Big Shift Energy

In this episode of "Politically In-Correct," a Limited Series by Big Shift Energy, host Amanda engages in a heartfelt conversation with guest Alé about the importance of breathing and centering oneself amidst external pressures, the significance of community and connection, and the role of love in navigating life. The discussion emphasizes the need for self-compassion, understanding big emotions, and the value of individuality in personal growth. Throughout the episode, they share insights on how to maintain self-care practices during election season and the power of being true to oneself.

Connect with Us

Amanda:

• Instagram @BigShiftEnergy Instagram (@bigshiftenergy)
• Website https://bigshiftenergy.my.canva.site/sillygoose

Alé:

• Instagram (@crestviewstudios)
• Instagram (@keendancetheatre)
• Instagram (@redlineperformingarts)

Ideas for Your Menu of Self-Care Options

• Intentional breathing
• Naming feelings and grounding yourself
• Self Check-ins
• Setting boundaries on media intake
• Shift the focus from "doing" to "being"
• Choosing your own energy level
• Take inventory on what's important to you
• Lead with love

Resources

• Is Gun Crime a Virus? Morgan Freeman's Through The Wormhole: Season 8, Episode 4
• The Four Agreements don Miguel Ruiz The Four Agreements — don Miguel Ruiz
  • Edit: Don't take things personally is the second agreement.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Self-Care and Politics

03:00 The Importance of Breathing and Centering

06:14 Navigating News and Mental Health

09:02 Mind-Body Connection and Self-Reflection

12:00 The Role of Self-Compassion in Self-Care

14:48 Understanding Anxiety and Tension

18:02 The Impact of External Events on Personal Well-Being

21:00 Finding Grounding in Humanity

23:49 The Power of Love in Politics

26:52 Self-Care Practices During Election Season

30:04 The Importance of Community and Connection

32:59 Personal Growth and Evolving Perspectives

36:14 Navigating Disappointment and Self-Discovery

39:09 The Value of Individuality and Authenticity

42:02 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

In this episode of Big Shift Energy, Amanda discusses the complexities of caregiving, particularly in relation to aging parents. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and finding joy amidst the challenges of caregiving. Through personal anecdotes and practical exercises, Amanda encourages listeners to reflect on naming their feelings, recognizing their worth beyond their caregiving roles, and embracing moments of joy. The episode concludes with a reminder to celebrate personal achievements and the importance of community support.

Takeaways

• Caregiving is a multifaceted role where you can experience joy, resentment, and grief simultaneously.
• Finding joy in small moments can coexist during the challenges of caregiving.
• Your identity is not defined solely by your caregiving role.
• Creating affirmation boards can help reinforce your self-worth and achievements.
• Caregiving experiences can vary greatly depending on the relationship with the person being cared for.

Sound Bites

• "One of the analogies that I like to use with caregiving is that you are not only running a marathon, you're also running a sprint at the same time."
• "And even if you're doing this with an immense amount of love, it can still weigh on you. So I give you permission to judge yourself with love and say, these are the things that I'm doing well."
• "I want you to give yourself permission to experience joy today."

Holla at me!

• Instagram: BigShiftEnergy
• World Wide Web: https://bigshiftenergy.my.canva.site/sillygoose

Resources:

• Affirmation Board
• Part 1 of 3: Dealing with Aging Parents

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Big Shift Energy

03:51 Navigating Caregiving and Self-Care

21:22 Finding Joy and Being a Caregiver

24:06 Toot Toot Time and Closing Thoughts

Summary

In this episode of "Politically In-Correct," a Limited Series by Big Shift Energy, host Amanda and guest Tessa discuss various strategies for maintaining harmony, including breathwork, meal prep, and setting boundaries in conversations. They emphasize the necessity of taking breaks, managing misinformation, and the minimizing the impact of emotional responses to news. Tessa shares her personal experiences in journalism and how they shaped her self-care practices, while Amanda highlights the significance of being intentional with media consumption. Together, they encourage listeners to prioritize their well-being amidst the noise of the election season.

