Judging Meghan

In this episode of Judging Meghan, I sit down with the incredible Dr. Laura Copley, a licensed professional counselor, author, speaker, and podcast host of “Tough Love with Dr. Laura Copley”, to dive deep into the transformative journey of healing, growth, and the complexities of life’s challenges. Dr. Laura shares her wisdom on how trauma can impact our parenting styles, and we discuss the importance of recognizing our own triggers and patterns. She introduces her book, “Loving You Is Hurting Me: A New Approach to Healing Trauma Bonds and Creating Authentic Connection”, where she delves into breaking free from trauma bonds and building more authentic connections, offering insights on how to identify unhealthy dynamics in our relationships.

Later in the episode, we explore the roles we often fall into, like being the "hero" or "golden child," and how these labels shape our identities into adulthood. Dr. Laura candidly shares her own experience of becoming a mother for the second time and how this journey has deepened her understanding of compassion and empathy. We also dive into the importance of self-reflection, breaking free from toxic patterns, and the transformative power of choosing to heal.

We then explore the concept of "Eat, Pray, Love" moments, emphasizing how stepping back and reevaluating our lives can lead to more profound peace, happiness, and a sense of purpose. We also touch on navigating bullying, finding spiritual connections during periods of isolation, and the delicate process of finding balance in a world that often feels overwhelming.

This episode is a testament to the power of embracing vulnerability, reclaiming our narratives, and finding hope in the journey of healing. Join us for this honest and inspiring conversation about motherhood, trauma, and the incredible strength it takes to turn pain into power.

Check out Dr. Copley’s book “Loving You Is Hurting Me: A New Approach to Healing Trauma Bonds and Creating Authentic Connection” through amazon  and listen to her podcast “Tough Love” available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #motherhood #toughlove #HopeAndHealing #InnerStrength #resilience #vulnerability #Dr.Lauracopley #EmpathyAndHealing #BreakingToxicPatterns #Healingtrauma

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Judging Meghan I talk with Allyn Amerongen, an advocate, wellness coach, and podcaster who empowers women with chronic illnesses. Allyn opens up about her own journey with a chronic condition, sharing the obstacles she's faced and the resilience she's found. Her story reveals how she turned her pain into a powerful source of strength, offering hope to others navigating similar challenges.

We dive into Allyn's experiences as a sexual abuse survivor and how she became trapped in a trauma bond, struggling to find her way out. Allyn courageously discusses the impact of infidelity and betrayal on her mental and emotional health, detailing the raw process of rebuilding her life piece by piece.

Allyn also shares how chronic illness can magnify trauma, often triggering cycles of shame, anger, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. She explains the importance of confronting these emotions and finding healthy outlets for healing. This conversation is an inspiring reminder that it's possible to turn pain into purpose, and Allyn's journey offers valuable insights for anyone facing similar battles.

Find out more about Allyn through her website: https://doingitdespite.com/

Find out more about Allyn through her website https://doingitdespite.com/  and listen to her podcast When Heaven Meets Hell available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #community #AllynAmerongen #HopeAndHealing #InnerStrength #EmpowerYourself #EmotionalResilience #Vulnerability #WomenEmpowerment #ChronicIllness #WellnessCoach

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I’m joined by Dr. Rick Diamond, an expert in the intersection of storytelling and healing, We explore our journeys from being deeply involved in organized religion to embracing a more personal and fluid spiritual path. Rick and I share how our experiences have taught us that spirituality isn't confined to a particular place or organization but is found within ourselves.

Rick recounts his own transition from leading a faith community to becoming a spiritual and story healer. He explains how he discovered that true spiritual fulfillment comes from within, through listening to our own stories and beliefs and making necessary changes. We discuss how this realization led him to create a model to help others explore and reshape their own narratives.

We emphasize that it’s okay to feel anger and that acknowledging and working through these feelings is crucial for personal growth. Rick offers practical advice on reclaiming one’s power and shifting focus from past hurts to creating a new, empowering story.

We also touch on the broader issue of anger and division in today’s world, particularly in politics. We discuss the importance of accepting suffering as a part of life and approaching it with compassion, rather than letting it drive us further apart.

Throughout the episode, Rick and I invite you to explore your own stories and beliefs, and we provide support and resources for those interested in furthering their personal and spiritual journeys.

This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #parent #StorytellingForHealing #PersonalGrowth #InnerStrength #rickdiamond #EmotionalHealing #StorytellingForGrowth #NarrativeTherapy #HealingJourney #StoryHealing

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I’m joined by Tamala Floyd. Tamala, a psychotherapist who specializes in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, bravely shares her story of growing up in a home filled with domestic violence and the lasting impact it had on her life. Together, we explore the hidden struggles so many of us face as trauma survivors and talk about the importance of breaking the cycles of abuse and finding the path to healing.

Tamala introduces us to the world of IFS therapy, explaining how it helped her heal the fragmented parts of herself by getting to the root of her trauma. She talks about the role that generational trauma plays in our lives and how we can break free from the burdens that have been passed down to us by healing those deep wounds. 

