Joystarters with Rachel Baribeau: Nurturing Faith, Finding Purpose, and Pursuing Joyful Living

Rachel sits down with JayDee Milo for a raw and deeply human conversation about what it means to use the internet for something that actually helps people. JayDee shares how his late mother, Sandy, shaped him, why her story became the foundation of his platform, and how grief and addiction recovery changed the trajectory of his life.

They talk about why authenticity is magnetic right now, why people are exhausted by constant selling and overconsumption online, and they get real about how boundaries become a form of soul care.

This episode is a love letter to single moms, to the people we’ve lost, and to the decision to choose better when you could have repeated the pattern.

Our Guest: JayDee Milo.

JayDee is a creator, advocate, and storyteller who built a massive online community by honoring his late mother’s story and speaking directly to the realities so many women live through, especially single moms and survivors of abuse. His platform blends humor and truth, and his message is rooted in dignity, accountability, and compassion.

Connect with JayDee Milo on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jaydee_milo and YouTube

RESOURCES:

We would love to see you at the Joy Ball and I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat! If you can’t attend in person, would you consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit:

provide mental health resources

sponsor talks and live events

send people to get counseling and support

distribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need

👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK:

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball

RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Happy 2026, Joy Starters 🤍

This year isn’t starting with resolutions. It’s starting with an exhale.

In this honest, unfiltered episode, talks about rest, realness, and what it means to unwind after years of pushing, performing, and powering through. She reflects on learning to be bored again, releasing guilt around rest, and choosing authenticity in a world that’s craving what’s real.

This episode also marks a milestone: 10 years of I'm Changing the Narrative. What began in 2016 has grown into a movement rooted in faith, courage, and audacious energy. Throughout the year ahead, Rachel will celebrate the stories, people, and moments that have shaped this journey—while inviting you to begin changing the narrative in your own life.

If you’ve been feeling the pull to slow down, live fully, and show up as your real self, this episode is for you.

Welcome to 2026.
Welcome to the year of real. 💛

RESOURCES:

We would love to see you at the Joy Ball and I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat! If you can’t attend in person, would you consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit:

• provide mental health resources
• sponsor talks and live events
• send people to get counseling and support
• distribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need

👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK:

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball

RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This is a throwback Sunday Soul episode we are pulling from the archives because it’s with international musician, Laura Reed, who will be with us at the I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat in February 2026.

Rachel sits down with Laura Reed for a conversation about what it was like growing up between cultures — never fully “from” one place — and how she learned to love the parts of herself she once tried to shrink.

They talk about the pressure to conform (especially for women), why Laura refused to dilute her message even when the industry pushed her to, and how she defines success as staying true — and keeping the lights on doing what she loves.

This episode is a reminder that your story doesn’t have to fit in one box to be valid — you can be made of many people and still be whole.

Laura Reed will also be joining us at the Retreat — and after you listen, you’ll understand exactly why she belongs in this room.

We'd love to have you at the I'm Changing the Narrative Retreat and Joy Ball. 

If you can’t attend in person, Rachel is asking every follower to consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit:

• provide mental health resources
• sponsor talks and live events
• send people to get counseling and support
• distribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need

👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK:

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball

RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This is Week Two of our Speaker Series, where we continue introducing the remarkable humans who will be speaking at the I'm Changing the Narrative Retreat this February.

You’ll hear from relationship and marriage coaches Shannon and Shirley Austin, who share their deeply personal journey through betrayal, healing, illness &  accountability. We’re also joined by Lindsay Freezman, a mindfulness and meditation guide who has spent years quietly supporting athletes and individuals in crisis. She speaks to the power of presence, visualization, and helping the nervous system find safety again so healing, clarity, and joy can return. Rachel also introduces Kim Peek, who speaks about creating a big, beautiful life even when it wasn’t the one you planned, reminding us that choosing yourself isn’t selfish.

Join us at the retreat, February 2022 and spend time with these amazing people!!

If you can’t attend in person, Rachel is asking every follower to consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit:

• provide mental health resources
• sponsor talks and live events
• send people to get counseling and support
• distribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need

👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK:

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball

RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special Retreat Speakers Spotlight (Part 1) episode, Rachel pulls back the curtain on the first Amelia Island ICTN Retreat and introduces a few of the incredible humans she hand-picked for this transformative weekend.

You’ll hear how Rachel met Laura Reed (international musician, “tiny giant,” and soul-stirring storyteller) and why Laura’s journey of integrity over industry “success” is part of what makes this retreat different. Laura shares her path from street-singing to major opportunities—plus how she’s weaving music with food justice, community, and purpose.

