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Ever thought about why your New Year's resolutions don't stick, while others seem to thrive with theirs? Today's episode of "Have a Cup of Johanny" invites you to explore the concept of new beginnings and what truly fuels lasting change. As we kick off 2025, I, Joa, your host and fellow overthinker, reflect on my own journey of growth, revealing that it’s less about when you start and more about how you take those first steps. Imagine breaking in a new pair of boots—it's about small, consistent efforts that eventually lead to comfort and success, rather than diving in headfirst and facing blisters of regret. 

Join me as we celebrate the symbolic motivation of a new year, while also acknowledging that change can start at any moment that feels right for you. Whether you're the type to draw a line in the sand on January 1st or prefer to start when the feeling strikes, it's all about the personalized journey of growth. Discover why embracing gradual shifts, much like easing into a new pair of boots, can make your resolutions sustainable and rewarding. Let’s lace up for this exciting season of growth and motivation, dedicated to making new habits stick with ease and joy.

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If today’s episode hit you in the chest the way it hit me, don’t just walk away—walk toward something that reflects you.

Subscribe to the podcast, hit that YouTube channel for the behind-the-scenes, and if you’re ready to read a story about what it really means to come home to yourself—
👉🏽 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

It’s about a Dominican-American bruja who’s been running from herself her whole life until ancestral magic, generational wounds, and a haunted-ass hill force her to face the truth.

If you’ve ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” or like you don’t fit anywhere, you’re exactly who this story was written for.

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Because becoming who you are is the bravest kind of magic.

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Are you ready to step out of your comfort zone and into a world of endless possibilities? In our latest episode of "Have a Cup of Johanny," we explore the often daunting yet transformative journey of releasing the fear of the unknown. Join me, Joa, as I share my personal stories of facing the intimidating shadows of uncertainty—from launching new projects to taking the brave step of republishing my work. These moments of dread, although unsettling, have ultimately opened doors to growth and self-discovery. Let’s uncover why our minds are wired to conjure worst-case scenarios and how we can shift our perspective to embrace uncertainty as a playground for expansion and opportunity.

Imagine walking into a dark room, unsure of what lies ahead. Does it invoke fear, or does it spark curiosity? Together, we'll redefine this fear as not a barrier but a gateway to incredible experiences beyond our imagination. By daring to venture beyond the familiar, into the dark spots outside our lighted circle, we activate our potential and step into a dynamic growing and learning zone. As the new year approaches, it’s the perfect time to say goodbye to fear and hello to the uncharted territories that promise magic and transformation. Grab your cup, and let's toast to the adventures waiting in the unknown.

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If today’s episode hit you in the chest the way it hit me, don’t just walk away—walk toward something that reflects you.

Subscribe to the podcast, hit that YouTube channel for the behind-the-scenes, and if you’re ready to read a story about what it really means to come home to yourself—
👉🏽 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

It’s about a Dominican-American bruja who’s been running from herself her whole life until ancestral magic, generational wounds, and a haunted-ass hill force her to face the truth.

If you’ve ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” or like you don’t fit anywhere, you’re exactly who this story was written for.

🎙️ Subscribe.
📺 Follow on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2SRDePbyy8M85Wbf25VUCg
📚 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja. https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

Because becoming who you are is the bravest kind of magic.

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Could the relentless pursuit of perfection be holding you back from reaching your true potential? Join me, Joa, as I share my journey of overcoming perfectionism, which once masqueraded as ambition but left me feeling stuck and weighed down by self-doubt. Through personal stories of my own procrastination battles, you'll hear how perfectionism impacted my writing and career, and we'll explore how letting go of this sneaky impediment can foster growth, creativity, and joy. This episode is your invitation to embrace imperfection and discover the freedom that comes with prioritizing progress over flawlessness.

In a world that often equates perfection with success, let's challenge this notion and aim for just a 10% improvement each day. I reveal how therapy and journaling helped me tackle my own perfectionist tendencies, which were deeply rooted in a fear of failure. By sharing insights from my experiences in nursing and writing, I'll encourage you to reframe your mindset, question those nagging perfectionist thoughts, and move forward with authenticity. Tune in to "Have a Cup of Johanny" as we learn to welcome mistakes as opportunities for growth and transformation, reminding ourselves that a fresh start is always within reach.

Support the show

If today’s episode hit you in the chest the way it hit me, don’t just walk away—walk toward something that reflects you.

