Ditch The Debate

Ditch The Debate

Download on the App Store

Ditch The Debate episodes

  • When Survival Mode Becomes Your Default

    In this episode, we explore what happens when survival mode stops being a temporary response and becomes your everyday normal.

    Taniel shares her personal story of living in constant “go mode,” how her body forgot what calm felt like, and the small, gentle shifts that helped her rebuild safety, peace, and presence from the inside out.

    This isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing less, on purpose. If you’ve been holding it all together for everyone else and feel like you’ve lost touch with yourself, this episode will remind you that you’re not broken — you’re healing.

     

    What You’ll Hear:

    • The hidden ways survival mode shows up in daily life
    • Why your body stays “on” even when you want peace
    • What it really means to re-teach your nervous system safety
    • Small, realistic ways to start feeling calm again
    • How healing often looks slower, softer, and more real than you expect
    •  

      This episode is especially for you if:

      • You’re constantly “on,” even when exhausted
      • Rest feels uncomfortable or unearned
      • You’re ready to feel calm, safe, and in control again
      •  

        Free Resource: Join the waitlist for my 5-Minute Calming Hypnosis Audio — designed to help your body remember what safety feels like again: tanielstrydom.com/5-min-calming-reset-audio

         

        Connect with Taniel:

        ➡️ Episode page: https://tanielstrydom.com/what-to-do-when-survival-mode-becomes-your-default

        ➡️ Website: https://tanielstrydom.com

        ➡️ Follow me: https://instagram.com/tanielstrydom

        10 min
      • The Moment I Realized I Was Living in Survival Mode

        Episode Summary:

        In my last episode, I shared the moment I realized I didn’t recognize myself anymore.

        But what happens after that?

        After you leave the job, the role, the relationship, the version of yourself that was built in survival?

        This episode is about that in-between place—the one no one talks about.

        Where everything is finally quiet… and instead of peace, you feel panic.

        Where your nervous system doesn’t know how to rest, because for so long, it only knew how to survive.

        If you’ve ever slowed down and felt lost instead of relieved, this one’s for you.

         

        What You’ll Hear:

        • What survival mode really feels like (and why it often goes unnoticed)
        • Why stillness can feel threatening, even when it’s what you crave
        • The small rituals that helped me reconnect with myself
        • How I discovered nervous system + subconscious healing out of necessity
        • What healing actually looks and feels like (hint: it’s not always a glow-up)
        • This episode is especially for you if:

          • You’ve “made it out” but don’t feel better yet
          • Rest feels uncomfortable, unfamiliar, or even unsafe
          • You want to heal, but nothing seems to stick
          • You’re craving calm, clarity, and connection — but feel stuck in the in-between
          •  

            Join the waitlist to receive a free calming hypnosis audio, designed to help your body feel safe again — even in the middle of a chaotic day: https://tanielstrydom.com/5-min-calming-reset-audio/

             

            ➡️ Website: https://tanielstrydom.com

            ➡️ Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/tanielstrydom

            11 min
          • The Moment I Realized I Didn't Recognize Myself Anymore

            There was a moment—7 months pregnant, sitting in my home office after a leadership call—that I realized I didn’t recognize myself anymore.

            I was successful. Respected. In a senior role at a global company. But I was also exhausted, silenced, and pushed so far beyond my edge that my body went into early labor just two days later.

            This episode is not just about corporate burnout—it’s about what happens when we abandon ourselves to survive in toxic environments, and how we begin the journey back to the woman we used to be.

            What You’ll Hear:

            • The slow unraveling behind professional success
            • A traumatic meeting that sent me into early labor
            • How I lost myself—and what helped me find my voice again
            • Why burnout is not a mindset issue, it’s a nervous system response
            • A gentle invitation to reclaim your calm
            • This episode is especially for you if:

              • You're stuck in a high-pressure job that’s draining your energy or identity
              • You feel anxious at the thought of another Monday
              • You've normalized survival mode but know something has to change
              • You want to feel calm, safe, and confident again—but don’t know where to start
              • ✨ Join the waitlist to receive a free calming hypnosis audio, designed to help you reset your nervous system and reconnect with your true self: https://tanielstrydom.com/5-min-calming-reset-audio/

                 

                ➡️ Episode page: https://tanielstrydom.com/the-moment-i-didnt-recognize-myself/

                ➡️ Website: https://tanielstrydom.com

                ➡️ Follow me: https://instagram.com/tanielstrydom

                12 min
              • Looking Back at 2024 and Moving Forward into 2025 with Intentions

                In this episode, I’m sharing a personal journey through the highs and lows of 2024 and how these experiences shaped my lessons, mindset, and goals for the year ahead. It’s a raw and honest reflection of growth, acceptance, and the power of clarity as we step into 2025.

