Detached

The last month has felt like a tidal wave that just won’t stop. Through some of the mess that life is throwing at me right now, I’ve come realize that so much of the aggravation it causes is from our resistance to it. In the surrender, the unexpected can be such a sweet spot if we let it.

When I look back historically at similar seasons, I’ve noticed that some of the biggest messes in my life have appeared right before a massive shift happened. When it felt like everything was falling apart, it was actually moving the energy to prepare for what was coming.

In this episode, I talk about being with the chaos - not becoming it - but being with it instead of desperately trying to control it. We treat it like it’s bad and unwanted, when it often is necessary for our next evolution. I also dig into why allowing the messiness is a crucial part of the writing process to uncover our truth and the voice that reflects that truth.

Highlights:

(02:20) - What I’m learning from living moment to moment

(04:38) - When the chaos quickly turns into a comedy routine

(08:44) - The life upheaval that eventually showed me exactly where I needed to go

(13:09) - Why clarity and chaos are partners-in-crime

(17:14) - How a perfect book outline can derail your author voice

(19:25) - Why writing a book first must transform the author before it can transform the reader

Resources:

Join SJ’s 2027 Winter Writing Retreat: Earlybird pricing happening Now with 15% off using code WINTER15

1. Follow SJ on Instagram
2. Download the Free Identity Workbook
3. Grab my SLAY YOUR STORY⚔🔥 Storytelling Masterclass here.
4. Buy The Less Effect on Amazon
5. Follow Landon Hail Press on Instagram
6. Download the Free Writing Guide for Aspiring Authors
7. Book A Free Consultation with Landon Hail Press

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

There’s a lot going on in the coaching space and I wanna talk about it - I’m talking about community, investment, disappointment, and what it really means to show up as part of a village. After watching some very public conversations unfold around multiple recent women’s events and entrepreneurship, I sat with my own feelings around it and have some things to say.

I share why I believe multiple truths can exist at once - and that often the most valuable part of an experience is often something you could never put on a list of deliverables.

We’re talking relationships, self-reflection, proximity, grace, discernment, the priceless intangibles, and what happens when we choose to lean into growth instead of immediately tearing people (and in this case - women) down.

Highlights:

(05:42) - How disappointment and gratitude can coexist

(11:17) - Why so many women claim to be searching for a village, but their actions do not align with this desire

(15:48) - What it actually means to be a villager when things don’t go perfectly

(20:58) - Why some of the biggest growth comes from experiences that you don’t plan for

(25:38) - The difference between using your voice and publicly tearing someone down

(30:52) - Why witnessing embodiment in a moment can teach us more than witnessing success

Resources:

Join SJ’s 2027 Winter Writing Retreat: Earlybird pricing happening Now with 15% off using code WINTER15

1. Follow SJ on Instagram
2. Download the Free Identity Workbook
3. Grab my SLAY YOUR STORY⚔🔥 Storytelling Masterclass here.
4. Buy The Less Effect on Amazon
5. Follow Landon Hail Press on Instagram
6. Download the Free Writing Guide for Aspiring Authors
7. Book A Free Consultation with Landon Hail Press

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

From an author and publisher, trust me when I say your belief that you’re a bad writer is not all your fault.

This is likely a story that was handed to you through outside structures like school, grades, diagnoses, and environments where you were forced to be but wouldn’t necessarily choose. Over time, this resulted in years of learning to keep your real voice safely tucked away.

In this episode, I walk you through seven reasons you may have decided writing isn’t your talent, and why the answer isn’t perfection.

The truth is that practice, honesty, emotional connection, and giving yourself permission to get messy is what makes a “good” author - not the fear of getting it “wrong”.

