Don't Shrink to Fit: Empowering and inspiring women one story at a time.

Don't Shrink to Fit: Empowering and inspiring women one story at a time.

Download on the App Store

Don't Shrink to Fit: Empowering and inspiring women one story at a time. episodes

  • Recognizing the Signs: A Journey of Autism Diagnosis and Support with Crystal Reckker

    🎙️ Welcome to Don’t Shrink to Fit – the winner of the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award in the Coaching category!

    I am thrilled to share some incredible news with you! Don’t Shrink to Fit has won first place in the Coaching category at the Women in Podcasting Awards! This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without your support, encouragement, and the incredible community we’ve built together. I want to thank each of you for being such a huge part of this accomplishment—it truly means the world to me!

    In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Crystal Reckker, a licensed Master Level Social Worker with over 13 years of experience, and more importantly, a mother of three beautiful children, all of whom are on the Autism Spectrum. Www.spectrumnav.com
    @crystalreckkerlmsw

    Crystal opens up about her personal journey, beginning with her stepson’s ASD diagnosis at the age of 8, which led her to learn how he learns best. Fast forward a few years, and she faced the overwhelming reality of two more children being diagnosed with ASD. Her initial reaction was to dive into “social work mode,” researching everything about Autism Spectrum Disorder—therapies, services, and long-term care. But it was a pivotal moment during a medical appointment that led Crystal to realize she was given her children for a reason, both as a mother and as a professional.

    One of the most important takeaways from Crystal’s story is how crucial it is to seek an early diagnosis. Early detection can make a significant difference in understanding a child’s needs and providing the right support at the right time. Crystal shares what signs motivated her to seek help, such as changes in behavior, communication challenges, and social differences.

    This episode is not just for parents of neurodiverse children, but for anyone who might want to understand more about the signs of autism, including how adults can explore whether they might be on the spectrum. Being curious about how we or our children process the world around us is key. Recognizing things like difficulty with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, or even rigid thinking patterns can prompt us to ask important questions and seek professional guidance.

    Crystal’s experience is both an educational and emotional roadmap for families navigating similar challenges, and she reminds us all of the importance of support during these “large” moments. Her journey has strengthened her passion for helping other families while advocating for her own children.

    I encourage you to listen to this episode, whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone who wants to learn more about autism and the powerful impact of love, advocacy, and knowledge.

    In this episode of Don’t Shrink to Fit, I sit down with Crystal Reckker, a licensed Master Level Social Worker and mother of three children, all of whom are on the Autism Spectrum. Crystal shares her deeply personal and professional journey of navigating autism diagnoses in her family, starting with her stepson at the age of 8, followed by the overwhelming reality of two more diagnoses. Together, we discuss the signs she noticed that motivated her to seek help, the importance of early diagnosis, and how her experience has shaped her passion for supporting other neurodiverse families. This episode is full of heartfelt insights and practical advice for anyone wanting to better understand autism, whether as a parent, educator, or adult exploring the possibility of being on the spectrum themselves.

    Overwhelmed? Frustrated? Tired of the BS? You are not alone. I’ve been there, and I’ve helped so many women just like you get out of the funk and start living the life they deserve.

    Book your call now—don’t wait. You are meant for more. And while you’re at it, grab my book Brighter Days on Amazon. You’ll love it.

    Learn about my freebies and membership below!

    Every week, I expand on the podcast topic with practical tools, insights, and tips to help you heal, grow, and stay aligned with your inner abundance. It’s like a little love note in your inbox—just for you. if you want to receive it sign in to mailing list!  Ready to Join? Dm me or email me now!

    [email protected] - You can also connect with me on instagram @Claudia_Noriega_Bersntein or visit my website at ClaudiaNoriegaBernstein.com, you will learn about my 1:1 coaching, retreat and training. 

    If you liked this episode please leave me a comment, share it, subscribe and give me a good review. Thank you! 

    https://bit.ly/SignUpformyNewsletter

    Get it now!! 

    News: Get on the waiting list for my Inner Radiance Collective!
    A sacred space for women ready to step into their power, purpose, and abundance. Launching May 2025

    Whether you're a busy mom who’s lost herself in the daily grind, craving more balance, joy, and meaning—or you're ready to break free from burnout and finally put y...

    1 hr 10 min
  • The complex relationship with an emotional unavailable parent with Marie Selleck

    🎙️ Welcome to Don’t Shrink to Fit – the winner of the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award in the Coaching category!

    Did you ever ask yourself where the belief of not being good enough comes from? At what age do we start creating these beliefs? 

    The relationships we have with our parents are often complex and layered, shaping us in profound ways that affect not only our self-perception but also the decisions we make in life, how we perceive ourselves, what we feel we are capable to do and even the partners we choose. These early dynamics lay the foundation for our sense of worth, our beliefs, and the way we navigate the world. Understanding this connection can be eye-opening and transformative.

    In today's episode, I'm excited to introduce my guest, Marie Selleck, who has firsthand experience with this. At the age of 26, she began to notice parallels between her father’s emotional unavailability and her ex-husband’s behaviors. This realization prompted her to dive deeper into how these early experiences impacted her mental health and life choices. Marie recognized that if she had grown up with an emotionally available parent, her life might have taken a different path. The process of healing from a divorce further led her to let go of expectations, stop relying on others for validation, and finally start living life on her own terms.

    Marie has continued this journey not only for herself but also for others. Through her work with clients, she discovered that many of them faced similar struggles; particularly when it came to separating themselves from their parents' emotional distance or dismissiveness. This inspired her to create a coaching program in November 2022, designed to help people break free from these patterns in a more efficient way than traditional therapy. Her program offers self-paced modules combined with coaching sessions to help individuals process and apply what they've learned, accelerating the growth that often takes years in therapy.
    You can get in touch with Marie at [email protected] www.mariesellecktherapy.com

    Overwhelmed? Frustrated? Tired of the BS? You are not alone. I’ve been there, and I’ve helped so many women just like you get out of the funk and start living the life they deserve.

    Book your call now—don’t wait. You are meant for more. And while you’re at it, grab my book Brighter Days on Amazon. You’ll love it.

    Learn about my freebies and membership below!

    Every week, I expand on the podcast topic with practical tools, insights, and tips to help you heal, grow, and stay aligned with your inner abundance. It’s like a little love note in your inbox—just for you. if you want to receive it sign in to mailing list!  Ready to Join? Dm me or email me now!

    [email protected] - You can also connect with me on instagram @Claudia_Noriega_Bersntein or visit my website at ClaudiaNoriegaBernstein.com, you will learn about my 1:1 coaching, retreat and training. 

    If you liked this episode please leave me a comment, share it, subscribe and give me a good review. Thank you! 

    https://bit.ly/SignUpformyNewsletter

    Get it now!! 

    News: Get on the waiting list for my Inner Radiance Collective!
    A sacred space for women ready to step into their power, purpose, and abundance. Launching May 2025

    Whether you're a busy mom who’s lost herself in the daily grind, craving more balance, joy, and meaning—or you're ready to break free from burnout and finally put y...

    52 min
  • Wisdom notes from the heart with deJoly LaBrier

    You are going to love this interview! 

    Who says there is an age to become what you always wanted to be? “Age is an issue of mind over matter, if you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter” and deJoly is an example of it, she is not only inspiring but she is showing us that our circumstances define who we are or what we are capable of achieving. Coming from a very dysfunctional family, abuse and lim iting believes, she decided to transformed her life and at age 74 she is writing, luteraly and figurative, a new chapter in her life. 

    "I think the most significant shift in my life came at the age of 40 when I made a conscious decision to deal with my mental health after a life of depression caused by severe childhood abuse. This led me to a 20 year time-period of speaking publicly at conferences and universities about healing from the mental and physical results of extreme childhood abuse, mind control, and cult abuse. This completely changed the direction of my life and gave me purpose for having gone through the suffering in my childhood."

    deJoly LaBrier is an author, life coach, speaker and artist. She was born at China Lake Naval Weapons Station in the middle of the Mojave Desert in California. They were a Marine Corps family, moving about every 2-3 years. After graduation from high school, she completed a BS in English Education and Experimental Psychology at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana.Life was very difficult for her and she harbored the belief that it would always be like that. Although she had a deep connection with Spirit that she kept hidden from my family, she was chronically depressed because she felt helpless to stop the sexual abuse that was pervasive in her family. It wasn’t until the age of 40, when a therapist suggested a short hospitalization for the depression, that she realized what had happened to her in that house of secrets, and her ability to dissociate wasn't normal.

    That was the turning point for her. She began the conscious healing process of discovery and recovery. The personal work she was doing with art and writing led her to become a national speaker about the crimes that were committed and the psychological damage to her, and many others like her.During this time, she wrote 2 books, was hospitalized several times, found the comfort of the 12-Step rooms, and realized she had the ability to help others who were suffering in silence.