                What to Expect in This Episode

                • A candid look back at the unexpected challenges of 2024, including personal loss, health struggles, and lessons learned.
                • The importance of acceptance and letting go of control to protect your peace.
                • Key lessons from 2024, including:
                  • Setting boundaries as a form of self-respect.
                  • Redefining productivity with presence over busy-ness.
                  • Shifting a scarcity mindset to embrace financial abundance.
                  • Rewiring your mind through neuroplasticity and self-belief.
                  • How gratitude anchored me through tough times and what I’m most thankful for.
                  • My intentions for 2025: clarity, simplicity, and joy.
                  • Practical steps to reflect on your own 2024 and set meaningful goals for 2025.
                  • Key Takeaways

                    1. Acceptance Frees You: Letting go of the need to control outcomes protects your inner peace and helps you move forward.
                    2. Boundaries Are Essential: Saying “no” to what drains you makes room for what matters.
                    3. Presence > Productivity: Stop tying your worth to your to-do list and prioritize being present with your loved ones.
                    4. You Deserve Abundance: Release guilt around wanting more and give yourself permission to thrive financially and emotionally.
                    5. Growth Is Possible at Any Stage: Your mind is a powerful muscle that can be rewired for confidence and resilience.
                    6. Share the Love

                      If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might need it! Don’t forget to leave a review or subscribe—it really helps the podcast reach more amazing listeners like you.

                       

                      Let’s Connect

                      ➡️ Episode page: https://tanielstrydom.com/2024-reflection-and-intention-setting-for-2025

                      ➡️ Website: https://tanielstrydom.com

                      ➡️ Follow me: https://instagram.com/tanielstrydom

                      16 min
                    7. The Invisible Load Working Moms Carry Every Day

                      Today, we’ll discuss:

                      • What makes up the invisible load and why it’s so common for moms
                    8. Recognizing early signs of stress and burnout
                    9. Practical strategies for managing mental stress, like setting boundaries, delegating tasks, and reframing expectations
                    10. Embracing progress over perfection for a balanced, fulfilling life
                    11.  

                      If you’re feeling mentally drained or overwhelmed, this episode is for you. Learn how to start lightening the load and reclaim a bit of peace in your day-to-day life.

                       

                      Follow for more →

                      ➡️ Episode page: https://tanielstrydom.com/the-invisible-load-for-working-moms

                      ➡️ Website: https://tanielstrydom.com

                      ➡️ Follow me: https://instagram.com/tanielstrydom

                      22 min
                    12. Why We Procrastinate (And Why Willpower Doesn’t Fix It)

                      Ever find yourself putting off tasks that would probably make you feel better once they’re done? If so, you’re in good company! In today’s episode of Ditch The Debate, host Taniel dives into why procrastination often affects working moms in corporate roles and shares powerful insights into breaking the cycle.

                      In this episode, we explore:

                      • Why procrastination hits working moms hard — It’s not about lack of discipline; it’s often about feeling overwhelmed, aiming for perfection, or just plain decision fatigue.
                    13. The three big procrastination triggers — Discover how overwhelm, perfectionism, and decision fatigue can make even simple tasks feel daunting.
                    14. Personal stories and examples — Taniel shares her own experiences with procrastination, balancing family needs with work responsibilities, and how the mental load plays a huge role in putting things off.
                    15. Simple, actionable strategies — Learn practical tools like the Two-Minute Rule, time blocking, and chunking to make tasks feel manageable and beat procrastination at its own game.
                    16. Mindset shifts for lasting change — Find out why “done is better than perfect” and how embracing progress over perfection can free you from the cycle of delay.
                    17.  

