Life Check Yourself

Guest Introduction In today’s episode, we’re joined by Joanna Kleinman, a transformative psychotherapist, leadership coach, and the founder of the MIND Method. Joanna is passionate about helping people silence the inner critic and unlock their potential through self-awareness and personal growth. Her unique approach, blending coaching with neuroscience and spirituality, empowers individuals to move beyond self-doubt and thrive in their lives.

Episode Topic Dethroning the Inner Critic: How Self-Compassion and the MIND Method Lead to Lasting Transformation

Top Three Takeaways

1. Recognizing and understanding the inner critic is the first step toward change.

2. Self-compassion is essential for breaking free from the cycle of self-criticism.

3. The MIND Method provides a structured approach to building mental resilience and emotional strength.

1. Identifying the Inner Critic and Its Role in Self-Sabotage (Timestamp: 7:10) Joanna explains that the inner critic is not just a voice of negativity but a pattern of thought that has developed from early life experiences, ingrained to protect yet often limit growth. Recognizing this critical voice as separate from one’s true self creates a pathway to personal freedom, allowing for choices that align more closely with one's authentic desires and values.

Notable Quote: “The inner critic is that automated voice in your head. Recognize it, question it, and it loses its control over you.”

2. Embracing Self-Compassion to Move Beyond Limiting Beliefs (Timestamp: 16:30) Joanna emphasizes the power of self-compassion as a tool to dissolve self-judgment and break free from the need for perfection. She describes how self-compassion fosters a growth mindset, reducing the grip of self-criticism and making room for real, lasting change. Embracing kindness towards oneself allows for mistakes without feeling defined by them, promoting resilience and continued personal growth.

Notable Quote: “When you treat yourself with compassion, you’re allowing space for mistakes without being defined by them.”

3. Applying the MIND Method for Mental and Emotional Resilience (Timestamp: 28:45) The MIND Method, Joanna’s signature framework, helps individuals dismantle the inner critic and reprogram their minds with empowering beliefs. Through practical steps, this method equips individuals with the tools to redirect their thoughts and take control of their emotional experiences. This structure builds resilience and confidence, setting the stage for a future less affected by past patterns and more aligned with personal purpose.

Notable Quote: “The MIND Method lets you dethrone your inner critic and replace it with beliefs that support your growth and happiness.”

Connections:

• 3 Secrets Men Wish You Knew *Free Download*

• How to Eliminate Burnout: How to use the Radical Living Blueprint to Reinvent Your Life

• Ready To Take Control Of Your Life?  Book A Call With Us

• Unlock the shocking truth about how your unique personality type is silently shaping your future

• Website

• Dethroning Your Inner Critic: The Four-Step Journey from Self-Doubt to Self-Empowerment

Guest IntroductionOn today’s episode, we’re thrilled to have Thais Gibson, a leading expert in attachment theory and emotional healing with an impressive background in psychology and personal development. Thais has transformed the lives of thousands by helping people understand and heal their core wounds, leading them towards secure, fulfilling relationships. She’s here to share invaluable insights into self-awareness, relationship advice, and effective communication and boundaries.

Top Three Takeaways

1. Attachment styles are learned, not fixed, and can be reprogrammed.

2. Core wounds drive most of our fears in relationships, but they can be healed.

3. Healthy boundaries and communication are essential for creating secure connections.

1. Reprogramming Attachment Styles (Timestamp: 8:15) Thais explains how attachment styles, often considered fixed, are actually learned patterns developed through childhood experiences. She emphasizes that by understanding and rewiring these patterns, one can cultivate a secure attachment, regardless of previous conditioning. This shift allows for deeper, more authentic connections, as people move away from reactive behaviors to more responsive and compassionate ways of engaging.

Notable Quote: “We’re not born with an attachment style. It’s something conditioned through life experiences, and with the right tools, it can be reprogrammed.”

2. Healing Core Wounds for Relationship Freedom (Timestamp: 19:05) According to Thais, core wounds—such as fears of abandonment, unworthiness, and rejection—are the root of most relationship struggles. These wounds, once identified, can be intentionally healed through targeted reprogramming, enabling individuals to step into relationships from a place of wholeness. Healing these deep-seated wounds empowers people to engage without fear or excessive self-protection, freeing them to experience joy and trust in relationships.

Notable Quote: “Core wounds act as lenses through which we view relationships, but they don’t have to dictate our future. Healing them opens the door to freedom and happiness.”

3. Establishing Boundaries and Practicing Self-Awareness (Timestamp: 28:45) Thais discusses the importance of setting boundaries and cultivating self-awareness to create secure, lasting relationships. She highlights that clear boundaries prevent over-attachment or avoidance behaviors, creating a foundation for open, honest communication. Establishing boundaries allows people to express their needs without fear, helping maintain a balance of closeness and independence in relationships.

Notable Quote: “Boundaries are the bridge between love and self-respect, allowing relationships to flourish without compromising personal integrity.”

This episode offers powerful tools and insights for anyone on a journey of personal development. Understanding attachment theory, healing core wounds, and setting boundaries can transform relationships into secure, nurturing connections. Through Thais’s expertise, listeners are inspired to create healthy, meaningful bonds rooted in self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

Connections:

• 3 Secrets Men Wish You Knew *Free Download*

• How to Eliminate Burnout: How to use the Radical Living Blueprint to Reinvent Your Life

• Ready To Take Control Of Your Life?  Book A Call With Us

• Unlock the shocking truth about how your unique personality type is silently shaping your future

• Website

• New Book: Learning Love

• Take Attachment Quiz

Summary

In this episode of Life Check Yourself, Marni Battista engages in a profound conversation with Jamal Javangi, exploring the depths of human experience, the quest for survival, and the journey towards thriving. They discuss the cultural influences that shape our understanding of loneliness and suffering, the four core survival drivers that motivate human behavior, and the illusion of happiness tied to material possessions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of being present and finding peace within oneself to create a fulfilling life. Jamal shares insights on how to navigate internal conflicts and the significance of starting with being rather than doing to achieve true abundance and happiness.

Takeaways

• Everyone wants to survive, but ultimately, we all want to thrive.

• The four core survival drivers are safety, freedom, significance, and love.

• Material possessions do not equate to happiness; it's about the feelings they represent.

• To achieve peace, we must confront our internal conflicts rather than avoid them.

• True fulfillment comes from understanding what we really want to feel.

• Starting with being allows for a more abundant and fulfilling life.

• The mind often misleads us into thinking external achievements will bring internal happiness.

• We need to learn how to resource our inner selves for true abundance.

• The journey of life is about creating a peaceful existence for ourselves and the world.

• Awareness of our thoughts and feelings is crucial in navigating life's challenges.

The Four Core Drivers of Human Fulfillment (Timestamp: 10:25)

Jamal describes the four essential drivers—safety, freedom, significance, and love—as foundational to human happiness and thriving. When these are unmet, individuals often find themselves feeling “stuck,” seeking external validation that never fully satisfies. Embracing these core needs from within fosters a deep sense of purpose and resilience, helping one build a fulfilling life from a place of inner security.

We all need to feel significant, free, safe, and loved. Without these, we’re still in survival mode.

Moving from Survival Mode to True Freedom (Timestamp: 22:10) Modern society has made survival relatively easier, freeing up the space to ask deeper questions about meaning and purpose. Jamal points out that although basic needs are met, a subtle, internal “survival mode” persists, pushing many to seek fulfillment through external measures. By redefining freedom as a choice in mindset and actions, one can shift from scarcity to abundance, empowering them to engage more joyfully and purposefully in life.

We’re not here just to survive. When you start with ‘being,’ work and creation become joyful acts, not survival mechanisms.

Finding Inner Peace by Confronting Inner Conflicts (Timestamp: 35:18) True peace, Jamal explains, is not the absence of conflict but the ability to sit with it, understanding and accepting one’s fears and insecurities without letting them dictate actions. This conscious embrace of uncomfortable emotions dissolves the inner resistance that often blocks personal growth. By facing these parts of oneself with compassion, one creates a sustainable foundation for happiness and fulfillment.

In order to find peace, we have to get present with our inner conflicts, not avoid them. That’s where true harmony begins.

Connections:

• 3 Secrets Men Wish You Knew *Free Download*

• How to Eliminate Burnout: How to use the Radical Living Blueprint to Reinvent Your Life

• Ready To Take Control Of Your Life?  Book A Call With Us

• Unlock the shocking truth about how your unique personality type is silently shaping your future

• Visit Jamal’s website

In this week’s episode, Marni welcomes Chris Gillis to the Life Check Yourself studio where they dive into the essential components that make a man fall deeply in love. Chris Gillis is a professional dating coach with a unique approach to understanding the psychology of dating. Chris brings practical insights and experience from his work with men who are actively seeking meaningful relationships. The duo discussed the importance of maintaining a balanced approach in dating—one that fosters curiosity, preserves mystery, and builds lasting self-assurance. Get ready to explore how confidence, clear intentions, and self-love play crucial roles in creating lasting connections.

• Creating healthy space in a relationship can amplify attraction.

• Meaningful dating happens through focused interaction rather than endless texting.

• Building a strong inner foundation leads to genuine, lasting relationships.

1. Creating Attraction Through Intentional Scarcity [00:15] 

Scarcity in a relationship is about managing how often and intensely one interacts to maintain curiosity and value. Constant availability can dilute appreciation, while intentional space invites excitement and fosters a healthy dynamic. Over-engagement can turn partners into routine rather than desired company. 

“When there’s always availability, it becomes routine instead of desired. Intentional scarcity can create more depth in a connection.”

1. Meaningful Communication vs. Endless Messaging [12:30] 

Excessive texting, especially before a first date, can drain the excitement and mystery needed for an authentic connection. Instead, prioritizing in-person or phone interactions can lead to a deeper understanding of compatibility. 

“It’s not about how much you text or talk before a date; it’s about what you choose to save for in-person experiences.”

1. Building Self-Confidence Through Consistent Actions [23:45] 

Confidence isn’t instantaneous; it’s developed through small, repeated actions over time. Just as a strong body is built through regular workouts, a resilient sense of self is created through daily practices like journaling and goal-setting. 

“Confidence is built daily, not overnight. Repetition in positive actions shapes who you are, making you ready for a relationship.”

Make a Connection:

• 3 Secrets Men Wish You Knew *Free Download*

• How to Eliminate Burnout: How to use the Radical Living Blueprint to Reinvent Your Life

• Ready To Take Control Of Your Life?  Book A Call With Us

• Unlock the shocking truth about how your unique personality type is silently shaping your future

• Helping Nice Guys Gain Confidence To Attract Dream Women- Chris’s Instagram Account

In this week’s episode, Marni welcomes Stephanie Hessler to the Life Check Yourself Studio. Stephanie is a seasoned career coach with a rich history on Wall Street, she specializes in helping high-achieving leaders, especially women, break through career roadblocks and reach the next level of success. Today, we’re exploring how to reframe self-imposed limitations and create strategies for growth.We discussed common roadblocks many women face, such as undervaluing their achievements, not advocating for themselves, and failing to leverage important relationships. Stephanie offers actionable advice on how to shift mindset, become more strategic, and define a clear path to their desired professional future.

Key Takeaways:

• You won’t be promoted just by doing good work. Speak up for your accomplishments.

• Build connections and don’t be afraid to ask for doors to be opened for you.

• Get crystal clear on who you want to become and start embodying that now.

1. Advocating for Yourself (4:20)

Women often fall into the trap of thinking hard work will automatically be recognized and rewarded. This mindset leads to frustration as promotions or opportunities don’t materialize, especially as they rise into leadership roles. Advocating for oneself is not about boasting, but about owning and showcasing the value you bring.

"Women make the mistake of thinking because they’ve done a great job, they’ll automatically be promoted. That simply doesn’t happen."

2. Strategic Networking and Relationship Leverage (5:55)

Women often excel at building relationships but hesitate when it comes to using those connections to advance their careers. It is important to use networks strategically, not just for support but to open new professional doors.

"Women are skilled at relationships, but they neglect to leverage the people they know."

3. Defining and Embodying Your Future Self (15:00)

A critical aspect of career growth is envisioning the person you want to become. Getting granular about what success looks like for you, whether it's compensation, work environment, or the kind of people you want to work with. From there, begin showing up as that person now.

Quote: "You cannot have one kind of mind and another kind of environment."