    Five years ago, at 69, she became a life coach to guide women to heal from their traumas and embrace life with vitality and create the life they desire. She now have 4 published books, Diary of a Survivor in Art and Poetry; All Together Now, A Multiples Story of Hope and Healing; What Happened to You? A Guidebook for People Seeking Hope, Healing and Lasting Transformation; and Greeting the Day: Wisdom From My Gardens.

    Her books can be found on Amazon.comFor information please reach out to [email protected]I have two websites: www.dejoly.com and https://healingjourneypalette.comCurrently, she working on building her coaching business, while also offering workshop and coaching opportunities for people to upgrade their writing skills and perhaps write their own books. 

    "Our stories matter. You never know who you will touch by telling your story". 

    She also writes personal development articles for the local newspapers. Her connection with Spirit and earth energies has gotten stronger, and she feels fortunate to be living on the top of a mountain in Northeast Alabama, in the woods. She is constantly surrounded by Nature and I consider herself a good steward of the land where she lives.

    I really hope you enjoy this episode, if you do please share it and write a good review. Thank you for being part of this community and for your continued support. 

    Overwhelmed? Frustrated? Tired of the BS? You are not alone. I’ve been there, and I’ve helped so many women just like you get out of the funk and start living the life they deserve.

    Book your call now—don’t wait. You are meant for more. And while you’re at it, grab my book Brighter Days on Amazon. You’ll love it.

    Learn about my freebies and membership below!

    Every week, I expand on the podcast topic with practical tools, insights, and tips to help you heal, grow, and stay aligned with your inner abundance. It’s like a little love note in your inbox—just for you. if you want to receive it sign in to mailing list!  Ready to Join? Dm me or email me now!

    [email protected] - You can also connect with me on instagram @Claudia_Noriega_Bersntein or visit my website at ClaudiaNoriegaBernstein.com, you will learn about my 1:1 coaching, retreat and training. 

    If you liked this episode please leave me a comment, share it, subscribe and give me a good review. Thank you! 

    https://bit.ly/SignUpformyNewsletter

    Get it now!! 

    News: Get on the waiting list for my Inner Radiance Collective!
    A sacred space for women ready to step into their power, purpose, and abundance. Launching May 2025

    Whether you're a busy mom who’s lost herself in the daily grind, craving more balance, joy, and meaning—or you're ready to break free from burnout and finally put y...

    48 min
  • Remembering my dad on his Birthday - solo episode

    Tomorrow marks what would have been my dad's 82nd birthday, and it’s hard to believe that I’ve lived almost 32 years without him. My dad was truly ahead of his time, and if he were still with us today, I’m certain he’d be someone others looked to as a shaman or a mentor. I was fortunate to have a deeply authentic relationship with him, one that I still treasure to this day. We had a tradition of speaking every Sunday, and every few weeks, I would receive a perfectly typed letter from him. He had an incredible imagination, the kind that could embellish a story so richly it felt like you were transported to another world. Watching the movie Big Fish reminded me of him. At the end of the movie—spoiler alert—the father dies, and all the characters from his stories come to the funeral. It made me think of my dad and how vivid his stories were. I could easily imagine his tales coming to life like that.

    He was a unique combination of Cliff Huxtable, Einstein, and James Dean—adventurous, always learning, and cool in a timeless way. He soaked up knowledge like a sponge and loved diving into new experiences. Even after his passing, we found letters that revealed new things about him, like how he ran away from home at 17. When I learned that, I couldn't help but smile, realizing I had done the same at that age. It was just another way we were so alike.

    When I got pregnant, I remember calling him to share the news. He was beyond excited, not only because of the miracle I was experiencing, but because he cherished family. To him, family was everything. I learned that from him—how important it is to open your door, lend a hand, and be present for the ones you love. He used to say, “If you can feed three, you can feed four,” always welcoming people into his home. Though he didn’t have much in the way of money, he was wealthy in spirit, always sharing what he had. That’s the kind of man he was.

    Overwhelmed? Frustrated? Tired of the BS? You are not alone. I’ve been there, and I’ve helped so many women just like you get out of the funk and start living the life they deserve.

    Book your call now—don’t wait. You are meant for more. And while you’re at it, grab my book Brighter Days on Amazon. You’ll love it.

    Learn about my freebies and membership below!

    Every week, I expand on the podcast topic with practical tools, insights, and tips to help you heal, grow, and stay aligned with your inner abundance. It’s like a little love note in your inbox—just for you. if you want to receive it sign in to mailing list!  Ready to Join? Dm me or email me now!