Highlights:

(03:23) - An arbitrary system brainwashed you into thinking you can’t write

(06:02) - Why writing that’s forced and controlled kills your creative capacity

(08:28) - What happens when you finally let someone else experience your words

(10:16) - How made up stories kept your real voice contained - and how to become uncontained

(13:09) - Why the wound is your North Star when writing anything that matters

(17:20) - What “writer’s block” actually is - the mechanism that’s firing in the brain and how to rewire this

Resources:

Join SJ’s 2027 Winter Writing Retreat: Earlybird pricing happening Now with 15% off using code WINTER15

1. Follow SJ on Instagram
2. Download the Free Identity Workbook
3. Grab my SLAY YOUR STORY⚔🔥 Storytelling Masterclass here.
4. Buy The Less Effect on Amazon
5. Follow Landon Hail Press on Instagram
6. Download the Free Writing Guide for Aspiring Authors
7. Book A Free Consultation with Landon Hail Press

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

We’re back with another off-the-cuff life update after having a breakdown last weekend that truly set me free. I go into the challenges of coparenting, transition days, the inner collapse that always follows, and letting it all be as it is.

It’s a new level of freedom when I began to allow myself to fall apart without fixing it, labeling it, or rushing myself back into productivity.

I share about the moment I craved connection and the viral post that followed, reminding me of the power that comes with vulnerability and allowing myself to be seen in the messy truth of it all.

While putting myself on display in these moments is hard, I can’t deny that “un-posturing” feels like such a necessary part of my healing, and apparently the healing of thousands of others (based on my viral IG post…).

Highlights:

(05:02) - The internal collapse that happens every time my son leaves

(09:27) - What it felt like to let the “mess” actually just be part of the natural cycle of coparenting

(14:19) - Keeping it real when people ask me (and I ask me) if coparenting gets easier with time

(19:51) - How my years of posturing was a survival mechanism and the ways I did this with myself

(24:40) - When going viral opens the floodgates to lots of resonance and support - and of course the “trolls” who need love the most

(29:35) - Why the messy, imperfect version of you is the one people actually connect with

Resources:

Join SJ’s 2027 Winter Writing Retreat: Earlybird pricing happening Now with 15% off using code WINTER15

1. Follow SJ on Instagram
2. Download the Free Identity Workbook
3. Grab my SLAY YOUR STORY⚔🔥 Storytelling Masterclass here.
4. Buy The Less Effect on Amazon
5. Follow Landon Hail Press on Instagram
6. Download the Free Writing Guide for Aspiring Authors
7. Book A Free Consultation with Landon Hail Press

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

*TRIGGER WARNING - mention of postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis

In this episode, I’m back with Sandy and Wade for part two of their story, and this one goes much deeper.

Sandy shares what happened after the birth of their son, from extreme sleep deprivation and non-epileptic seizures to resurfaced childhood trauma, postpartum psychosis, and multiple psychiatric hospitalizations.

We delicately revisit the horrific lack of care, Sandy’s retraumatization, and the numerous times Wade had to bust her out back into real life where the future was more than uncertain.

We talk about what it took to keep going when life felt completely unrecognizable, what this season demanded from their marriage and family, and the role faith and healing have played in rebuilding their lives.

This is a story about surviving the impossible, fighting for Sandy’s recovery in a system that is more harmful than helpful, and allowing an unimaginably difficult chapter to give them a whole new level of strength and connection.

Highlights:

(08:01) - The birth experience that marked the beginning of a much bigger postpartum crisis

(11:57) - The moment Sandy asked for prayer because she knew she could not carry this alone

(13:04) - The traumatizing childhood memory that resurfaced after 24 years and changed everything

(18:08) - When postpartum psychosis was finally named and the psych ward nightmares

(25:46) - The point where the whole family was running on empty and knew they needed more help

(34:24) - One year later: deeper faith, a stronger marriage, and turning pain into purpose

Additional Links:

Learn more about The Bridge Recovery Center

Follow Sandy & Wade on Instagram

Tune into their podcast, Getting Magnetic to listen to their 3-part series about Sandy’s birth and postpartum journey:

Listen on Apple

Listen on Spotify

Resources:

Join SJ’s 2027 Winter Writing Retreat: Earlybird pricing happening Now with 15% off using code WINTER15

1. Follow SJ on Instagram
2. Download the Free Identity Workbook
3. Grab my SLAY YOUR STORY⚔🔥 Storytelling Masterclass here.
4. Buy The Less Effect on Amazon
5. Follow Landon Hail Press on Instagram
6. Download the Free Writing Guide for Aspiring Authors
7. Book A Free Consultation with Landon Hail Press

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

Such an honor to interview my dear friends, Sandy & Wade Critides - entrepreneurs, mentors, and parents of three who’ve spent the last decade building businesses and intentionally designing a life around freedom, family, faith, and purpose.