Then Rachel introduces Jerremy Newsome, a teacher of true wealth and the energy behind money—who’s helped people rebuild their relationship with finances, faith, and identity. Jeremy shares how he lost millions, what he learned, and the moment he risked it all—and why gratitude changed everything.

Part 2 drops next week with more stories from speakers you’ll want to hear!

Save the date for the Joy Ball in Amelia Island, February 21, 2026. If you can’t attend in person, we'd love for every listener who is able to consider a $5 donation to help I'm Changing the Narrative:

• provide mental health resources
• sponsor talks and live events
• send people to get counseling and support
• distribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need

👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK:

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball

RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

___

Registration for the I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat - February 20-22, 2026 in Amelia Island, Florida: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Content note: In this episode, Rachel briefly references violent crime from her past. Please listen with care and step away if you need to.

This week, Rachel is coming in raw and real after discovering that someone opened a business bank account and applied for credit in her name.  She walks you through the very real emotions of feeling violated, the practical steps she took to protect herself, and the spiritual choice to pray over the very person who tried to steal from her—without letting them steal her purpose or her day.

We are less than 90 days away from the I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat and Joy Ball, and it is coming together beautifully. We've gathered our speakers on planning Zoom calls and you’ll meet them over the next two Sundays!

If you can’t attend in person, Rachel is asking every follower to consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit:

-provide mental health resources

-sponsor talks and live events

-send people to get counseling and support

-distribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need

👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK:

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball

RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

Link mentioned about NDEs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OWDoW8nO3Q&feature=youtu.be

Rachel's friend, Terri Couser, the credit expert: https://www.youtube.com/@terricouserthecreditexpert?si=s-K17f4v7jbUPADi

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There’s a shift happening — in how we move, how we heal, and what we chase. In this episode, Rachel shares raw stories and hard-won wisdom about slowing down, listening deeper, and protecting the peace your soul’s been begging for.

Rachel invites you to look at your own life with fresh eyes. Maybe it’s not about doing more, but about feeling again — and finding meaning in the quiet spaces in between.

EARLY BIRD Registration for the I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat - February 20-22, 2026 in Amelia Island, Florida: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

NEVER MET A HAPPY BULLY:

Bullying isn’t just a childhood issue—it impacts schools, workplaces, and communities. Never Met a Happy Bully is a powerful resource designed to help parents, educators, and leaders recognize the root causes of bullying, take action, and create environments where kindness thrives. This guide provides real strategies to empower kids and adults alike, fostering confidence, empathy, and accountability.

https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/9fb60f72a3

Are you ready to discover your passion, uncover your purpose, and live a life filled with 🌟 Ready to Find Your Purpose, Own Your Story, and Live with Bold Joy?

The Joystarters Blueprint is a 5-week program designed to help you get unstuck, rediscover what lights you up, and start living with intention.

Through live weekly sessions, downloadable life guides, personal growth challenges, and an active community, you’ll learn how to:
✨ Let go of the emotional baggage that’s been weighing you down
✨ Build healthier boundaries and more meaningful relationships
✨ Use your voice and story to make an impact
✨ Wake up each day feeling clear, confident, and excited about life

If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to make a change—this is it.

🎯 Don’t just dream about a better life—start building it.

https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/course

👕 Our Joystarters Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/JoyStarters

Mental Health Battle Plan: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/7288bda82f

The Mental Health Battle Plan is designed as a powerful resource to support you in taking control of your mental well-being. This guide is packed with practical steps, compassionate insights, and proven strategies that can help you build resilience, find peace, and restore joy in your life. 

The Joystarters Club:

https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/joystartersclub

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Resources

EARLY BIRD Registration for the I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat - February 20-22, 2026 in Amelia Island, Florida: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

NEVER MET A HAPPY BULLY:

Bullying isn’t just a childhood issue—it impacts schools, workplaces, and communities. Never Met a Happy Bully is a powerful resource designed to help parents, educators, and leaders recognize the root causes of bullying, take action, and create environments where kindness thrives. This guide provides real strategies to empower kids and adults alike, fostering confidence, empathy, and accountability.

https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/9fb60f72a3

Are you ready to discover your passion, uncover your purpose, and live a life filled with 🌟 Ready to Find Your Purpose, Own Your Story, and Live with Bold Joy?

The Joystarters Blueprint is a 5-week program designed to help you get unstuck, rediscover what lights you up, and start living with intention.

Through live weekly sessions, downloadable life guides, personal growth challenges, and an active community, you’ll learn how to:

✨ Let go of the emotional baggage that’s been weighing you down

✨ Build healthier boundaries and more meaningful relationships

✨ Use your voice and story to make an impact

✨ Wake up each day feeling clear, confident, and excited about life

If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to make a change—this is it.

