Episode #19: Crystal Kung Minkoff, the trailblazing first Asian American cast member on "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," graces our show with her candid reflections. Crystal offers a fresh perspective on her journey, from navigating the dynamics of reality TV filming to embracing her Chinese heritage, including her lineage from Confucius. Her insights into balancing cultural identity, societal expectations, and the personal significance of preserving maiden names in the face of marriage offer a nuanced look at her experience in the public eye.

Reality television often demands larger-than-life personas, yet authenticity remains a core theme as Crystal shares her struggles and triumphs. We examine the contrasts between introverted and extroverted personalities and how these influence social interactions, whether on-screen or at home. Additionally, Crystal illustrates the importance of maintaining a true sense of self amidst the pressures of self-promotion and exaggerated portrayals that reality TV often necessitates. Through stories of home life and open-door policies, Crystal highlights the balance between public image and private realities.

We tackle delicate subjects such as privacy, identity, and personal battles, including Crystal's poignant account of dealing with an eating disorder starting at age 11. With honesty and vulnerability, she discusses the ongoing journey of recovery and self-acceptance, shedding light on the impact of social media trends on body image. Her experiences during the Stop Asian Hate movement and navigating cultural representation on a reality show reveal the pressures and responsibilities that come with being a public figure. Join us as we explore these conversations, aiming to foster healthier mindsets and supportive relationships for ourselves and future generations.

Chapters:

(00:00) The Crystal Kung Minkoff Interview (05:38) Personalities and Self-Promotion in Reality TV (17:11) Family Traditions and Culture Integration (22:14) Navigating Identity and Reality TV (28:07) Violation of Privacy on Reality TV (38:54) Navigating Eating Disorders and Recovery (52:23) Body Image, Social Media Trends

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Episode #18: Unlock the secrets to navigating the fascinating and emotionally complex worlds of surrogacy and genetic counseling. Join us as Lila and Stephanie, trailblazers in their respective fields, share their professional journeys and personal insights. Lila, a seasoned genetic counselor, talks about her mission at Genevie Health to empower expectant parents with crucial genetic testing, while Stephanie, the mastermind behind Family Match Consulting, offers a window into the surrogacy maze, helping intended parents find their perfect match amidst legal and emotional challenges. 

Infertility affects many, yet the stigma around it persists. Our producer Kimberly and co-host MJ bring their deeply personal stories to the table, shedding light on the emotional toll of conception struggles. From infertility's equal impact on men and women to the poignant adoption narratives that emerge, we explore the silence that often surrounds these private journeys, aiming to create a space of understanding and support for those walking similar paths. 

The episode goes further, addressing the practical and emotional facets of surrogacy—from qualifications and geographical logistics to the profound connections forged between intended parents and surrogates. We stress the importance of proactive health management and genetic testing, sharing stories that underscore how being informed can lead to life-saving discoveries. Finally, we introduce GENEVIE, a revolutionary platform offering science-backed guidance for expectant parents to navigate the landscape of parenthood with confidence and clarity.

Chapters:

(00:00) Navigating Surrogacy and Genetics Counseling (13:13) Breaking the Silence on Infertility (20:28) The Journey Through Infertility and Surrogacy (35:01) Qualifications and Logistics of Surrogacy (38:29) Establishing Relationships in Surrogacy (42:22) Genetic Testing Importance and Advocacy (52:36) Preconception Education and Genetic Testing

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Learn more about the resources discussed in this episode:

Family Match Consulting  https://www.familymatchconsulting.com

Genevie Health https://geneviehealth.com

Episode #17: From navigating the quirks of gated communities to sharing his impeccable South African accent, Doug Budin joins us for a conversation filled with humor and heart. Doug's stories from Jeff Lewis Live often leave us in stitches, and today, we take a deeper look at the man behind those entertaining tales. With anecdotes about his love for languages, including the whimsical knowledge of how to say "butterfly" in various tongues, Doug's journey is as colorful as it is charming.

Growing up between Long Island and New York City, Doug reflects on those formative years that shaped his lifelong curiosity. The Suzuki method for violin playing may have been his introduction to memorization, but it also sparked a passion for languages and an ear for accents that would serve him well. Amidst these childhood memories, Doug shares the emotional story of his father's accident and the impact it had on their family, painting a vivid picture of enduring bonds and resilience.