Subscribe to the podcast, hit that YouTube channel for the behind-the-scenes, and if you’re ready to read a story about what it really means to come home to yourself—
👉🏽 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

It’s about a Dominican-American bruja who’s been running from herself her whole life until ancestral magic, generational wounds, and a haunted-ass hill force her to face the truth.

If you’ve ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” or like you don’t fit anywhere, you’re exactly who this story was written for.

🎙️ Subscribe.
📺 Follow on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2SRDePbyy8M85Wbf25VUCg
📚 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja. https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

Because becoming who you are is the bravest kind of magic.

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Can you imagine a world where letting go of control opens the door to more successful teamwork? Many of us cling to control as a shield against uncertainty. Yet, in this episode of "Have a Cup of Johanny," we venture into the transformative power of trust and collaboration. As a self-proclaimed control enthusiast, I share my journey of learning to balance my desire for control with the needs of a team. Through candid personal stories, I discuss the strategies I've started to embrace, like reframing my mindset and enhancing communication to foster a more cohesive and effective team environment.

Discover how acknowledging tendencies towards micromanagement can lead to stronger, more reliable teams. Setting clear expectations and implementing timely check-ins can ease anxiety and make room for personal and collective growth. Listen in as I discuss the importance of celebrating team achievements, which not only builds unity but also empowers us for future projects. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the challenge—yet necessity—of relinquishing control to achieve shared goals, a principle that resonates in countless teamwork scenarios.

Support the show

If today’s episode hit you in the chest the way it hit me, don’t just walk away—walk toward something that reflects you.

Subscribe to the podcast, hit that YouTube channel for the behind-the-scenes, and if you’re ready to read a story about what it really means to come home to yourself—
👉🏽 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

It’s about a Dominican-American bruja who’s been running from herself her whole life until ancestral magic, generational wounds, and a haunted-ass hill force her to face the truth.

If you’ve ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” or like you don’t fit anywhere, you’re exactly who this story was written for.

🎙️ Subscribe.
📺 Follow on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2SRDePbyy8M85Wbf25VUCg
📚 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja. https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

Because becoming who you are is the bravest kind of magic.

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What if letting go is the key to unlocking unexpected peace and joy in your life? Join me on this emotional journey in the season of growth on the "Have a Cup of Johanny" podcast, where I open up about the power of releasing what no longer serves us. Reflecting on my own challenging year, I candidly share the resilience it took to navigate life's daunting inclines while remaining true to myself as a woman, an immigrant, and a Latina leader. Together, we explore the transformative act of letting go—whether it’s shedding control, grudges, or perfectionism—and how it can create space for serenity and happiness. Through these shared experiences, I reaffirm my commitment to optimism and a can-do spirit, pushing against the tides of prejudice to embrace the possibilities that lie ahead.

As we prepare for a peaceful and joyful December, I invite you to immerse yourself in the present moment and consider what you're holding onto that might be holding you back. This episode focuses on the importance of self-care and staying grounded, urging us to replace negativity with positivity. It's a heartfelt call to embrace new beginnings and fresh starts, to engage in thoughtful introspection, and to connect with each other through comments and ratings. Join me every Wednesday as we continue this journey, fueled by optimism and community, with a warm cup of coffee or tea in hand. Let's welcome the possibilities together, recognizing the profound impact of letting go and the beauty it brings to our lives.

I have two new series on YouTube:

Support the show

If today’s episode hit you in the chest the way it hit me, don’t just walk away—walk toward something that reflects you.

Subscribe to the podcast, hit that YouTube channel for the behind-the-scenes, and if you’re ready to read a story about what it really means to come home to yourself—
👉🏽 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

It’s about a Dominican-American bruja who’s been running from herself her whole life until ancestral magic, generational wounds, and a haunted-ass hill force her to face the truth.

If you’ve ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” or like you don’t fit anywhere, you’re exactly who this story was written for.

🎙️ Subscribe.
📺 Follow on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2SRDePbyy8M85Wbf25VUCg
📚 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja. https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

Because becoming who you are is the bravest kind of magic.

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Familiarity breeds contempt, "but why does it feel like those closest to us often become our toughest critics?" Discover the intricate dynamics of personal growth and how the most intimate observers in our lives can sometimes challenge our journey. Join me on "Have a Cup of Johanny" as we unravel the reasons behind this phenomenon, exploring the roles of vulnerability, projection, and envy. Learn the crucial art of setting boundaries to protect your mental health and make informed decisions about who gets a front-row seat to your story. In a world of oversharing, find out how to discern what you reveal and to whom, securing your peace and well-being.