Make a Connection:

• 3 Secrets Men Wish You Knew *Free Download*

• How to Eliminate Burnout: How to use the Radical Living Blueprint to Reinvent Your Life

• Ready To Take Control Of Your Life?  Book A Call With Us

• Unlock the shocking truth about how your unique personality type is silently shaping your future

• Be Your Most Exceptional Self- Stephanie Hessler’s Website

• Download a free Career Elevation Checklist and Guide

In this week’s episode, Marni welcomes Matthew Sinkovitz to the Life Check Yourself studio. Matthew is the founder of the Porn to Purpose Community, which he started in 2019 after battling pornography addiction. With years of coaching, therapy, and 12-step recovery work, Matthew is on a mission to help men transform their lives. His focus on personal and spiritual development, mindfulness, and recovery offers a powerful path for those seeking freedom from addiction. They dive deep into the complex topic of pornography addiction, its impact on relationships, and the journey to reclaim purpose. Matthew shares insights from his own recovery and discusses strategies to overcome this pervasive issue.

1. Awareness of the Addiction

2. Creating a Safe Space for Vulnerability

3. Purpose as a Solution to Addiction 

1. Awareness and Denial of Addiction (12:35) Pornography addiction often thrives in secrecy and denial. Many individuals fail to recognize the extent of the problem until it severely impacts their lives. By gaining awareness, it becomes possible to take the first step toward recovery. This shift in consciousness can break cycles of addictive behavior and lead to genuine healing. Awareness is critical because it fosters accountability, making it easier to change self-destructive habits.

"The problem is, a man might not have the awareness to know that it’s a problem, or he might not be willing enough to admit that it’s a problem."

1. The Importance of Vulnerability in Relationships (25:45) Creating a safe environment for honesty is essential for both personal recovery and the health of relationships. Vulnerability without judgment encourages honesty, which leads to growth and deeper understanding. Acknowledging and addressing issues in an environment of support is the key to real transformation.

“The creation of some sort of space around having a healthy conversation... you have to take responsibility for judging or being critical.”

1. Purpose as a Solution to Addiction (40:15) A lack of purpose often leads to feelings of boredom, isolation, and insignificance, which drive individuals toward addictive behaviors. By defining and pursuing a meaningful life, negative habits become less appealing and easier to break. Purpose gives individuals direction, leading to self-improvement and fulfillment. Having a sense of mission empowers personal growth and significantly diminishes the urge to engage in destructive behaviors. 

"When I was on purpose in life, the things that didn’t serve me naturally fell by the wayside."

Make a Connection:

• 3 Secrets Men Wish You Knew *Free Download*

• How to Eliminate Burnout: How to use the Radical Living Blueprint to Reinvent Your Life

• Ready To Take Control Of Your Life?  Book A Call With Us

• Unlock the shocking truth about how your unique personality type is silently shaping your future

• The Liberation Boot Camp- Porn To Purpose

In this week’s episode, Marni welcomes Heather Wiese to the Life Check Yourself studio. Heather is the founder of Bell'INVITO, a responsible luxury brand specializing in stationery and leather goods. Heather shares her journey from art direction to establishing a company that marries beauty with etiquette, and her passion for teaching the importance of thoughtful communication in our everyday interactions. Their conversation dives deep into the relevance of etiquette in today’s fast-paced world, showing that it’s not just about table manners or formal occasions—it’s about everyday respect, emotional intelligence, and intentional living. Heather breaks down how etiquette impacts our relationships, our businesses, and even our self-confidence. Her insights reveal how the smallest gestures, when done thoughtfully, can transform how we communicate and connect.

Key Takeaways:

• Etiquette is Everywhere

• Intentional Living is Key

• Empowerment through Knowledge

1. Modern Etiquette (10:23)

Etiquette is not about being old-fashioned; it governs daily interactions. This explains how etiquette is ingrained in our social norms, even in casual settings like how we treat guests or navigate social media interactions. This knowledge helps build strong, respectful relationships.

“You do worry about etiquette. You have your own etiquette. You have protocols and the subculture of your house. And when someone doesn’t follow them, it’s weird."

1. Intentional Living (21:10)

Intentional living goes beyond what we buy. It’s about aligning our choices—whether material or behavioral—with values that support a meaningful life. Making informed decisions and understanding the long-term impact can bring clarity and peace.

"We inspire people to live beautifully and purchase intentionally while educating them on etiquette."

1. Empowering Yourself through Etiquette (34:45)

Knowing etiquette boosts self-confidence in social and professional scenarios. This emphasizes that etiquette is a tool for empowerment, enabling you to navigate any situation with grace and certainty. Mastering social protocols allows individuals to feel prepared, reducing anxiety in formal and informal settings alike. It builds confidence in every interaction.

"How many times do you go into a situation and feel so empowered when you actually are like, ‘I was right. I knew that.”

Make a Connection:

• 3 Secrets Men Wish You Knew *Free Download*

• How to Eliminate Burnout: How to use the Radical Living Blueprint to Reinvent Your Life

• Ready To Take Control Of Your Life?  Book A Call With Us

• Unlock the shocking truth about how your unique personality type is silently shaping your future

• Bell’INVITO - Heather Wiese’s Website

In this week’s episode, Marni welcomes Christina McMahon, PhD, a love coach and certified somatic counselor who has been empowering individuals to overcome their inner barriers to love and life through the power of somatic healing. With a background in academia, Christina made the bold decision to leave a tenured university position to follow her passion, now helping hundreds of singles embrace love in a transformative way. She’ll take us through how listening to our bodies, especially in times of change, can lead us to our most authentic selves. This episode dives deep into the concept of somatic healing and how listening to our bodies can catalyze massive life shifts. They’ll explore the idea of breaking down barriers by connecting with bodily sensations and understanding how trauma can lead to profound transformation.

Key Takeaways:

• Listening to Your Body Can Lead to Breakthroughs

• Trauma as a Pathway to Transformation

• Shift Happens When We Accept Our Emotions

1. Somatics and the Body’s Signals (10:15)

Recognizing these physical patterns allows for a more profound understanding of personal history, unlocking the potential for growth. By tuning into these bodily sensations, we can begin to trust the signals our body sends, guiding us toward the healing we need.

"Each pattern we develop has a survival instinct behind it... our body holds the memory of what we need to heal."

1. Breaking Down to Break Through (17:45)

It’s in the moments of greatest distress that clarity can emerge, providing the opportunity to realign and rebuild a new direction in life. These breaking points often serve as gateways to deeper personal transformation, allowing us to create a life aligned with our true desires.

“It was like the worst day of my life, but it was also the most pivotal because it put me on a different path.”

1. Emotional Energy and Healing (25:00)

Somatic work teaches that emotions are energy, and blocked emotional energy creates physical and emotional pain. When people allow themselves to feel emotions—especially the ones they avoid like sadness or grief—they make room for healing and forward movement.Emotions like anger often mask deeper feelings like sadness. By embracing these, transformation occurs, shifting from emotional stagnation to personal freedom. 

“Underneath your anger is probably sadness... the sadness is the golden nugget we need to heal.”

Make a Connection:

• 3 Secrets Men Wish You Knew *Free Download*

• How to Eliminate Burnout: How to use the Radical Living Blueprint to Reinvent Your Life

• Ready To Take Control Of Your Life?  Book A Call With Us

• Unlock the shocking truth about how your unique personality type is silently shaping your future

• Want a Love Life Worthy of Wonderful You?- Meet Christina Mcmahon

• Opening to Sacred Love Online Program

• Free Dating Mastery Toolkit For Lasting Love

In this week’s episode, Marni welcomes Kristal De Santis to the Life Check Yourself studio. Kristal is a licensed marriage and family therapist and author of Strong: A Relationship Field Guide for the Modern Man, she shares insights on masculinity, partnership dynamics, and how men can thrive in today’s shifting societal expectations. They explore the complexities of modern relationships, particularly focusing on the evolving roles of men and women. Together, the duo uncover actionable strategies to build stronger, healthier relationships based on mutual understanding and growth.

• Redefining Masculinity in Modern Relationships

• The Importance of Emotional Safety in Love

• Effective Conflict Resolution and Repair Strategies

1. The Evolution of Masculine and Feminine Roles in Relationships [00:08:35]

In today's relationships, both men and women are navigating an unprecedented level of freedom. With traditional gender roles evolving, the challenge becomes making intentional choices that benefit both partners without falling back on outdated expectations. The key is creating new, shared rules for the partnership while respecting each other's individuality.

"The paradox of choice is that when everything is on the table, how do you make the right choice for yourself?" 

1. Love Languages Reimagined: Building Emotional Safety [00:23:45]

Emotional safety is foundational to a successful relationship. While love languages help communicate affection, they only work if partners feel secure. Safety allows individuals to express their needs freely, and without it, no amount of acts of service or physical touch can stabilize the relationship.

"If you don’t have safety, the relationship will still be on shaky ground."

1. Communication Breakdowns and Repair Conversations [00:47:20]

When conflicts arise in a relationship, repairing the emotional damage requires time and effort. Quick apologies aren’t enough; true healing involves understanding the other person's perspective and demonstrating accountability. Deep-seated issues may need repeated conversations, but each discussion can strengthen the bond and help both partners grow.

"The deeper the wound, the more stitches you need."

Make a Connection:

• 3 Secrets Men Wish You Knew *Free Download*

• How to Eliminate Burnout: How to use the Radical Living Blueprint to Reinvent Your Life

• Ready To Take Control Of Your Life?  Book A Call With Us

• Unlock the shocking truth about how your unique personality type is silently shaping your future

• Strong: A Relationship Field Guide for the Modern Man- Get Your Copy Now

• STRONG.LOVE- Kristal Desantis Website

In this week's episode, Marni welcomes Nancy Hurley to the Life Check Yourself studio. Nancy is a seasoned marketing executive and a client of Marni. She shares her incredible journey of transforming her life, moving from a state of work overload and self-doubt to a balanced life filled with purpose and joy. Her story is a testament to the power of intentional life design, where she took bold steps to redefine her future, embrace retirement, and open new doors, all while working through the profound internal and external changes with Marni’s guidance.

• The Journey of Overcoming Work Overload and Finding Balance

• Confronting the Fear of Retirement and Financial Insecurity

• Redesigning Life and Career on Your Own Terms

• Letting Go of Perfectionism and Delegating for Success

• The Importance of Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care

1. Recognizing When Overwork Leads to Burnout – [00:10:35]

Constant overworking can drain energy and overshadow personal life. It’s important to recognize the signs of burnout and take steps to create a healthier balance, allowing for both career success and personal fulfillment.

"I didn’t want to turn 61 still doing what I had been doing at 60. I knew I had to figure out how to make the shift."

1. Managing Financial Fears Surrounding Retirement – [00:23:45]

Financial concerns often surface when considering retirement. It's essential to confront these fears directly, ensuring that retirement is not a source of anxiety but an opportunity for personal growth and new experiences.

"Life is short. Unless this is the most fulfilling thing you're doing, there shouldn't be any 'buts'. Serve yourself, and what matters to you."

1. Redesigning Life with Intention and Freedom – [00:45:10]

Redesigning life after years in a demanding career can be empowering. It's crucial to approach this transition with a clear plan, ensuring that personal goals align with professional exit strategies, while maintaining future flexibility.

"You have to stop pushing out the timeline, making excuses for the next promotion or incentive. If you keep waiting, it’ll never happen."

1. Letting Go of Perfectionism to Foster Team Success – [00:55:25]

Perfectionism can create unnecessary stress and hinder both personal growth and team dynamics. Learning to trust others and delegate responsibilities helps reduce pressure and fosters a more collaborative and effective working environment.

"Delegating and trusting others with responsibility allowed me to let go of perfectionism and finally breathe."

1. Setting Boundaries to Protect Personal Well-Being – [01:05:10]

Boundaries are critical for preserving mental and emotional health. Prioritizing self-care and establishing clear limits between work and personal time ensures a more balanced, fulfilling lifestyle.

"The small wins come when you start showing up for yourself, closing your laptop at five, and making time for what truly matters."

Make a Connection:

• 3 Secrets Men Wish You Knew *Free Download*

• How to Eliminate Burnout: How to use the Radical Living Blueprint to Reinvent Your Life

• Ready To Take Control Of Your Life?  Book A Call With Us

• Unlock the shocking truth about how your unique personality type is silently shaping your future