Just One Thing

Improper breathing can actually cause poor health and magnify anxiety.  This week, Lisa and Brad explore what a healthy breath feels like and how learning to breath correctly can be your first step on the path to health, happiness, and more mindful living.




Discover the unexpected key to serenity that's been with you all along—your breath. Within this heartfelt discussion, we delve into how something as intrinsic as the way we breathe can have a profound impact on our stress levels and mental well-being. I offer a glimpse into my own transformation, from the clutches of chronic shallow breathing to the liberation of mindful belly breaths, despite my lungs' limited capacity. Join us as we unravel the physiological secrets behind breath's influence on our bodies and minds, and share practical techniques to help you transition to a more relaxed and beneficial breathing pattern.

We also take a reflective journey into the past, examining how our childhood experiences shape our breathing habits and set the stage for our future selves. It's a chapter of introspection and awareness, where the focus is on self-observation and the recognition of our breath as a powerful tool for personal growth. No guest needed when we're exploring the intimate narratives of our own lives and the subtle yet substantial shifts that can arise from simply being more present with each inhale and exhale. Tune in for an episode that promises not just to inform, but to transform the way you breathe and, consequently, how you face the world.

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The need always be right has a negative impact on all of your relationships.  This week, Lisa and Brad discuss this incessant need to be right, exploring why it is so harmful and examining ways, with awareness and practice,  it can be overcome.




Imagine a recent evening spent with friends, laughter echoing around the room, until a dispute over a game rule brings a sudden chill. We've all been there, right? That's the springboard for our heartfelt discussion on why prioritizing harmony in our relationships can be more fulfilling than the relentless pursuit of proving oneself correct. We navigate the delicate balance of standing your ground versus embracing peace for the collective happiness, all while sharing relatable anecdotes and a dose of self-reflection. Join us as we uncover the hidden costs of the 'I'm right' syndrome and discover strategies for fostering healthier, more trusting connections.

As we peel back the layers of our need for control, we encounter the pivotal role of humility. Disagreements, especially over the little things, can add unnecessary weight to our closest bonds. We probe into how a simple catchphrase can serve as a powerful tool to combat the urge to assert dominance through being right. Without shying away from our vulnerabilities, we candidly discuss embracing our imperfections and the transformative power this can have on our relationships. Tune in for an episode that promises introspection and perhaps, a gentle nudge towards a more respectful and harmonious way of living.

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Everyone has a different set of talents and recognizing that fact can go a long way in improving your relationships. This week, Lisa and Brad explore exactly what talents are, and provide examples that you can use to understand why unrecognized talent disparity can cause so many relationship  problems.




Ever marveled at someone's effortless charisma or envied another's punctuality? This week's episode peels back the layers of human talents, examining the rich variety that makes each of us extraordinary. I unravel the tapestry of attributes, from the way Lisa masterfully sidesteps procrastination to why some struggle with the concept of 'time blindness.' It's an exploration into acknowledging that the talents we admire in others may not come as naturally to us, and that's perfectly okay.

Venture with me into the often overlooked corners of innate abilities and their undeniable influence on our personal and professional interactions. We're not all cut from the same cloth when it comes to skills like communication and empathy, and that's a game-changer in how we approach success. Without a guest to distract us, we get down to the nitty-gritty of managing expectations and fostering growth by embracing the unique talents each of us brings to the table. Join me, and together let's sculpt a life that not only celebrates our distinct gifts but also forges stronger, more empathetic connections with the people in our lives.

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For better or worse, your parents establish social and relationship expectations that become a long list of "should do's"  in your subconscious.   This week, Lisa and Brad explore this "voice in your head" and discuss the ways you can break free.  


Ever felt burdened by the weight of expectations, especially those ingrained by our mothers? Dive headfirst into this riveting exploration as we, Brad and Lisa Stearns, guide you through the maze of societal and familial expectations, often colored by the lens of maternal teachings. We unmask the guilt, obligation, and emotional drain these expectations can unfold, challenging you to question their validity and choose whether to adhere or break away from these inherited norms, especially during the emotionally charged holiday season. 

Ever noticed how the 'mom's voice' has subtly influenced your choices and steered your actions? We elevate this conversation to recognize this internalized voice, its evolution, and its undeniable impact on our lives. Through candid discussions, we stress on setting personal boundaries, making decisions that resonate with your well-being, even if they clash with the expectations of others. Remember, the journey to recognizing and managing this voice requires practice and unwavering commitment. Tune in and awaken to the influence your 'mom's voice' has on your thoughts and actions, and transform your life into a fulfilling and mindful journey.

