Cultivate Calmness Podcast: Find Your Calm, Cultivate Your Mind

In this episode of the Cultivate Calmness Podcast, Kaela Vance explores the topic of 12-Step Recovery programs, particularly Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and shares insights from a recent luncheon with Michelle Risser, a local therapist and CEU provider. Kaela discusses the foundations of AA and its 12-Step process, highlighting its broader applications for various addictions and the importance of spiritual support in recovery. She also provides an overview of other 12-Step programs and shares helpful information for therapists, friends, and family members supporting individuals in recovery. Kaela emphasizes the importance of understanding empathy and finding the right recovery path for each person.

In this episode of the Cultivate Calmness Podcast, Kaela dives into the powerful connection between exercise and mental health, exploring the science behind how physical activity impacts our brains and emotions. She discusses how exercise increases feel-good hormones like endorphins and helps alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, but also emphasizes the importance of listening to your body to avoid overexertion. Kaela also touches on the concept of cycle syncing for women, explaining how aligning exercise routines with the different phases of the menstrual cycle can optimize energy levels and mental well-being. Tune in for practical insights on how to move your body in a way that supports both your physical and mental health.

In this episode of the Cultivate Calmness Podcast, Kaela explores the benefits of Earthley's herbal tinctures and supplements, highlighting their powerful natural properties and how they can support overall health and well-being. With Earthley's annual tincture sale happening now, Kaela shares her personal experience using these products, including those that support immunity, energy, gut health, and mental wellness. She discusses how tinctures offer a concentrated way to benefit from herbs and explains their role in improving mental health by healing the gut. Tune in for insights into the healing potential of nature’s offerings and why these tinctures could be a great addition to your wellness routine.

In this episode of the Cultivate Calmness Podcast, we explore the powerful connection between your gut health and mental well-being. From the surprising role of serotonin—mostly produced in the gut—to how the foods we eat can directly impact our mood, energy, and overall mental health, this episode breaks down the science behind it all. We discuss how diet influences gut bacteria, serotonin production, and the gut-brain axis, as well as the long-term effects of processed foods on emotional stability. Learn how making mindful changes to your nutrition can help heal your gut, improve serotonin levels, and support a healthier, more balanced mind.

In this episode of the Cultivate Calmness Podcast, Kaela dives into the concept of betrayal, exploring the powerful principle "If it’s hysterical, it’s historical." She shares a thought-provoking clip from a sermon by Pastor Ken Murphy and therapist Jim Cress, discussing how past wounds often influence our emotional reactions to betrayal in the present. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Kaela highlights the importance of addressing past hurts to prevent them from overwhelming our current relationships. From betrayal in romantic partnerships to professional settings, Kaela unpacks how unresolved emotional wounds can shape our perceptions and reactions. This episode encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences of betrayal and work towards healing, allowing them to move beyond the pain and grow emotionally.

In this episode, we kick off 2025 with a conversation about the different approaches to health and wellness, focusing on the terms "holistic," "integrative," and "functional". Kaela explores the importance of understanding these concepts in the context of both mental and physical health. She discusses how these terms are often used interchangeably, but their meanings can vary, and how they influence her practice. Kaela also shares her personal journey of integrating these approaches into therapy, emphasizing the need for a more individualized, root-cause approach to healing. Whether you're exploring these approaches for the first time or are already living a holistic lifestyle, this episode offers insights into how these models can better support mental health and overall well-being.

In this heartfelt episode of the Cultivate Calmness Podcast, we wrap up the year with a candid discussion about navigating the complexities of the holiday season. From managing family dynamics and setting healthy boundaries to honoring loved ones and finding moments of joy, this episode offers practical advice and encouragement for handling the unique challenges of this time of year. Whether you're coping with grief, navigating difficult relationships, or simply seeking a more peaceful holiday, join us as we explore ways to bring grace, balance, and calmness to your celebrations.

In this episode of Cultivate Calmness, we explore the surprising and often overlooked impact of hormone disruptors on your health and well-being. From everyday household products to hidden chemicals in cookware, personal care items, and more, these endocrine disruptors can wreak havoc on your hormones, affecting everything from metabolism to mental health. Join me as I share practical tips for identifying and avoiding these toxins, healthier alternatives for your home, and the connection between hormone health and emotional balance. Whether you're new to this topic or looking to take your knowledge to the next level, this episode is packed with insights to help you create a healthier, toxin-free lifestyle.

In this episode of the Cultivate Calmness Podcast, we explore the unpredictable nature of grief and how memories, even decades later, can resurface with surprising emotional intensity. Reflecting on a personal story, Kaela shares insights about the enduring process of grieving and how our emotions evolve with time. Whether you're navigating grief yourself or supporting someone else through loss, this episode offers a compassionate perspective on embracing your feelings, honoring loved ones during the holidays, and finding space for healing and connection.

In this heartfelt episode of the Cultivate Calmness Podcast, Kaela Vance focuses on the joy and gratitude surrounding Thanksgiving. She reflects on personal traditions, memorable family moments, and ways to honor loved ones who are no longer with us during the holidays. Kaela also shares insights on creating new traditions, handling unexpected challenges, and finding positivity in every moment. Whether you're hosting, attending, or celebrating in your own unique way, this episode will inspire you to embrace the season with warmth and appreciation. Happy Thanksgiving!