In this episode of the Growing with Sol podcast, I dive deep into one of the most pressing issues of our time: the loneliness epidemic and how to create meaningful community in 2025. If you've been feeling disconnected, struggling to make friends, or finding dating impossibly difficult, this episode speaks directly to your experience.

I explore how the concept of community has completely transformed since the 90s and early 2000s. We've shifted from deep connections with neighbors, coworkers, and local communities to predominantly online interactions with people we may never meet in person. While these digital connections can be valuable, many of us are missing the inconvenient but essential work of showing up for each other in real life.

From the current state of dating (where basic conversational skills seem to have vanished) to friendships that lack consistency and depth, I break down why so many of us feel isolated despite being more "connected" than ever. I share personal stories about what real friendship looks like.

This isn't just about diagnosing the problem... it's about solutions. I guide you through practical steps to build the community you crave: defining who your community actually is, honestly assessing how you show up for others, and creating opportunities for deeper connections. Because here's the truth: meaningful community isn't convenient, but it's absolutely essential for our wellbeing.

Join the conversation! How do you define community in 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments or DM me on Instagram or TikTok @YourCoachMari.

See you in the next episode! ✨

💬 LET'S CONNECT:

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→ The Transformation Program

→ The Evolution Program

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1. Subscribe and leave a review to help more listeners find the podcast!

In this episode of the Growing with Sol podcast, I talk the often overwhelming concept of self-care by breaking it down into something actually achievable. If you've ever felt intimidated by those 20-step morning routines or elaborate self-care rituals you see online, this episode is your permission to simplify.

I explore why traditional self-care routines can feel impossible when you're dealing with depression, burnout, executive dysfunction, or you're simply exhausted. Rather than adding more to your plate, I show you how to build a self-care practice that requires minimal physical and mental energy while still nourishing your wellbeing.

Learn how to identify what's already working in your routine (yes, brushing your teeth counts as self-care!), how to add just ONE thing that will make a difference, and why consistency with small actions trumps sporadic elaborate routines. I dive into the specific challenges of executive dysfunction and offer practical strategies for overcoming barriers to self-care.

This episode is about honoring where you are right now and creating a routine that fits your life – not the other way around. Sometimes the most radical form of self-care is lowering the bar to make it actually happen.

Join the conversation! What's one small self-care habit you've managed to maintain? Share in the comments or DM me on Instagram or TikTok @YourCoachMari.

See you in the next episode! ✨

💬 LET'S CONNECT:

My Insta

My TikTok

Growing with Sol Podcast

Buy Me a Cafecito

Send in questions: [email protected]

We might just have the same taste in books. Check out my Book List.

(Bookshop affiliate)

🌱 LET’S GROW TOGETHER

→ Schedule your discovery call

→ 1:1 Life Coaching Coaching

→ The Transformation Program

→ The Evolution Program

🎧 DON'T FORGET TO:

1. Subscribe and leave a review to help more listeners find the podcast!
2. Share this episode with fellow bookworms and anyone on their healing journey.
3. Schedule a discovery call if you're looking for support 

In this episode of the Growing with Sol podcast, I dive into the crucial relationship between sleep and mental health. Continuing our wellness series, we explore how quality sleep directly impacts our emotional regulation, anxiety, and depression.

I break down what your circadian rhythm actually is and how it influences not just your sleep patterns, but also your hormones, digestion, and body temperature. Learn why sleep deprivation amplifies negative emotions while dampening positive ones - a combination that can seriously worsen anxiety and depression.

Research shows that poor sleep quality isn't just a symptom of mental health struggles - it can actually contribute to their onset and make existing conditions worse. The good news? Creating better sleep habits can help. I share practical tips for developing a healthy bedtime routine, including nutrition considerations, screen management, and environment optimization.

Whether you're struggling with falling asleep or staying asleep, this episode offers science-backed strategies to improve both your sleep quality and mental wellbeing. Remember, most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep for optimal health - and I'll help you get there!

Join the conversation! What's your biggest sleep challenge? Share in the comments or DM me on Instagram or TikTok @YourCoachMari.