    [email protected] - You can also connect with me on instagram @Claudia_Noriega_Bersntein or visit my website at ClaudiaNoriegaBernstein.com, you will learn about my 1:1 coaching, retreat and training. 

    If you liked this episode please leave me a comment, share it, subscribe and give me a good review. Thank you! 

    https://bit.ly/SignUpformyNewsletter

    Get it now!! 

    News: Get on the waiting list for my Inner Radiance Collective!
    A sacred space for women ready to step into their power, purpose, and abundance. Launching May 2025

    Whether you're a busy mom who’s lost herself in the daily grind, craving more balance, joy, and meaning—or you're ready to break free from burnout and finally put y...

    44 min
  • The tragedy that unfolded the life I was meant to live with Jennifer Henczel

    Before we dig into this week's episode I want to tell you that I am a nominee for the Women in Podcasting Awards with my Don’t Shrink to Fit Podcast!
    This is a significant milestone, and I would be deeply honored if you would take a moment to vote for me.
    Your vote would greatly help me gain visibility and amplify my message to a broader audience. If you have been listening, you know that each episode of my podcast features interviews with incredible women who have navigated pivotal moments in their lives, sharing their struggles and triumphs. By showcasing their journeys, I aim to inspire other women facing similar challenges and demonstrate the possibilities that lie ahead for them.
    Please go vote: coaching category! https://www.womenpodcasters.com/vote Thank you!!

    "Today I am not going to lose my best friend" This is what my guess kept saying to herself while driving across town, after getting a phone call from her husband's boss letting her know he had a terrible accident and was fighting to stay alive. She didn't know what to expect but what she never imagine was that that tragedy would change her life and her husband for good and that she would discover her true passion in the process.

    Jennifer Henczel is a Podcaster, Author, and Founder of the Inspiring Innovators Club and the Women in Podcasting Network, Show and Awards. Jennifer’s mission is to lift women’s voices and stories globally.

    Jennifer Henczel is known for her ability to build thriving, supportive and collaborative communities, and she teaches others how to do the same. She loves creating opportunities for women to connect and collaborate in meaningful ways. Using her proprietary “Rise Reach Results Roadmap” Jennifer provides tools, templates and trainings to help her members generate more impact and influence. Jennifer speaks about her mindset, messaging and monetization strategies for building communities, leveraging content and turning expertise into multiple streams of income.

    Jennifer is an award winning leader and has won or been nominated for a number of awards. Most recently, she is the winner of the Innovator of the Year Award at the Quill Podcast Awards.
    This is an episode filled with juicy stories, amazing realizations and incredible advice from one of the most knowledgeable and generous business woman podcaster out there. 

    If you are thinking about doing a podcast, this is gal and this episode is your first step. 

    Get to know her story, follow her and start sharing your story. 

    https://inspiringshow.com/jennifer

    Overwhelmed? Frustrated? Tired of the BS? You are not alone. I’ve been there, and I’ve helped so many women just like you get out of the funk and start living the life they deserve.

    Book your call now—don’t wait. You are meant for more. And while you’re at it, grab my book Brighter Days on Amazon. You’ll love it.

    Learn about my freebies and membership below!

    Every week, I expand on the podcast topic with practical tools, insights, and tips to help you heal, grow, and stay aligned with your inner abundance. It’s like a little love note in your inbox—just for you. if you want to receive it sign in to mailing list!  Ready to Join? Dm me or email me now!

    [email protected] - You can also connect with me on instagram @Claudia_Noriega_Bersntein or visit my website at ClaudiaNoriegaBernstein.com, you will learn about my 1:1 coaching, retreat and training. 

    If you liked this episode please leave me a comment, share it, subscribe and give me a good review. Thank you! 

    https://bit.ly/SignUpformyNewsletter

    Get it now!! 

    News: Get on the waiting list for my Inner Radiance Collective!
    A sacred space for women ready to step into their power, purpose, and abundance. Launching May 2025

    Whether you're a busy mom who’s lost herself in the daily grind, craving more balance, joy, and meaning—or you're ready to break free from burnout and finally put y...

    50 min
  • Español - Mi rol mas importante es el ser mamá con Stephanie Schiller.

    A veces vemos a alguien en las redes o en la Tele y no nos imaginamos que detrás de esas imágenes está un ser humano que siente, que piensa, que a veces tiene miedos y sueños como todos los demás seres humanos. 
    Hoy tenemos en el Don't Shrink to Fit Podcast, versión en español a Stephanie Schiller co-fundadora del concurso Model of the Year

    Stephanie se convirtió en una de las modelos más reconocidas de su país trabajando con varios diseñadores internacionales, tuvo una carrera de mas de 12 años y es muy querida por su carisma y profesionalismo. 