These two incredible humans came into my life only a few short years ago, but have expanded me in massive ways just by being in their presence.

They operate on a frequency individually and as a family that is against what we are taught in society, taking leaps that are considered illogical and carving paths that most may consider high risk.

We dive into the life events that have inspired them to burn the “safe” templates we were handed and and the belief systems they’ve developed to lead with grace, unwavering faith, and conviction in everything they do.

Highlights:

(05:44) - How one Instagram hashtag led to a friendship that changed everything

(15:00) - Baby best friends, family history, and the love story that technically started in the womb

(18:02) - The devastating loss that ultimately redirected Sandy’s entire life

(25:20) - The text that finally admitted what both of them had been feeling

(31:00) - The Matterhorn proposal that felt like a movie

(49:11) - The accidental LinkedIn post that got Wade fired and pushed them fully into entrepreneurship

Additional Links:

Follow Sandy & Wade on Instagram

Tune into their podcast, Getting Magnetic to listen to their 3-part series about Sandy’s birth and postpartum journey:

Listen on Apple

Listen on Spotify

Resources:

Join SJ’s 2027 Winter Writing Retreat: Earlybird pricing happening Now with 15% off using code WINTER15

1. Follow SJ on Instagram
2. Download the Free Identity Workbook
3. Grab my SLAY YOUR STORY⚔🔥 Storytelling Masterclass here.
4. Buy The Less Effect on Amazon
5. Follow Landon Hail Press on Instagram
6. Download the Free Writing Guide for Aspiring Authors
7. Book A Free Consultation with Landon Hail Press

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

This episode feels especially vulnerable. I’m sharing another excerpt from my upcoming book, this time exploring intimacy, sexuality, shame, worthiness and what it means to stop measuring myself by whether someone chooses me…plus a very exciting next “chapter” for me (pun intended).

Tune into my essay, An Unplanned Detour, a deeply personal piece about physical intimacy, a scar that tells a deep story, and finally learning to separate my worth from rejection, relationships, and other people’s choices.

This is about allowing ourselves to tell the truth, meet the hidden parts of who we are and love ourselves without containment.

Highlights:

(05:14) - The Chateau I stalked for years somehow became real

(10:30) - A 2am email, a dream opportunity, and the power of finally stepping back into the author in me

(15:47) - The moment a mark on my body became about so much more than a scar

(20:13) - I am not measured by who chooses me, rejects me or walks away

(23:09) - What changed when I realized I had been hiding my own pain from myself

Resources:

Join SJ’s 2027 Winter Writing Retreat: Earlybird pricing happening Now with 15% off using code WINTER15

1. Follow SJ on Instagram
2. Download the Free Identity Workbook
3. Grab my SLAY YOUR STORY⚔🔥 Storytelling Masterclass here.
4. Buy The Less Effect on Amazon
5. Follow Landon Hail Press on Instagram
6. Download the Free Writing Guide for Aspiring Authors
7. Book A Free Consultation with Landon Hail Press

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

What happens when you stop letting fear cripple you and open up about everything you’ve endured? Chances are you’re going to create more change than staying silent.

Join us for Part 2 of my powerful interview with Advocate and Leadership Coach, Chelsey De Groot in our Landon Hail Press Author Community.

In this episode, I’m joined by Chelsey and members of our author community for a deeply impactful conversation about courage, visibility, and what happens in real life when we let our real lives shape the stories we tell - even if we only have a few hundred social media followers.

We talk about sharing sensitive content, building genuine connections instead of chasing viral trends, and why the right message reaching one person can matter more than thousands of views.

We also explore identity, advocacy, discomfort, and the choice to keep showing up even when being seen feels terrifying.

Highlights:

(03:37) - How one judge’s response showed Chelsey that her story could create real change

(09:18) - Why the most powerful content often comes directly from the life you’re already living

(11:50) - The unexpected conversation with a police officer that proved one post can have massive impact

(19:30) - How manufacturing content often means you’re holding back in your real life

(23:22) - What actually changes when you finally decide your voice deserves to be heard

(31:26) - Owning your story without shrinking, apologizing, or waiting for the perfect moment

Additional links:

Visit Chelsey’s website for Support & Leadership Resources: rootsandrisecc.com

Follow Chelsey on Instagram for her “Dear Officer” series and more!