See you in the next episode! ✨

Resources referred to in this chapter::

Book: Eat Smarter by Shawn Stevenson 

Circadian Rhythm

Emotion, emotion regulation and sleep: An intimate relationship

How Sleep Deprivation Impacts Mental Health

Sleep tips: 6 steps to better sleep

Bedtime Routines for Adults

💬 LET'S CONNECT:

My Insta

My TikTok

Growing with Sol Podcast

Buy Me a Cafecito

Send in questions: [email protected]

We might just have the same taste in books. Check out my Book List.

(Bookshop affiliate)

🌱 LET’S GROW TOGETHER

→ Schedule your discovery call

→ 1:1 Life Coaching Coaching

→ The Transformation Program

→ The Evolution Program

🎧 DON'T FORGET TO:

1. Subscribe & leave a review to support the pod
2. Schedule a discovery call if you're looking for support

In this episode of the Growing with Sol podcast, I dive into the powerful connection between physical activity and mental wellbeing. I share how exercise became a lifeline during my own struggles with depression and anxiety, and explore the science behind why movement matters for our mental health.

Research confirms that regular physical activity significantly improves mood and depressive symptoms for people of all ages. Whether it's martial arts like my beloved jiu-jitsu or simply daily walks with my dog Mochi, finding movement that works for you can interrupt negative thought patterns and create space for healing.

Beyond the physical benefits, sports and group activities combat the loneliness epidemic by helping us build community. If you're feeling overwhelmed or anxious, even a 20-minute daily walk contributes to the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week that health experts suggest.

What physical activity helps your mental wellbeing? DM me or share your thoughts on socials!

If you're looking for support in building self-esteem and confidence, I'm currently accepting clients. Click the link in the show notes to schedule your discovery call!

See you in the next episode! ✨

Articles referred to in this chapter:

Mind-body connection is built into brain, by WashU Medicine

Role of Physical Activity on Mental Health and Well-Being: A Review, by PubMed Central

Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms, by Mayo Clinic

The impact of sports participation on mental health and social outcomes in adults, by PubMed Central

💬 LET'S CONNECT:

My Insta

My TikTok

Growing with Sol Podcast

Buy Me a Cafecito

Send in questions: [email protected]

We might just have the same taste in books. Check out my Book List.

(Bookshop affiliate)

🌱 LET’S GROW TOGETHER

→ Schedule your discovery call

→ 1:1 Life Coaching Coaching

→ The Transformation Program

→ The Evolution Program

🎧 DON'T FORGET TO:

1. Subscribe and leave a review to help more listeners find the podcast!
2. Join the Conversation! What's your favorite way to incorporate movement into your daily routine? Let's chat!
3. Follow along on IG, TikTok & Threads: @YourCoachMari
4. Drop your thoughts in the comments—how has movement helped your mental health?

In this final episode of my grief series, I shift focus to those supporting someone through the grieving process.

As we've explored grief through cultural lenses and personal experiences, now it's time to address how to show up for others during their most difficult moments.

I share practical guidance on how to be truly present for someone experiencing grief, from offering your physical presence without trying to "fix" their pain, to providing tangible support with everyday tasks like meal preparation or childcare that become overwhelming during intense grief.

We explore the delicate balance of emotional support: validating feelings, creating judgment-free spaces, and avoiding common pitfalls like saying "I know how you feel" or pressuring someone to "move on." I discuss the importance of long-term support, remembering important dates, and continuing to include grieving individuals in social activities even months after their loss.

Whether you're currently supporting someone through grief or want to be better prepared for when a loved one experiences loss, this episode offers compassionate, practical strategies for being a meaningful support person without overstepping boundaries.

The most important takeaway?

There's no single "right way" to support someone through grief - consistency, patience, and creating space for their unique process are what matter most.

Your presence matters more than finding the "perfect" words, sometimes simply being there is the greatest gift you can offer.

Looking for support on your own healing journey?

I'm currently accepting new clients - schedule your discovery call through the link in the description.

💬 LET'S CONNECT:

My Insta

My TikTok

Growing with Sol Podcast

Buy Me a Cafecito

Send in questions: [email protected]

We might just have the same taste in books. Check out my Book List.

(Bookshop affiliate)

🌱 LET’S GROW TOGETHER

→ Schedule your discovery call

→ 1:1 Life Coaching Coaching

→ The Transformation Program

→ The Evolution Program

🎧 DON'T FORGET TO: Subscribe and leave a review to help more listeners find the podcast!

In this episode of Growing With Sol, my bestie Priscilla and I dive deep into Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas, exploring the transformative journeys of its female protagonists.