    En este episodio nos cuenta cómo era Stephanie de adolecente, como poco a poco empezó a descubrirse y a encontrarse así misma y lo que necesitaba para ser feliz y sentirse completa. 
    Nos comparte recuerdos de su mamá y como le afecto, a ella y a sus hermanas, el perderla cuando empezaba a convertirse en mujer, como se la imagina de abuela, lo que ha aprendido de ella misma al ser mamá, la conección que tiene con sus hermanas, como conoció a su esposo y luego se enamoro de el y los proyectos que tiene con su socia Natalie Vertiz y su empresa Model lab Perú.

    "Lo importante es quererse a una misma y encontrar eso que nos hace únicas" 

    Hoy, Stephanie vive en Brazil con su esposo y es mamá de dos niños, Tomás y Benjamín. 

    Esta es una entrevista llena de anécdotas, de risas, de recuerdos y experiencias que les va a encantar. 


    [email protected]

    Overwhelmed? Frustrated? Tired of the BS? You are not alone. I’ve been there, and I’ve helped so many women just like you get out of the funk and start living the life they deserve.

    Book your call now—don’t wait. You are meant for more. And while you’re at it, grab my book Brighter Days on Amazon. You’ll love it.

    Learn about my freebies and membership below!

    Every week, I expand on the podcast topic with practical tools, insights, and tips to help you heal, grow, and stay aligned with your inner abundance. It’s like a little love note in your inbox—just for you. if you want to receive it sign in to mailing list!  Ready to Join? Dm me or email me now!

    [email protected] - You can also connect with me on instagram @Claudia_Noriega_Bersntein or visit my website at ClaudiaNoriegaBernstein.com, you will learn about my 1:1 coaching, retreat and training. 

    If you liked this episode please leave me a comment, share it, subscribe and give me a good review. Thank you! 

    https://bit.ly/SignUpformyNewsletter

    Get it now!! 

    News: Get on the waiting list for my Inner Radiance Collective!
    A sacred space for women ready to step into their power, purpose, and abundance. Launching May 2025

    Whether you're a busy mom who’s lost herself in the daily grind, craving more balance, joy, and meaning—or you're ready to break free from burnout and finally put y...

    52 min
  • I will never shrink to fit again with Kate Higgins

    Before we dig into this week's episode I want to tell you that I am a nominee for the Women in Podcasting Awards with my Don’t Shrink to Fit Podcast!

    This is a significant milestone, and I would be deeply honored if you would take a moment to vote for me.

    Your vote would greatly help me gain visibility and amplify my message to a broader audience. If you have been listening, you know that each episode of my podcast features interviews with incredible women who have navigated pivotal moments in their lives, sharing their struggles and triumphs.
    Please go vote: coaching category! https://www.womenpodcasters.com/vote Thank you!!
    ____________________________________________________________________________________________
    "I longed to combine my talents, to integrate the “weird artist” and the “serious clinician”, because I knew that my creativity and intuition made me a better therapist."

    My guest this week in the Don’t Shrink to Fit Podcast is Kate Higgins! 

    As a teen, she struggled with self-esteem and belonging, seeking her identity in music and subculture. Her 20s were spent drifting from job to job, feeling unfulfilled, exploring Tarot, astrology, and esoterica by day and dancing in goth clubs by night.

    Approaching her 30th birthday, she felt immense pressure to “do something” productive with my life.

    As a lifelong listener, becoming a therapist felt like the next logical step. She earned her Masters in Social Work in 2000 and worked with the chronically mentally ill for many years. While she loved that work, she didn’t quite fit into the traditional world of psychiatry.

    Putting herself through grad school by reading Tarot and moonlighting in nightclubs, she discovered the vibrant neo-burlesque scene at 38. Performing opened up a new world where older women are celebrated. 

    She longed to integrate my talents, knowing her creativity and intuition made her a better therapist.

    So, she decided to be true to herself and work with clients using the full spectrum of my skills.

    And guess what? It worked.

    You will love this episode, she takes us through her discovery journey and I am sure you will find a few commonalities.

    Check out her website www.yourmagicalmidlife.com// follow her on Instagram @yourmagicalmidlife// check out her podcast Your Magical Midlife on Apple, Spotify and Amazon.

    https://yourmagicalmidlife.com/about-me

    Instagram @yourmagicalmidlife

    Overwhelmed? Frustrated? Tired of the BS? You are not alone. I’ve been there, and I’ve helped so many women just like you get out of the funk and start living the life they deserve.