Our chat takes a candid turn as we explore Doug's personal journey of love and self-acceptance, from childhood crushes to coming out in college. With a humorous nod to pop culture and past romantic escapades, Doug shares lessons learned from navigating complex relationships. We also enjoy a lighthearted look at friendships formed along the way, including those on Jeff Lewis Live, where laughter and camaraderie reign supreme. Join us for a thoughtful yet entertaining exploration of Doug's world, filled with laughter, love, and the many connections that make life extraordinary.

Chapters: 

(00:00) Authenticity and Knowledge With Doug Budin (07:53) Memories of Growing Up and Family (18:08) Relationships, Love, and Self-Acceptance (29:07) Diverse Relationships and Entertainment (42:46) Chump Co-Host Relationships and Career Goals

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Episode #16: Scarlett Lewis's world was forever changed by the tragic loss of her son, Jesse, during a school shooting. Yet, from an unimaginable sorrow emerged a mission anchored in the powerful words Jesse left behind: "nurturing, healing, love." Join us as Scarlett shares the incredible journey from grief to founding the Choose Love Movement, an initiative that's teaching children worldwide essential life skills through love-based programs. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the transformative nature of love amidst the darkest times.

We explore the challenges and opportunities to better understand the complex narrative of school shootings, including a heartfelt reflection on the Sandy Hook shooter, Adam Lanza. Scarlett bravely navigates the difficult conversation around mental health, urging society to recognize and address signs of distress before tragedy strikes. Through these discussions, we emphasize the need for empathy and compassion, not just for victims, but for everyone affected by such events, including the perpetrators and their families.

Scarlett's insights extend beyond tragedy, offering hope and growth through adversity. The Choose Love Movement isn't just a response to pain; it's a proactive strategy to cultivate resilience and personal growth. With compelling stories of redemption and spiritual signs, we explore how embracing pain can lead to healing and transformation. From town halls to school programs, Scarlett's work is shaping a safer, healthier future for generations, proving that love can indeed be a catalyst for change.

Chapters: 

(00:00) Healing Love (09:56) Finding Strength Through Tragedy (18:59) Humanizing School Shooters (26:59) Love-Based Program for Schools (31:10) Embracing Pain for Growth (37:04) Signs From Jesse (50:57) Transforming Schools With Choose Love

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Episode #15: Feeling like yourself again can sometimes start with something as simple as a good hair day. Join us in this inspiring episode as we explore the profound impact hair can have on self-esteem and femininity, especially for women who have faced the challenge of hair loss. Our guests, Kiki Tobar, a gifted extension specialist, and Britney Semler, the pioneer behind bringing the Brazilian Blowout to the U.S., share their personal and professional voyages in the hair industry. Through their stories, we uncover how hair transformations can be life-changing, providing a renewed sense of self for those reclaiming their identity after cancer treatments.

Imagine moving from Utah to the bustling beauty scene of Los Angeles to level up your career. That's exactly what one determined hairstylist did, and her journey brought forth the innovative beaded rows extension method, less damaging and more natural-looking than traditional techniques. We navigate the intricacies of the hair industry, discussing the pivotal role of treatment-driven products and the strategic moves that hairstylists make to thrive. By understanding the value of personalized care packages and educating clients on proper hair care, salons can transform into sanctuaries of trust and confidence. 

From the intimate, therapy-like atmosphere of Kiki's salon to the ambitious introduction of Russian hair extensions in America, this episode is a celebration of entrepreneurial spirit and perseverance. Listen as we reflect on the challenges and triumphs of carving a niche in a male-dominated business world, all while balancing priorities and pursuing one's vision. Britney’s tale of creating the Brazilian Blowout underscores the power of branding and innovation, while the evolution of marketing strategies through social media highlights a new era of democratized brand creation. Embrace the stories of resilience, and discover how hair can be so much more than just an accessory—it can be a powerful tool for empowerment and self-discovery.

Chapters:

(00:00) - The Power of Hair Extensions

(12:05) - The Benefits of Hair Extensions

(22:31) - Life-Changing Impact of Hair Extensions

(29:46) - Creating an Intimate Hair Extension Club

(34:07) - Overcoming Obstacles in Entrepreneurship

(38:41) - Navigating Entrepreneurship in a Changing Industry

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Episode #14: Join us on this heartwarming journey in "Heal to Feel," where we explore the profound themes of family, loss, and spiritual communication. Our special guests, MJ's mother, Vida Javid, and psychic medium Shinka, bring a unique perspective to the table. Vida shares her touching reflections on the passing of her father and siblings, and the new joy brought into her life by her first grandchild. Meanwhile, Shinka offers insights from the spiritual realm, connecting with Vida's deceased family members, including her sister, who was ill before passing. Listen in as we discuss the importance of trusting the process and allowing things to unfold naturally, while celebrating the connections that transcend the physical world.

As we continue, we address the challenges faced by families during the end-of-life experiences of loved ones, focusing on accessibility and emotional complexities. There's a poignant reflection on remembering loved ones in a positive light, rather than dwelling on their final days. Through personal stories, we explore the lingering impact of a parent's absence and the personal healing journeys of those left behind. We share a heartfelt message from a departed sister to her family, emphasizing the enduring bond and love that remain even after passing. 

In another chapter, we reflect on the complexities of familial relationships, focusing on mother-daughter dynamics and the pressures of self-image and expectations. Through personal anecdotes, we discuss the importance of communication and understanding in nurturing these relationships. We highlight the need for mothers to be mindful of their words, as they can significantly affect their children's emotional well-being. Join us as we emphasize the significance of acceptance, understanding, and finding a balance between expressing concern and maintaining a supportive relationship, while cherishing moments of laughter and joy with loved ones.

Chapters:

(00:00) Family Connections and Spiritual Communication 

(17:54) Remembering a Loved One's Journey

(23:19) Unwavering Love and Connection

(38:49) Accepting a Mother's Love Journey

(48:10) Relationship Dynamics With Mothers

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Episode #13: Join us as we explore the power of positive self-talk, intuition, and the impact of manifestation on personal growth. We dive into the insights of experts like Dr. Joe Dispenza and Sherry Reiki, and embark on a journey through re-parenting and inner child work. These themes form the backbone of self-worth and emotional healing, guiding us towards a more intuitive and resilient self. Navigating the world of personal goals and procrastination, our conversation reveals how encouraging friends can ignite motivation. The episode tackles this obstacle with simple yet impactful techniques, including Mel Robbins' five-second rule and hypnotherapy, emphasizing small steps that lead to substantial progress. Authenticity takes center stage as we explore procrastination as a form of anxiety and the power of mantras for children. We share stories of overcoming fear of visibility, embracing imperfections, and taking that crucial first step towards self-improvement and success. Amidst laughter and reality TV gossip, we reflect on embracing true desires without fear of judgment. Our candid discussions unravel the complexities of fear, whether it's the fear of failure or the surprising fear of success. Pivotal life experiences, like the loss of a loved one, can shift perspectives, empowering us to pursue bold dreams with newfound courage. We wrap up with a juicy glimpse into the world of Bravo relationships and the dynamics of reality TV life, leaving you with a mix of entertainment and insights into the vibrant Bravo community.

Chapters:

(00:00) - Intuition, Self-Worth, and Manifestation

(13:08) - Empowering Conversations on Overcoming Procrastination

(18:04) - Overcoming Fear of Visibility and Action

(23:24) - Embracing Fear and Self-Love

(30:35) - Bravo Reality TV Relationship Analysis

(40:09) - Behind the Scenes of Reality TV

(51:53) - Health and Wellness Podcast Wrap-Up Follow us on Instagram and TikTok and YouTube!

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Episode #12: MJ’s husband Tommy, a staunch skeptic of psychic readings, has a life-altering session with our guest, the extraordinary psychic medium Shinka, who makes him reconsider his stance. Today, Tommy shares his journey from doubt to belief, rooted deeply in his personal history and his evolving relationship with his late father. Shinka, with her unique insights, sheds light on how societal pressures shape emotional processing in men and women differently, and emphasizes the significant role therapy and personal growth play in overcoming skepticism.

Relationships can be a complex dance of emotions and past experiences, and sometimes, it's the smallest annoyances that signal bigger issues beneath the surface. We touch on how childhood feelings of abandonment, especially around work-absent parents, often resurface in adult relationships, influencing our interactions and expectations. Our conversation underscores the importance of communication and understanding, delving into how parental roles and upbringing shape our current challenges and needs, helping us foster healthier partnerships.

