Today on Living Big Mindfully we are exploring suicide, family secrets, and monsters with author Sandra Rostirolla.

A heavy & important topic for sure

Here in the US, we are seeing increased rates of suicide particularly in our younger populations. Furthermore, the ripple effects of suicide or suicide attempts are devasting. 

This conversation with author and mental health advocate Sandra is warm, heartfelt, open, and honest…

As women, we were both raised in families with “secrets”, we connect, share our perspectives, and offer listeners a glimmer of hope.

Sandra has a powerful, lived experience with suicide - so we begin with a bit about her story…

Then we dive in and talk about:

• The power of family secrets
• Breaking the silence
• The importance of honesty & accessing care

Throughout the show, Sandra shares tips & strategies to help with:

• Breaking cycles
• Improving communication
• And what we might say to someone after a loss…

 Of course, Sandra wraps up offering us some sage advice… pertinent for all the aspiring writers out there😊    

See the show notes for links to connect you with information about suicide, suicide prevention, and, of course, Sandra’s book – Making Friends with Monsters…

Remember, suicide is preventable. Communication, advocacy, education, and access to quality care are vital. We hope you find this conversation helpful.

Here's  more about Sandra:

 My family has a long history of suicide (my father when I was thirteen & two brothers some years later). I wrote Making Friends with Monsters - offering children and parents a language where they feel comfortable talking about feelings and emotions that often get buried because no one knows how to begin the conversation.

Show links:
Website: https://slrostirolla.com
Book : https://amzn.to/3MCgpbV

Connect with Sandra @
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SLRostirolla
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slrostirolla/

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An occasional, intentional letter with reflections, resources, in-person gatherings, speaking updates, and new episodes—designed to support you in living a longer, stronger, more intentional life.

As I spend less time on social media, this is the best way to stay connected.

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 In today’s episode of Living Big Mindfully, I am talking with Mayda Poc. Mayda is a cancer survivor and  recovering overachiever whose body said NO MORE! 

Mayda starts by sharing her inspirational story which took her from immigrant to financial guru to overachiever, to people pleaser to cancer survivor – and now to coach as she helps other women get off the Type A / perfectionistic hamster wheel… 

Listen and learn about: 

• The type A personality 
• The art of setting – and sticking to your boundaries 
• And why we must get better at listening to our bodies… 

Then we chat about cultural, corporate, & gender influences – see if you may be at higher risk for burnout or a health crisis.

Of course, throughout the conversation, Mayda shares lots of tips, strategies, and sage advice… 

As always, make sure you check out the show notes for those resources. 

Here's more about Mayda:
As your typical overachiever, Mayda holds multiple certifications and accreditations: Executive and Leadership Coaching, as well as Life and Health coaching.  A Certified Hypnotist, Mayda also uses Neuro-Linguistic Programming as well as Emotional Freedom Technique.

Mayda speaks 4 languages, having spent part of her childhood in Syria and then in France.  She now resides in New York City with her hubby.

Show links:
Website: https://www.maydapoccoaching.com/

Connect with Mayda @
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maydapoc/
Email: https://www.maydapoccoaching.com/

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Support the show

👉 Support the show:
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✨ The Free Aging Better Toolkit :
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/aging-better

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 https://livingbigmindfully.com/thrive-%26-shine

An occasional, intentional letter with reflections, resources, in-person gatherings, speaking updates, and new episodes—designed to support you in living a longer, stronger, more intentional life.

As I spend less time on social media, this is the best way to stay connected.

Connect:

• Web: https://livingbigmindfully.com/
• Contact: https://livingbigmindfully.com/contact
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivingBigMindfully
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Today on Living Big Mindfully we are having a few laughs as we explore pee, poop, periods & more with outdoor advocates  Becca & Dani Titterton.

Becca and Dani are a mother-and- daughter team –  both avid hikers and passionate about keeping trails clean, and normalizing personal hygiene needs when out on the trail. 

Whether you are female, male, a day hiker, a backpacker, new to the trail, or a seasoned trail rat… this conversation has something for everyone!

