In this episode of Meditation Motel, host Leonie sits down with Krista Williams, speaker, author, and co-founder of the globally renowned Almost 30 podcast, for a deeply personal and reflective conversation about growth, intuition, and living a life aligned with your values.Krista opens up about her journey navigating her Saturn Return alongside her best friend and co-founder Lindsey, exploring how launching Almost 30 became not just a creative venture, but a vehicle for transformation, self-discovery, and connection. She shares candid insights from her own path—moments of doubt, vulnerability, and the practices that helped her stay grounded while building a global community of women seeking personal growth and spiritual alignment.Leonie and Krista dive into the evolution of her mindfulness practice, exploring how she integrates meditation into the rhythm of her everyday life, even amidst the intensity of entrepreneurship and travel. Krista recounts her experiences meeting listeners on the Almost 30 book tour, describing the profound impact of witnessing women embrace their own growth journeys and how these encounters reinforced her mission to guide others in trusting themselves and leading from within.Throughout the conversation, Krista reflects on:How periods of upheaval, like the Saturn Return, can catalyze self-awareness and transformationUsing mindfulness and meditation to maintain clarity, creativity, and emotional resilienceThe balance of vulnerability and strength in friendships, partnerships, and professional collaborationsBuilding a business rooted in authenticity, conscious communication, and shared valuesEncouraging women to deepen intuition, ask bigger questions, and pursue aligned success in life and workTurning challenges into opportunities for learning, growth, and self-compassionThis episode is a heartfelt exploration of self-discovery, conscious living, and the ways we can hold space for both ourselves and others during periods of change. It’s perfect for anyone navigating personal transformation, seeking to integrate mindfulness into a busy life, or looking for inspiration to trust their intuition and lead with authenticity.Krista Williams’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itskrista/Krista’s Website: https://itskrista.com/ Almost 30 Podcast: https://almost30.com/episodes/ Almost 30 Website: https://almost30.com/ Almost 30 Book: https://almost30.com/book #SaturnReturn #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Meditation #Almost30 #KristaWilliams #ConsciousLiving #SelfLove #FriendshipGoals #Entrepreneurship #LifeTransitions #MindfulLeadership #MeditationMotel

In this episode of Meditation Motel, host Leonie welcomes Lindsey Simcik, podcaster, author, and co-founder of the globally beloved Almost 30 podcast, for a heartfelt and candid conversation about how to prepare for your 30s and thrive during your Saturn Return.Lindsey shares her powerful personal journey through her Saturn Return, an astrological period around the late twenties often marked by significant upheaval and profound growth. She opens up about the challenges she faced - a broken relationship, financial struggles, and feelings of being "lost" - and how these difficult moments became catalysts for deep self-discovery and spiritual awakening.Leonie and Lindsey explore the evolution of mindfulness practices with the demands of motherhood, from embracing "walking meditations" to finding presence in playful moments with her son. Lindsey discusses her unique partnership with Almost 30 co-founder Krista Williams, likening their business relationship to a "marriage" that has fostered immense personal growth through conscious communication and shared commitment. She also offers honest insights into navigating the complexities of friendships in adulthood, including the process of discerning when to let go of connections that no longer serve your highest good.This inspiring conversation offers a raw and resonant look at embracing change, finding self-worth, and cultivating meaningful connections. It’s perfect for anyone navigating their late twenties or thirties, exploring personal growth, or seeking to integrate mindfulness into a busy and purposeful life.You’ll learn about:Understanding and navigating your Saturn ReturnAdapting mindfulness and spiritual practices for a busy life (especially as a new mom)The power of self-love and "dating yourself" to attract the right partnerCultivating conscious friendships and knowing when it's time to let goThe unique dynamics of building a business with your best friendEmbracing life's challenges as opportunities for growth and self-discoveryLindsey Simcik's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindseysimcik/?hl=enAlmost 30 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0kBU7FWmLaLf3si3KZ9XQx?si=5c50d763737b459aAlmost 30 Website: https://almost30.com/Almost 30 Book: https://static.macmillan.com/static/smp/almost-30-9781250327208/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabaxVeDE3KEqn8Igrhzxuwcluv7DsEpPjH51sGJdYY6YVvj262B7cMlQXs_aem_4IrXcR0Cy1nGzIZFDR3LDQ#SaturnReturn #Before30 #Thirties #PersonalGrowth #Mindfulness #Meditation #Almost30 #LindseySimcik #Podcast #Wellness #Spirituality #ConsciousLiving #SelfLove #Relationships #FriendshipGoals #Motherhood #LifeTransitions #MindfulParenting #CareerChange #MeditationMotel #KristaWilliams

