithshanta7489 

#AuthenticTalks
#TerryTucker #FourTruthsAndALie #LivingWithPurpose #FindYourPurpose #CancerWarrior

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authentic-talks-2-0-with-shanta--4116672/support.

What if your clutter isn’t really about your stuff… but about your identity? In this powerful episode of Authentic Talks, Shanta sits down with brand strategist, life coach, and author Don Suttajit to talk about his new book, Tidy Less, Live More: An Identity-Based Approach to Decluttering and Organizing Your Home and Life.

After spending 15 years helping corporations find their voice, Don realized something deeper: many of us lose ourselves — and our homes begin reflecting that inner confusion. Through his “I AM” system and his Live Freely Project,

Don shares why traditional organizing methods often fail and how lasting change starts from the inside out. 

• Why organizing systems don’t stick
• The connection between inner clutter and physical clutter
• Scarcity mindset and how it shows up in our homes
• Identity-based motivation and behavior change
• How to declutter with purpose
• Why “new year, new me” resolutions fail
• What it truly means to live freely

If you’ve ever cleaned a space only to see it fall apart again…
If you’ve struggled to let go of things you paid for…
If you’ve felt overwhelmed, stuck, or divided internally… This conversation will meet you right where you are. Because decluttering isn’t about perfection — it’s about becoming.
It’s time to tidy less… and live more.

Don's websites and social media:
Website URL: https://livefreely.co/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livefreelyproject/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livefreelyprojectLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donsuttajit/


Host:
Instagram: @AuthenticTalks2.0 
Email: [email protected] 
Website: www.AuthenticTalks2.com 
Facebook: AuthenticTalks2
Youtube: @authentictalkswithshanta7489 

#AuthenticTalks
#TidyLessLiveMore
#DeclutterYourLife
#DeclutterYourHome
#InnerWork
#PersonalGrowthJourney
#LiveFreely

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authentic-talks-2-0-with-shanta--4116672/support.

In this special solo episode, we pull back the curtain on the everyday items we use without a second thought. From the rhythm of our city streets to the safety of our homes, Black inventors have shaped the physical world around us. As we celebrate the 100th Anniversary (1926–2026) of the movement that became Black History Month, we honor the names, the stories, and the brilliance that have been "hidden in plain sight."

Host:
Instagram: @AuthenticTalks2.0 
Email: [email protected] 
Website: www.AuthenticTalks2.com 
Facebook: AuthenticTalks2
Youtube: @authentictalkswithshanta7489 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authentic-talks-2-0-with-shanta--4116672/support.

In this heartfelt episode of Authentic Talks 2.0, host Shanta sits down with Lisa Love—self-love coach, retreat leader, and founder of Collective Hearts—for a powerful conversation about what it truly means to love yourself from the inside out. In a world that often confuses self-love with overindulgence, Lisa gently reframes the conversation, reminding us that real self-love doesn’t have to cost a thing. Together, they explore simple yet transformative practices like affirmations, gratitude, breathwork, meditation, and mindful presence—tools that help quiet the inner critic, heal loneliness, and reconnect us to our own inner wisdom. Lisa shares her lifelong mission of spreading love, from childhood stories that shaped her path to leading wellness retreats around the world—from the Bay Area to Bali and even Antarctica. She opens up about navigating loneliness, setting boundaries, reclaiming personal power, and why visible love—like her heart-centered jewelry—can serve as a daily reminder to lead with compassion. This episode is a grounding reminder that:

• Self-love is not selfish—it’s essential
• You can cultivate joy, peace, and confidence from within
• Your thoughts, words, and actions are shaping your reality every day

Whether you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or simply craving a deeper sense of love and presence in your life, this conversation will meet you right where you are.

[email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authentic-talks-2-0-with-shanta--4116672/support.

Solo Podsnack: Host, Shanta Generally;

The New Year is often treated like a reset button—but what if it’s actually a threshold? In this episode, Crossing the Threshold: What You’re Carrying Into 2026 (and What You’re Meant to Set Down), we explore a gentler, more conscious way of entering the New Year—one rooted in discernment, awareness, and energetic maturity rather than pressure or resolutions. I share a personal reflection on how decluttering, cleaning with intention, and releasing what no longer served me became a powerful practice of preparation—one that couldn’t be rushed and didn’t need perfection. We also talk about:

• Why the New Year doesn’t require a complete reinvention
• The spiritual significance of thresholds and conscious crossings
• Setting intentions instead of resolutions
• Cord cutting as a mindful practice of completion and release
• How mindfulness supports real, everyday life—not just quiet moments

If you’re standing at the doorway of a new season, this episode invites you to pause, reflect, and cross with intention.  Featured Resource:
Mindfulness: They Didn’t Explain It Like This When We Were Kids
Book 4 in the J.A.M.M. With Me: A Journey to Your Higher Self series
Now available on Amazon


Stay authentic. Stay mindful. And keep taking care of you.

Host:
Instagram: @AuthenticTalks2.0 
Email: [email protected] 
Website: www.AuthenticTalks2.com 
Facebook: AuthenticTalks2
Youtube: @authentictalkswithshanta7489 
www.authenticyoumindset.com 
@Authenticyoumindset on IG 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authentic-talks-2-0-with-shanta--4116672/support.