                      Key Takeaways:

                      1. Recognize your triggers — Understanding your personal patterns around procrastination is the first step to breaking free.
                    18. Use practical strategies — The Two-Minute Rule, time blocking, and chunking can help you get things done without the overwhelm.
                    19. Shift your mindset — Letting go of perfection can lead to more meaningful productivity and less stress.
                    20.  

                      Listen Now!

                      If you’re ready to take control of your time and reduce the stress of procrastination, this episode is for you. Tune in and let’s tackle this together!

                       

                      Don’t forget to subscribe for more tips on balancing corporate life and motherhood with confidence and purpose.

                       

                      Follow me:

                      ➡️ Episode page: https://tanielstrydom.com/why-procrastination-affects-working-moms-and-how-to-break-the-cycle ➡️ Website: https://tanielstrydom.com  ➡️ Follow me: https://instagram.com/tanielstrydom

                      21 min
                    21. Daily Habits to Boost Your Self-Worth As A Mom

                      In this episode of the 8-part series on identity and self-worth in motherhood, I’m sharing practical, actionable steps you can take to rebuild your self-worth. As moms, we often lose sight of our own value while taking care of everyone else—but today, we’re focusing on why your worth matters and how to reconnect with it.

                      I’ll be breaking down simple strategies that can help you feel more confident, valued, and in touch with yourself again. Whether it’s through small daily self-care rituals or learning to celebrate your achievements, these steps are designed to help you reclaim your sense of self.

                       

                      Key Points I Discuss:

                      • How motherhood can make you question your worth and how to shift that mindset
                    22. The importance of prioritizing yourself daily, even if it’s in small ways
                    23. Why celebrating your small wins is key to rebuilding your confidence
                    24. Understanding that your worth isn’t tied to how much you do for others
                    25. How self-care is a form of self-respect and why it’s essential for your well-being
                    26.  

                      Reflective Exercise:

                      Take a moment today to reflect on something you did that made you proud, no matter how small. Write it down, and start building the habit of acknowledging your accomplishments.

                       

                      Resources I Mention:

                      • Rediscover You In Motherhood Mini Course: https://tanielstrydom.com/rediscover-you-in-motherhood-mini-course/

                       

                      Next Episode Preview: In our next episode, I’ll guide you through finding balance between being a mom and maintaining your individual identity. We’ll discuss practical strategies for pursuing your passions without the guilt. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss it!

                       

                      Connect with Me:

                      • Instagram: @tanielstrydom
                    27. Facebook: Ditch The Debate Podcast
                    28.  

                      Call to Action:

                      If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who might need to hear this. Let’s help each other remember that we are all worthy, just as we are.

                      25 min
                    29. 3 Powerful Steps To Start Reclaiming Your Identity In Motherhood

                      Feeling lost in motherhood? You’re not alone. In this episode of my 8-part series on identity and self-worth for moms, I’m sharing three powerful steps you can take right now to start reclaiming your identity. These steps are simple yet incredibly effective, and they’re designed to help you feel more like yourself again.

                      We’ll talk about the importance of making time for yourself, reconnecting with passions and activities that bring you joy, and setting boundaries to protect your well-being. By implementing these small but impactful actions, you can begin to find yourself beyond the role of being a mom.

                       

                      Key Points I Discuss:

                      • The importance of making time for yourself: Even just a few minutes a day can make a huge difference. This is about creating a habit of prioritizing your needs and rewarding yourself with some much-needed self-care.
                    30. Reconnecting with something you love: Reflect on activities and hobbies you enjoyed before motherhood. These passions are not just hobbies; they’re essential pieces of your identity that can help you feel alive and connected to yourself again.
                    31. Setting boundaries and asking for help: Learn why setting boundaries is crucial for protecting your time and energy. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a powerful step toward reclaiming your sense of self.
                    32.  

                      Reflective Exercise:

                      Take a few minutes today to think about an activity or hobby you loved before becoming a mom. Find a way to reintroduce this passion into your life, even if it’s in a small way. Notice how it makes you feel and see if it sparks a sense of connection to who you are beyond motherhood.

                       

                      Resources I Mention:

                      • Rediscover You In Motherhood Mini Course: Rediscover You In Motherhood Mini Course

                       

                      Next Episode Preview:

                      In the next episode, we’ll explore how to rebuild your self-worth as a mom with practical strategies that you can start using immediately. Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss it!