Spiritual connections transcend the boundaries of life and death, offering us moments of love, gratitude, and guidance from those who have passed. Through Shinka's channeling, we receive heartfelt messages from beyond, like those from Jamie, whose spirit brings comfort and reassurance to his friends. We explore the profound impact these connections have on healing from grief and guilt, encouraging us to prioritize appreciation and communication in our relationships. Join us as we explore these spiritual interactions that enrich our lives, urging us to embrace love, healing, and connection.

(00:00) Heal to Feel

(14:05) Unspoken Connections and Abandonment Feelings

(24:45) Messages From Beyond

(41:22) Healing Through Love and Connection

(47:58) Love, Healing, and Spiritual Guidance

(01:00:30) Share and Support

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Episode #11: Growing up, we were the kind of kids who always asked "why?"—much to the chagrin of our parents. That curiosity sparked some fascinating conversations about authority, independence, and resilience that have stayed with us into adulthood. In this heartfelt episode, we share personal stories that reflect how asking the right questions can transform family dynamics. We explore how curiosity and compassion have shaped our interactions with our loved ones, emphasizing the importance of nurturing a spirit of inquiry from a young age. Navigating the complexities of family relationships isn't always easy, especially when it comes to setting boundaries. I open up about my own journey with my mom, where I’ve struggled with the pressure to meet her expectations. With insights from friends like Shinka, and wisdom from my late father, I’m learning to embrace love and forgiveness as tools for healing. We draw parallels with pop culture and personal experiences, highlighting how these themes play out in reality shows like Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and a chance encounter with Sutton, bringing to life the ongoing evolution of family ties. As the night falls, we switch gears to the lighter side of life—bedtime routines and guilty pleasures like reality TV. From juggling early bedtimes due to young kids to the joys of unwinding with shows like "Summer House," we share our trials and triumphs. We also spill the beans on sleep hacks and beauty secrets that keep us going, from supplements like melatonin and magnesium to the ritualistic sip of warm lemon water. And just when you think you've heard it all, we invite you to join us on social media for more laughs and essential tips for wellness that add a little sparkle to everyday life.

Chapters:

(00:00) Curiosity and Family Dynamics (12:07) Healing Family Dynamics Through Compassion (24:23) Bedtime Routines and Reality TV (35:16) Sleep Hacks and Beauty Insights (38:31) Beauty, Supplements, and Wellness Secrets (52:12) Online Fan Engagement and Promotions

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Episode #10: Unlock the secrets of the mind-body connection with us as we journey into the fascinating realm of hypnotherapy and fertility alongside the esteemed Lisa Machenberg. Her expertise offers a fresh perspective on the harmonious blend of Western medicine and hypnotherapy, revealing how this powerful combination can aid in conceiving, even against the odds. Lisa's poignant personal anecdotes, including her own experiences with IVF and the magic of expecting triplets, provide an inspiring testament to the potential of embracing both science and spirituality in achieving family completeness.

Explore the transformative power of hypnotherapy beyond fertility, as we uncover how it can enhance relationships and manage pain. Through captivating stories and real-life examples, we discuss the art of releasing fear to invite the right souls into our lives and the importance of transparency in building a sense of security and belonging. Discover how visualization techniques and guided imagery can alter brainwaves, offering relief from migraines and demonstrating the profound influence of the mind-body connection on our well-being.

Delve into the complex dynamics of relationships, examining how thinkers and feelers navigate intimacy, conflict, and personal growth. From the intricacies of sexual communication to the challenges of balancing different needs, our conversation offers insights into maintaining harmony and fostering mutual understanding. With practical strategies and an emphasis on flexibility, we tackle the art of teaching delayed gratification and nurturing healthier habits in children. Join us as we learn from Lisa Machenberg, the "hypno mom," and explore her impactful work at the HMI College of Hypnotherapy, while encouraging you to engage with our vibrant community.

Chapters:

(00:00) Hypnotherapy and Past Life Healing (13:11) Power of Hypnotherapy and Relationships (23:38) Relationship Dynamics and Personal Growth (38:48) Teaching Flexibility and Delayed Gratification (49:57) Relationship Dynamics and Sexual Communication (59:08) Hypno Mom and HMI College

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