In this episode of Becoming is Messy, I’m joined by the incredible Shawnti Refuge, aka Journal Bae—a Master Certified Mental Health Coach, bestselling author, and founder of Shawnti Refuge Journals. After experiencing what most would call a mental breakdown, Shawnti flipped the script and reframed it as a mental breakthrough—a moment that led her to uncover the healing power of guided journaling. Now, through her journals, workshops, and coaching, she helps others release emotional baggage, silence negative self-talk, and step into true self-care.

We dive into what it really means to break free from survival mode, how to stop perfectionism from running the show, and why so many of us believe the “I’m fine” lie for far too long. Shawnti shares how journaling became her most powerful healing tool, how it can help manifest the life you truly want, and why she’s dedicated to helping others gain freedom from the weight of unresolved emotions.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on empty, carrying everyone else’s burdens, or stuck in a cycle of self-doubt—this episode is your permission slip to put yourself first. Because as Shawnti shows us, healing might be messy, but it’s also the most freeing thing you’ll ever do.

🎙️ Grab your journal, press play, and let’s get into it!

🔗 Links & Resources

✨ Join the Messy community on Instagram: @BecomingIsMessy

✨ Follow Meghann for more real, raw, and messy wisdom: @MeghannDawson

✨ Explore coaching, workshops & more: www.meghanndawson.com (sign up for Meghann's weekly email)

✨ Shop the Messy Collection: www.meghanndawson.com/shop

🌿 Connect with Shawnti Refuge @ www.shawntirefugejournals.com

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