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

In this episode of SEL Book Talks, Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, former educator and licensed therapist, shares her insights on the book Hello, Anger by Jessica Sinarski, illustrated by Mackie Pamintuan. 

This book is an excellent resource for parents, educators, school counselors, and mental health professionals working with children in upper elementary grades. Vanessa discusses how the book helps kids build self-awareness and manage big feelings like anger, embarrassment, and loneliness through engaging metaphors, practical strategies, and emotional regulation techniques.

EPISODE DESCRIPTION
Vanessa reviews Hello, Anger, sharing how it breaks down complex emotions and introduces mindfulness and SEL (social-emotional learning) concepts to children. From body awareness to emotional regulation, she highlights how this resource is ideal for parents, educators, and mental health professionals working with children. She also provides insights into the companion resource bundle packed with activities and affirmations.


TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• How Hello, Anger introduces children to self-awareness and emotional regulation
• Why understanding body sensations helps with identifying big emotions
• How to uncover the feelings hiding underneath anger
• What makes the book a great tool for developing SEL skills
• Details about the companion resource bundle and its engaging activities

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE
Emotions like anger are often just the surface of what we feel. By being curious and understanding what's underneath, kids and adults alike can manage their emotions better. Books like Hello, Anger offer a fun and thoughtful way to teach these critical skills. Listen in, and remember… you’re always free to be mindful!

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINK: https://amzn.to/3Q0EdI1

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💡 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.

Navigating change can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to leadership transitions. Whether it’s a new boss at work, leadership shifts in an organization, or changes in personal dynamics, the uncertainty can leave us feeling unsettled. In this episode, Vanessa explores why change feels so challenging, how to embrace the unknown, and strategies to let go of resistance. Through relatable examples and actionable tips, you’ll learn how to adapt to new leadership with an open heart and an open mind.

TUNE IN TO LEARN

• Why change, especially in leadership, often feels so hard
• The importance of giving space to the unknown and leaning into it
• Strategies to let go of resistance and focus on what you can control
• How to reframe the narrative to create opportunities for growth and connection
• Practical advice on finding balance and common ground with new leaders

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE
 Change doesn’t have to be something we fear. When we let go of resistance, stay curious, and focus on building bridges rather than walls, we create space for growth, connection, and new opportunities. Whether it’s adjusting to a new leader or navigating other changes, remember that the unfamiliar doesn’t stay unfamiliar forever. Listen in, and remember… you’re always free to be mindful!

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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 reduce the overwhelm, find joy, and live life intentionally so you don't lose your... well, you know.

TODAY'S QUESTION:
"How can I best support my child who identifies with the LGBTQ+ community?"

In this heartfelt episode, Vanessa addresses how parents can best support their children who identify with the LGBTQ+ community. With insights rooted in compassion, she emphasizes the importance of unconditional love, education, and empathy. Vanessa also highlights the sobering statistic from The Trevor Project that LGBTQ+ youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers, underscoring the critical role parents play in providing acceptance and support.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why leading with love and patience is crucial when supporting your child
• How to navigate your own feelings and expectations as a parent
• The importance of educating yourself to better empathize with your child’s experience
• Practical ways to connect your child with supportive communities and resources
• How love and acceptance from parents can make a lasting impact on their child’s well-being

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
Every child deserves to feel loved and accepted for who they are. By leading with understanding, educating yourself, and connecting your child with the right support, you can create a foundation of safety and belonging that helps them thrive.

Listen in, and remember... in a world where you can be anything, 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 Alanna Hellman, mom of two under two and founder of Moms Working Overtime. Alanna shares her journey from leaving the corporate world to creating a community where moms can rediscover joy and confidence in the chaos of motherhood.

This conversation isn’t just for moms—it’s a reminder for anyone navigating life’s many roles that joy, balance, and self-care are within reach. Vanessa and Alanna explore the universal challenges of overwhelm, self-doubt, and the importance of community. Whether you’re balancing parenting, work, relationships, or personal goals, their insights offer practical tips and heartfelt encouragement.

For moms, Alanna offers specific strategies for creating systems and routines that can transform the chaos of parenting into something more manageable. And for everyone else, she reminds us of the power of self-care and finding support when life feels overwhelming.

Takeaways from this episode:

• Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity, no matter your role.
• Systems and routines can simplify even the most chaotic days.
• Joy can be found in every season of life, even the challenging ones.

Whether you’re a mom, a caregiver, or just someone juggling life’s demands, this episode will inspire you to pause, reflect, and take steps toward a more intentional, joyful way of living.

Referenced Links:
www.momsworkingovertime.com
https://www.instagram.com/alanna.hellman
https://www.instagram.com/momsworkingovertime

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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 SEL Book Talks, Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, former educator and licensed therapist, shares her insights on the book 30 Minute Groups on Anxiety Management. This book is a must-have for school counselors, social workers, psychologists, and anyone working with kids under time constraints. Vanessa discusses how the book provides a structured approach to understanding and managing anxiety in children, complete with practical resources for group sessions.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why this book is ideal for school settings and time-sensitive professionals.
• How the book covers essential topics like the brain and body on anxiety, types of anxiety, and mindfulness strategies.
• The added value of pre/post-tests, attendance forms, and downloadable resources included with the book.
• Vanessa’s honest feedback and how the book could improve with a spiral-bound format.
• Details about the book giveaway happening on Vanessa’s Instagram page.

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE
This episode highlights a well-rounded resource for helping children understand and manage anxiety, complete with tools for tracking progress and implementing mindfulness strategies. Whether you’re a school professional or a licensed therapist, 30 Minute Groups on Anxiety Management is a practical addition to your toolkit. Don’t forget to check out Vanessa’s Instagram giveaway and subscribe for future book reviews and resources.

