Beyond What Hurts Us

In this week's episode, Kristen and Leslie explore the idea that healing often lies in the balance between extremes. Why do polarized emotions or opinions keep us stuck, and how can embracing the “shades of gray” in tough situations help us move forward? By finding the middle ground, we open ourselves to growth, understanding, and deeper healing. Join us as we discuss how balance is not about compromise but about clarity and peace.

In this episode, Kristen and Leslie confront the difficult reality of discovering abusive behavior in people we once admired and explore the red flags we might have missed or dismissed. We discuss the emotional impact of shattered perceptions, why we sometimes ignore warning signs, and how to rebuild trust in our own judgment. This conversation is about learning to recognize and believe red flags, setting healthier boundaries, and finding resilience to move forward with clarity and self-assurance.

In this episode, Kristen and Leslie explore how curiosity and asking questions can shift our perspectives, even on seemingly simple things like sports. Why do we get so emotionally invested in whether "our team" wins or loses? By examining these reactions, we uncover the layers of identity, connection, and loyalty that play into our intense feelings for sports teams. Join us as we discuss how understanding these emotional ties can help us grow in empathy and self-awareness, and even heal our approach to relationships and community.

In this heartfelt episode, Kristen and Leslie sit down with Chelsea Ohlemiller, author of Now That She’s Gone, a deeply personal memoir chronicling her journey through grief after losing her mother. Chelsea shares the profound lessons learned from her mother's life, her grief, and how she’s found healing through preserving her legacy. Join us as we discuss the impact of love, loss, and how embracing a loved one’s memory can offer comfort and a path toward peace.

Can we just stop the bullsh*t? In this episode, Kristen and Leslie dive deep into the emotional dynamics of the pursuer-withdrawer relationship and how to break free from the exhausting push-and-pull cycle. Instead of focusing on labels, we'll shift the focus to what truly matters: the relationship itself. Join us as we explore practical steps for healing attachment wounds, improving communication, and moving towards a healthier, more secure connection—no labels required.

In this episode, Kristen and Leslie explore the transformative power of gratitude as a tool for healing. By choosing to focus on what we’re thankful for, we can shift our mindset, allowing positivity and growth to flourish in our lives. We’ll dive into how gratitude helps us move beyond pain, heal emotional wounds, and create space for joy. Join us as we discuss practical ways to cultivate gratitude and watch the healing that follows.

In this episode, Kristen and Leslie dive into the journey of moving from self-abandonment to self-love, exploring how you can shift your mindset to view yourself as "the one." We’ll discuss the importance of breaking patterns of neglecting your own needs and how to cultivate a deeper connection with yourself. It’s about learning to prioritize your well-being and embracing the love and worth you deserve.

In this special episode, Kristen and her daughter Kendall take a break from the show's usual focus on healing to explore the joy that can be found all around us. While Beyond What Hurts Us typically dives deep into self-discovery and emotional well-being, we believe it's just as important to pause and appreciate the simple, beautiful moments life has to offer. Join us as we share stories, laughter, and a few surprises from our everyday adventures, reminding ourselves that healing isn't just about looking inward—it's also about embracing the happiness in our lives. Come along for a heartwarming conversation filled with jo

Have people in your life fallen away? What makes some relationships worth pursuing and others not? Listen this week as Kristen and Leslie reveal their hearts and thoughts on what repair actually looks like and what's required to work through conflict. Join them as they share their personal insights on the true nature of repair—what it takes to work through conflict, heal wounds, and rebuild connections. Whether you're facing challenges in friendships, family dynamics, or romantic relationships, this conversation offers a heartfelt exploration of how to navigate the ebbs and flows of human connection with grace and intention.

In this week's episode, Kristen and Leslie explore the transformative power of stillness during challenging times. Discover how taking a moment to pause, reflect, and embrace silence can become a powerful tool for healing and rediscovering your inner strength. This episode delves into the importance of quieting the mind and creating space for emotional recovery, helping you navigate the journey to wholeness.