Free to Be Mindful Podcast | Mindset, Permission and Real Talk for the High-Achieving Woman

Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, answers real-life parenting questions, helping you reduce the overwhelm, find joy, live life intentionally so you don't lose your... well you know...

TODAY'S QUESTION:
"Is 7 too young to get my kid a phone?"

In this episode, Vanessa dives into the age-old parenting dilemma of when to introduce phones to kids. With practical advice and relatable anecdotes, she explores factors like maturity, the purpose of the phone, and the potential risks of screen time and social media exposure. Vanessa shares her personal experience and offers alternatives for staying connected while prioritizing safety and responsibility.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• How to evaluate your child’s maturity level to determine readiness for a phone
• The risks of giving kids access to smartphones at a young age
• Why understanding the purpose of the phone (safety, communication, or entertainment) is key
• Alternative tools like smartwatches or basic phones that meet family needs
• How to set clear rules and boundaries to manage screen time effectively

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
Seven may be young for a phone, but the right decision depends on your child’s needs, readiness, and your family’s goals. By starting small and intentional, you can set a solid foundation for responsible tech use as your child grows.

Listen in, and remember... you’re always free to be mindful!

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

GRAB AN OFFER
🎁 Free 120 Coping Skills: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills

💛 Coaching for the Mom CEO: https://www.amigamoms.com

💡 Coaching for Child Therapists: https://www.thekidclinician.com

💚 Coaching & Community for Latinx Therapists: https://www.latinxpracticecollective.com

 🛍️ Shop My Favorites: https://shopmy.us/shop/counselorvdejesus


ABOUT ME
I'm Vanessa, the therapist who helps high-achieving adults become the best version of themselves, not just at work, but in the rooms that matter most. I host the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, named the #1 Latino Mental Health Podcast in 2026 by Feedspot. 

CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL
🎧 Podcast: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselorvdejesus/
📋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/counselorvdejesus/
🎤 Speaking & Workshops: https://www.freetobemindful.com/speaking

DISCLAIMER
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

Welcome to the Free to Be Mindful Podcast - your space to reduce overwhelm, find joy, and live life intentionally. In today’s episode, we explore a powerful mindset shift: the idea that less can actually give us more. Let’s talk about how letting go - whether it’s habits, expectations, or distractions - can create space for clarity, peace, and purpose.

EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
In a world that tells us “more is better,” we often forget the value of simplicity. Whether it’s clearing space in our homes, our minds, or our schedules, the act of letting go can lead to more focus, fulfillment, and calm. In this episode, we explore how subtraction—not addition—can help us feel lighter and happier. With examples, insights, and actionable tips, we’ll talk about how to simplify life and make room for what really matters.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why we often believe “more” equals “better”—and how that impacts us.
• How letting go of unnecessary weight can create space for clarity and peace.
• Practical strategies to simplify your life, from habits to physical space.
• How gratitude can shift your focus from “what’s missing” to “what’s enough.”
• Why doing more with less helps us show up better for ourselves and others.

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
Less doesn’t mean loss - it means creating space for what matters most. When we simplify our lives, we gain clarity, purpose, and peace. Listen in, and remember… you’re always free to be mindful!

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

GRAB AN OFFER
🎁 Free 120 Coping Skills: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills

💛 Coaching for the Mom CEO: https://www.amigamoms.com

💡 Coaching for Child Therapists: https://www.thekidclinician.com

💚 Coaching & Community for Latinx Therapists: https://www.latinxpracticecollective.com

 🛍️ Shop My Favorites: https://shopmy.us/shop/counselorvdejesus


ABOUT ME
I'm Vanessa, the therapist who helps high-achieving adults become the best version of themselves, not just at work, but in the rooms that matter most. I host the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, named the #1 Latino Mental Health Podcast in 2026 by Feedspot. 

CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL
🎧 Podcast: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselorvdejesus/
📋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/counselorvdejesus/
🎤 Speaking & Workshops: https://www.freetobemindful.com/speaking

DISCLAIMER
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, tackles real-life parenting questions, helping you find balance, reduce worry, and live mindfully with your children.

TODAY'S QUESTION:
"How can I get my middle schooler to understand budgeting and the cost of the holidays?"

In this episode, Vanessa shares relatable and practical tips for teaching middle schoolers about budgeting during the holiday season. From starting with perspective to involving your child in creating a holiday budget, she provides actionable strategies that help kids grasp the value of money and make intentional choices. Vanessa also emphasizes the importance of modeling gratitude and shifting the focus from material items to meaningful connections.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• How to introduce the concept of budgeting in simple, relatable terms
• Ways to involve your child in holiday planning and spending decisions
• How to teach trade-offs and the importance of prioritizing spending
• Why showing real numbers makes the cost of living more tangible
• How earning their own money helps middle schoolers appreciate its value
• 
  

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
By involving your middle schooler in holiday planning and budgeting, you’re teaching them not only the value of money but also the importance of gratitude, intentionality, and resourcefulness - lessons that will stick with them far beyond the holiday season.

Listen in, and remember... you’re always free to be mindful!

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

GRAB AN OFFER
🎁 Free 120 Coping Skills: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills

💛 Coaching for the Mom CEO: https://www.amigamoms.com

💡 Coaching for Child Therapists: https://www.thekidclinician.com

💚 Coaching & Community for Latinx Therapists: https://www.latinxpracticecollective.com

 🛍️ Shop My Favorites: https://shopmy.us/shop/counselorvdejesus


ABOUT ME
I'm Vanessa, the therapist who helps high-achieving adults become the best version of themselves, not just at work, but in the rooms that matter most. I host the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, named the #1 Latino Mental Health Podcast in 2026 by Feedspot. 

CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL
🎧 Podcast: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselorvdejesus/
📋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/counselorvdejesus/
🎤 Speaking & Workshops: https://www.freetobemindful.com/speaking

DISCLAIMER
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

In this episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman chats with her cousin, Dr. Sasha De Jesus, a board-certified weight management specialist and preventive cardiologist. They discuss the importance of a holistic approach to weight management, focusing on sustainable lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes. Dr. De Jesus highlights the benefits of clean eating, including whole, unprocessed foods, and how factors like stress management, sleep, and physical activity are all essential for overall wellness.

Dr. De Jesus explains that weight management is more than just diet and exercise—it’s about taking care of your entire well-being. She also talks about the role of FDA-approved medications in weight management, advising caution with compounded or generic versions, and the importance of working with a healthcare professional to create a plan tailored to your needs.

This episode is for you if you're looking for a balanced approach to health that supports both your body and mind for lasting, positive results.

REFERENCED LINKS:
https://www.instagram.com/sashadjb
https://www.instagram.com/metabolikhealth
www.metabolikhealth.com

Use discount code FREETOBE for 15% off a one-year membership or 10% off a six-month membership.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

GRAB AN OFFER
🎁 Free 120 Coping Skills: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills

💛 Coaching for the Mom CEO: https://www.amigamoms.com

💡 Coaching for Child Therapists: https://www.thekidclinician.com

💚 Coaching & Community for Latinx Therapists: https://www.latinxpracticecollective.com

 🛍️ Shop My Favorites: https://shopmy.us/shop/counselorvdejesus


ABOUT ME
I'm Vanessa, the therapist who helps high-achieving adults become the best version of themselves, not just at work, but in the rooms that matter most. I host the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, named the #1 Latino Mental Health Podcast in 2026 by Feedspot. 

CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL
🎧 Podcast: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselorvdejesus/
📋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/counselorvdejesus/
🎤 Speaking & Workshops: https://www.freetobemindful.com/speaking

DISCLAIMER
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

 Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, answers real-life parenting questions, helping you find balance, reduce worry, and live mindfully with your children.

