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

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Angel Hepp—fellow mom of two, golden doodle lover, and co-founder of Meet Salt Collective, a creative marketing agency that helps businesses connect through powerful storytelling. We talked all about how motherhood and entrepreneurship overlap in the most unexpected (and sometimes messy) ways, and how being clear, whether with your kids or your clients, can make all the difference.

Angel shared so many gems—from her favorite mom hacks, like teaching kids to sort socks (yes, really!), to her journey as a recovering perfectionist. We also talked about how curiosity, not judgment, is key when it comes to personal growth, parenting, and running a business. There’s so much goodness in this episode for moms, high achievers, and anyone who's trying to do all the things without losing themselves in the process.

If you’ve ever felt like you're figuring it out as you go, you're not alone—and this conversation is for you. I hope it gives you a laugh, a breath of fresh air, and a few ideas to make life just a little bit easier.

REFERENCED LINKS:

• Meet Salt Collective
  Website: www.meetsaltcollective.com
  Instagram: www.instagram.com/meetsaltcollective
• Josephine & Grace Co.
  Instagram: www.instagram.com/josephineandgrace.co
• Book Mentioned:
  Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller: www.storybrand.com

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💛 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

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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.

Life has a funny way of making us feel like we’re always racing against some invisible clock — like if we don’t meet certain milestones by a certain age, we’ve somehow failed. But what if we’ve been measuring progress all wrong?

In this episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, we explore the pressure of timelines — the kind we create in our minds, hear from others, and absorb from social media. Vanessa shares psychological insights, personal stories, and mindset-shifting strategies to help you reframe what it means to be “on time.”

Whether you’ve been stuck in comparison traps or feel like you’re too late to start something new, this episode is your permission slip to breathe, reset, and embrace the journey as it is.

EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
Vanessa unpacks why so many of us feel “behind” in life — and where that pressure really comes from. Through the lens of psychology, society, and real-life reflection, you’ll learn how to break free from the myth of the perfect timeline and redefine success on your own terms. This episode offers practical tools to shift your mindset, become more present, and move forward with confidence — no matter where you are in your journey.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why feeling “behind” is a psychological trap many of us fall into
• The role society and social media play in our internal timelines
• How hustle culture keeps us in a cycle of pressure and burnout
• Practical ways to redefine success and reframe limiting beliefs
• A grounding exercise to help you stay present in your own journey

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
There is no one-size-fits-all timeline — just your path, your pace, and your progress. You’re not behind — you’re right where you need to be. So pause the pressure, trust the process, 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. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.

TODAY'S QUESTION:

"My daughter is 16 and is definitely smoking weed. What should I do?"

Finding out your teen is using weed can bring on a wave of panic, anger, confusion—and guilt. Do you confront her? Punish her? Ignore it and hope it’s just a phase? In this episode, Vanessa breaks down how to approach the situation with calm, clarity, and connection—not control.

Vanessa shares what’s changed about marijuana today (hint: it’s not what it used to be), how to have real conversations with your teen that don’t immediately shut them down, and how to balance boundaries with emotional safety. She also explains why fear-based approaches only go so far—and what truly makes a lasting impact.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why today’s marijuana is more dangerous than it used to be
• How to bring up real consequences without scaring them into silence
• What teens really need when it comes to substance use conversations
• How to set clear, firm boundaries without shame
• Why connection, curiosity, and consistency matter most
• When to seek professional support for your teen—and yourself

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:

This isn’t just about weed. It’s about helping your teen learn how to navigate stress, peer pressure, and life choices with guidance and support. You don’t have to go into detective mode or fight it out. You can parent through this with confidence, connection, and compassion.

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 Episode 262 of Free to Be Mindful Podcast, Vanessa De Jesus Guzman welcomes Rebekah Taylor, a real estate investor who transitioned from tech after a near-death experience in childbirth. Rebekah shares insights on mindful living, balancing career and family, and building multiple income streams for financial freedom—all while prioritizing self-care and mental health.

As a mom of three, she highlights the power of routines, quality time, and flexibility. She also breaks down real estate strategies like syndications and group investments, showing how passive income can create long-term stability. Plus, she shares why emergency funds and diversified income are essential for financial security.

Packed with relatable stories and practical insights, this episode will help you create balance, build wealth, and live intentionally. Tune in for inspiration and actionable strategies!

REFERENCED LINKS:

www.tayloredinvestments.co

https://www.instagram.com/taylored_investments/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebekah-taylor1986/
https://www.youtube.com/@TayloredInvestments/videos

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063772878587

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. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.

TODAY'S QUESTION:

"What can I do when I feel like I’m failing as a parent?"

The guilt, the overwhelm, the mental checklist of all the things that didn’t get done—and the ones you wish you had done differently. If you’ve ever ended the day wondering, “Am I even doing this right?”, you are so not alone.

In this episode, Vanessa offers a gentle reframe to those tough moments, helping you shift from shame to self-compassion. She reminds you that parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, growing, and making the most of the moments that matter.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why feeling like you’re failing often means you care deeply
• How to challenge harsh self-talk with grace and perspective
• The importance of zooming out and seeing the big picture of parenting
• Small reconnection moments that build lasting bonds with your child
• How to focus on progress, not perfection

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:

Feeling like you’re failing doesn’t mean you are—it means you’re in it, you’re trying, and you care. Parenting is messy, imperfect, and full of learning curves. But in those hard moments, you’re still planting seeds of love, patience, and resilience that will last a lifetime.