    Book your call now—don’t wait. You are meant for more. And while you’re at it, grab my book Brighter Days on Amazon. You’ll love it.

    Learn about my freebies and membership below!

    Every week, I expand on the podcast topic with practical tools, insights, and tips to help you heal, grow, and stay aligned with your inner abundance. It’s like a little love note in your inbox—just for you. if you want to receive it sign in to mailing list!  Ready to Join? Dm me or email me now!

    [email protected] - You can also connect with me on instagram @Claudia_Noriega_Bersntein or visit my website at ClaudiaNoriegaBernstein.com, you will learn about my 1:1 coaching, retreat and training. 

    If you liked this episode please leave me a comment, share it, subscribe and give me a good review. Thank you! 

    https://bit.ly/SignUpformyNewsletter

    Get it now!! 

    News: Get on the waiting list for my Inner Radiance Collective!
    A sacred space for women ready to step into their power, purpose, and abundance. Launching May 2025

    Whether you're a busy mom who’s lost herself in the daily grind, craving more balance, joy, and meaning—or you're ready to break free from burnout and finally put y...

    50 min
  • My journey back to joy after losing my son with Suzanne Barron

    Before we dig into this week's episode I want to tell you that I am a nominee for the Women in Podcasting Awards with my Don’t Shrink to Fit Podcast!

    This is a significant milestone, and I would be deeply honored if you would take a moment to vote for me.

    Your vote would greatly help me gain visibility and amplify my message to a broader audience. If you have been listening, you know that each episode of my podcast features interviews with incredible women who have navigated pivotal moments in their lives, sharing their struggles and triumphs. By showcasing their journeys, I aim to inspire other women facing similar challenges and demonstrate the possibilities that lie ahead for them.

    Please go vote: coaching category! https://www.womenpodcasters.com/vote Thank you!!
    _______________________________________________________________________________________________

    "My oldest child had leukemia at ages 3, 8, and 9. Sadly, he passed away when he was 9. Those are facts. They don't define our life. We had fun, laughter and joy amidst hard times. Finding Joy in the Hard, a weekly podcast, is about tapping into your courage, finding light in the dark and joy in the hard. You'll get to hear from incredible people who've undergone tremendous challenges and have come out the other side."

    When we first hold our children, so small and full of possibility, our hearts overflow with dreams for them. We envision their future—full of joy, growth, and endless opportunities. We imagine the laughter, the milestones, the moments of pride that come with seeing them live out their potential. But what happens when life takes a path we never expected, one we never could have imagined?

    My guess today knows this heartbreak all too well. At the tender age of three, her little boy was diagnosed with cancer. For six long years, they fought a battle that no child, no parent, should ever have to face. Three times, they hoped, they prayed, they believed in miracles. And yet, despite all the love and strength in the world, Suzanne’s son lost his fight at just nine years old.

    It's a pain no mother can fully describe, a loss that redefines the future and leaves an unfillable void. But even in the darkest moments, Suzanne found something powerful—hope and resilience. In sharing her story, she offers a light to others walking a similar path, a reminder that even in unimaginable grief, there is still room for healing, love, and hope.

    I invite you to listen to Suzanne’s courageous journey. It’s not just a story of loss, but one of resilience, and a testament to the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. May it serve as a reminder to cherish every moment, to hold our dreams for our children close, even in the face of life’s most unexpected turns.

    Listen to this powerful episode and be inspired by the strength of a mother’s love and the hope that carries her forward.

    Suzanne is  a mom, a wife, a yoga instructor, a Jin Shin Jyutsu practitioner and an adjunct professor. You can get to know her better by listening to her Podcast At Finding Joy in the Hard, where her goal is to encourage you through powerful stories of courage, perseverance and strength.
    Personal Website:https://suzanneabarron.com/

    Foundation website: https://christopherbarronlivelife.org/

    Finding Joy in the Hard: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-joy-in-the-hard/id1716893853

    Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/7MuCMEk0LGbfj9bpjx4qI9?si=61433ea99b22419d



    https://www.instagram.com/suzanneandorabarron/

    Overwhelmed? Frustrated? Tired of the BS? You are not alone. I’ve been there, and I’ve helped so many women just like you get out of the funk and start living the life they deserve.

    Book your call now—don’t wait. You are meant for more. And while you’re at it, grab my book Brighter Days on Amazon. You’ll love it.

    Learn about my freebies and membership below!