This conversation is a reminder that no matter where we come from or what we've endured, we all have the power to heal and thrive. My hope is that this episode serves as a beacon of hope for anyone out there who is on their own journey of trauma recovery and self-acceptance. 

Tune in to hear a heartfelt discussion about resilience, healing, and the importance of embracing every part of our story with compassion and love.

Find out more on Tamala or order her books 'Fiercely Speaking’ and ‘Listening When Parts Speak’ on https://tamalafloyd.com/ 

This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #OvercomingChallenges #InnerChildWork #BreakingTheCycle #TraumaRecovery #TamalaFloyd #GenerationalTrauma #EmotionalHealing #Psychotherapy #AncestralHealing #InternalFamilySystems #IFS

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I’m joined by Maria Pendolino, a successful voiceover artist and passionate advocate for disability and fat liberation. Together, we explore the transformative journey of breaking free from labels and societal expectations—whether it’s the roles we inherit from our families or the body standards we’re pressured to conform to. Maria's story is one of resilience, overcoming the challenges of psoriatic arthritis, and defying industry barriers during the pandemic to build a thriving career.

We also get into the deep-seated effects of fatphobia, childhood bullying, and the harmful messaging around body size and health. I share my personal struggles with bulimia and body image, while Maria talks about her journey towards self-acceptance, embracing the power of fat liberation, and advocating for underrepresented voices in media.

This episode is an empowering reminder that our worth isn’t defined by our achievements or appearances, but by our strength, authenticity, and the love we show ourselves. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation filled with humor, wisdom, and the inspiring message that every challenge can be a stepping stone to something greater. 

You can find out more about maria through her site: https://www.voicebymaria.com/ 

This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #OvercomingChallenges #InspiringStories #FatAcceptance #BodyPositivity #MariaPendolino #AdvocacyInMedia #BodyAcceptance #SelfWorth #DisabilityAdvocacy #VoiceoverArtist #FatLiberation

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I’m joined by the inspiring Ron Hunter, a survivor of childhood trauma and the author of ‘Angel Finally Found His Wings’. Together, we dive deep into a profoundly emotional exploration of survival, resilience, and the extraordinary courage it takes to confront the past. Ron shares his incredible journey, one that began with a childhood marked by unthinkable pain—abuse, poverty, and time spent in an orphanage. Despite the overwhelming darkness that defined his early years, Ron discovered that even in the bleakest moments, there can be pockets of light. He found solace in the compassion of strangers, moments of unexpected kindness that served as lifelines. These experiences, although small, shaped his path forward, allowing him to heal, grow, and ultimately become a powerful voice for those who have suffered in silence.

Through our conversation, we reflect on the transformative power of community and the role that love, faith, and kindness play in healing even the deepest wounds. Ron's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the belief that, no matter how broken we may feel, there is always hope. As he opens up about his struggles, he illustrates how, in the midst of unimaginable suffering, the smallest acts of kindness—from a mentor, a counselor, or even a stranger—can offer a glimmer of hope. These seemingly minor gestures become the very things that keep us going, the light that guides us out of the darkness. Ron’s journey highlights the idea that “it takes a village” and that even in life’s most difficult moments, we are never truly alone. When people come together, offering support and love, they help shape a brighter future not just for individuals but for entire communities.

This episode is more than just a story of overcoming trauma—it’s a powerful reminder that we each have the ability to make a difference in someone else’s life. Whether by offering a listening ear, providing a sense of safety, or simply being there when someone needs us most, we all have the capacity to be a source of light for others. Ron’s journey of survival, healing, and ultimately, redemption, is an inspiring testament to the enduring power of love and kindness. It reminds us that even when life’s storms seem impossible to weather, we have within us the power to not only survive but to thrive. Through faith, vulnerability, and the support of others, we can find our way back to the light, embracing the hope that is always there, waiting to guide us forward.

Learn more about ron and order his book through his site https://www.angelfinallyfoundhiswings.com/ 

This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #ronhunter #InspiringStories #Hope #Faith #FindingHope #healingjourney #community #advocacy #overcomingfear #resillience #traumarecovery

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another episode of Judging Meghan! Today, I am joined by the incredible Dr. Shah from Empower Her Health Center. Together, we dive into essential topics like perimenopause, menopause, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and the journey through hysterectomy.

I candidly share my personal experiences with hormonal fluctuations, weight gain, complex PTSD, and the life-changing decision to undergo a hysterectomy. Dr. Shah explains the nuances of these transitions, debunking myths and offering practical advice on managing these changes effectively. This episode is packed with insights on the types of hysterectomy procedures, the importance of post-surgery recovery, and innovative approaches to weight loss. Dr. Shah emphasizes the critical role of self-awareness and advocacy, encouraging women to trust their instincts and seek personalized care.