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A mindful staycation is the perfect solution for dealing with burnout and stress.  This week, Lisa and Brad discuss the benefits of a mindful staycation and present several activities that can make it both healing and enjoyable.

Are you ready to shake up your life and cultivate a more mindful existence, all within the comfort of your own home? This episode is brimming with enlightening strategies to create a rejuvenating and invigorating staycation. We'll share the benefits of such a break from routines, help you understand how to embrace discomfort, and guide you to become more aware of your thoughts and emotions. We also shed light on the power of breaking free from unhealthy habits and replacing them with more recovery-oriented and stress-reducing practices.

Do you believe that mindfulness activities require an extravagant budget? Think again! We'll challenge your perceptions and prove that mindfulness can be attained even through simple and creative activities like taking a bath or playing with play-doh. It's about exploring the sensations in our body and questioning our assumptions about the “ick” of sitting in our own dirt. We also explore how weather, often seen as a hindrance, can actually be a catalyst for softening our inner selves and exploring our strong emotions. Plus, we share resources and ideas to kick-start your mindful journey and remind listeners about our free book of mindful activities. Let's embark on this journey of mindfulness together!

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What seem to be negative encounters are unavoidable, as we go about our daily business, and each will elicit an almost uncontrollable stress response.   This week, Lisa and Brad explore these constant social stressors and discuss a few techniques to get yourself out of the resultant negative thought loops. 



Ever wonder why something as petty as someone cutting the line at Panera can send you spiraling into a stress response? Get ready to expose and explore the biology behind our fear responses, the impact of long-term stress on our health, and the sheer number of thoughts we have each day that can make it hard to stay present. 

Let's journey together into the realm of self-forgiveness, understanding our natural wiring, and the art of thought reframing. We'll share strategies for scripting a different narrative, a method that helps us restructure negative thoughts. Discover how reframing our perception of daily events and interactions can foster an atmosphere of grace and forgiveness, ultimately reducing stress. Brace yourself for a deep dive into everyday forgiveness and stress management!

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All humans crave control in their lives, especially in volatile  times.  This week, Lisa and Brad explore  just how little control we really have and discuss strategies for dealing with this uncertainty. 

Ever wondered why we constantly crave control, even when life continually proves how unpredictable it can be? Buckle up for a profound exploration into the 'illusion of control' that we're all subconsciously wired to believe. We dissect our deep-seated need for control, tracing it back to our ancestors who sought to control their environment, leading to the birth of various superstitions and religions. We dig deep into the paradox of control, discussing how our brains are designed to keep us safe but also how this can lead us to harbor false beliefs and create unnecessary stress in our lives.

But hold on, it's not all doom and gloom! We're diving into the liberating idea of 'letting go of control', highlighting the importance of acknowledging what's within our control and what's not. We share how this simple yet profound realization can invite peace and calm into our lives. From the power of mindfulness and meditation to the value of owning our reactions to life's unpredictable twists and turns, we're dropping truth bombs galore. So, tune in, open your mind, and prepare for a journey towards personal growth, acceptance, and a new perspective on control. Your life might just depend on it!

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There are times when your mind just won't stop racing.  This week, Lisa and Brad explore this unpleasant experience and describe techniques you can use to alleviate your distress.

Ever wake up at the bewitching hour of 4 or 5 in the morning with your mind spiraling out of control? Fear not, we've been there too, and it's not as scary as it seems. This episode is all about our personal struggle with these racing thoughts, a phenomenon possibly tied to biarrhythms, and how we've learned to manage it. We go in-depth about how our brains are wired to seek out fear and how, armed with this knowledge, we can step in and prevent our mind from spiraling into panic.

By sharing our personal experiences, we take you through the mindfulness techniques that have been a game changer for us. Focusing on positive words, employing affirmations, and putting a halt to negative thoughts are some of the strategies we talk about. We also delve into the importance of consistency in practice for successfully managing racing thoughts. We guide you on how to choose the right mindfulness tool and commit to a regular practice, reminding you that it doesn't have to be perfect right away. Stick with us as we tackle these seemingly insurmountable spirals and teach you how to wrestle back control from your racing thoughts.

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Facing setbacks is inevitable, and learning how to deal with them is a major factor in your overall level of happiness and life satisfaction.  This week, Lisa and Brad discuss a 3 step process for dealing with setbacks, whether big or small.

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Good, healthy relationships are filled with positive comments and supportive dialogue,  This week, Lisa and Brad explore the many phrases and conversations that give a great relationship a specific sound.

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