    Every week, I expand on the podcast topic with practical tools, insights, and tips to help you heal, grow, and stay aligned with your inner abundance. It’s like a little love note in your inbox—just for you. if you want to receive it sign in to mailing list!  Ready to Join? Dm me or email me now!

    [email protected] - You can also connect with me on instagram @Claudia_Noriega_Bersntein or visit my website at ClaudiaNoriegaBernstein.com, you will learn about my 1:1 coaching, retreat and training. 

    If you liked this episode please leave me a comment, share it, subscribe and give me a good review. Thank you! 

    https://bit.ly/SignUpformyNewsletter

    Get it now!! 

    News: Get on the waiting list for my Inner Radiance Collective!
    A sacred space for women ready to step into their power, purpose, and abundance. Launching May 2025

    Whether you're a busy mom who’s lost herself in the daily grind, craving more balance, joy, and meaning—or you're ready to break free from burnout and finally put y...

    1 hr 28 min
  • Letting my emotions lead my way back home with Sarah Thorne

    Before we dig into this week's episode I want to tell you that I am a nominee for the Women in Podcasting Awards with my Don’t Shrink to Fit Podcast!
    I mean how cool is this?
    This is a significant milestone, and I would be deeply honored if you would take a moment to vote for me.
    Your vote would greatly help me gain visibility and amplify my message to a broader audience. If you have been listening, you know that each episode of my podcast features interviews with incredible women who have navigated pivotal moments in their lives, sharing their struggles and triumphs. By showcasing their journeys, I aim to inspire other women facing similar challenges and demonstrate the possibilities that lie ahead for them.
    please go vote: coaching category! https://www.womenpodcasters.com/vote Thank you!!
    _______________________________________________________________________________________________

    What role your feelings play in your life? How do we connect? And how important being aware of our thoughts and emotions is for our own growth? Can you get sick if you hold or hide your feelings?
    My guest today is Sarah Thorne. In this episode she shares why she changed her career to become a coach and what she has learned about herself in the process after coming face to face with depression.

    You’ll walk away with ideas about how to better connect with your own inner guidance, why it matters and how real career transformation happens inside out. Sarah also walks you through a beautiful mini practice/meditation of connecting to your body and felt experience.Sarah Thorne is a Consciousness Coach  and Breath-work Facilitator who compassionately guides awakening humans to connect with their inner selves and larger life mission. Her unique approach blends breath-work and coaching, paving the way toward a deep, authentic connection with self + others while accelerating the transformation of limiting beliefs & mindsets. As founder of Rebel Routes, Sarah is committed to creating space for each person to experience what it means to be truly empowered to choose and create meaningful and unique lives, thus creating profound positive change in the world. By harnessing the transformative power of breath-work and coaching, Sarah equips her clients with the tools they need to access their inner wisdom and confidently blaze their own trail.https://www.rebelroutescoaching.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-thorne-rebel-routes-coaching/

    Overwhelmed? Frustrated? Tired of the BS? You are not alone. I’ve been there, and I’ve helped so many women just like you get out of the funk and start living the life they deserve.

    Book your call now—don’t wait. You are meant for more. And while you’re at it, grab my book Brighter Days on Amazon. You’ll love it.

    Learn about my freebies and membership below!

    Every week, I expand on the podcast topic with practical tools, insights, and tips to help you heal, grow, and stay aligned with your inner abundance. It’s like a little love note in your inbox—just for you. if you want to receive it sign in to mailing list!  Ready to Join? Dm me or email me now!

    [email protected] - You can also connect with me on instagram @Claudia_Noriega_Bersntein or visit my website at ClaudiaNoriegaBernstein.com, you will learn about my 1:1 coaching, retreat and training. 

    If you liked this episode please leave me a comment, share it, subscribe and give me a good review. Thank you! 

    https://bit.ly/SignUpformyNewsletter

    Get it now!! 

    News: Get on the waiting list for my Inner Radiance Collective!
    A sacred space for women ready to step into their power, purpose, and abundance. Launching May 2025

    Whether you're a busy mom who’s lost herself in the daily grind, craving more balance, joy, and meaning—or you're ready to break free from burnout and finally put y...

