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Abuse recovery, healing, and faith collide in this powerful episode with author Andi Bull. Discover lessons from her book When Your Protectors Didn’t, and learn how to find hope, identity, and strength—even if you weren’t abused. This memoir-style conversation will inspire women to embrace healing, overcome imposter syndrome, and see their stories through God’s eyes.
Andi’s book transformed my perspective, showing me that healing is possible and biblical stories hold deeper meaning than I ever realized. Whether you’ve experienced trauma or simply battled perfectionism, people-pleasing, or anxiety, this episode will meet you where you are.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction: Why this episode is for every woman
(03:15) Meeting author Andy Bull and her powerful book When Your Protectors Didn’t Protect
(09:45) Overcoming perfectionism, people-pleasing, and performance anxiety
(15:28) Biblical lessons that transform how we see ourselves and God’s love
(22:40) Andy’s childhood abuse and the moment she realized her “normal” wasn’t normal
(31:10) How imposter syndrome shows up in writing, faith, and life
(39:55) Discovering surrender through hardship, cancer, and God’s presence
(48:20) Paradigm shifts: seeing life differently and suspending judgment
(55:45) The power of sharing your story to help others heal
Key Takeaways:
Guest Bio:
For over twenty-five years, Andi has dedicated herself to the study of God’s word, graduating from the King’s University with her Master’s in 2003.
As she read the Bible through the eyes of a survivor of traumatic childhood abuse, she saw how God passionately seeks the lost, gently restores the broken, and tenderly heals broken hearts.
Andi became inspired to advocate for emotional well-being, not only for herself but also for the women she is privileged to mentor one-on-one and those she speaks to at conferences. The lessons and insights she gained are in her book, When Your Protectors Didn’t: Healing from a Past of Broken Pieces.
Raised in South Africa as a child, she now resides in sunny Southern California with her husband, daughter, and pups. She loves her family, friends, pups, and coffee—lots and lots of coffee!
Resource Links:
Tags/Keywords:
abuse recovery, healing after abuse, childhood trauma, Christian healing, women over 40 podcast, people pleasing, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, memoir podcast, faith and healing, God’s love, When Your Protectors Didn’t Protect, Andy Bull
Weight loss medications are everywhere—but do they really work, and are they safe? Functional practitioner Marie Simpson shares expert insights, side effects, and natural alternatives.
In this Saddle Up segment of Doing Life Different, I recap my powerful conversation with Marie Simpson, a trusted functional assessment practitioner, about the rise of weight loss medications. We explore whether these drugs are truly necessary, their impact on muscle and bone health, and how lifestyle habits like high-protein nutrition, strength training, and joy-filled living can support lasting results.
Marie provides a functional medicine perspective on weight loss medications—what they do, when they’re helpful, what risks to watch for, and how to combine them with smarter health strategies. Whether you’re considering medication or looking for natural ways to boost weight loss, this episode gives you the clarity you need.
(00:00) Introduction to weight loss medications and functional health
(02:15) What functional practitioners are saying about weight loss drugs
(05:12) Side effects and long-term considerations for patients
(08:40) The importance of muscle, protein, and bone density on these medications
(11:27) Lifestyle habits that mimic medication effects naturally
(14:05) Joy, stress reduction, and hormone balance for sustainable weight loss
(16:20) Final thoughts: better vs. best approaches to lasting health
Marie Simpson is a Functional Assessment Practitioner who helps clients uncover root causes of health challenges through a holistic approach. She integrates functional testing, personalized nutrition, and lifestyle strategies to support sustainable health and healing. Marie brings a balanced perspective to weight loss medications, blending science, practicality, and functional medicine wisdom.
weight loss medications, weight loss drugs, functional medicine, holistic health, sustainable weight loss, protein nutrition, strength training, muscle loss, bone density, Marie Simpson, Lesa Koski, Doing Life Different podcast, Saddle Up segment, midlife weight loss, natural weight loss alternatives
Weight loss medications, GLP-1, Ozempic alternatives, side effects, and sustainable weight loss—functional medicine practitioner Marie Simpson breaks it down. In this episode, we unpack how weight loss medications (GLP-1 receptor agonists) actually work, who they help, and where they can go wrong. We also share practical ways to boost satiety hormones naturally so you can see results—on or off meds. If you’re curious about weight loss medications, confused about the hype, or want a safer path, you’ll love Marie’s clear, balanced take on GLP-1 weight loss and real-world habits that last.