TODAY'S QUESTION:
"How do I handle my 7-year-old's tantrums or meltdowns at holiday gatherings?"

In this episode, Vanessa provides practical strategies for managing the challenges of tantrums and meltdowns during busy holiday gatherings. From preparation to de-escalation techniques, she shares tips to help parents navigate these tricky moments with calm and confidence. Vanessa emphasizes the importance of validating your child’s emotions while modeling patience and understanding.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• How to anticipate and prepare your child for holiday gatherings to reduce overwhelm
• Why staying calm during meltdowns is key to de-escalating the situation
• How to create a plan for breaks and designate a quiet space to help your child regroup
• The importance of consistency in boundaries and rules, even during the holidays
• How reflecting after the meltdown can teach valuable coping skills for future situations

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
Tantrums and meltdowns are opportunities to teach and connect with your child. With preparation, patience, and mindful strategies, you can help them navigate big emotions while fostering resilience and strengthening your bond.

Listen in, and remember... you’re always free to be mindful!

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

GRAB AN OFFER
🎁 Free 120 Coping Skills: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills

💛 Coaching for the Mom CEO: https://www.amigamoms.com

💡 Coaching for Child Therapists: https://www.thekidclinician.com

💚 Coaching & Community for Latinx Therapists: https://www.latinxpracticecollective.com

 🛍️ Shop My Favorites: https://shopmy.us/shop/counselorvdejesus


ABOUT ME
I'm Vanessa, the therapist who helps high-achieving adults become the best version of themselves, not just at work, but in the rooms that matter most. I host the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, named the #1 Latino Mental Health Podcast in 2026 by Feedspot. 

CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL
🎧 Podcast: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselorvdejesus/
📋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/counselorvdejesus/
🎤 Speaking & Workshops: https://www.freetobemindful.com/speaking

DISCLAIMER
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

In this heartfelt episode, Vanessa reflects on the power of gratitude for the everyday moments in life. As the year winds down and we transition from Thanksgiving gratitude to the hustle of the holiday season, Vanessa shares personal experiences, including the surprising and miraculous journey of becoming a mother again in her 40s. She explores how even the smallest, seemingly inconvenient moments can hold extraordinary value when viewed through a lens of gratitude.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• How the everyday inconveniences in life, like traffic jams and dirty dishes, can be opportunities for gratitude.
• Vanessa’s journey of becoming a mother later in life and the lessons it has taught her.
• The importance of savoring small moments of connection with family and loved ones.
• Thought-provoking questions to help reflect on the year’s small but meaningful moments.
• How challenges can shape us and contribute to personal growth.

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
The magic of life often lies in the ordinary. When we slow down and shift our perspective, we can uncover the joy and beauty in everyday moments—whether it’s the noise of a busy household, the rhythm of daily routines, or even life’s unexpected detours. Trust that every experience, big or small, is part of the journey that shapes us into better versions of ourselves for the year ahead.

GUIDED MEDITATION:
Vanessa leads a reflective meditation encouraging listeners to:

• Identify small, consistent parts of life they’re grateful for.
• Recognize the comfort in routines.
• Acknowledge the quiet contributions of the people in their lives.

SHARE THE LOVE:
If you enjoyed this episode or think someone else might benefit from its message, share it with a friend or loved one. Let’s spread the power of gratitude for the everyday.

CLOSING REMINDER:
“As always, it’s my pleasure to share space with you, and remember… you’re always free to be mindful.”

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

GRAB AN OFFER
🎁 Free 120 Coping Skills: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills

💛 Coaching for the Mom CEO: https://www.amigamoms.com

💡 Coaching for Child Therapists: https://www.thekidclinician.com

💚 Coaching & Community for Latinx Therapists: https://www.latinxpracticecollective.com

 🛍️ Shop My Favorites: https://shopmy.us/shop/counselorvdejesus


ABOUT ME
I'm Vanessa, the therapist who helps high-achieving adults become the best version of themselves, not just at work, but in the rooms that matter most. I host the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, named the #1 Latino Mental Health Podcast in 2026 by Feedspot. 

CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL
🎧 Podcast: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselorvdejesus/
📋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/counselorvdejesus/
🎤 Speaking & Workshops: https://www.freetobemindful.com/speaking

DISCLAIMER
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, answers real-life parenting questions, helping you find balance, reduce worry, and live mindfully with your children.

TODAY'S QUESTION:
"How can I help my kid interact with extended family they don’t see often during the holidays?"

Holiday gatherings can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for kids who aren’t used to being around extended family. In this episode, Vanessa shares practical tips to help your child feel more confident and comfortable in these social settings. From preparation to practicing social cues, she provides strategies to make family interactions less intimidating while fostering gratitude and respect.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why preparation and sharing stories about family members can ease anxiety
• How practicing greetings and offering alternatives like high-fives can help kids feel more at ease
• Ways to empower your child with options for taking breaks or stepping away when overwhelmed
• How modeling social cues and gratitude reinforces positive interactions
• Tips for teaching kindness, empathy, and respect during family gatherings

REFERENCED EPISODES:

Consult a Counselor: Force Hugging at Thanksgiving
https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast/225

Consult a Counselor: How to Help Your Child Become More Grateful
https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast/227

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
Socializing with extended family is a learned skill that takes practice and patience. By preparing your child, modeling positive behaviors, and supporting them through challenging moments, you can help them build confidence and strengthen family bonds in meaningful ways.

Listen in, and remember... you’re always free to be mindful!

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

GRAB AN OFFER
🎁 Free 120 Coping Skills: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills

💛 Coaching for the Mom CEO: https://www.amigamoms.com

💡 Coaching for Child Therapists: https://www.thekidclinician.com

💚 Coaching & Community for Latinx Therapists: https://www.latinxpracticecollective.com

 🛍️ Shop My Favorites: https://shopmy.us/shop/counselorvdejesus


ABOUT ME
I'm Vanessa, the therapist who helps high-achieving adults become the best version of themselves, not just at work, but in the rooms that matter most. I host the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, named the #1 Latino Mental Health Podcast in 2026 by Feedspot. 

CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL
🎧 Podcast: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselorvdejesus/
📋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/counselorvdejesus/
🎤 Speaking & Workshops: https://www.freetobemindful.com/speaking

DISCLAIMER
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

In this episode, Vanessa De Jesus Guzman chats with Whitney Faires -  an executive coach, keynote speaker, and leadership expert who helps people push past obstacles to reach new levels of success. With years of experience as a corporate executive, Whitney has developed proven strategies to help her clients shift their mindsets, build resilience, and tap into their full potential.

In this conversation, Whitney dives into the importance of mindset, self-awareness, and how challenges can actually be opportunities for growth. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, starting out in your career, or balancing motherhood with professional aspirations, Whitney’s insights will leave you feeling inspired and ready to take on what’s next.

Tune in to learn real strategies for building resilience, managing self-doubt, and reaching your biggest goals without losing sight of what matters most.

REFERENCED LINKS:

https://whitneyfaires.com/


GRAB THE FREEBIE:
https://whitneyfaires.myflodesk.com/podcast

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

GRAB AN OFFER
🎁 Free 120 Coping Skills: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills

💛 Coaching for the Mom CEO: https://www.amigamoms.com

💡 Coaching for Child Therapists: https://www.thekidclinician.com

💚 Coaching & Community for Latinx Therapists: https://www.latinxpracticecollective.com

 🛍️ Shop My Favorites: https://shopmy.us/shop/counselorvdejesus


ABOUT ME
I'm Vanessa, the therapist who helps high-achieving adults become the best version of themselves, not just at work, but in the rooms that matter most. I host the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, named the #1 Latino Mental Health Podcast in 2026 by Feedspot. 

CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL
🎧 Podcast: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselorvdejesus/
📋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/counselorvdejesus/
🎤 Speaking & Workshops: https://www.freetobemindful.com/speaking

DISCLAIMER
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, answers real-life parenting questions, helping you find balance, reduce worry, and live mindfully with your children.

TODAY'S QUESTION:
"How can you make your kid become more grateful?"

In this episode, Vanessa shares practical, thoughtful strategies for teaching children the value of gratitude. From simple ways to introduce the concept to creating daily gratitude routines, she highlights tips that help kids recognize and appreciate the positives in their lives. Vanessa also discusses how limiting overindulgence and modeling gratitude can encourage lifelong habits of thankfulness.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• How to introduce the concept of gratitude to children in simple, relatable ways
• Why creating gratitude routines or rituals can help make gratitude second nature
• The importance of limiting overindulgence to teach children to value what they have
• Ways to foster appreciation for non-material aspects of life
• How modeling gratitude in your daily actions encourages your child to develop the same habit

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
By practicing gratitude together, setting boundaries around overindulgence, and modeling thankfulness in your own life, you can help your child develop a deeper sense of gratitude, positively shaping their outlook on life and their relationships with others.

Listen in, and remember... you’re always free to be mindful!

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

GRAB AN OFFER
🎁 Free 120 Coping Skills: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills

💛 Coaching for the Mom CEO: https://www.amigamoms.com

💡 Coaching for Child Therapists: https://www.thekidclinician.com

💚 Coaching & Community for Latinx Therapists: https://www.latinxpracticecollective.com

 🛍️ Shop My Favorites: https://shopmy.us/shop/counselorvdejesus


ABOUT ME
I'm Vanessa, the therapist who helps high-achieving adults become the best version of themselves, not just at work, but in the rooms that matter most. I host the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, named the #1 Latino Mental Health Podcast in 2026 by Feedspot. 

CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL
🎧 Podcast: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselorvdejesus/
📋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/counselorvdejesus/
🎤 Speaking & Workshops: https://www.freetobemindful.com/speaking

DISCLAIMER
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

Have you seen the viral TikTok trend showcasing “What a privilege it is…”? This trend flips the script on life’s everyday inconveniences, helping us reframe challenges as opportunities for gratitude. In this episode, we dive into how this viral trend aligns with the spirit of National Gratitude Month, explore the different ways to practice thankfulness, and discuss how gratitude can positively transform our emotional and physical wellbeing.  

TUNE IN TO LEARN:
- How the TikTok trend helps us view life’s stressors through a lens of gratitude  
- The science-backed benefits of practicing gratitude for mental health  
- Eight practical types of gratitude to integrate into your daily life  
- Tips for cultivating thankfulness, even during challenging times  
- How gratitude fosters deeper connections with yourself and others  


TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
Life’s challenges are often blessings in disguise. By reframing stress and focusing on gratitude, we can find joy, strength, and connection in the everyday. Remember, gratitude is a practice that can shape our perspective and bring light to our lives. Listen in, and remember… you’re always free to be mindful!  

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

GRAB AN OFFER
🎁 Free 120 Coping Skills: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills

💛 Coaching for the Mom CEO: https://www.amigamoms.com

💡 Coaching for Child Therapists: https://www.thekidclinician.com

💚 Coaching & Community for Latinx Therapists: https://www.latinxpracticecollective.com

 🛍️ Shop My Favorites: https://shopmy.us/shop/counselorvdejesus


ABOUT ME
I'm Vanessa, the therapist who helps high-achieving adults become the best version of themselves, not just at work, but in the rooms that matter most. I host the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, named the #1 Latino Mental Health Podcast in 2026 by Feedspot. 

CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL
🎧 Podcast: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselorvdejesus/
📋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/counselorvdejesus/
🎤 Speaking & Workshops: https://www.freetobemindful.com/speaking

DISCLAIMER
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.