Transitioning to self-care and goal pursuit, this episode equips you with practical tools for enhancing emotional resilience. Experience the transformative impact of voice and textual journaling, and discover the power of a "compliments folder" to lift your spirits. We talk about the liberating practices of forgiveness and letting go of grudges. Personal strategies like taking "crying breaks" and visiting anger rooms are shared to help process emotions effectively while emphasizing the importance of moving at your own pace. Recognize your self-worth beyond external perceptions and keep celebrating your unique journey. As the November series wraps up, these insights are designed to bolster your personal growth, preparing you to stride confidently into the coming months. Don't forget to subscribe, share your thoughts, and join us for more enriching discussions.

Support the show

If today’s episode hit you in the chest the way it hit me, don’t just walk away—walk toward something that reflects you.

Subscribe to the podcast, hit that YouTube channel for the behind-the-scenes, and if you’re ready to read a story about what it really means to come home to yourself—
👉🏽 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

It’s about a Dominican-American bruja who’s been running from herself her whole life until ancestral magic, generational wounds, and a haunted-ass hill force her to face the truth.

If you’ve ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” or like you don’t fit anywhere, you’re exactly who this story was written for.

🎙️ Subscribe.
📺 Follow on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2SRDePbyy8M85Wbf25VUCg
📚 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja. https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

Because becoming who you are is the bravest kind of magic.

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Ever felt like you're juggling too many balls, trying to keep both your personal growth and professional aspirations aloft? You're not alone! This episode of Have a Cup of Johanny delves into the art of setting boundaries between personal and professional lives—a skill I've honed out of sheer necessity. I share revealing anecdotes from my own life, illustrating how creating these boundaries has been pivotal in maintaining my peace and sharpening my focus. We'll uncover the importance of being selective with whom you share your milestones, ensuring your energy is uplifted by those who genuinely appreciate your efforts. 

As we explore this balancing act, we distinguish between truly supportive friends and those who merely agree with everything you say. A nourishing network is key to fostering both personal and professional growth, and I'll share strategies to help you curate this essential support system. From personal stories to practical tips, learn how to create distinct spaces for your personal and professional life, and how a supportive partner, like my husband, can encourage your journey without stifling your creativity. Through trial and error, find what works best for you and build an environment where you can thrive, sharing your achievements with those who will genuinely celebrate them.

Support the show

If today’s episode hit you in the chest the way it hit me, don’t just walk away—walk toward something that reflects you.

Subscribe to the podcast, hit that YouTube channel for the behind-the-scenes, and if you’re ready to read a story about what it really means to come home to yourself—
👉🏽 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

It’s about a Dominican-American bruja who’s been running from herself her whole life until ancestral magic, generational wounds, and a haunted-ass hill force her to face the truth.

If you’ve ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” or like you don’t fit anywhere, you’re exactly who this story was written for.

🎙️ Subscribe.
📺 Follow on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2SRDePbyy8M85Wbf25VUCg
📚 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja. https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

Because becoming who you are is the bravest kind of magic.

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What if your envy could be your greatest ally on the path to personal growth? In this compelling episode, I unpack a personal journey of confronting the uncomfortable and often misunderstood emotion of envy. Sharing a story from my time in the Army, where my initial envy of others' promotions led to self-reflection and growth, I offer insights into transforming envy from a stumbling block into a stepping stone. From the initial sting of being met with indifference when sharing good news to utilizing journaling for deeper self-awareness, this episode promises a fresh perspective on envy as a catalyst for change. With the wisdom gained from mentors and hard-won resilience, I reveal how envy can fuel ambition and help maintain focus on personal and professional goals.

Life's challenges demand a delicate balance between personal desires and professional duties. Here, I share strategies to protect your peace and recognize what truly matters, emphasizing the art of boundaries and self-preservation. As a self-proclaimed master of maintaining harmony between different facets of life, I impart lessons learned along the way, encouraging you to keep your aspirations clear and your heart open. Whether you’re battling the green monster or striving for equilibrium in your life, this episode is a thoughtful guide to navigating your emotions and using them to propel you forward. Join us for this eye-opening discussion, and let's transform envy into a powerful tool for growth together.