Timestamps (in parentheses)(00:00) Introduction to weight loss medications & why everyone’s talking GLP-1
(02:18) How GLP-1s work: satiety, insulin, stomach emptying
(05:01) Why some were pulled; today’s versions & indications
(07:22) Bad → Better → Best: medication vs root-cause approach
(10:10) Caution on quick online prescribing & one-size-fits-all care
(12:04) Who benefits most from GLP-1 weight loss medications
(15:30) Muscle loss risk: why resistance training is non-negotiable
(18:15) What happens when you stop: rebound weight gain explained
(21:42) Natural ways to raise GLP-1: protein, fiber, healthy fats, meal order
(25:05) Slow carbs, cravings, and blood sugar balance
(28:17) Joy, stress & dopamine: your brain’s role in eating
(31:33) Post-meal 10-minute walks: small habit, big impact
(34:02) Side effects to know: GI issues, gallbladder, bowel obstruction, mood
(37:21) If you use meds, do this: training, protein targets, plan your exit
(40:00) Faith, grace & sustainable health: why “not perfect” still works
Key TakeawaysMarrie Simpson, FNP, Functional Medicine Practitioner — Founder of Elevate Health & Wellness, Marrie blends conventional and functional medicine to address root causes. She helps clients personalize nutrition, movement, and smart medication use (when needed) to create sustainable metabolic health and real-world results.
Find More From Lesa Here!
weight loss medications, GLP-1 weight loss, GLP-1 receptor agonist, Ozempic alternatives, semaglutide weight loss, natural GLP-1 boost, muscle loss on GLP-1, sustainable weight loss, functional medicine weight loss, protein for weight loss, fiber for satiety, post-meal walk blood sugar, weight loss after 40, women’s metabolic health, Marrie Simpson, Doing Life Different podcast
Attorney Mark Astor reveals how mental health law and the Florida Marchman Act save lives. Learn how taking responsibility, overcoming setbacks, and finding purpose can transform both families and communities. This episode highlights addiction recovery, mental health intervention, and the power of resilience.
Mark shares his personal story of failure, growth, and reinvention, plus his unique work helping families nationwide through Florida’s Marchman Act. If you or a loved one struggles with mental illness or addiction, this conversation offers both hope and actionable insight.
(00:00) Welcome to the Saddle Up Segment
(01:10) Highlight from Tuesday’s full episode with Mark Astor
(03:45) Comparing mental illness to other health challenges
(06:12) Mark Astor’s turning point: failure, responsibility, and growth
(09:24) Discovering purpose in helping families with addiction and mental health
(12:36) The Florida Marchman Act: a powerful legal tool for families
(16:52) Lessons for resilience, self-leadership, and service
Key TakeawaysMark Astor, Esq. is the only attorney in the United States who exclusively handles mental health and addiction-related legal cases. Based in Florida, he helps families nationwide navigate the Marchman Act and find pathways to recovery. His work combines legal strategy with compassion, giving families hope in their darkest moments.
Addiction and mental health law in Florida are changing lives—and Attorney Mark Astor is leading the way. In this episode, we uncover how families can navigate substance abuse, involuntary treatment, and the legal system to save their loved ones.
For over 30 years, Mark has dedicated his career to mental health and addiction law, empowering families to find solutions when recovery feels impossible. From his journey as a prosecutor to founding the only U.S. law firm focused exclusively on addiction and mental health, Mark shares why treatment, not punishment, is the real key to healing.
If you’ve ever struggled with addiction, mental illness, or watched a loved one suffer, this episode will open your eyes to new possibilities. Learn about Florida’s Marchman Act, Baker Act defense, and how families across the country are finding hope through legal intervention.
👉 Tune in now to discover how legal advocacy can transform recovery—and why mental health law matters more than ever.
⏱️ Timestamps(00:00) Introduction to Attorney Mark Astor and his unique law firm
(04:52) Mark’s journey from prosecutor to addiction & mental health advocate
(10:15) The Marchman Act and how families can intervene legally
(18:33) Creative use of guardianship for substance abuse cases
(25:40) The rise of Baker Act defense in Florida
(34:20) COVID, marijuana legalization, and the changing addiction landscape
(42:05) How families nationwide can access help through Florida law
(50:16) The emotional toll of addiction on families and parallels to cancer recovery
(01:02:10) Resources, costs, and real-world outcomes for families in crisis
💡 Key TakeawaysMark Astor, Esq. is the founder of the Law Offices of Mark Astor, the only U.S. law firm focused exclusively on mental health and addiction law. With over 30 years of legal experience, including five years as a prosecutor, Mark has pioneered the use of the Marchman Act, Baker Act defense, and guardianship strategies to help families intervene when addiction and mental illness take over. He and his team are recognized leaders in protecting families and advocating for treatment over punishment.
addiction recovery, mental health law, Mark Astor, Florida Marchman Act, Baker Act defense, substance abuse law, involuntary commitment, addiction help Florida, family intervention legal, mental illness legal help, guardianship addiction, drug court Florida, mental health attorney, addiction resources, recovery law firm, mental health advocacy, legal help for families
Selfishness can actually make you stronger. In this Saddle Up episode of Doing Life Different, Lesa Koski unpacks key takeaways from her conversation with Val Jones, author of The Selfish Year and host of The Selfish Woman Podcast. Discover why being “selfish” is not only healthy but necessary for women over 40 navigating midlife, faith, and personal reinvention.