In this episode of Meditation Motel, host Leonie welcomes wellness entrepreneur, travel writer, and mindful parenting advocate Vanessa Gordon for a heartfelt conversation about mindful living, building a purpose-driven business, and finding balance in a busy world.Vanessa, founder of East End Taste and The Hamptons Interactive Brunch, shares her journey from freelance writing to becoming a leading voice in luxury wellness travel and conscious entrepreneurship. Together, Leonie and Vanessa explore what it means to live and work with intention, from navigating motherhood and mindfulness, to building authentic relationships in the digital age.They dive into mindful parenting strategies, the importance of slowing down, and how food, travel, and culture can become gateways to deeper presence. Vanessa also shares her culinary experiences in Italy, the contrast between American and European food culture, and her vision for the future of luxury travel rooted in sustainability and mindfulness.This inspiring conversation is perfect for entrepreneurs, creatives, mindful parents, and anyone seeking more intention, balance, and connection in everyday life.You’ll learn about:Mindful parenting and raising conscious kidsHow to grow a wellness brand with purposeThe connection between food, travel, and mindfulnessAuthentic networking and relationship-building in businessBalancing entrepreneurship and family lifeTrends in luxury travel and sustainable tourismWhether you're an entrepreneur, mom, wellness traveler, or mindfulness seeker, this episode will leave you feeling grounded, inspired, and reconnected.Vanessa Gordon's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessapgordon/?hl=enVanessa's Website: https://www.vanessapgordon.com/East End Taste Magazine: https://eastendtastemagazine.com/#Mindfulness #Meditation #Parenting #Podcast #EntrepreneurLife #WellnessTravel #MindfulParenting #MindfulLiving #TravelTrends #SustainableTourism #WomenInBusiness #TravelPodcast #WellnessEntrepreneur #IntentionalLiving #SlowLiving #MeditationMotel #VanessaGordon #EastEndTaste #MindfulEntrepreneur #PodcastForMoms #DigitalWellness #ConsciousParenting #Connections #Relationships #Startingbusiness #Lifestyle #Magazine #Thehamptons #Freelance #Writer #Events