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. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.

TODAY'S QUESTION:

"I really think my kid needs therapy, but I don't want to put up with family members thinking or saying he's crazy if I take him. Advice?"

You know your child could benefit from therapy, but the thought of dealing with family opinions makes you hesitate. Maybe they don’t “believe” in therapy. Maybe they’ll say “He’s fine, he’ll grow out of it.” Or maybe they’ll judge you for seeking support.

In this episode, Vanessa breaks down why therapy is not a sign of weakness—it’s a life skill. She shares strategies for handling family pushback, how to reframe therapy as emotional health support, and why prioritizing your child’s well-being is always the right choice. Because at the end of the day, your child’s needs come first—not other people’s opinions.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• How to reframe therapy as a resource, not a last resort
• Ways to respond to family members who don’t understand therapy
• Why setting boundaries around your parenting decisions is important
• What happens if kids don’t get the emotional support they need
• How normalizing mental health care benefits your child long-term

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:

Therapy isn’t about “fixing” a child—it’s about equipping them with the tools to navigate emotions, challenges, and relationships. You wouldn’t skip the doctor for a physical illness—mental health is just as important. Trust your instincts as a parent, and do what’s best for your child, regardless of family opinions.

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.

Confidence... it’s something we all want to feel, yet sometimes, it feels just out of reach. Whether it’s second-guessing ourselves, shrinking in spaces that don’t support our growth, or letting self-doubt take the wheel, so many of us struggle to fully own our power.

In this episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, we’re breaking down why confidence can feel so hard to hold onto and, more importantly, how we can shift our mindset to embrace it fully. Because confidence isn’t about faking it—it’s about believing in who we are and stepping into that power with intention.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why self-doubt creeps in, even when we know we’re capable
• The impact of negative self-talk and how to rewire it
• Three powerful ways to strengthen your confidence
• The connection between mindset, environment, and self-belief
• A guided meditation to help you step into your confidence

REFERENCED EPISODES:

Instilling Confidence in Our Girls

https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast/249

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:

Confidence isn’t something we’re born with—it’s something we build. And while self-doubt may try to hold us back, we have the power to rewrite our inner narrative and step into the strongest, most authentic version of ourselves. So let’s stop shrinking, start believing, and walk boldly into the confidence that has been ours all along.

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, host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman chats with Courtney Youngs, author of The Waggle Dance, about life's unexpected twists and turns. Courtney shares her personal story—from career shifts to personal challenges—and how she discovered the power of the Waggle Dance: learning from life’s experiences and sharing those lessons with others, much like bees do.

She opens up about how becoming a mother changed her perspective, making her realize that she already had many of the answers she was searching for. Courtney talks about trusting her intuition, embracing imperfections, and finding meaning in life's ups and downs. Through The Waggle Dance, she encourages readers to appreciate the people and moments in their lives, learn from their struggles, and share their wisdom to inspire others.

This episode is filled with practical insights on self-care, juggling multiple roles, and staying present. Courtney reminds us that it’s okay not to have everything figured out and that prioritizing self-care helps us show up more fully in all areas of life. Her story is a powerful reminder that every experience—whether planned or unexpected—teaches us something valuable and deepens our connections with others.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about embracing life’s imperfections and finding purpose in the journey!

Referenced Links:

https://courtneyyoungs.com/author

@the_waggledance

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. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.

TODAY'S QUESTION:

"How do I handle the guilt of missing important moments because of work and the feeling of overwhelm from being a working mom?"

As a working mom, it’s easy to feel pulled in a million directions—trying to be present at work, at home, and somehow still take care of yourself. The guilt of missing milestones, the pressure to “do it all,” and the constant feeling of never enough can be overwhelming. But here’s the truth: You don’t have to lose yourself in the process.

In this episode, Vanessa shares practical strategies to help you manage mom guilt, redefine what it means to be “present,” and let go of unrealistic expectations. Because being a great mom and pursuing your goals are not mutually exclusive.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why working mom guilt is so common—and how to shift your mindset
• How to focus on quality over quantity in your time with your kids
• The importance of setting realistic expectations (and letting go of perfection!)
• How to set boundaries at work and home to reduce overwhelm
• Why giving yourself grace is one of the best things you can do for your family

REFERENCED LINK:

Amiga Moms: www.amigamoms.com

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:

Mom guilt is real, but it doesn’t have to run the show. You’re teaching your kids resilience, independence, and the value of hard work—and you’re still a loving, present mother. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s presence in the moments that matter.

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.

Saying no shouldn’t come with guilt... but for many of us, it does. From childhood expectations to cultural influences, we’ve been conditioned to prioritize others’ needs over our own. But constantly saying yes can leave us feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and disconnected from what truly matters.

In this episode we explore why people-pleasing feels so ingrained, how it affects our well-being, and most importantly, how to shift our mindset to make decisions that honor our time and energy... without guilt.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why people-pleasing is so common, especially for women
• How early experiences shape our willingness to say no
• Practical ways to communicate your needs with confidence
• How to sit with discomfort when prioritizing yourself
• A simple reflection exercise to help you embrace your choices

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
Saying no doesn’t make you selfish - it makes you intentional. When we release the pressure to please everyone, we create space for what truly matters. Reflect on a time when you put someone else’s needs before your own. How can you show up for yourself moving forward?

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.