🚨 Major spoiler alert! 🚨

If you haven't read Queen of Shadows (or the entire Throne of Glass series), proceed with caution as we discuss critical plot points and character developments throughout.

We break down Aelin's journey toward emotional maturity and vulnerability, analyzing how she confronts her past relationships, especially with Arobynn, and begins to embrace her true self. Her interactions with Rowan, Lysandra, and others reveal her growth from the cocky assassin we first met to a woman ready to step into her power.

We also explore Manon's fascinating character arc as she questions everything she's been taught as a witch and heir to the Blackbeaks. Her transformation from darkness to light represents one of the book's most compelling journeys.

This book showcases incredible female relationships, from enemies to friends, and the power of women supporting each other. If you've struggled with self-acceptance, vulnerability, or stepping into your power, this conversation is for you.

What did Queen of Shadows teach you about growth or reclaiming your power? Share in the comments!

About my bestie Priscilla:

Priscilla De Lara is originally from California now living in Milan, Italy working in international education. She is a lover of food, traveling, and reading! Fun fact: Priscilla was a college radio DJ.

Connect with Priscilla on TikTok @priscillainitaly

💬 LET'S CONNECT:

My Insta

My TikTok

Growing with Sol Podcast

Buy Me a Cafecito

Send in questions: [email protected]

We might just have the same taste in books. Check out my Book List.

(Bookshop affiliate)

🌱 LET’S GROW TOGETHER

→ Schedule your discovery call

→ 1:1 Life Coaching Coaching

→ The Transformation Program

→ The Evolution Program

🎧 DON'T FORGET TO:

1. Subscribe and leave a review to help more listeners find the podcast!
2. Share this episode with fellow bookworms and anyone on their healing journey.
3. Don't forget to subscribe for more literary discussions that connect fantasy with real-life growth and healing.

In this continuation of our grief series, I explore how different cultures process and express grief, focusing specifically on American and Mexican/Mexican-American traditions and customs. Having lived between both cultures, I share my personal observations on how these approaches to mourning differ - and what we can learn from each perspective.

I discuss how American culture often encourages a quick return to normalcy after loss, with limited bereavement leave and an expectation to grieve privately. In contrast, I explore the more open emotional expression common in Mexican and Mexican-American traditions, including regular cemetery visits and cultural celebrations like Día de los Muertos that create space for both sadness and joy in remembrance.

From the timing of funeral services (days versus weeks after death) to the social acceptance of public mourning, these cultural differences reveal much about how societies view grief. Most importantly, I share how embracing elements from different cultural approaches can help us develop healthier relationships with loss.

Whether you're navigating grief through your own cultural lens or supporting someone who is grieving, this episode offers compassionate perspectives on honoring your emotions while finding meaningful ways to stay connected to those you've lost.

Honor your grief in whatever form it takes - there's no cultural "right way" to remember those we've lost 💫✨

Looking for support on your healing journey?

I'm currently accepting new clients - schedule your discovery call through the link in the description.

💬 LET'S CONNECT:

My Insta

My TikTok

Growing with Sol Podcast

Buy Me a Cafecito

Send in questions: [email protected]

We might just have the same taste in books. Check out my Book List.

(Bookshop affiliate)

🌱 LET’S GROW TOGETHER

→ Schedule your discovery call

→ 1:1 Life Coaching Coaching

→ The Transformation Program

→ The Evolution Program

🎧 DON'T FORGET TO:

1. Subscribe and leave a review to help more listeners find the podcast!
2. Share this episode with fellow bookworms and anyone on their healing journey.

In this episode of Growing with Sol, I dive deep into the complex and universal experience of grief. As someone who's recently faced unexpected loss in my own family, I wanted to share what I've learned both professionally and personally about navigating the grief journey.

I explore the multifaceted nature of grief, not just emotional, but physical, cognitive, and social as well. From sleep disturbances and physical symptoms to the way grief reshapes our relationships, I break down how loss affects us as whole beings.

This episode covers different types of grief, including anticipatory grief (when we're preparing for a potential loss) and complicated grief (when grief becomes prolonged and intense). I also touch on how cultural backgrounds influence our grieving processes and how we honor those we've lost.

Whether you're currently grieving, supporting someone who is, or simply want to understand this universal human experience better, this episode offers compassionate insights on learning to live with grief rather than "getting over it."