Feeling lonely or uncertain about forging new connections? In this reflective solo episode of Meditation Motel, Leonie London shares personal insights on how to make friends as an adult, navigating adult friendships, and finding connection beyond loneliness. She gently explores making friends after 30, the beauty of setting emotional boundaries, and letting go of friendships that no longer serve your growth.Topics Covered: Tips for making friends after 30, overcoming loneliness, and creating meaningful connections as you grow.Includes: A loving-kindness meditation and guided breathwork exercise to nurture self-compassion and openness.This episode highlights the emotional value of friendship and change. Leonie’s gentle and authentic voice offers heartfelt advice on how to meet new people and rediscover joy in companionship. Whether you’re feeling isolated or simply in transition, you’ll find warmth, understanding, and practical guidance in this conversation.0:00 – Intro: Why Friendship Feels Harder as an AdultLeonie opens up about loneliness, transitions, and the emotional weight of adult friendships.2:01 – Grounding Meditation: Loving-Kindness PracticeA short guided meditation to help the listener settle, soften, and arrive in the moment.5:30 – The Podcast Begins: A More Personal SpaceLeonie introduces her first solo episode of Meditation Motel and the themes it will explore.6:48 – The Beauty & Pain of FriendshipReflecting on giving deeply in relationships, strong boundaries, and feeling taken for granted.9:18 – When a Friendship Runs Its CourseHow to recognize when a friendship is no longer aligned — and why that’s okay.10:38 – Childhood Wound: The Friendship That Ended Without WarningLeonie shares a painful teenage experience that shaped how she approaches connection today.11:35 – Honoring Your Intuition & Red Flags (Like Gossip)How early betrayal sharpened her sensitivity to energy and guided better boundaries.13:20 – Who Belongs in the “Club” of Your Life?Being open-hearted but selective, and why short-term friendships still matter.14:50 – Questions to Reflect On Before Letting GoFour key questions to help you assess the health of a friendship.17:12 – Journaling for Clarity & HealingWhy journaling after meditation helps unlock insight and self-compassion.19:10 – Making Space for New FriendshipsLetting go allows new connections to come in — it just takes time and trust.20:12 – How I Made Friends as an Adult (Practical Tips)Leonie shares real-life ways she built friendships in a new city.20:30 – Using Bumble BFF & Friendship AppsHonest thoughts on apps and how they helped her find community.21:20 – Friend-of-a-Friend MagicWhy one new connection can open doors to many others.21:58 – Work Friendships & Starting SmallHow professional connections can grow into something meaningful.22:35 – Spontaneous Friendship: The Matcha Bar StoryA chance encounter led to a lasting connection — because she made the first move.23:30 – Why You Might Have to Be the InitiatorEncouragement to take the lead — it gets easier every time.24:28 – Final Words: Your People Are Out ThereA gentle reminder that it takes courage, but connection is always possible.25:05 – Closing Grounding Breath (4-7-8 Method)A powerful breath practice to release heaviness and settle the nervous system.26:32 – Outro: Checking Out of Meditation MotelA poetic sendoff — the room is still warm, and you’re always welcome back.Follow Leonie on Instagram & TikTok for more inspiration:Instagram: @meditationmotelTikTok: @itsleonielondon🙏 If this episode resonates with you, like, comment, and share to spread kindness. Don’t forget to subscribe to Meditation Motel for more thoughtful discussions, meditations, and breathwork exercises.#friendship #friendships #howtomakefriends #loneliness #alone #connections #community

In this episode of Meditation Motel, host Leonie welcomes podcaster and creator of the Don Rob Show and communication expert Rob for a powerful and eye-opening conversation about the art of intentional communication and self-awareness. Rob shares his wealth of knowledge on how to engage in meaningful, impactful conversations and why the ability to truly listen is a game-changer.Together, they explore how intentional conversations can transform relationships, spark deeper connections, and lead to personal growth. They dive into the importance of being present, asking the right questions, and fostering authenticity in every interaction. In this episode, you’ll learn how mindful communication, active listening, and self-awareness can elevate your conversations — and why it's the key to creating lasting, meaningful connections. Whether you're looking to strengthen relationships, enhance your communication skills, or discover the power of quiet presence, Rob’s insights offer a fresh perspective that could change the way you engage with the world around you.Link to Rob’s Podcast: https://youtube.com/@donrobshow?si=wWrwe6J8j9Oou0g2#Conversations #SelfAwareness #CommunicationSkills #AuthenticConnections #ActiveListening #PersonalGrowth #Podcasting #MindfulTalk #TransformativeConversations #RelationshipBuilding #EffectiveCommunication #ListeningSkills #SelfImprovement #DeepConversations #Mindfulness #Connection #MeditationMotel #DonRobShow #TheDonRobShow #Masculinity #PersonalDevelopment

In this episode of Meditation Motel, host Leonie welcomes actress, singer, business owner and fitness enthusiast Jackie Volney for a raw, honest conversation about identity, transformation, and the quiet power of reconnecting with yourself. Jackie opens up about her journey from the fast-paced world of acting and fitness to a more intentional life rooted in meditation, journaling, and solitude.Together, they explore how stepping back from hustle culture led Jackie to rediscover her purpose — not through success or validation, but through stillness. She shares the unexpected revelations that came from writing, moving her body in solitude, and asking herself what she truly wants, away from external pressure.This episode dives deep into the emotional and spiritual side of change, how creativity and clarity often emerge in silence, and why alone time isn’t loneliness — it’s where the magic begins. Whether you’re feeling stuck, burned out, or simply searching for a more meaningful path, Jackie’s story is a reminder that slowing down might be your greatest breakthrough.#MeditationMotel #JackieVolney #Journaling #MindBodyConnection #AloneTime #Actress #SelfDiscovery #MentalHealth #Transformation #Stillness #WellnessJourney #PersonalGrowth #Mindfulness #CreativeHealing #Burnout #Acting #Mom #Momlife #NewYork #Running #SmallBusiness

In this episode of Meditation Motel, host Leonie sits down with fitness coach and movement expert Kristal to explore the deep connection between physical strength and mental health.Kristal opens up about how years of teaching fitness classes led her to realize that true wellness isn’t just about building muscle — it’s about healing the mind. She shares her journey creating a new fitness program that blends traditional training with mindfulness practices like breathwork, self-reflection, and emotional resilience.Together, Leonie and Kristal dive into the hidden side of the fitness world: how trauma can live in the body, why discipline without self-compassion can backfire, and how moving your body can become a powerful tool for emotional healing. Kristal brings a fresh, deeply honest perspective to what it really means to be “fit” — inside and out.Link to Kristal‘s 30 Day Program: medoga.teachable.com/p/home?affcode=2372851_xhpioie_#MeditationMotel #Fitness #MindBodyConnection #Healing #Mindfulness #Breathwork #SelfCompassion #EmotionalHealth #Movement #FitnessCoach #TraumaHealing #Meditation

In this episode of Meditation Motel, host Leonie sits down with indie filmmaker and creative storyteller Adnan Can for a thoughtful conversation about the emotional and mental journey behind filmmaking.Adnan opens up about how taking screen acting classes helped him become a more empathetic and intuitive director, one who truly understands the pressures actors face on set. He shares his personal rituals for staying grounded and inspired, including mindful breathwork, body movement, and long walks that fuel his creativity.Together, Leonie and Adnan explore the realities of the creative process: navigating self-doubt, overcoming artistic blocks, and staying true to your vision even when you’re uncertain how it will be received. From animated films to live-action projects, Adnan brings a deeply mindful and emotionally aware perspective to storytelling and the art of filmmaking.#MeditationMotel #Creativity #Filmmaker #Mindfulness #Storytelling #Breathwork #Meditation #Gratitude #Director #CreativeBlocks #Acting

In this episode of Meditation Motel, Leonie welcomes David Oswald, a freelance creative director currently at Google, to explore mindfulness, creativity, and navigating change. From long-distance love to losing a job in LA, David opens up about resilience, burnout, and how mindful moments, even beach walks, shaped his path. Tune in for an honest conversation on adapting to American work culture, staying grounded in chaos, and redefining success.#mindfulness #freelancelife #creativejourney #mentalhealth #losangeleslife #meditationmotel #davidoswald #expatlife #mindfulconversation #agencylife #worklifebalance

Join me at the Meditation Motel as I sit down with model Dellan Hitchens to explore the unexpected connections between mindfulness and the modeling industry. In our conversation, Dellan openly shares her experiences with anxiety, the pressures of modeling, and how meditation could help her and others navigate a demanding lifestyle. We dive deep into how mindfulness not only helps manage stress and hormonal imbalances like PCOS, but also fosters genuine confidence and personal growth. Whether you're new to mindfulness or a seasoned practitioner, this episode offers valuable insights into finding balance and authenticity in an externally focused world. Settle in, slow down, and unwind—this conversation is sure to inspire your own mindfulness journey.