I'm Human Too

Matthew Chavez is a breathwork facilitator and somatic coach who specializes in helping people reconnect with themselves through the power of breathwork. In this episode, Matthew opens up about his journey from a curious teenager dealing with chronic back pain to a wellness guide who's now helping others find their own path to healing. He talks about how exploring alternative healing practices like shamanism and herbalism led him to discover breathwork, which has since become a central part of his life and work.

Matthew also gets real about the challenges of balancing personal wellness with his role as a coach. He shares how important it is to stay in tune with his inner voice, even when life gets busy. Breathwork is his go-to tool for staying grounded and maintaining integrity, both for himself and for the people he guides. Matthew’s insights remind us that even wellness pros have their own struggles and need to take care of themselves, too. spaces where people can explore their own healing in a supportive, connected environment.

To learn more about Matthew's work and upcoming events, check out thirdreyegemini.com or follow him on Instagram at @the.third.eye.gemini.

Robin Haynes is the Executive Director of the Spokane Independent Metro Business Alliance (SIMBA). In an age where supporting local businesses is more critical than ever, understanding the role of organizations like SIMBA can make a world of difference. 

Robin Haynes took over the role of Executive Director at SIMBA in December 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience in law and small businesses. An advocate for local entrepreneurs, Robin's vision for her first year at SIMBA includes improving public awareness about the organization's vast array of services. From business licensing to social media marketing, SIMBA offers comprehensive support to independent and locally-owned businesses in Eastern Washington.

Among its numerous services, SIMBA assists business owners with business licenses, taxes, transitioning to LLCs, social media strategies, and more, often at no cost. Beyond one-on-one support, it also provides group training sessions and is working to build an extensive video library of its training materials.
To stay up-to-date with SIMBA's events and initiatives, follow them on Instagram and Facebook at @SpokaneIndependent.

More detailed information, including their community calendar, can be found on their website, SpokaneIndependent.org.

Amy Yeoman is the owner of Fuel to Thrive and a dedicated dietitian and trainer. In today's episode of "I'm Human Too," we delve into Amy's grounded, science-based approach to diet and wellness. Amy shares her journey from becoming a new mom to her work in helping clients achieve their health goals. She emphasizes the importance of individualized care, steering away from the extremes and quick fixes often promoted by mainstream media.

Amy's philosophy at Fuel to Thrive revolves around understanding each client's unique lifestyle and needs. She aims to debunk the myths perpetuated by diet culture and social media influencers, focusing instead on sustainable, enjoyable, and practical health practices. Amy stresses the importance of basics like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and listening to one's body, helping clients build a positive and realistic relationship with food and exercise.

Throughout the conversation, Amy reflects on the challenges and joys of helping others, the impact of her own experiences on her professional life, and her future goals for Fuel to Thrive. Her story is a testament to the power of compassion, patience, and personalized care in the field of dietetics and training.

For anyone looking to start a journey towards better health, Amy's advice is simple: listen to your body, trust yourself, and prioritize balanced nutrition tailored to your unique needs.

You can learn more about Amy and her work at Fuel to Thrive by visiting their website here. Follow Amy on Instagram at @fueltothrive for regular updates, tips, and insights into achieving a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Natalie Gutierrez is a therapist and author of "The Pain We Carry." On "I'm Human Too," Natalie shares her personal journey through complex trauma, shedding light on the healing process and the importance of authenticity. Her insights are a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of embracing one's true self.

Natalie discusses the challenges and revelations she encountered while writing her book. Initially struggling to find her authentic voice, she ultimately embraced her lived experiences and those of her clients, transforming her writing into a profound reflection of her healing journey. Natalie emphasizes the significance of integrating personal stories into professional work, creating a deeper connection with herself and her readers.

Throughout the conversation, Natalie and Heather explore the importance of vulnerability in both personal and professional settings. They discuss the need to create safe, decolonial spaces where individuals can fully express their emotions and experiences. Natalie highlights the ongoing work of healing and the necessity of holding all parts of oneself with compassion and understanding.

Chretienne Yalung is a Pilates movement guide and consultant. On I’m Human Too, she shares her journey through significant life transitions, including leaving a long-term relationship, stepping away from running a local studio, and redefining her professional path. Her story highlights the transformative power of movement, community, and self-discovery.

Chretienne opens up about her new phase of life, emphasizing the importance of joy and play in her movement practices. She reflects on how prioritizing these elements, especially with her sister’s support, has helped her rediscover her passion for movement and its multi-generational impact. She believes integrating fun and playfulness into life and work is crucial, especially in challenging times.

Throughout the conversation, Chretienne underscores the significance of a strong support system and the role of community in personal growth. She also shares her journey of reconnecting with her Filipino heritage, which has enriched her personal and professional life. Chretienne’s story is a testament to the healing power of movement, the importance of community, and the empowerment that comes from embracing one's cultural identity.

Dr. Hortencia Jiménez is a queer Mexican immigrant and sociology professor dedicated to food justice and body image advocacy. Hortencia’s story is one of resilience and unapologetic truth-telling, shedding light on the unique struggles women of color face in the realms of body image and cultural representation. Her journey from a traditional upbringing to a prominent advocate is both empowering and eye-opening.

Hortencia shares her gratitude for the platform to discuss her crucial yet often overlooked work. She highlights the significance of visibility in challenging diet culture and promoting food justice, particularly among women of color. Her transition from traditional roles to a vocal advocate on social media, inspired by accounts like "Your Latina Nutritionist," illustrates the importance of representation in health and wellness. Hortencia’s candid reflections on her cultural and religious traumas reveal the deep roots of her activism and professional path.

Throughout the conversation, Hortencia delves into her personal healing journey, shaped by early traumas and a traditional Catholic home. She emphasizes the role of both Western therapy and ancestral healing in her recovery. By embracing her queer identity and pioneering courses like "Sociology of Food, Culture and Society" and the upcoming "Latina Sexualities," Hortencia is creating educational spaces for vital conversations. Her advice to those facing similar challenges underscores the importance of self-compassion and community support, reminding us that individual healing is intricately linked to collective well-being.

Listen to her podcast, Welcome to Dismantling Diet Culture: F*ck Being Calladíta

Tasha Hunter is a mother, writer, and mental health therapist who explores her multifaceted journey of nurturing, advocacy, and healing. Tasha shares how her roles as a caregiver and therapist intertwine, revealing the complexities and emotional weight of balancing personal and professional responsibilities. Her story is one of resilience, shaped by her experiences and a deep commitment to helping others.

Tasha opens up about the toll of the profession, highlighting the emotional and psychological impact of being a therapist. With nearly eight years of practice, she reflects on the rapid aging effect of the job and the high turnover in the field. Her personal history of trauma has driven her to be a source of healing for others, yet she grapples with the challenges of carrying both her own and her clients' burdens. This conversation delves into the profound personal journey that many therapists experience, questioning the sustainability of their work and the constant need for survival.

As Tasha continues to heal and seek peace, she emphasizes the importance of sharing her story and reclaiming joy. Through her book, "What Children Remember," and other creative outlets, she has found a way to release emotional baggage and embody self-love and confidence. Tasha advocates for decolonizing therapy practices, prioritizing rest, and building community. 

Join us on I’m Himan Too to hear Tasha’s inspiring journey and vision for a more inclusive and compassionate mental health field.

Nazeer Zerka, is a counselor and therapist dedicated to students of color and those on the autism spectrum. Growing up in Flint and Saginaw, Michigan, with Mexican and Arab heritage, Naz sheds light on the challenges and importance of authenticity in therapy.

Discover Emily Nash's distinctive approach to healing and connection, which is grounded in warmth, empathy, and humor. With a specialization in childhood trauma, Emily underscores the interconnectedness of trauma therapy and relational therapy, offering a comprehensive approach that integrates somatic and experiential modalities.

Dr. Jenni Skyler's story serves as a powerful testament to the transformative nature of sex therapy and its profound impact on individuals seeking healing and connection. 

Through her dedication to destigmatizing sex talk, exploring deeper emotional narratives, and prioritizing self-care, Dr. Jenni Skyler stands as a beacon of empowerment and transformation in the field of therapy. 

Join us on "I'm Human Too" as we explore the importance of self-care and resilience in Dr. Skyler's professional journey, as she shares her strategies for maintaining balance amidst the emotional demands of sex therapy. 

To find out more about Dr. Jenni Skyler at her website, www.intimacyinstitute.org