Lesa shares insights about people-pleasing, authenticity, and how small micro-steps of courage help women thrive after divorce, in midlife, and beyond. If you’ve ever felt guilty about putting yourself first, this episode will inspire you to see selfishness as a gift that leads to impact, joy, and freedom.
Keywords: selfishness as a superpower, women over 40, midlife reinvention, people-pleasing, The Selfish Year
(00:00) Introduction to the Saddle Up segment
(01:15) Why selfishness isn’t bad—it’s powerful for women
(03:05) Key insight from Val Jones: helping more by putting yourself first
(05:12) How faith and authenticity connect to serving others
(07:00) The people-pleasing trap: superpower or downfall
(09:08) Using micro steps of courage to rewire old patterns
(11:22) Lesa’s real-life story of speaking truth with her daughters
(13:00) Call to action: take Val’s free quiz and reclaim your power
Key TakeawaysVal Jones is a women’s empowerment coach, podcast host, and author of The Selfish Year. She helps women move past guilt, people-pleasing, and perfectionism to embrace their authentic selves. Val hosts The Selfish Woman Podcast and offers resources and retreats designed to empower women in midlife and beyond.
selfishness as a superpower, the selfish year Val Jones, selfish woman podcast, midlife reinvention, people pleasing women, women over 40 podcast, self-care for women, faith and authenticity, women empowerment coaching, doing life different podcast, Lesa Koski
Being selfish isn’t wrong—it’s essential. In this episode of Doing Life Different, divorce coach and author Valerie Jones (“Val”) joins Lesa Koski for a raw, authentic conversation about why women must reclaim the word selfish to thrive after divorce, during midlife transitions, and beyond. Discover how prioritizing yourself leads to deeper connections, stronger faith, and greater service to others.
Val shares her journey of “The Selfish Year,” how she broke free from people-pleasing, and why midlife is the perfect invitation to reinvent your life. If you’ve ever felt guilty for putting yourself first, this conversation will help you shift your mindset, embrace your worth, and live with joy and purpose.
Keywords used naturally: selfish women, empowerment after divorce, midlife reinvention, self-care for women, healing after divorce.
(00:00) Introduction: Why selfish isn’t a dirty word for women
(05:10) Val’s story: Two divorces, breaking cycles, and her “sofa moment”
(12:45) What “The Selfish Year” taught Val about self-care and service
(20:32) Midlife reinvention: Women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s rewriting their story
(28:05) People-pleasing, perfectionism, and the masks women wear
(35:40) Micro changes: How to build courage and create inner safety
(44:18) Becoming the queen of your life (or daughter of the King)
(53:12) Authenticity, humility, and learning to connect without fear
(59:50) Final reflections on joy, faith, and living differently
Key TakeawaysValerie Jones is a women’s empowerment coach, podcast host, and author of The Selfish Year. After navigating two divorces and healing from an emotionally abusive marriage, Val redefined her life by choosing herself for the first time. She now helps women after divorce and midlife transitions break free from people-pleasing, reclaim their identity, and step into their power. She hosts The Selfish Woman Podcast and leads retreats and coaching programs worldwide.
selfish women, empowerment after divorce, midlife reinvention, self-care for women, healing after divorce, people-pleasing, perfectionism in women, midlife mindset, women over 40 podcast, women’s empowerment coaching, Valerie Jones The Selfish Year, The Selfish Woman Podcast, Lesa Koski Doing Life Different, faith and self-worth, reclaiming joy after divorce
Divorce mediation and flat-fee legal strategies can help you avoid court, save thousands, and protect your peace. Learn how to divorce smarter today.
In this episode of Doing Life Different, Lesa Koski interviews New Jersey attorney, mediator, and men’s divorce strategist John Nachlinger. Together, they reveal how the traditional divorce system often profits from your pain—and how you can take back control.
John shares how his flat-fee law firm helps couples resolve their divorce quickly, without unnecessary drama or legal costs. From emotional regulation to co-parenting and coaching, this episode explores how divorce can be done differently—with dignity, strategy, and support.