Connect with Us

Amanda:

• Instagram (@bigshiftenergy)
• Website https://bigshiftenergy.my.canva.site/sillygoose

Tessa:

• Instagram (@thetessahoward)
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tessa.howard

Ideas for Your Menu of Self-Care Options

• Taking breaks during your day
• Meal Prepping
• Spending time with family
• Setting boundaries
• Connecting with others
• Checking media sources for accuracy
• Standing for yourself
• Addressing hurtful situations
• Researching candidates
• Creating boundaries about politics and loved-ones
• Outsourcing Tasks
• Setting time aside to discuss important topics
• Identifying common ground
• Treating yourself

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:12 The Importance of Breathwork and Self-Care

04:10 Finding Balance in a Chaotic Political Climate

07:33 Navigating Work-Life Balance in Journalism

10:07 The Necessity of Taking Breaks

12:01 Understanding Burnout and Its Effects

14:11 Self-Care Strategies During Election Season

17:00 The Role of Media Consumption in Self-Care

20:53 Meal Prep as a Self-Care Strategy

23:16 Tools for Managing Nutrition

27:34 The Importance of Basic Needs

28:29 Setting Boundaries in Conversations

31:19 Dealing with Misinformation

34:09 Researching Political Candidates

39:19 The Work of Filtering Information

41:15 The Impact of Emotional Responses to News

43:44 The Power of Communication and Boundaries

46:16 Finding Common Ground in Conversations

51:12 The Role of Discomfort in Growth

55:37 Celebrating Wins and Self-Care Practices

01:00:53 Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts

Summary

Hey there, it's Amanda! So, today we're diving head-first into using our self-care practices to navigate the crazy whirlpool of politics. Yeah, you heard it right, y'all! It's totally taboo and I'm here for it. Not sure how to start talking about politics and affirming yourself at the same time? I've got you covered! I'll be sharing my own rollercoaster ride of drawing lines in the sand and standing my ground. And guess what? I'm inviting you to jump onboard for our special series focusing on defining what our own political IN-Correctness looks like. We'll be exploring the magic of personal evolution, the strength in U-N-I-T-Y, and the kick-ass power of believing in yourself!

Takeaways

• Even if you don't know how to yet, It's important to show up authentically wherever you go.
• Setting boundaries before engaging with diverse viewpoints fosters personal growth.
• You don't have to figure this out by yourself.

Sound Bites

• "Self -care looks different in each situation and we can still show up as ourselves. And maybe we don't know how to do that just yet."
• "I brought in other people who may not think like me because I want to learn and I can't keep thinking like myself if I want to do something different and I don't know how.
• "We can be in our own correctness and still be politically incorrect."
• "Because if it's something that's important to you that you want in your life, the best way to remedy that is through a boundary."
• "Showing up for yourself, standing for yourself. Those are two really important things. And taking care of yourself is literally the best vote you could ever cast because you can, you can count on yourself."

Holla at me!

• Instagram: BigShiftEnergy
• World Wide Web: https://bigshiftenergy.my.canva.site/sillygoose

Resources

• TedTalk about Stress: How to make stress your friend by Kelly McGonigal https://www.ted.com/talks/kelly_mcgonigal_how_to_make_stress_your_friend?subtitle=en
• 04 Filtering the News, Our Way! https://bigshiftenergy.libsyn.com/filtering-the-news-our-way

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Self-Care Ritual

02:02 Navigating Political Discourse and Self-Care

05:30 Creating Boundaries in a Chaotic Environment

09:47 Embracing Change and Personal Growth

10:58 Reflection and Closing Thoughts

Credits: Intro/Outro Music "Love Me More" Instrumental Version By CIN, Composed byPØW, Jake Chan

Summary

In this episode of "Politically IN-Correct," a Limited Series by Big Shift Energy, host Amanda and her guest Robin explore their personal journey to empathy and active listening in conversations. They also discuss strategies for managing emotional responses to discourse. The conversation also delves into the impact of social media on mental health, the necessity of setting boundaries, and the significance of engaging in joyful activities as a form of self-care. Through "Role Play Roulette" scenarios, they examine how to navigate political pressure from others. They emphasize the importance of self-affirmation and focusing on your own personal well-being in a politically charged environment.

Connect with Us

Amanda:

• Instagram (@bigshiftenergy)
• Website https://bigshiftenergy.my.canva.site/sillygoose

Robin:

• Instagram (@politorobin)
• Facebook, X: Robin Polito

Ideas for Your Menu of Self-Care Options

• Volunteering
• Traveling
• Spending time outside
• Moving your body daily
• Disabling app/phone notifications
• Eating healthily
• Filling your time with things that bring you joy
• Reading for pleasure
• Learning a new language
• Spending time with people who bring you joy
• Completing Routine tasks: Laundry, dishes, cleaning, etc.
• Walking around a plant nursery / garden

Chapters

00:00-Introduction to Self-Care in Politics

02:56-Personal Political Journeys and Influences

05:58-Navigating Political Conversations

09:12-Conflict Resolution and Active Listening

12:07-Empathy and Understanding in Disagreements

15:06-Managing Emotional Responses

17:57-Social Media and Mental Health

20:53-Setting Boundaries with Information

24:09-Self-Care Practices Beyond Politics

27:04-Role Play Roulette: Handling Political Pressure

29:45-Finding Joy in Simple Activities

32:48-Conclusion and Reflections on Self-Care

Summary

In the kickoff episode of "Politically In-Correct," a Limited Series by Big Shift Energy, host Amanda and esteemed guest Marissa explore the intersection of self-care and the political landscape. They discuss the challenges of navigating political discussions, the importance of civic duty, and the impact of media on mental health. The conversation emphasizes finding common ground in disagreements, managing political energy, and the significance of community engagement. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize self-care practices and to keep in mind that their sphere of influence is more intimate than it appears, paving the way for small yet impactful actions that can ignite meaningful transformations.

Connect with Us

Amanda:

• Instagram (@bigshiftenergy)
• Website https://bigshiftenergy.my.canva.site/sillygoose

Marissa:

• Instagram (@marissafurry.author)
• Website marissafurrywrites.ca
• Book launch approximately in Spring 2025

Ideas for Your Menu of Self-Care Options

• Deep breathing
• Unplugging from media and social media
• Spending time in nature
• Checking in with yourself
• Reading a book
• Yoga / Movement
• Socializing activities with friends and family
• Following positive socials like: @zach.anner, @colton.Robinson.official, @golightyourpath, @itsthegarbagequeen
• Maintaining a routine at home
• Creating a Reset Day: Laundry, Meal Prep, Cleaning
• Spending time with pets
• Going to bed early
• Eating breakfast
• Watching a movie that you love
• Learning something new
• Taking a class

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Politically Incorrect Podcast

03:02 Navigating Political Mindsets

05:57 The Polarization of Politics

08:48 Finding Common Ground in Opposition

11:46 The Importance of Civic Duty

15:44 Managing Political Energy

18:41 The Weight of Political Decisions

20:57 Self-Care Strategies During Political Seasons

23:47 The Concept of 'World' in Politics

26:52 Unplugging from Media Overload

29:56 Creating Structure and Rituals

32:55 Balancing News Consumption

35:00 Role Play: Handling Disturbing News

38:47 Navigating Political Conversations

41:47 The Illusion of Control

45:10 Self-Care and Community Engagement

47:57 Toot Toot Time: Celebrating Wins

50:50 Upcoming Creative Endeavors

53:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

So, in this episode, our host Amanda uses this "opera"tunity to sit down with the power-house Katherine Merryman. They chat about the importance of those chill-out breathing exercises are and the secret super power of sight reading in music. They dig into creating our own paths and not letting standards get in the way.

Katherine's got a burning passion for opera and helps us to understand the inner workings of opera, sight reading, and performances. A true fitness fan, she's all about breaking stereotypes and proving you can be fit, fabulous, and belt out an aria all at the same time!

The common saying 'no pain, no gain' is selected during Wordsmith Roulette. They give it a fresh twist by focusing on how to turn your struggles into stepping stones. To round it off, they champion the cause of celebrating those teeny tiny victories. Regardless of the win's size, all have our moments of glory!

Key takeaways:

• Breathing exercises are important for relaxation and focus.
• Sight reading is the ability to perform music on the spot without prior practice.
• Ageism is a challenge in the opera industry, but creating opportunities and redefining perfection can lead to success.
• Fitness and self-confidence go hand in hand, and taking care of oneself physically can inspire others.
• Continually pushing forward and creating opportunities is essential for personal and professional growth.
• Acting as though you are confident can lead to genuine confidence.
• Difficulties can be leveraged for growth and development.
• Celebrating micro wins is important and can lead to greater success.
• Everyone has their own gold medal moments and can be proud of their achievements.

Contact Info

Holla at me! Instagram: BigShiftEnergy

World Wide Web: https://bigshiftenergy.my.canva.site/sillygoose

Connect with Katherine:

• Instagram: @thecatalystvoice
• Website: Katherine Merryman - Professional Vocalist | The Catalyst Voice
• Album: Frauenliebe und Leben, Op.42 (Robert Schumann)

Sound Bites

• "I wanted to show you can be a woman, you can be muscular, fit, and elegant, and an opera singer all at the same time." -Katherine
• "I am proud of myself for choosing, for making a decision to actively listen to the person with whom I'm speaking." -Katherine
• "I'm going to call the mistakes as part of the music." - Katherine
• "Confidence is something that is very internal and affected by the external factors significantly." -Amanda
• "A mistake is a miss-take. It's a reset."-Amanda
• "If I can dream that I have more confidence, then I already do. I already have it. Because I know there's potential and it's there." -Amanda

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Big Shift Energy Podcast

02:54 Unleash the Benefits of Intentional Breathing

10:26 The Superpower of Sight Reading

25:01 Ageism? Not on Our Watch!

38:34 The Fit, Fabulous, and High Notes Lifestyle

46:07 Making Your Own Opportunities

47:38 Cultivating Confidence

57:26 Stepping Stones, Not Struggles

01:19:00 Celebrating Micro Wins

01:27:19 Your Moment of Glory

Hey, yall and welcome to "Politically In-Correct", a hot and spicy limited series from the Big Shift Energy Podcast. Consider this your go-to space if you are done feeling all the feels with the news headlines and the political circus. This is a reminder that self-care doesn't have to be a total snooze fest.

Your host, the ever-dynamic Amanda, invites you on a three part limited series through the strategies of self-care and the election season drama as our backdrop. As things heat up, we're here to say: you don't need to ride the same wave of chaos.

In the first segment of the limited series, our guests get real about how they're going to keep their cool during the election season, and it's not just about meditation and bubble baths. They're also diving head-first into the tricky topic of dealing with loved ones who are on the other side of the political fence.

So let's get politically INtrospective and define what "correct" means for us in this energetic season. You'll leave each episode with new ideas for putting YOU first.

You have our vote for the best party… the party where you embrace self-care! We can't wait for you to join us every week for this limited series, where we empower you to take care of #1, YOU, while staying engaged in your world around you.

Until next time, take that Big Shift Energy with you and love on those in your world. And most importantly, love yourself!

Summary

In this episode of Big Shift Energy, Amanda discusses the wild world of "guilt foods". She encourages listeners to let go of labels that no food is inherently "bad". It's about tuning into what your mind, body, and soul are really craving. She's all about savoring the delicious moments in life, like connecting with your crew, and celebrating even the tiniest victories on the path to truly nourishing ourselves. She wraps things up with a big ol' shout out to the fearless warrior within you, reminding you to keep loving the hell out of fueling your body, mind, and soul.