🎯 Don’t just dream about a better life—start building it.

https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/course

👕 Our Joystarters Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/JoyStarters

Mental Health Battle Plan: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/7288bda82f

The Mental Health Battle Plan is designed as a powerful resource to support you in taking control of your mental well-being. This guide is packed with practical steps, compassionate insights, and proven strategies that can help you build resilience, find peace, and restore joy in your life.

The Joystarters Club:

https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/joystartersclub

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rachel reflects on her time in Sicily and Rome—the beauty, the divine appointments, and the unexpected connections that became holy ground. From sunrise walks and quiet prayers to rooftop conversations and a chance encounter that turned into a cross-cultural friendship, she reminds us that love, kindness, and faith speak every language.

As she prepares to fly home, Rachel shares what this journey taught her about being fully present, finding God in ordinary moments, and trusting that every path—even the solo ones—can lead to purpose and peace.

This isn’t just a travel story—it’s a love letter to gratitude, courage, and the beauty of saying yes to wherever God leads.

___

EARLY BIRD Registration for the I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat - February 20-22, 2026 in Amelia Island, Florida: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

NEVER MET A HAPPY BULLY:

Bullying isn’t just a childhood issue—it impacts schools, workplaces, and communities. Never Met a Happy Bully is a powerful resource designed to help parents, educators, and leaders recognize the root causes of bullying, take action, and create environments where kindness thrives. This guide provides real strategies to empower kids and adults alike, fostering confidence, empathy, and accountability.

https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/9fb60f72a3

Are you ready to discover your passion, uncover your purpose, and live a life filled with 🌟 Ready to Find Your Purpose, Own Your Story, and Live with Bold Joy?

The Joystarters Blueprint is a 5-week program designed to help you get unstuck, rediscover what lights you up, and start living with intention.

Through live weekly sessions, downloadable life guides, personal growth challenges, and an active community, you’ll learn how to:

✨ Let go of the emotional baggage that’s been weighing you down

✨ Build healthier boundaries and more meaningful relationships

✨ Use your voice and story to make an impact

✨ Wake up each day feeling clear, confident, and excited about life

If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to make a change—this is it.

🎯 Don’t just dream about a better life—start building it.

https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/course

👕 Our Joystarters Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/JoyStarters

Mental Health Battle Plan: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/7288bda82f

The Mental Health Battle Plan is designed as a powerful resource to support you in taking control of your mental well-being. This guide is packed with practical steps, compassionate insights, and proven strategies that can help you build resilience, find peace, and restore joy in your life. 

The Joystarters Club:

https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/joystartersclub

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rachel shares her journey through Sicily and reflects on the power of speaking dreams into existence, recounting how she planned to write a book from Sicily eight years ago and is now working on her second book from the same dream location. Rachel also emphasizes the importance of living in awe and appreciating the moments and experiences, no matter where life takes you.

Throughout her travels, she shares travel anecdotes and admiration for Sicilian culture, while highlighting the enriching cultural interactions, beautiful landscapes, and insights as she pushes her boundaries and embraces new challenges.

___

EARLY BIRD Registration for the I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat - February 20-22, 2026 in Amelia Island, Florida: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat

NEVER MET A HAPPY BULLY:

Bullying isn’t just a childhood issue—it impacts schools, workplaces, and communities. Never Met a Happy Bully is a powerful resource designed to help parents, educators, and leaders recognize the root causes of bullying, take action, and create environments where kindness thrives. This guide provides real strategies to empower kids and adults alike, fostering confidence, empathy, and accountability.

https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/9fb60f72a3

Are you ready to discover your passion, uncover your purpose, and live a life filled with 🌟 Ready to Find Your Purpose, Own Your Story, and Live with Bold Joy?

The Joystarters Blueprint is a 5-week program designed to help you get unstuck, rediscover what lights you up, and start living with intention.

Through live weekly sessions, downloadable life guides, personal growth challenges, and an active community, you’ll learn how to:✨ Let go of the emotional baggage that’s been weighing you down✨ Build healthier boundaries and more meaningful relationships✨ Use your voice and story to make an impact✨ Wake up each day feeling clear, confident, and excited about life

If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to make a change—this is it.

🎯 Don’t just dream about a better life—start building it.

https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/course

👕 Our Joystarters Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/JoyStarters

Mental Health Battle Plan: https://i-m-changing-the-narrative.kit.com/7288bda82f

The Mental Health Battle Plan is designed as a powerful resource to support you in taking control of your mental well-being. This guide is packed with practical steps, compassionate insights, and proven strategies that can help you build resilience, find peace, and restore joy in your life. 

The Joystarters Club:

https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/joystartersclub

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.