    59 min
  • A journey within with Georgie Leahy

    Before we dig into this week's episode I want to tell you that I am a nominee for the Women in Podcasting Awards with my Don’t Shrink to Fit Podcast!
    I mean how cool is this?
    This is a significant milestone, and I would be deeply honored if you would take a moment to vote for me.
    Your vote would greatly help me gain visibility and amplify my message to a broader audience. If you have been listening, you know that each episode of my podcast features interviews with incredible women who have navigated pivotal moments in their lives, sharing their struggles and triumphs. By showcasing their journeys, I aim to inspire other women facing similar challenges and demonstrate the possibilities that lie ahead for them.
    please go vote: coaching category! https://www.womenpodcasters.com/vote Thank you!!
    _______________________________________________________________________________________________

    A year a go I started my podcast Don't Shrink to Fit and my dear friend Georgie was my first guest!!! can you believe it has been a year?
    To close my month Anniversary i had a catch up interview with her and she shares what is new with her. It was so much fun we have decided we will do it every year!

    Georgina “Georgie” Leahy is born to perform. She is an acid-tongued,  fire-breathing, fresh and irreverent talent from South East London with an unrestricted sense of humor. Georgie  has spent her life on the stage and screen including theater, musicals, operas and was a 2011 semi-finalist on Britain’s Got Talent.  There is nothing she wont do to entertain, even if it requires walking, literally, on stilts.

    Georgie was the Playboy TV hostess for a comedy news show;  and, recently shared the screen with Terrence Howard and Kevin Hart. Georgie’s long on-screen history ranges from Sony Pictures, teen drama series  ‘Sofia’s Diary’, to Treasure King on Reelz, Real Husbands of Hollywood, and includes the Cannes Film Festival credited ‘Winters Secret’ and ‘PartyGirl’ which got worldwide distribution.  Georgie has experience as an assistant to Illusionists, Penn and Teller; toured the UK as backing singer (with her pet python Slinky Sebastian) and opening act for 80s legend Adam Ant. The tour was documented by Jack Bond (Dali in New York) for ‘Blueblack Hussar.’ Georgie also opened for Alice Cooper and the New York Dolls.

    Georgina charmed audiences on the Bachelor UK, however didn’t quite charm the Bachelor. She has also been cast in numerous commercials and appeared in music videos for Pharrell Williams, Happy, Travis Scott, Kendrick Lamar, Steel Panther, Dizzee Rascal, Calvin Harris, and Miley Cyrus. Most recently, Georgie starred in the critically acclaimed immersive theatre shows, The Tension Experience and The Lust Experience, both created by director Darren Lyn Bousman (Saw Il-IV).  Georgie Leahy now resides in Los Angeles, cultivating her career and adding new directions as The LA Art Muse, recording her own music and appearing in numerous viral videos with award winning YouTube star Brandon Rogers and Co staring in Normal British Series. She is currently staring in as Stella as Helluva Boss the highly popular animated series and her directorial debut Someday that she wrote, produced and stared in, just won the audience award at the California Women's Film Festival and is currently doing the festival circuit.

    You can get in touch with georgie in her IG @georgieleahy

    georgieleahy

    Overwhelmed? Frustrated? Tired of the BS? You are not alone. I’ve been there, and I’ve helped so many women just like you get out of the funk and start living the life they deserve.

    Book your call now—don’t wait. You are meant for more. And while you’re at it, grab my book Brighter Days on Amazon. You’ll love it.

    Learn about my freebies and membership below!

    Every week, I expand on the podcast topic with practical tools, insights, and tips to help you heal, grow, and stay aligned with your inner abundance. It’s like a little love note in your inbox—just for you. if you want to receive it sign in to mailing list!  Ready to Join? Dm me or email me now!

    [email protected] - You can also connect with me on instagram @Claudia_Noriega_Bersntein or visit my website at ClaudiaNoriegaBernstein.com, you will learn about my 1:1 coaching, retreat and training. 

    If you liked this episode please leave me a comment, share it, subscribe and give me a good review. Thank you! 

    https://bit.ly/SignUpformyNewsletter

    Get it now!! 

    News: Get on the waiting list for my Inner Radiance Collective!
    A sacred space for women ready to step into their power, purpose, and abundance. Launching May 2025

    Whether you're a busy mom who’s lost herself in the daily grind, craving more balance, joy, and meaning—or you're ready to break free from burnout and finally put y...

    54 min

About Don't Shrink to Fit: Empowering and inspiring women one story at a time.

From the publisher's feed

Don’t Shrink to Fit: The Podcast for women who refuse to play small.

Empowering conversations. Inspiring transformations. Limitless possibilities.

Are you ready to step…

More shows like Don't Shrink to Fit: Empowering and inspiring women one story at a time.

The Spiritual Cupcake Podcast by Candace Dunaway

The Spiritual Cupcake Podcast

21 Listeners