Support the show

If today’s episode hit you in the chest the way it hit me, don’t just walk away—walk toward something that reflects you.

Subscribe to the podcast, hit that YouTube channel for the behind-the-scenes, and if you’re ready to read a story about what it really means to come home to yourself—
👉🏽 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

It’s about a Dominican-American bruja who’s been running from herself her whole life until ancestral magic, generational wounds, and a haunted-ass hill force her to face the truth.

If you’ve ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” or like you don’t fit anywhere, you’re exactly who this story was written for.

🎙️ Subscribe.
📺 Follow on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2SRDePbyy8M85Wbf25VUCg
📚 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja. https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

Because becoming who you are is the bravest kind of magic.

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Have you ever felt the sting of sharing your triumphs only to be met with indifference or mockery by those you expected to stand and cheer? This season of "Have a Cup of Johanny" kicks off with a deeply personal story that unveils the emotional fallout of such moments, exploring how these reactions from our closest allies can unexpectedly shape our personal growth journey. We navigate through the emotional turmoil of seeking validation from loved ones and the profound disappointment when our achievements are belittled. This episode is a heartfelt expedition into understanding these dynamics and how to stay on the growth path, even when recognition feels out of reach.

But it’s not all about the lows; it's time to reclaim the narrative, celebrate small victories, and maintain self-validation. We delve into the importance of setting boundaries and finding ways to cherish accomplishments, whether through journaling or sharing with trusted individuals. This is a reminder that negative responses often reflect others’ internal battles and shouldn't diminish our self-worth or derail our progress. By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with strategies to thrive amidst unsupportive environments and an enticing teaser for tackling envy next week. Join us as we elevate the importance of recognizing our unique journeys, regardless of external applause.

Support the show

If today’s episode hit you in the chest the way it hit me, don’t just walk away—walk toward something that reflects you.

Subscribe to the podcast, hit that YouTube channel for the behind-the-scenes, and if you’re ready to read a story about what it really means to come home to yourself—
👉🏽 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

It’s about a Dominican-American bruja who’s been running from herself her whole life until ancestral magic, generational wounds, and a haunted-ass hill force her to face the truth.

If you’ve ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” or like you don’t fit anywhere, you’re exactly who this story was written for.

🎙️ Subscribe.
📺 Follow on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2SRDePbyy8M85Wbf25VUCg
📚 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja. https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

Because becoming who you are is the bravest kind of magic.

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What if you could connect with loved ones who have passed in a meaningful way that spans across cultures and traditions? Join me as I share my personal journey of building a heartfelt altar at home, inspired by the vibrant Mexican tradition of La Ofrenda, to honor cherished family members and pets. This episode explores the significance of Dia de Muertos and how it joyfully welcomes spirits back for a day of remembrance. We also travel to Haiti to uncover the unique Fete Guedet, a celebration that melds elements of Mardi Gras, Halloween, and Dia de Muertos, and venture to Bolivia for the Fiesta de las Ñatitas, where families commemorate skulls believed to forge protective bonds with their caretakers. Through these global traditions, we reflect on the universal desire to honor and remain connected to those we've lost.

Expressing love takes many forms, and in this chapter, I offer inspiration and ideas on how to commemorate the memories of those who have departed. From personal stories to cultural rituals, this discussion emphasizes the importance of maintaining connections through meaningful practices. Engage with the conversation by sharing your own experiences, leaving comments, and rating the podcast. Your input enriches our exploration and keeps the dialogue alive. Thank you for being part of this heartfelt journey, and I look forward to sharing more personal reflections and cultural insights with you in the episodes to come.

Support the show

If today’s episode hit you in the chest the way it hit me, don’t just walk away—walk toward something that reflects you.

Subscribe to the podcast, hit that YouTube channel for the behind-the-scenes, and if you’re ready to read a story about what it really means to come home to yourself—
👉🏽 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

It’s about a Dominican-American bruja who’s been running from herself her whole life until ancestral magic, generational wounds, and a haunted-ass hill force her to face the truth.

If you’ve ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” or like you don’t fit anywhere, you’re exactly who this story was written for.

🎙️ Subscribe.
📺 Follow on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2SRDePbyy8M85Wbf25VUCg
📚 Preorder The Ordinary Bruja. https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/the-ordinary-bruja-book-one-of-las-cerradoras-series-j-e-ortega/

Because becoming who you are is the bravest kind of magic.