Whether you're dealing with hormonal changes, considering HRT, or recovering from a hysterectomy, this episode offers invaluable guidance. My story of resilience, coupled with Dr. Shah’s expert advice, delivers a powerful message of hope and empowerment. Tune in for a heartfelt and informative discussion filled with personal anecdotes and expert insights. 

Find out more about Dr. Shah and her practice through her site https://www.empowerherhealthcenter.com/about 

This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #advocacy #empowerherhealth #perimenopause #menopause #hormonereplacementjourney  #healingjourney #midlifechanges #advocacy #womenshealth #hysterectomy #HRT

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of narcissistic abuse, manipulation, and toxic relationships, which may be triggering for some listeners.

This episode I sit down with Vanessa Reiser, a resilient therapist, author, and survivor whose life story is a beacon of hope and transformation. Growing up in Rockland County, New York, Vanessa faced significant challenges, taking on parental responsibilities at a young age. These early struggles ignited her passion for social work, leading her to earn her master's degree and eventually specialize in narcissistic and cult abuse.

Vanessa's incredible journey is marked by her ability to turn adversity into strength. Despite her turbulent childhood and the obstacles she faced, she now runs her own practice, helping others escape and heal from manipulative and toxic relationships. In this heartfelt conversation, Vanessa and I delve into the complexities of narcissistic abuse, drawing parallels between cult dynamics and abusive relationships. They explore the profound impact of such experiences on mental health and the essential strategies for breaking free from these destructive patterns.

Vanessa shares insights from her upcoming book, ‘Narcissistic Abuse: How to Identify, Escape, and Heal from Manipulative, Toxic People’, providing valuable guidance for those seeking to reclaim their lives. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of community, and the potential for healing and growth.

Follow Vanessa on Instagram @vanessareiserlcsw

This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #breakingfree #vulnerability #survivorstories #vanessareiser #CultDynamics #healingjourney #DomesticAbuseAwareness #personalgrowth #CommunitySupport #ToxicRelationships #NarcissisticAbuse

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Judging Meghan! Today, I dive into a captivating conversation with Katie Beecher, a renowned licensed professional counselor, medical intuitive, and medium. Katie's journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a celebrated healer is nothing short of remarkable.

Katie shares her story of overcoming a dysfunctional home, battling an eating disorder, and finding solace through spirituality and intuitive guidance. Her transformative journey led her to help others through intuitive wellness, offering deep insights into their physical and emotional health.

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, Katie and I explore the power of turning pain into purpose, the role of intuition in healing and self-discovery, Katie's unique method of creating intuitive soul paintings, and the significance of listening to our inner voice and spiritual guidance. Katie also shares her personal triumph over Lyme disease and her passion for pole dancing and aerial arts, revealing how these activities have transformed her perception of her body and health.

Join Katie and me as we delve into the healing power of intuition, the importance of self-acceptance, and the journey to inner peace. Whether you're seeking guidance on health issues or looking to connect with your intuition, this episode is filled with valuable wisdom, inspiration, and the reminder that we all have the strength to overcome life's challenges and thrive.

Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration, wisdom, and the extraordinary possibilities of intuitive healing. Don’t miss this empowering conversation with Katie Beecher on Judging Meghan!

Follow Katie Beecher:

Website: KatieBeecher.com

Instagram: @KatieBeecherMedicalIntuitive

Purchase Katie's Book:

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and your local bookstore.

This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #mindfulness #vulnerability #mindbodyspirit #spiritualguidance #healingwithin #healingjourney #holistichealth #author #personalgrowth #innerwisdom #medium #katiebeacher

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode I welcome the insightful Henry Shukman, an author, poet, and spiritual director emeritus of the Mountain Cloud Zen Center. Henry shares his profound journey from a childhood filled with trauma to a life dedicated to mindfulness and awakening. Together, we delve into the healing power of nature, the importance of new beginnings each day, and the resilience of the human spirit. 

We explore the transformative power of stillness and the courage it takes to embrace vulnerability. Henry’s story of self-discovery, sparked by an unexpected encounter, reveals how poetry and meditation can lead to a deeper connection with the world around us. Our conversation highlights the significance of finding moments of stillness in our busy lives, unveiling the richness of life beyond materialism.

Discover the concept of "stopping still," a daily practice of sitting in silence to connect with oneself and the world, bringing peace and revealing the deeper layers of existence. Henry opens up about his initial struggles with meditation and how persistence, along with a supportive community, led to profound healing.

Listen in as Meghan and Henry discuss the challenges of vulnerability, especially in our younger years, and how embracing our need for help can lead to profound personal growth. This episode is a testament to the multifaceted journey of healing, requiring both introspection and external support. Tune in for an inspiring dialogue that encourages self-reflection, the embrace of life's unpredictable paths, and the discovery of our true selves.

You can learn more on Henry’s website https://henryshukman.com/ 

This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #mindfulness #vulnerability #zenmaster #naturetherapy #mountaincloudzencenter #healing  #poet #author #resillience #henryshukman #meditation #zen

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices