Look At Me Now with Alexis Artin

What if you could embrace your true self and transform your personal struggles into a source of empowerment? Join us for a candid conversation with Emily Duncan, the host of EmBody Radio and CEO of Fenix Athletica. Emily takes us on an inspiring journey from her roots in classical ballet to becoming a personal development mentor. She bravely shares her experience with sexual assault and the profound impact it had on her life, advocating for authenticity and self-awareness as essential tools for healing and growth.

"Acknowledging and naming my trauma, especially when it involved familiar individuals, was crucial in breaking the silence and stigma. It’s a painful yet powerful journey of self-discovery." - Emily Duncan

We explore the liberating concept of perceiving our bodies without societal expectations and the pressures of external validation. Emily reflects on her own experiences with dance and the high standards often internalized from a young age. Together, we emphasize the importance of self-acceptance and celebrating our natural, healthy bodies. The discussion also addresses the painful yet empowering process of confronting and understanding personal trauma, breaking the silence, and providing solidarity to others who have faced similar experiences.

Emily's journey is a testament to resilience and the power of authenticity. From overcoming a controlling relationship to establishing a successful coaching business, her story illustrates the significance of self-reflection and inner growth. We highlight the magnetic power of embracing one's true self, the transformative potential of aligning with one's highest values, and the joy of creating abundance for others. Tune in for an episode filled with meaningful conversations, empowering insights, and the vibrant energy of our community.

"The magnetic power of authenticity lies in embracing our unique quirks. Genuine self-expression builds meaningful connections and communities, creating a space for shared success and abundance." - Emily Duncan

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In this episode we discuss...

(00:16) The Link Between Body Image and Personal Development

(13:02) How to Embrace Your Self-Worth

(20:34) Unpacking Trauma

(28:00) Empowerment Through Authenticity and Courage

(44:20) Navigating Identity Shifts and Inner Growth

(56:59) What True Self-Confidence Feels Like

(01:10:18) Continuing Connection Through Authentic Conversations

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Follow Emily @em_dunc 

Learn more at FenixAthletica.com

Follow Alexis @alexis_artin

Learn more at AlexisArtin.com

An Operation Podcast production

Have you ever felt utterly stuck in your life, unable to move forward no matter how hard you tried? Britt Frank, LSCSW, SEP certainly has. From battling meth addiction, eating disorders, and OCD, to transforming into a licensed neuropsychotherapist and author, Britt's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and authenticity. This episode unravels her story and introduces the concept of "micro yeses”.

“Navigating the path from 'stuck' to 'unstuck' isn't about grand gestures; it's about those tiny, seemingly insignificant steps—micro yeses—that collectively lead to significant transformation." - Britt Frank

We reframe trauma as "brain indigestion," exploring how even a seemingly perfect upbringing can leave hidden scars that manifest later in life. This understanding helps demystify trauma, stripping away the stigma and making way for more effective healing. We also delve into the allure of belonging and its role in addiction, scrutinizing societal pressures and the emotional highs of community acceptance. These nuanced discussions critique conventional mental health approaches and underscore the importance of recognizing our brain's natural responses to trauma.

"Trauma is anything that overwhelms your brain's processing ability. It's like brain indigestion. By redefining trauma this way, we can demystify and destigmatize it, making way for more effective coping and healing strategies." - Britt Frank

Navigating the path from "stuck" to "unstuck" isn't about grand gestures; it's about those tiny, seemingly insignificant steps—micro yeses—that collectively lead to significant transformation. We discuss the monkey mind's primal urges vs. the thoughtful prefrontal cortex, uncover the hidden benefits of secondary gains, and venture into the realm of shadow work. Through personal anecdotes and expert insights, Britt emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, conscious decision-making, and the power of small, mindful choices in creating lasting change. Tune in for practical insights and inspirational stories that promise to help you navigate life’s challenges with newfound resilience.

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In this episode we discuss...

(00:17) The Science of Stuck

(06:36) Unpacking Trauma as "Brain Indigestion"

(20:29) The Impact of Belonging and Addiction

 (25:02) Micro Yeses

(32:28) Navigating the Path from Stuck to Unstuck

(43:57) The Power of Choice, and Why You ALWAYS Have It

(56:51) Self-Empowerment and Reflection

 (01:01:35) Looking to the Future

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Follow Britt @brittfrank

Learn more at ScienceOfStuck.com

Follow Alexis @alexis_artin

Learn more at AlexisArtin.com

This is an Operation Podcast production.

Welcome to season two of "Look at Me Now"! In this episode, we're thrilled to have the incredible Jessica Zweig join us. Jessica is a multi seven-figure serial entrepreneur, author, podcaster, coach, mentor, and speaker. Listen in as Jessica takes us on her transformative journey inspired by the Pleiadians, which she beautifully incorporates into her new book, "The Light Work." Her story is one of resilience, alignment, and the pursuit of light.

"Thoughts are a real thing. They exist in the world the way this water bottle and microphone exist. They are energy frequencies and resonance. When we start to connect with them and tap in, we can create the magic of our lives." - Jessica Zweig

Throughout the episode, we explore the significance of remembering our inherent power, a core concept in Jessica's book. We discuss the duality of our human experience and how integrating personal development with professional skills can be transformative. Jessica shares her struggles with body dysmorphia, heartbreak, and financial issues, leading to the creation of Simply Be, an agency rooted in authenticity.

Finally, we touch on the profound shift needed for women to reclaim their leadership and equality, reflecting on our matriarchal past and the power of individual healing. Join us as Jessica Zweig inspires us to reclaim our feminine power, live our cosmic truth, and illuminate the world.

"The feminine frequency is returning. It is our job as women to lead the healing of the planet through the feminine. By coming together and recognizing that every other woman is you, we can create a new earth." - Jessica Zweig

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In this episode we discuss...

(00:00) Light Work and Personal Transformation

(10:10) The Power of Remembering and Healing

(20:56) Harnessing Light Through Personal Practice

(28:39) Jessica's Journey From Burnout to Alignment

(42:13) How Jessica Embraced Her Divine Feminine Power

(48:04) Reclaiming Feminine Power

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Follow Jessica @jessicazweig

Learn more at JessicaZweig.com

Follow Alexis @alexis_artin

Learn more at AlexisArtin.com

Season one comes to a close with a powerhouse finale featuring Jen Cohen, a dynamo in the wellness industry who has taken her experiences in fitness and entrepreneurship to new heights. Listen in as we explore Jen's philosophy on cultivating confidence and how her approach to fostering self-esteem from a young age can lay the groundwork for a formidable future. Her personal transformation—from perceiving her uniqueness as a disadvantage to embracing it as her most significant asset—inspires us to recognize the same potential within ourselves and the next generation.

"In the pursuit of authenticity, we often stumble upon our unique abilities. These unique abilities are not weaknesses but our greatest strengths. Embracing these strengths, these unique aspects of our personalities, often feels like a giant leap of faith, a leap towards boldness." - Jen Cohen 

This episode isn't just about personal development; it's a candid look at the societal pressures that shape our courage and self-worth. We tackle the challenges posed by 'tall poppy syndrome', the struggle for authenticity in the face of 'woke culture', and the complex dance between individuality and the desire to belong. As we navigate the digital landscape, we dissect the impact of social media on connection and loneliness, underscoring the need for real-world relationships and confidence built through competence, rather than the fleeting validation of online personas.

"Instilling confidence, instilling self-esteem in children, it starts when you're young, and I think a lot of times we are remiss in building it for young people." - Jen Cohen

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In this episode we discuss...

(00:00) Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

(07:21) Courage, Confidence, Loneliness, and Connection

(14:17) Navigating Social Media Pressure for Resilience

(27:49) Challenges of Authenticity and Woke Culture

(36:45) The Power of Curiosity

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Follow Jen @therealjencohen

Learn more at JenniferCohen.com 

Follow Alexis @alexis_artin

Learn more at AlexisArtin.com

This episode is a journey of true transformation with the incredible Eben Britton, former NFL gladiator turned beacon of mindfulness. Listen in as Eben shares his transition from the aggression and accolades of professional football to the more tranquil world of yoga and self-reflection. We trace the threads of his past, from a childhood marred by the shadows of alcoholism to the harsh demands of elite sports, revealing the sacrifices made and the lessons learned on the road to redefining success.

"I'm in a deeply introspective moment of my life, looking at how old beliefs that I'm still holding on to are affecting my day-to-day life now and looking at what's serving me, what's not serving me, what do I want to change, how do I change it and where do all these things come from?" - Eben Britton

Eben and I explore the crucial themes of self-love, body acceptance, and the struggle to reconcile with our own narratives. Discover how athletes like Eben navigate the punishing pressures to perform and how that shapes their self-worth. The conversation takes a turn toward the healing power of self-care as we discuss the art of reparenting and the courageous steps towards embracing all facets of our identity, from our innocent youth to our complex present selves.

Finally, Eben and I reflect on personal growth and the very essence of what it means to achieve success, both internally and in the public eye. This episode isn't just about the glory of the spotlight; it's about the inner light that guides us through darkness. Eben confronts the metaphorical mirror, providing a moment of profound recognition for the resilience and compassion he's cultivated within. So tune in for an enlightening conversation that promises to inspire your own path to self-discovery and peace.

"My relationship with my seven-year-old self has become so incredibly powerful. It's been such an incredibly powerful experience to repair it, that little boy, and reconcile my inside as a man of who I am." - Eben Britton

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In this episode, we discuss…

(04:34) The Impact of Alcoholism on Family

(10:52) Self-Love and Body Acceptance

(16:40) Childhood Trauma and Self-Healing

(24:59) What Reparenting Really Looks Like

(43:14) Reflections on Personal Growth and Success With Your Higher Self

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Follow Eben @edsbritton

Learn more about Eben at EbenBritton.com

Watch and subscribe on YouTube

Follow Alexis @alexis_artin

Learn more at AlexisArtin.com

Today we welcome Dr. Sarah Milken, PhD, the Flexible Neurotic herself, as she opens up about the trials and transformations that come with midlife. Sarah's raw honesty about her personal battles with menopause, the life-changing benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and the challenges of parenting provides a candid look at the complexities of female identity. Her journey through a hysterectomy, a cancer diagnosis, and the quest for hormonal balance offers a powerful testament to resilience and self-discovery. 

"I am on all the hormone replacement and I am a bad estrogen and the patch and all the testosterone, progesterone, estrogen. And I will sing it from the rooftop, ladies who are listening. I am a big fan of the HRT." - Sarah Milken

Listen in as we navigate the paradoxes of midlife growth, the intricacies of decision-making, and the soul body paradox. I share my own experiences with an emptying nest, illuminating the intricate dance between embracing change and holding onto certainty. The conversation promises to resonate with anyone facing the conflicting truths of midlife, providing a space to reflect on cognitive dissonance and the strength found in navigating these challenges.

“A lot of things in midlife are hard and good. Most things that are good are inherently hard." - Sarah Milken

Sarah and I both strongly advocate for being your own health advocate and embracing the transformations that midlife brings. We tackle topics from the complexities of women's fertility and hormonal health to the power of setting boundaries and finding a voice in one's healthcare journey. This episode is an invitation to empower yourself, to be present in your life, and to join a community that understands the midlife voyage.

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In this episode we discuss…

(01:04) Motherhood, Hormones, and Female Identity

(14:24) Navigating Paradoxes of Midlife Growth

(28:40) Hormonal Health and Women's Fertility

(33:46) Being Your Own Health Advocate

(42:28) Embracing Midlife Transformation and Boundaries

(51:07) How to Embrace Female Challenges and Changes

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Follow Sarah @theflexibleneurotic

Learn more about Sarah at TheFlexibleNeurotic.com 

Learn more at AlexisArtin.com

Follow me on Instagram @alexis_artin

Today’s guest is a true beacon of resilience with an awe-inspiring life story. Listen in as Keri Cohen, a seasoned marriage and family therapist, recounts her personal battles against a turbulent childhood shadowed by her mother's struggles with addiction and mental illness, her courageous fight with infertility, and the trials of a very public divorce. Now on the cusp of motherhood with her miracle baby on the way, Keri’s experiences embody the triumph of joy and purpose over adversity.

"I knew I didn't want to be defined by that. Cause it was another one of those experiences of this isn't about me, like I don't want to be known for this." - Keri Cohen

Keri and I navigate the intricacies of childhood trauma and its lasting effects on adult relationships. She opens up about her early marriage to an NFL star, revealing how unresolved past traumas can seep into our quests for certainty and identity. Through her story of personal growth and spiritual awakening within the bounds of matrimony, she emphasizes the importance of viewing every relationship as a learning experience and an opportunity for healing. And as she shares the poignant lessons from her transition out of a marriage that once offered sanctuary, we acknowledge the strength required to embrace life's uncertainties.

The journey to self-acceptance, gratitude, and surrender is at the heart of our discussion, highlighting Keri’s path to embracing motherhood. She shares the emotional rollercoaster of fertility treatments, the value of self-advocacy, and the power of faith when facing the daunting medical system. As Keri illustrates the importance of gratitude in overcoming life's darkest moments, her narrative stands as a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the transformative power of embracing both the light and shadows of our existence. Tune in for an inspiring reflection on love, growth, and the sweetness of life's hard-earned fruits.

"I started questioning my experiences, the challenges that came my way, and instead of seeing them as burdens, I started seeing them as opportunities. Opportunities to learn, to grow, and to become a better person." - Keri Cohen

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In this episode we discuss…

(01:00) Life's Challenges and Triumphs

(05:26) Navigating Childhood Trauma in Relationships

(15:00) Marriage, Love, and Keri’s Divorce Journey

(21:16) Navigating Celebrity Breakups

(36:52) The Journey to Surrender and Faith

(46:44) Gratitude, Growth, and Reflection On Finally Starting a New Family

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Follow Keri @missmiggy

Learn more at AlexisArtin.com

Follow me on Instagram @alexis_artin

Today’s episode is an exhilarating journey through the twists and turns of personal transformation and sensual awakening. Listen in as one of my best friends and co-founder of Soulsway, Janelle Marra, sits down with me to unravel our shared past within what I playfully refer to as a "sexy cult." Together, we'll reflect on our evolution from vulnerability to empowerment, sharing laughter and candid memories along the way. Janelle, a former doula and actress, dives into her acting class revelation that sparked a deeper connection with her own sensuality, inviting you to celebrate our paths to self-discovery.

"That was the huge aha and she said - You were not sexy and you need to do something about it!" - Janelle Marra

This conversation is where movement and sensuality intertwine, as I recount my own eye-opening experiences with a unique exercise that redefined my relationship with my body. You will feel the power of a supportive community of women, evocative music, and the transformative impact of embracing fluid, sensual movement. With Janelle's insight, we discuss the significance of finding one's rhythm and the courage to break free from rigidity.

Janelle and I also delve into the emotional intricacies of leading high-pressure retreats and the personal challenges that come with such a demanding role. We close the loop by sharing our dedication to fostering a new environment where emotional and physical expression is not only permitted but fervently celebrated. This episode is an open invitation to join us in embracing personal freedom and self-expertise, all while building a sanctuary free from external judgment.

"I took her words to heart, thinking about how I could become more comfortable with myself, how I could embody that sensuality she spoke of. It was like discovering a new side of myself, a side that I never thought I had." - Janelle Marra

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In this episode, we discuss…

(01:00) Journey Into a Sexy Cult

(15:31) Discovering Sensual Movement Practice

(19:28) Empowering Body Confidence Through Movement

(24:22) Exploring Erotic Feminine Empowerment

(36:08) Journey in Female Empowerment Retreats

(45:16) Building a New Safe Space

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Follow Janelle @janellemarrahealing

Learn more at JanelleMarraHealing.com and SoulSwayPractice.com 

Learn more at AlexisArtin.com

Follow me on Instagram @alexis_artin

Join us on a powerful journey with my dear friend Noel Elie, actress, director, and wellness influencer, as she shares her inspiring story of resilience and transformation. Listen in as Noel opens up about the adversities she faced during her youth, from family struggles to growing up as an ethnic minority in the South, and how these experiences have shaped her positive outlook on life. She offers a heartfelt testament to the strength found in maintaining joy and a positive perspective, even when navigating life's toughest challenges.

"One thing I never say is what else can go wrong, because everything can go wrong, and so I've learned how to really cultivate joy, even in some of the worst times of my life." - Noel Elie

Our conversation takes an intimate turn as we explore the complexities of love and relationships through the lens of personal growth and self-discovery. Noel reflects on the transformative power of vulnerability and honesty, the emotional toll of a health crisis and a marriage revelation, and the deep personal growth that can arise from the ashes of a marriage’s end. Discover how healing practices like plant medicine can impact personal development, and the intricate dance of connection and intimacy amidst life's shifting sands.

Finally, we celebrate the process of embracing one's shadows and cultivating self-love after an 18-year relationship comes to a close. Noel discusses the significance of setting healthy boundaries, the transformative experience of finding one's emotional independence, and the privilege of maintaining integrity in personal relationships.

"It's crucial to be vulnerable and show your true self to the world. Yes, it can be terrifying, but it's also incredibly liberating. Once you embrace your authentic self, there's a kind of freedom that comes with it that's very empowering." - Noel Elie

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In this episode, we discuss...

(01:00) Resilience and Transformation

(11:53) Navigating Relationships Through Life's Challenges

(17:51) Navigating Growth and Values in Relationships

(22:34) Navigating Boundaries and Self-Love

(30:54) Journey to Truth and Resilience

(40:19) Embracing Shadows and Self-Love

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Follow Noel at @noel_elie

Learn more at NoelElieProductions.com

Learn more at AlexisArtin.com

Follow me on Instagram @alexis_artin

You’re one of the girls today! Join me and three of my besties—Natalie, Amy, and Molly—as we stroll, skip and stumble down memory lane marveling at our lives and the friendship we’ve managed to keep throughout them. Listen in as we share the stories that have woven the fabric of our bond, from the hilarious reveal that it was one of them (not my husband) with me when I conceived my second child by IVF to the emotionally turbulent lessons we’ve stood shoulder to shoulder through. This episode displays the feminine culture as one that empowers each other through personal transformations and cultivating self-belief. We walk you through our youthful escapades in Hollywood and the maturation into our current roles as mothers, professionals, celebrity wives, life coaches and therapists and so much more. These tales aren't just narratives; they are testaments to the resilience and growth that have accompanied us through each chapter of our lives. Success leaves clues and there are many breadcrumbs to follow here. 

"Our shared laughter is a symphony that drowns out the humdrum of life, a testament to the enduring power of our friendship."

We unpack the intricate dynamics between coaching and therapy, we reflect on how both approaches help guide us in supporting not just ourselves, but one another. Our dialogue spans the serious, like my own battle with cancer, to the lighthearted—like a shared adoration for a particular cheesecake and late-night shenanigans on Sunset Boulevard.

We close with an exploration of the profound impact of female friendships and the ways in which these relationships have empowered us to face life's trials and triumphs. From our collective resilience to the unwavering support we offer each other, this discussion is a tribute to the ride-or-die spirit that binds us. So, buckle up and join our heartfelt celebration of sisterhood, self-acknowledgment, and the pursuit of dreams—where humor, nostalgia, and revelations promise to be your companions along this unforgettably authentic journey.

“We salute the unmatched power of sisterhood, those unshakeable bonds that fortify us against life's tumultuous waves." - Alexis and The Girls

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In this episode, we discuss...

(09:38) Memories and Sisterhood

(16:28) Life Transformation and Empowerment With Barb

(21:10) Coaching vs Therapy

(25:34) Lessons in Love and Gratitude

(31:51) Divine Friends and Personal Growth

(45:36) The Power of Female Friendships

(51:57) Why You Need Close Friendships

(59:40) Motherhood and Personal Achievements

(01:03:50) Believing in Yourself and Pursuing Dreams

(01:08:08) An Unsettling Encounter on the 405

(01:11:37) Be a Ride or Die Friend

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Learn more at AlexisArtin.com

Follow me on Instagram @alexis_artin