Join me next week as I dive deeper into the cultural aspects of grief and how different traditions honor and remember loved ones.

Healing isn't linear, and neither is grief. Honor your journey at every step 💕✨

Looking for support on your healing journey?

I'm currently accepting new clients - schedule your discovery call through the link in the description.

💬 LET'S CONNECT:

My Insta

My TikTok

Growing with Sol Podcast

Buy Me a Cafecito

Send in questions: [email protected]

We might just have the same taste in books. Check out my Book List.

(Bookshop affiliate)

🌱 LET’S GROW TOGETHER

→ Schedule your discovery call

→ 1:1 Life Coaching Coaching

→ The Transformation Program

→ The Evolution Program

🎧 DON'T FORGET TO:

1. Subscribe and leave a review to help more listeners find the podcast!
2. Share this episode with with your friends and family or anyone on their healing journey.

In this episode of Growing With Sol, I dive into how social media affects our self-perception and mental wellbeing. As someone who's "chronically online" myself, I explore the complicated relationship we have with platforms that simultaneously connect us and disconnect us from reality.

I share recent statistics showing the average person spends over 140 minutes daily on social media, along with research revealing how increased screen time weakens the protective effects of high self-esteem against depression.

The comparison culture we experience online creates a distorted view of reality, as we measure our everyday lives against others' highlight reels. I discuss practical strategies for developing healthier social media habits, including creating boundaries, practicing self-validation, and building real-world connections.

Whether you're struggling with social media's impact on your confidence or simply looking to create a healthier digital lifestyle, this episode offers practical guidance for navigating our online world while protecting your self-worth.

Remember, your worth isn't defined by likes or followers. You are enough, exactly as you are. 💙

💬 LET'S CONNECT:

My Insta

My TikTok

Growing with Sol Podcast

Buy Me a Cafecito

Send in questions: [email protected]

We might just have the same taste in books. Check out my Book List.

(Bookshop affiliate)

🌱 LET’S GROW TOGETHER

→ Schedule your discovery call

→ 1:1 Life Coaching Coaching

→ The Transformation Program

→ The Evolution Program

🎧 DON'T FORGET TO:

1. Subscribe and leave a review to help more listeners find the podcast!
2. Looking for support in building your self-esteem? Schedule a discovery call through the link in the description.

In this latest episode of "Stories That Shape Us," I dive into Sarah J. Maas's Assassin's Blade with my bestie Priscilla! We explore the complex, often unhealthy relationships that shaped Celaena Sardothien's journey before she became the protagonist we meet in Throne of Glass.

We unpack the toxic dynamic between Celaena and Arobynn Hamel - her mentor, father figure, and manipulator - and how this relationship affected her ability to form healthy connections. We also discuss her meaningful relationship with Sam Cortland, her first true friend and love, and how these early experiences shaped her character.

This episode contains thoughtful analysis of emotional abuse, manipulation, and healing through fiction. We examine how Celaena's experiences at the Silent Assassins compound and her friendship with Ansel Briarcliff provided her first glimpses of what healthy mentorship could look like.

🚨 MAJOR SPOILERS 🚨 for Assassin's Blade and the broader Throne of Glass series!

If you've experienced emotional manipulation or toxic relationships, this episode might resonate deeply with you. I share some of my own experiences and how they connected me to Celaena's journey.

What did you learn about relationships from Assassin's Blade? Drop your thoughts in the comments!

About my bestie Priscilla:

Priscilla De Lara is originally from California now living in Milan, Italy working in international education. She is a lover of food, traveling, and reading! Fun fact: Priscilla was a college radio DJ.

Connect with Priscilla on TikTok @priscillainitaly

💬 LET'S CONNECT:

My Insta

My TikTok

Growing with Sol Podcast

Buy Me a Cafecito

Send in questions: [email protected]

We might just have the same taste in books. Check out my Book List.

(Bookshop affiliate)

🌱 LET’S GROW TOGETHER

→ Schedule your discovery call

→ 1:1 Life Coaching Coaching

→ The Transformation Program

→ The Evolution Program

🎧 DON'T FORGET TO:

1. Subscribe and leave a review to help more listeners find the podcast!
2. Share this episode with fellow bookworms and anyone on their healing journey.
3. Don't forget to subscribe for more literary discussions that connect fantasy with real-life growth and healing.