Whether you’re just starting the divorce process or want to avoid court altogether, this episode will help you understand how to divorce smarter, protect your children, and heal with purpose.
(00:00) Introduction to guest John Nachlinger
(02:48) Why John left traditional divorce litigation
(05:35) Flat-fee divorce services vs. hourly billing
(09:12) How mediation speeds up the divorce process
(12:45) When divorce becomes a war—and how to stop it
(17:20) John's personal story of divorce, adoption, and co-parenting
(21:33) Are all exes narcissists? Understanding emotional dynamics
(27:58) Coaching men through divorce and emotional readiness
(32:49) Common mistakes men make during divorce
(37:20) How women can benefit when their ex has a coach
(40:05) The rise of mediation and decline of court dependency
(45:10) Final thoughts on divorce strategy and healing
💡 Key Takeaways:John Nachlinger is a New Jersey attorney, mediator, and founder of Net Squire, a flat-fee law firm designed to help clients divorce without destructive court battles. He’s also the creator of the Men’s Divorce Network and host of the podcast Get Divorced Without Getting Screwed. John specializes in coaching men through the emotional and legal complexities of divorce to reach faster, healthier resolutions.
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The Healing Power of Hope: How Mindset and Faith Help Us Through Life’s Hardest Moments
📝 Episode Description:Hope isn't just wishful thinking—it’s a mindset that shapes our outcomes. Discover how hope, mindset, and faith can guide you through divorce, illness, or any hardship.
In this powerful Saddle Up segment, Lesa Koski reflects on the healing power of hope—how it played a role in her breast cancer journey and how it’s backed by research from William Miller’s 8 Ways to Hope. Learn how mindset, belief, and the words we speak can shift the atmosphere around pain and fear into one of resilience, clarity, and gratitude.
Whether you're going through a divorce, facing a diagnosis, or walking through hardship with a loved one, this episode will equip you to hold onto hope and take your next step forward.
(00:00) Introduction: Finding hope in hard times
(01:10) What the Bible and psychology say about hope
(02:28) Lesa’s cancer story and the power of her doctor’s words
(05:12) Why hope matters: mindset, healing, and resilience
(07:00) Hope vs. fear: how gratitude creates space for peace
(08:45) A quick plug for Tuesday’s episode on postnuptial agreements
(09:20) Final encouragement: pass hope on to someone today
✅ Key Takeaways:Lesa Koski is a divorce attorney turned mediator, coach, and podcast host of Doing Life Different. Her mission is to help women over 40 find faith, healing, and fresh starts—whether in divorce, marriage, or life transitions. Her Saddle Up segments offer bite-sized wisdom to help listeners do life better every week.
hope and healing, mindset in hard times, faith and breast cancer, power of words, resilience podcast, doing life different, women over 40, gratitude and hope, divorce support, Lesa Koski podcast, breast cancer encouragement, 8 ways to hope
🎧 Episode Description:
Discover how postnuptial agreements can help strengthen your marriage, clarify finances, and protect your future—whether you're navigating a life shift, building a business, or staying at home to raise kids. In this follow-up episode, collaborative attorney Melissa Miroslavich joins us again to explore how postnups work, when they make sense, and why they’re about resilience—not failure. This is essential listening for women planning wisely, staying married, or preparing for what-ifs.
Learn how postnups provide financial transparency, reduce conflict, and empower couples to create a shared vision. Whether you're already married or want to build your marital estate plan, this episode will give you new tools and insights for Doing Life Different.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Welcome back to Melissa Miroslavich
(01:42) What is a postnuptial agreement?
(04:08) When postnups make sense during marriage
(06:32) Financial transparency and disclosure
(10:15) Postnups and stay-at-home spouses
(13:28) Collaborative law vs traditional attorneys
(17:55) Why postnups are about resilience, not divorce
(21:40) Key limitations around custody and child support
(24:00) Legal enforceability and the 2-year rule
(28:43) Final thoughts and how to contact Melissa
🔑 Key Takeaways:
👩⚖️ Guest Bio:
Melissa Miroslavich is a collaborative attorney based in Woodbury, Minnesota, specializing in estate planning, prenuptial, and postnuptial agreements. Her heart-centered, education-focused approach helps couples create clarity and protect their values, whether staying married or planning for the future. She blends legal expertise with compassion, offering collaborative solutions for modern relationships.
🔗 Resource Links:
📌 Tags/Keywords:
postnuptial agreements, collaborative law, marriage contracts, marital estate planning, prenuptial agreements, family law Minnesota, stay-at-home mom protection, divorce planning, marriage tools, financial planning marriage, Doing Life Different, Lesa Koski podcast, women and marriage, relationship transparency, legal tips for marriage
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