                       

                      Connect with Me:

                      • Instagram: https://instagram.com/tanielstrydom
                    33. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DitchTheDebatePodcast/
                    34.  

                      Call to Action:

                      If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might need to hear these messages. Remember, you deserve to feel whole, fulfilled, and like the amazing woman you are. Let’s continue this journey of self-discovery together!

                      10 min
                    35. Why Moms Lose Their Identity In Motherhood & How To Find It Again

                      Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered, “Who am I now?” As moms, it’s all too easy to feel like the woman you once were has faded under the weight of new responsibilities. In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into why so many moms lose their sense of identity and, more importantly, how you can begin to find yourself again.

                       

                      Hi, I’m Taniel, and I’m here to help moms just like you rediscover their identity and build unshakable self-worth. Today, we’re going to explore the common reasons behind this identity loss and provide actionable steps to help you reconnect with your true self.

                       

                      In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

                      • Why losing your identity is a common experience for moms
                    36. The societal and personal pressures that contribute to this feeling
                    37. How to take the first steps toward reclaiming who you are outside of motherhood
                    38. Personal stories and insights that might resonate with your journey
                    39. Practical exercises to help you start prioritizing yourself again
                    40. Call to Action: Take one small step today towards reclaiming your identity, whether it’s spending a few minutes on a passion you’ve set aside or reflecting on what truly matters to you. Make sure to subscribe to stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll dive into strategies to rebuild your self-worth as a mom.

                       

                      💡 Don't miss out on our journey together—subscribe to the channel and hit the notification bell so you’re notified when the next episode is out!

                      ✨ Want to dive deeper? Take a look at my Made For More Mama Coaching Program: https://tanielstrydom.com/the-made-for-more-mama/

                      💫 I also have a mini-course Rediscover You In Motherhood Mini Course: https://tanielstrydom.com/rediscover-you-in-motherhood-mini-course/.

                      👉 I’d love to hear from you: What do you miss most about the woman you were before becoming a mom? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

                       

                      Follow Me on Social Media:

                      • Instagram: https://instagram.com/tanielstrydom
                    41. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TanielGStrydom
                    42. Podcast: https://tanielstrydom.com/ditch-the-debate-podcast
                    43. 8 min
                    44. How Women Start Finding Themselves Again After Motherhood

                      In this first episode of my 8-part series on identity and self-worth for moms, I’m getting real about the feelings of loss and confusion that can come with motherhood. I’m sharing my personal journey of feeling like I lost myself after having kids and how I’ve been working to rediscover who I am now.

                      I’ll talk about the pressures of trying to be the “perfect mom,” the guilt of missing who you used to be, and the steps you can take to start finding your way back to yourself.

                       

                      Key Points I Discuss:

                      • The common feelings of identity loss among new moms
                    45. My personal experience of feeling lost and overwhelmed as a new mom
                    46. Understanding the pressure to conform to motherhood stereotypes
                    47. The concept of "mom impostor syndrome" and how it affects our self-worth
                    48. How to start reclaiming your identity in small, intentional steps
                    49.  

                      Reflective Exercise: Take a moment today to think about what you miss most about the woman you were before becoming a mom. Write it down. This is the first step in reconnecting with yourself.

                       

                      Resources I Mention:

                      • Rediscover You In Motherhood Mini Course: https://tanielstrydom.com/rediscover-you-in-motherhood-mini-course/

                       

                      Next Episode Preview: In the next episode, I’ll be sharing practical steps you can take to reconnect with the parts of yourself that make you feel alive and fulfilled. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss it!

                       

                      Connect with Me:

                      • Instagram: https://instagram.com/tanielstrydom
                    50. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DitchTheDebatePodcast/
                    51.  

                      Call to Action: If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might need to hear this. Let’s spread the message that it’s okay to miss who you were and that reclaiming your identity is a journey worth taking!

                      8 min

                    About Ditch The Debate

                    From the publisher's feed

                    Ditch The Debate is the podcast for women who don't feel like themselves anymore. Each week, transformation coach and clinical hypnotherapist Taniel Strydom explores the patterns…