Each month in Season 2, I will take a shorter solo episode to target a particular mental health topic at the end of that month. This month you will hear a bit about how I had to find vulnerability at the bottom of my self sufficiency and begin to develop self awareness in order to grow. Listeners will gain insights and encouragement in areas they too can begin to explore where they are, the heart cries they have, and some angles to start from.

This episode features team-minded, servant hearted, innovative entrepreneur Sara Makin, MSEd, LPC, NCC. Sara is founder of Makin Wellness and author of three different books. Today she shares how this journey began and why someone's self reflection, ability to emotionally regulate, and the power of connection are enhanced in the therapeutic setting. As two professionals in the mental health field, you'll hear some skills we personally use and why we believe that finding a great therapist for the occasional check in or major life event is a positive step. 

We also talk about the fact that not all therapists are created equal. Take note of a few red flags you'll want to watch out for when selecting a healthy and professional therapist for your healing journey.

If you are Licensed Therapist in PA, a client seeking services in PA, or simply want more information on the books mentioned and information shared by Makin Wellness - visit the site here:  https://www.makinwellness.com/ 

Education is great, but something powerful stirs inside us once we make the choice to live and heal in spite of the struggle once endured. After years in a very unhealthy home and relationship and thanks to some foundational life rhythms of hard work, habits, and holding onto God's truths, Darlene coaches women and pours into the lives of women seeking clarity, navigating grief and loss, and escaping the wounds (seen and unseen) of bondage and abuse in various forms. This episode discusses the real pain points and clarifying moments that may occur when choosing to own the value God intended for your life, your gifts, and the insights He's equipped you with after enduring such a season. 

Learn more by connecting with Darlene at heartswithapurpose.com or the download mentioned in the episode here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/kS1Du3G

Serving our military affiliated population across the globe in a counseling and educational capacity has been a joy for LaShondria as we discuss how her call to "resurrect dead things" came to life in an unexpected yet encouraging form. She spends her days this year waist deep in her dissertation while holding on to the things that stir the peace within. Don't miss this skill-saturated episode where tools and stories abound. You are sure to gain some empathy, insight, and tools you can begin today from this Crystal Cnvrstn with LaShondria Smith.

Find LaShondria for her monthly talks on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lashondria.smith

Check our her chapter in the anthology:  She Writes for Him: Black Voices of Wisdom

This conversation with USMC veteran and veteran advocate, Lee Wagner, covers a myriad of valuable topics around suicide prevention, wellness practices, and the importance of connecting and familiarity with culturally competent resources when working with veterans and military affiliated individuals. As veterans ourselves and having worked to serve this population in the non profit space, this became a refreshing conversation to encourage and remind those who are struggling that the journey does not end today and they are never alone.

Register for the SCOPE Statewide project discussed here:  https://www.peru.pitt.edu/portal/scope-statewide-registration/

Connect with Lee by emailing questions here:  [email protected]

Learn more about the resources on veteran suicide prevention here:  https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/help-yourself/veterans/

Lissa spends her time on reflection and re-purposing efforts for a goal-achieved life. She shares how she has navigated her business and life with a focus on community with others. She shares her passion for learning and how that consistency impacts intentional choices for herself and her family. Lissa's efforts target those women in their forties who are ready to be re-purposing for success in their own terms. Connect with Lissa at www.lissafiggins.com for resources and so much more!

Do you notice those who are often sweet and quiet in the room? Wooo, you surely will want to take notice of this gal.  As seasons change for this family, co-founder of The Quiet Days Magazine, Laura Schofield sets her attention on one theme: see people. Laura has spent the majority of her adult life serving others. From homeschooling mom, US Marine Corp military wife, and previous service member herself - this RV living lady finds herself embracing a new chapter for their family with many plans left open for God to show them the way. Know that even though it feels like no one notices - we hear the pain of that feeling.

Hear more from Laura:

An opportunity to take a look back at a beautiful example of our creative God through the life of Monica Lyles - a retired United States Navy Chief, owner of Monica's Creative Confections and now studiously immersed in her Masters in Divinity program. Each of these having her ask, Lord, how will you use all of these endeavors you have shown and are growing in me for Your Kingdom? Her motherly soul and detail oriented approach create a unique left and right brain approach that allows her to love on those she's been entrusted and give all glory to our Creator.

Those who have listened to wise ones enough times know that someone who sees their life as a fairly regular life but has had the experiences like this beautiful soul has, you STOP, SIT, and LISTEN to what they are about to say. It is truly my honor to have this time with Troy and hear her heart speak about serving her family, others in her path, and now in the new phase of a not-so-retired mindset.

This coach, published author, and encourager incites bravery into the personal and professional lives of women across the globe. By understanding the power of connection tied with self understanding and the glass balls we juggle, Holly brings wisdom and resources to this conversation you will be sure to enjoy.

Find more information on her website:  https://www.hollyjoy.info/   or connect with other amazing ladies in the Brave Women Project here: https://www.bwp.life/

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Want this month's digital download for only $8, packed with reflective content on this month's conversations and opportunities for you to take a deeper dive into some of the material covered?  Email:   [email protected]  and ask for the January 2022 Digital Download.  Payment method: Paypal