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.

Sometimes life doesn’t go as planned. Whether it’s a big move, a change in family dynamics, or even a canceled event, curveballs can leave us feeling frustrated or stuck. But what if we looked at these moments differently? In this episode, Vanessa dives into the power of flexibility, exploring how we can embrace change and adapt when life takes an unexpected turn.

EPISODE DESCRIPTION
Planning is essential, but life doesn’t always stick to the plan. In this episode, Vanessa shares practical mindset shifts and strategies to help you stay grounded and resilient when faced with unexpected changes. With a mix of personal reflections, actionable advice, and empowering affirmations, this episode will leave you feeling ready to adapt with grace and confidence.

TUNE IN TO LEARN

• Why flexibility is key to navigating life’s challenges.
• Practical strategies to embrace change and let go of expectations.
• How to reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth.
• Tools to process emotions and stay grounded in uncertainty.

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE
Flexibility isn’t about avoiding life’s challenges—it’s about meeting them with openness and adaptability. When plans change, we can find strength in how we choose to respond. Let’s embrace life’s twists and turns with grace, trusting that even the unexpected can lead us to something beautiful. 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 dives into real-life parenting questions, offering practical advice to help you raise confident kids, nurture stronger connections, and find your calm in the chaos of parenting.

TODAY'S QUESTION:
"What are the benefits of kids having their own email address?"

In this episode, Vanessa explores the pros and cons of kids having their own email address and shares strategies to set them up for success while keeping them safe online. From teaching responsibility to fostering independence, Vanessa highlights how this step can support kids’ digital literacy and communication skills. She also discusses boundaries and parental controls to ensure a safe online experience for younger users.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why having an email address can teach kids responsibility and independence
• How email can enhance digital literacy and communication skills
• The importance of setting boundaries and monitoring online interactions
• Practical tips for introducing email in a safe and age-appropriate way

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
Introducing an email address can be a valuable step in your child’s development, teaching them essential skills while fostering responsibility. With proper boundaries and guidance, this tool can help them navigate the digital world safely and confidently.

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.

Happy New Year! Whether you're tuning in on January 1st or later, this empowering episode offers a fresh start for 2025. Together, we’ll reflect on the past year and set meaningful intentions for the year ahead. Dive into personal and professional milestones, learn how to create your own Year in Review, and choose your Word of the Year to stay focused and grounded throughout 2025.

EPISODE DESCRIPTION

The beginning of a new year brings reflection and hope. In this episode, Vanessa De Jesus Guzman shares her 2024 milestones and challenges, along with heartfelt lessons on embracing growth and setting intentions. Discover how to create your Year in Review, celebrate your wins, and learn from the tough moments. Vanessa also reveals her Word of the Year for 2025 and how it shapes her approach to life, family, and work. 

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• Why "new year, new me" isn’t necessary when you’re already amazing.
• How to reflect on the past year with a Year in Review.
• Practical tips for choosing your Word of the Year.
• Insights into Vanessa’s personal milestones and challenges from 2024.
• A meditation to set the tone for 2025 with clarity and gratitude.

LINKED EPISODES

Wishes, Goals, Resolutions
 https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast/2

New Year Triggers
 https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast/58

Prioritizing Our Focus for the New Year
 https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast/126

2023… A Year in Review
 https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast/179

New Year, Same You
 https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast/180

Embracing a Word of the Year
 https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast/181

Guided Meditation Included. 
Stay grounded and step into 2025 with clarity and gratitude.

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 reduce the overwhelm, find joy, live life intentionally so you don't lose your... well you know...

TODAY'S QUESTION:
"My middle schooler got an iPhone for Christmas. What can I do to keep them safe?"

In this episode, Vanessa provides a relatable and practical approach to managing your child’s new iPhone responsibly. From setting clear expectations to utilizing parental controls, she shares actionable tips to ensure your middle schooler stays safe while learning responsible phone use. Vanessa emphasizes the importance of digital boundaries and the benefits of starting this tech journey together as a family.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• How to set clear expectations with your child before they start using their phone
• The importance of parental controls and how to use them effectively
• Ways to teach your child about digital boundaries and online kindness
• How to balance technology with other activities your child enjoys
• Tips for handling inevitable mistakes with patience and as learning opportunities

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
Getting a phone is a big step for your child—and for you. By setting clear rules, staying consistent, and modeling healthy habits, you can make this new phase a safe and positive experience for the entire family.

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 sits down with Kristi Kandel, a visionary real estate developer, to explore the power of purpose-driven living and the transformation of neglected communities. Kristi takes us on a journey from her humble beginnings in a small Ohio town to becoming a successful entrepreneur and passionate advocate for revitalizing underserved areas.

Kristi opens up about how her experiences growing up in poverty and her unwavering work ethic paved the way for her career in real estate. She discusses her deep commitment to community empowerment, emphasizing the importance of collaborating with local residents to restore neglected properties and create lasting change. She also shares her personal journey of self-discovery, revealing how mindfulness practices like meditation and gratitude have helped her stay grounded.

If you’re looking to make a meaningful impact in your community, Kristi’s story of resilience, purpose, and empowerment is for you. Don’t miss this episode!


Find Kristi Here:

• https://kristikandel.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/localrealestatedevelopers
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/local-real-estate-developers
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristi-kandel-4b650a12/

Kristi's Offer:

• 50% off $197 Real Estate Course using your coupon code: Freetobemindful
• https://www.localrealestatedeveloper.com/course-signup

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.