Takeaways

• Give yourself permission to enjoy ALL foods and let go of labeling food as good or bad.
• Tune in to what truly vibes with your soul, body, and mind when nourishing your body.
• Embrace the joy and connection that can come from sharing food with others.
• Celebrate the smALL wins in your journey towards nourishing yourself.

Sound Bites

• "Variety is the soul of pleasure." Aphra Behn
• "Put the fun back in food."
• "Start with the end in mind."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Big Shift Energy

01:09 Topic Introduction: Embracing Variety and Pleasure in Eating

03:24 Variety is the Soul of Pleasure

06:47 Putting the Fun Back in Food

10:38 Starting with the End in Mind

11:35 Eating the Baddie Foods and the Goodie Foods

14:02 Celebrating Wins at Toot Toot Time

15:26 That's a Wrap

Holla at me! Instagram: BigShiftEnergy

World Wide Web: https://bigshiftenergy.my.canva.site/sillygoose

Credits: Intro Music "Love Me More" Instrumental Version By CIN, Composed byPØW, Jake Chan

In this episode, Amanda chats with Kelly Bluth, an amazing educator embracing a new role this upcoming year. This conversation is all about marching to your own beat, taking baby steps towards your dreams, and leaning on your support team. Kelly spills on the excitement (and the butterflies!) about her new gig, and the importance of seeing the world through different lenses. It's a big shout out to creativity, getting up and moving, and taking care of numero uno in the journey of growth. They dish on the magic of body doubling and carving out time for some serious focus. Together, they flip the script on negative thoughts, turning them into an opportunity to wordsmith them to be more affirming. And let's not forget TOOT TOOT time, celebrating those small victories and giving ourselves a whole lot of love! The conversation concludes with a celebration of micro wins and the reminder to love and appreciate oneself.

Takeaways

• Being in tune with oneself is key to understanding what one truly desires and taking steps towards those goals.
• Small, incremental steps can lead to big shifts and accomplishments.
• Finding support and accountability through communities can be instrumental in personal and professional growth.
• Creativity, movement, and self-care are important for maintaining a centered mindset and staying grounded during times of transition.
• Celebrate every damn victory, no matter how small. Because YOU are winning at life, one self-love moment at a time.

Sound Bites

• "So if you want to make a change, you have to wake up and say, you know what, today's the day and I'm gonna do one incremental step." -Kelly
• "Micro wins lead to big wins." - Amanda
• "I'm glad that I tuned out those noises and voices that were not truly serving me and just stepped into my passion for putting on this event and did it." -Kelly
• "You know what you want. It's the how." -Amanda
• "What about if we talk about all the things that we are doing right?" -Kelly
• "If we can change the question, we can change the trajectory." -Amanda

Holla at me! Instagram: BigShiftEnergy

World Wide Web: https://bigshiftenergy.my.canva.site/sillygoose

Connect with Kelly:

• Listening to Your Gut
• Instagram: @Kelly_Bluth

Chapters

00:00 Jumping Headfirst Into a New Gig

06:40 Eyes on the Prize: Future, Here We Come

11:41 Taking a Damn Good Look at the Rearview Mirror

15:25 Riding the Rollercoaster: Thrills and Spills of a Major Change

19:25 Strapping In for the Epic Adventure Ahead

22:07 Raw Emotions and Amped Up Anticipation

24:46 Lighting the Fuse: Getting Others to Kickstart their Journey

25:19 Harnessing the Kick-ass Power of Knowing Yourself and Taking Baby Steps

34:07 Flip the Script: Turning Negativity on its Ugly Head

37:47 Building a Kickass Tribe: Because Nobody Makes It Alone

52:48 Seeing the World through a Different Lens: The Magic of Reframing

56:25 Stepping Up: Owning Your Sh*t

01:01:25 TOOT TOOT for the Small Victories

01:04:43 Fist Pumps for My Own Triumphs

01:13:00 Embracing Self-Love

Credits: Intro Music "Love Me More" Instrumental Version By CIN, Composed byPØW, Jake Chan