Becca & Dani start with a bit about their personal story and how their company Your Yuckies was born. Then we dive into the fun stuff…

So, strap in. Get ready to laugh & learn as we unpack how to handle: 

• Pee
• Poop
• Periods
• Trash

And general personal hygiene while out on the trail

Then we talk about:

Prepping & planning for trips

We discuss products – pros, cons & share some of our personal preferences and experiences.

We take a deep dive into the Leave No Trace principles & why following them  is so important.

This conversation is full of fun, creative tips & strategies…  

As always, the show notes will have links so you can access resources!

Our hope is by sharing this fun, open, honest conversation you will feel empowered, supported, and feel comfortable enough to get out and explore the great outdoors – no matter where you are in your journey!

Here's more about Becca & Dani:

Dani and Becca, are a mother-and-daughter duo who love to hike. During multi-day hikes, they were repeatedly faced with the fact that there just wasn't a good sustainable solution for managing hygiene needs on the trail.

Show links:
Website: https://www.youryuckies.com
Leave No Trace Principles: https://lnt.org/why/7-principles/
Free Hiking Guide: https://www.katechampionauthor.com/freeguide

Connect with Becca & Dani:
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com@your_yuckies
Email: https://[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

👉 Support the show:
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✨ The Free Aging Better Toolkit :
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/aging-better

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 https://livingbigmindfully.com/thrive-%26-shine

An occasional, intentional letter with reflections, resources, in-person gatherings, speaking updates, and new episodes—designed to support you in living a longer, stronger, more intentional life.

As I spend less time on social media, this is the best way to stay connected.

Connect:

• Web: https://livingbigmindfully.com/
• Contact: https://livingbigmindfully.com/contact
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Today on Living Big Mindfully we are exploring addiction with sober mindset master James Mcilwain…

Here in the US September is recovery month… addiction effects millions of people and families throughout the world! With the intention of honoring anyone who is personally or has a loved one struggling with addiction… this episode is dedicated to you! 

You know, addiction has, and still effects my life in many ways – I guess that’s why I am so passionate about the subject.

…James caught my attention because he has a different twist on things and I was curious…

Of course, like most people who have spent years in active addiction, James has quite a story – so we begin with a bit about his personal journey.

Then we dive in. You’ll learn about:

The power of mindset

The role of choice

And, the importance of dealing with – and letting go of the past.

James shares his 6 tips and strategies for getting and staying sober.

Then we chat about:

Triggers

Craving plans

How to help a loved one…

Kindness

And, how to find joy again….

This conversation is bursting with powerful sage advice…    

And, it doesn’t stop there! The show notes are packed with links to books, podcasts, and James’ favorite mindset mentors.

James & I hope that this empowering, no BS conversation – somehow - through the magic of the airwaves – reaches the exact people it needs to reach at just the right time. 

As James likes to say, “stay sober, stay strong, be kind!” 

Enjoy x

More about James:
James has been free from alcohol and drug addiction for 4-years. He is a certified coach and believes mindset is everything.

Connect with James @
Instagram: @james_sober_mindset_master

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

👉 Support the show:
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✨ The Free Aging Better Toolkit :
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 https://livingbigmindfully.com/thrive-%26-shine

An occasional, intentional letter with reflections, resources, in-person gatherings, speaking updates, and new episodes—designed to support you in living a longer, stronger, more intentional life.

As I spend less time on social media, this is the best way to stay connected.

Connect:

• Web: https://livingbigmindfully.com/
• Contact: https://livingbigmindfully.com/contact
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivingBigMindfully
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On today’s episode of Living Big Mindfull, we are exploring mindfulness, meditation, & trauma with therapist & meditation teacher Amita Schmidt.

Amita has been teaching Vipassana meditation for over 25 years. She’s been a resident teacher at the Insight Meditation Society. Amita is a licensed psychotherapist in Hawaii and the author of the biography, Dipa Ma; The Life and Legacy of a Buddhist Master.

Amita offers so much heartfelt wisdom…

Warning! We jump right in… and share more deeply as our conversation unfolds.

Because we cover so much – I suggest you give yourself permission to settle back, relax, and take the time to enjoy the show! 

… this may be one of those episodes you listen to a couple of times to really soak up the magic!

Today learn:

• About the difference between mindfulness & meditation.
• Why and how mindfulness practices are so helpful in the healing process.
• And why it’s important to have low expectations when beginning a practice.

Then Amita goes on to dispel some of the myths and misinformation surrounding mindfulness & meditation.

In the second half of the show, we take a deep-dive into trauma, what is it, what it isn’t, and the importance of telling your story, working it through, and taking time to honor and hold the wounds - sometimes over and over and over again…

Check out the show notes... there's access to lots of no-cost resources with the intention of supporting you on your journey.

More about Amita:
Amita has been teaching Vipassana meditation for over 25 years. She is also a licensed psychotherapist in Hawaii. She is the author of the biography, “Dipa Ma; The Life and Legacy of a Buddhist Master.”

Show links:
Website: http://www.amitaschmidt.com
Dharmaseed: https://www.dharmaseed.org/talks/search=guided+meditation&sort=-rec_date
Insight Timer: https://www.insighttimer.com/guided-meditations

Connect with Amita @
Email: http://www.[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

👉 Support the show:
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✨ The Free Aging Better Toolkit :
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/aging-better

💌 Join the Thrive & Shine newsletter:
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/thrive-%26-shine

An occasional, intentional letter with reflections, resources, in-person gatherings, speaking updates, and new episodes—designed to support you in living a longer, stronger, more intentional life.

As I spend less time on social media, this is the best way to stay connected.

Connect:

• Web: https://livingbigmindfully.com/
• Contact: https://livingbigmindfully.com/contact
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 Are you struggling with mess, clutter & feeling overwhelmed? Then this week's episode of Living Big Mindfully is a must listen… 

…we’re exploring Autism, ADHD, organizational habits, and leaning how we can collaborate with the spaces we live in… 

Alyssa is a neuro-divergent woman and she’s a professional home organizer – who’s sharing her firsthand experience and serving up some of her wisdom, tips, and strategies… 

In this fun, fast paced conversation you’ll learn: 

• How you can begin to see the mess and clutter from a different perspective. 
• How our environments can begin to support us rather than work against us. 
• And how we can begin to organize our homes in a more intuitive way… 

… what if you live with a loved one with undiagnosed ADHD? Yep – that’s a thing in my life; we cover that too – we definitely have a few laughs here! 

Then, Alyssa gives us some simple, non-judgmental questions we can ask ourselves…, some practical strategies with real-life examples to help us get started… 

Of course, Alyssa wraps up with some helpful sage advice… 

Oh, and make sure you check out the show notes for a ton of helpful resources including a free workbook! Okay! Let’s get on with the show…

Here's more about Alyssa:
Alyssa is the founder of Alyssa's Yellow House. She creates home organization solutions for people who struggle with traditional organization techniques, especially those who are neurodivergent or experiencing a life change. As a neurodivergent person she understands how frustrating it can be to try to use techniques that don't work...  One of Alyssa's goals is to build individualized solutions that eliminate organization stress so everyone can have a home they love.

Show links:
Website:  http://ayh.alyssasyellowhouse.com

Connect with Alyssa:
Facebook: http:// facebook.com/groups/alyssasyellowhouse
Instagram: http:// instagram.com/alyssasyellowhouse
Email:  http://[email protected] 

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

👉 Support the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2217305/support

✨ The Free Aging Better Toolkit :
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/aging-better

💌 Join the Thrive & Shine newsletter:
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/thrive-%26-shine

An occasional, intentional letter with reflections, resources, in-person gatherings, speaking updates, and new episodes—designed to support you in living a longer, stronger, more intentional life.

As I spend less time on social media, this is the best way to stay connected.

Connect:

• Web: https://livingbigmindfully.com/
• Contact: https://livingbigmindfully.com/contact
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivingBigMindfully
• FB https://www.facebook.com/livingbigmindfully/
• IG: https://www.instagram.com/katechampionauthor/

Hello!

…I am so excited to bring this conversation to you! Pauline has inspired me in so many ways and I am so happy to be able to share the love…

In this fun, powerful conversation – we cover so much! 

Pauline starts out with a bit about her empowering personal story…

• We take a deep dive into everything you need to know about how to stay active, fit, and healthy for the long haul…

…And if you’re starting out or starting over – we’ve got you covered too!

Pauline talks about the compliancy trap, what it is, how to avoid it, and what to do if you are stuck in it!

• We talk about the importance of caring for yourself FIRST...
• We discuss the power of mindset. Pauline is a testament to everything this podcast is about.

This show is packed with actionable tips & strategies!

And, no surprise, Pauline gives listeners some powerful sage advice…   

 Yes! All her links will be in the show notes. You’ll have access to everything - recipes, workouts, and all the encouragement you could ever need! 

Here's more about Pauline:

At the youthful age of 71, Ms. Adeleke is an unabashed fitness guru, offering exercise and nutrition tips on her YouTube Channel and exercises for all levels on her website. She also provides personal online training, consultations and speaking at public venues about the importance of exercise no matter what your age.

Pauline Adeleke leads by example demonstrating the benefits of an active lifestyle. “If I can be fit and healthy at 71, then there really aren’t any excuses to be made... so can anyone else. You don’t have to throw in the towel once you reach a certain age or any age for that matter.”

Show Links:
Instagram: http://:paulineadeleke@paulineadeleke
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@agelessfitnesslifestyle1558
Website: https://www.agelessfitnesslifestyle.fit

Connect with Pauline @
Email: http://www.[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

👉 Support the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2217305/support

✨ The Free Aging Better Toolkit :
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/aging-better

💌 Join the Thrive & Shine newsletter:
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/thrive-%26-shine

An occasional, intentional letter with reflections, resources, in-person gatherings, speaking updates, and new episodes—designed to support you in living a longer, stronger, more intentional life.

As I spend less time on social media, this is the best way to stay connected.

Connect:

• Web: https://livingbigmindfully.com/
• Contact: https://livingbigmindfully.com/contact
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivingBigMindfully
• FB https://www.facebook.com/livingbigmindfully/
• IG: https://www.instagram.com/katechampionauthor/

In this week's episode of Living Big Mindfully, I chat with ultra-runner Scott Hagerty…

Scott is a true inspiration - he has literally turned his life, and health - around!

Scott has gone from couch potato to ultra-runner. He's a family man and self-proclaimed "research nerd" who has basically taught himself everything he needs to know about nutrition, training, and fueling his body to endure hundreds of miles of running.

Listen and learn:

• Why Scott decided to get off the couch and get serious about his health.
• The role mindset has played in his journey and how he's had to shift his.
• And how he balances his values around family while still honoring his grueling training schedule.

Plus, Scott shares his thoughts - and some tips - about the importance of finding and building your tribe.

Of course, Scott wraps up with some powerful sage advice!

Scott's passion as he gets ready to celebrate 55 years on the planet is truly infectious - to hear him embrace the Never Too Late mindset - as he looks forward to some of the best years of his life is something to hear.

I hope you enjoy this episode!

Kate x

Here's more about Scott:
Scott's  journey started in his mid 40's when the company he worked for began a wellness program. The common markers they use to determine health, cholesterol, blood pressure, blood glucose levels and blood pressure - mine were all on the verge of being high enough to be placed on medication.

Scott was determined to lose weight and do the level best he could to take charge of his health using  proper nutrition and exercise.

Scott is almost 10 years into that quest and he's enjoying a very active, healthy life.  At the peak of his journey he lost 90 pounds and moved - and sustained - all his unhealthy health markers to healthy ranges - without any medication. 

Scott  turns 55 this Summer... He believes he's some of the best years of his  life are in the future.

Show links:
The Cocodona Arizona:    https://cocodona.com/
Walk Kanas:    https://www.walkkansasonline.org/
Veterans Memorial 150:   https://urultra.com/races/vm150-veterans-memorial-150/

Connect with Scott:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksdirtrunner/
Facebook: 
Email: http://[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

👉 Support the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2217305/support

✨ The Free Aging Better Toolkit :
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/aging-better

💌 Join the Thrive & Shine newsletter:
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/thrive-%26-shine

An occasional, intentional letter with reflections, resources, in-person gatherings, speaking updates, and new episodes—designed to support you in living a longer, stronger, more intentional life.

As I spend less time on social media, this is the best way to stay connected.

Connect:

• Web: https://livingbigmindfully.com/
• Contact: https://livingbigmindfully.com/contact
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivingBigMindfully
• FB https://www.facebook.com/livingbigmindfully/
• IG: https://www.instagram.com/katechampionauthor/

In today’s episode of Living Big Mindfully, we are discussing the fascinating topic of Reiki, harnessing intuition, and changing patterns that no longer serve us… 

I am super excited to be bringing you this conversation with Cindy Meckler… 

Cindy is a Certified Natural Healing Arts Mentor and Psychic Spiritual Teacher 

If you are looking for a jumping off point to get started on your healing journey – keep listening! 

Listen and learn: 

• How to step into your courage 
• Enhance your confidence… 
• And, how we can reframe failure and work with our inner critics 

Then we take a deep dive into learning how to trust and develop our intuition. And  how we can work through fear and discomfort.

Then, Cindy offers us some simple practices we can actually begin to use today! 

Cindy closes with a unique twist on the sage advice question - again, something we both connected with:)

At the end of the show Cindy offers listeners a free guide and access to a ton of helpful resources! 

I am laughing because by the end of the show Cindy & I were literally buzzing from all the energy being generated between us… I hope you'll connect with some of that energy  too😊

More about Cindy:
Cindy is a Certified Natural Healing Arts Mentor Psychic Spiritual Teacher founder of Uncommon Healing a service based business supporting 200 women Shazam their Intuition to bring their best magic forward and share it their life and/or client work.

Connect with Cindy @
Email: https://[email protected]
Instagram: https://instagram.com/uncommonhealing?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

👉 Support the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2217305/support

✨ The Free Aging Better Toolkit :
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/aging-better

💌 Join the Thrive & Shine newsletter:
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/thrive-%26-shine

An occasional, intentional letter with reflections, resources, in-person gatherings, speaking updates, and new episodes—designed to support you in living a longer, stronger, more intentional life.

As I spend less time on social media, this is the best way to stay connected.

Connect:

• Web: https://livingbigmindfully.com/
• Contact: https://livingbigmindfully.com/contact
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivingBigMindfully
• FB https://www.facebook.com/livingbigmindfully/
• IG: https://www.instagram.com/katechampionauthor/

In this week's episode of Living Big Mindfully, I am happy to share a fun conversation with outdoor super woman Sally Thompson.

This episode is all about inspiring and supporting you to get outside and explore more!

Sally  is a hiker, backpacker, caver, repeller... and she's a friend. We have done a couple of longer trips together; we've seen each other at our best and our worst.

Listen in as we have a few laughs about our personal - and sometimes - embassasing trail stories.

Sally walks us through her 7 Principles for Outdoor Safety, the Hikers 10 Essentials, and the importance of learing to trust your gut...

She also gives us some of her pro-tips and strategies for first aid, nutrition, and staying safe on the trail.

Then, Sally rounds off the show with some smart sage advice.

After this episode you'll have everything you need to get out and enjoy the trail!

Lastly, remember to check out the show notes for a ton of helpful resources AND  your Free Hiking Guide!

Show links:
Girls Who Hike Ohio: https://www.facebook.com/groups/girlswhohikeoh/
Liquid IV:  https://amzn.to/45snCmp
Nuun Sport ElectrolyteTablets: https://amzn.to/3szV8bH

More about Sally:
Sally Thompson is an avid hiker, CEO of Change Your Story, LLC, an Ambassador for Girls Who Hike Ohio, a Leave No Trace trainer, a Certified Wellness Coach and Women’s Fitness Specialist. She helps adventurous women who need support with nutrition, fitness and motivation so they can lead more active, energetic and healthy lives.

Connect with Sally @
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Changeyourstoryforwomen
Email: http://[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

👉 Support the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2217305/support

✨ The Free Aging Better Toolkit :
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/aging-better

💌 Join the Thrive & Shine newsletter:
 https://livingbigmindfully.com/thrive-%26-shine

An occasional, intentional letter with reflections, resources, in-person gatherings, speaking updates, and new episodes—designed to support you in living a longer, stronger, more intentional life.

As I spend less time on social media, this is the best way to stay connected.

Connect:

• Web: https://livingbigmindfully.com/
• Contact: https://livingbigmindfully.com/contact
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivingBigMindfully
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