Resources:

Join SJ’s 2027 Winter Writing Retreat: Earlybird pricing happening Now with 15% off using code WINTER15

1. Follow SJ on Instagram
2. Download the Free Identity Workbook
3. Grab my SLAY YOUR STORY⚔🔥 Storytelling Masterclass here.
4. Buy The Less Effect on Amazon
5. Follow Landon Hail Press on Instagram
6. Download the Free Writing Guide for Aspiring Authors
7. Book A Free Consultation with Landon Hail Press

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

I’m joined by author and advocate, Chelsey De Groot for Part 1 of a Guest Interview in the Landon Hail Press Author Community where we talk about the actual difference between impact and entertainment.

Chelsey opens up about experiencing domestic violence with her daughter’s father, unexpectedly losing her job, and choosing to finally publish her book, realizing that the hardest disruption in her life became a powerful invitation to move forward.

We talk about advocacy, policy change, and how the biggest shifts often happen from the smallest social media accounts because intention will always be more effective than popularity…in real life, that is.

Chelsey’s story is a reminder that moving the needle to create systemic change isn’t about followers and likes - it shows up in challenged policies, difficult conversations, and the courage your honesty gives someone else - in Chelsey’s case: Judges, Crowns, and Police Officers.

Highlights:

(03:52) Why advocacy often requires saying the uncomfortable truth

(05:24) Destruction becoming the green light to take the leap

(07:56) How rejection opened up channels for change

(16:15) The experiences that transformed personal pain into public advocacy

(19:50) How one person’s story can influence training, policy, and real impact

(24:21) The very bold (and very risky) social media decision that had messages flooding in

Additional links:

Visit Chelsey’s website for Support & Leadership Resources

Follow Chelsey on Instagram for her “Dear Officer” series and more!

Resources:

Join SJ’s 2027 Winter Writing Retreat: Earlybird pricing happening Now with 15% off using code WINTER15

1. Follow SJ on Instagram
2. Download the Free Identity Workbook
3. Grab my SLAY YOUR STORY⚔🔥 Storytelling Masterclass here.
4. Buy The Less Effect on Amazon
5. Follow Landon Hail Press on Instagram
6. Download the Free Writing Guide for Aspiring Authors
7. Book A Free Consultation with Landon Hail Press

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

Get ready for a sneak peek into my powerful session for my dear friend, Princeton Clark’s “Breakthrough Leadership Summit”, where I had the honor of speaking to his incredible community.

I get really honest about the BS we tell ourselves and how 99% of the time, “I don’t know” means: “I DO know…and I’m terrified.”

You’ll hear about the biggest catalyst in my life that led me to leaving corporate, being thrust into motherhood, finally writing the book I postponed for ten years, and building a publishing company from a truth I almost kept hidden.

We explore people-pleasing, vulnerability, self-trust, and why your biggest breakthrough might begin with one uncomfortable conversation.

Highlights:

(03:01) - Why nobody else can make you braver

(06:27) - “I don’t know” is actually fear in disguise

(10:04) - The real cost of keeping everyone comfortable

(17:05) - Making my son my reason, not my excuse

(28:04) - The beliefs, safety, and conditions behind your story

(42:28) - The wall in your mind may have an open door

Additional links:

Follow Princeton Clark on Instagram

*DM him ‘Breakthrough’ for the link to the full virtual summit! Tell him SJ sent you for a special code.

Resources:

Join SJ’s 2027 Winter Writing Retreat: Earlybird pricing happening Now with 15% off using code WINTER15

1. Follow SJ on Instagram
2. Download the Free Identity Workbook
3. Grab my SLAY YOUR STORY⚔🔥 Storytelling Masterclass here.
4. Buy The Less Effect on Amazon
5. Follow Landon Hail Press on Instagram
6. Download the Free Writing Guide for Aspiring Authors
7. Book A Free Consultation with Landon Hail Press

This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio