Hello, hi! This episode continues the Medium Lady Series on “How to get out of your own way” and we’re talking all about hosting holiday gatherings. Carrie-Ann Kloda is a wedding coach and host of The Feminist Wedding Podcast. She helps conscious couples confidently navigate the hidden hurdles of wedding planning, calming the emotional upsets and financial surprises that come with the job, so you can have a relaxed, connected experience that feels fresh, unconventional, joyful, and unequivocally you.

• Carrie-Ann’s journey to become a wedding planner and coach with a Feminist point of view

Connect with Carrie-Ann:

• Website: www.carrieannkloda.ca/jumpstart DM Carrie Ann on instagram and let her know you heard about the program on Medium Lady Talks,  for a special promotional rate

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @medium.lady

Other Resources Mentioned:

• The Art of Gathering By Priya Parker or watch one of her Ted Talks here! 

Today's episode brings you another insightful conversation on the subject of "How to Get Out of Your Own Way" this time, focusing on personal style and self expression.  This episode's guest is Hanna Donnelly, the founder of Hanna Lee Style and a personal stylist. She is a personal stylist helping moms look and feel good without wasiring so much time (and energy).Hanna's journey into the world of styling was sparked by her Grandma's unique style and the power of self-expression through clothing, and further encouraged by her entreprenurial parents and supportive brother.

In this episode, we explore the importance of clothes as a means of self-expression and identity. One key takeaway is Hanna's emphasis on paying attention to your likes over time. By observing your preferences consistently, you can uncover your unique style and confidently decide how you want to present yourself. Hanna also encourages listeners to embrace experimentation, emphasizing that avoiding new styles often stems from a desire to preserve comfort.

If you've ever felt the desire to revamp your wardrobe but found yourself hesitating, this episode is a guide to overcoming self-judgment, boosting self-compassion, and embarking on a joyful exploration of your personal style.

Connect with Hanna:

• Instagram @hannaleestyle

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @medium.lady

Today’s episode continues the MLT interview series “How to Get Out of Your Own Way.” and features Cecelia Baum Mandryk a life coach for high achievers. Cecelia’s mission in life is to help high achievers make their brains a calmer place to be, without radical life changes.

Episode Highlights

• Cecelia's unique journey from geologist to life coach and the pivotal life transitions that guided her path.

Connect with Cecelia: 

• Instagram @ceceliabmandryk

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @medium.lady

Key topics:

• Calm Mindset

Hello, Hi! In this episode, we revisit Erin's "40 for 40" list, which she created when she turned 40 in April. With six months passed, she takes a closer look at the items on her list, reflecting on why she made those choices and whether they still resonate with her. What has she accomplished? What remains? What has changed?

Episode Highlights:

• Revisiting the "40 for 40" List - Erin delves into the story behind her "40 for 40" list and the motivations driving her choices.

References to Previous Episodes:

• MLT Ep 65: "Should You Make a 40 for 40 List? My Birthday Milestone" - In this episode, Erin discussed the concept of creating a "40 for 40" list and shared the experience with her BFFs, Emily and Sarah.

Recommended Resources:

• Hobart New York - the NYT Article on this Book Village

 Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @medium.lady

• Email: [email protected] 

• Explore more book-related content on "Medium Lady Reads." - link to Spotify

• Instagram: @mediumladyreads

Key Terms

• 40 for 40 list

Hello, hi! In this episode, we are joined by a special guest, Stephanie Cunningham, who's known for living real life and inviting us to come along for the journey on her Instagram (@steffski). Stephanie is a wife, mom, and business owner who brings humor, moderation, and authenticity to her online presence.

Topics Covered:

1. What is an Aspirational To-Do List?

We dive into what an aspirational to-do list is and why we find it valuable to have this space to cultivate and curate things that make us feel like we can aspire to something in the future.

1. The "To-Do" Dilemma

We explore the challenges and pitfalls associated with labeling this list as a "to-do." While it's not your typical task list, we discuss why the term is often used.

1. Joyful Aspirations

Learn how to ensure your aspirational to-do list remains filled with joyous items, and making sure those aren’t conditional to your future happiness.

1. Experimentation and Exploration

Discover how an aspirational to-do list can be a place to experiment with what might matter in the future. It's all about exploring possibilities.

1. Fear and Regret

We discuss choosing the possibility of fear over the possibility of regret when it comes to these aspirational goals.

1. Freedom Within Boundaries

How can your aspirational to-do list help you find freedom within the boundaries of what's possible? We explore how this list can empower you.

Pivotal Moments

Stephanie shares a pivotal moment that set the stage for her confidence and wisdom beyond her years.

Other Episodes with Stef:

• Medium Lady Talks about Internet Realness with Stephanie Cunningham

Other Resources Mentioned:

We touch on the work of Jonathan Meritt. For more, you can visit his website at Jonathan Meritt or follow him on Instagram @jonathan-merritt

 Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @medium.lady

Key Terms:

• Aspirational to-do list

Hello, hi! In Episode 86, we dive into a lively discussion about children and sports, exploring the question: Is it all a bit too much for parents? We'll bring you:

Our Personal Perspectives: Join Nick and Erin as they share their differing views and experiences with rep league baseball, especially after a summer filled with baseball adventures. Spoiler alert: Nick loved it, while Erin's enthusiasm may have dipped a bit.

Growing Up with Sports Influence: We delve into the contrasting childhood experiences Nick and Erin had regarding the influence of sports. This discussion sheds light on how they've come to choose their children's extracurricular activities as parents themselves.

Importance of Perspective: With kids' sports that can be quite demanding in terms of time and coordination, we stress the significance of maintaining a balanced perspective. Remember, it's supposed to be fun for everyone involved!

Finding Balance: We discuss the strategies for achieving a balanced family life while navigating the commitment to rep league sports.

Catch up on previous episodes with Nick:

• Episode 60: Eight ways to make better decisions with your Spouse

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @medium.lady

• Email: [email protected] 

• Explore more book-related content on "Medium Lady Reads." - link to Spotify

• Instagram: @mediumladyreads

Key Terms:

• Kids and sports

Hello, hi! Fall is here, and it's time to embrace the beauty and magic of this season. In this episode, join me as I share five ways I’m living my favourite life. From decluttering and reorganizing my  kitchen to crafting a mindful morning routine, I hope there’s something to inspire you within this episode: 

1. Kitchen Purge and Reorganization: There’s a special kind of lightness and freedom that comes from decluttering and reorganizing your kitchen space. Find out how I did this with my best friend Sarah, making it a liberating experience.

2. Mindful Morning Ritual: I’m way into my go-to breakfast – instant oatmeal, chopped apples, walnuts, and a soothing cup of tea. Learn how this simple, up front decision sets a peaceful tone for the day, promoting mindful presence.

3. Parenting Insights: Listening to The Unruffled Podcast with Janet Lansbury is helping me become a more authentic and kind parent to my 4-year-old. It's all about embracing the parenting journey.

4. Low-Stakes Decision Randomization: My favourite life includes leaving certain choices, like my next book or nail polish to wear, up to chance. I’m surprised by the spontaneity and joy that randomness can bring.

5. Medium Lady Reads: Hosting this podcast aligns with my identity and values, making it a fulfilling endeavor. I hope you’ll Join me and Jillian O’Keefe on our book podcast, where we discuss our favorite reads and literary adventures!

6. BONUS: No More Snooze Button: By quitting the snooze button, I've given my body the time it needs to wake up naturally. This simple change has transformed my mornings, leaving me less anxious and overwhelmed.

Other Episodes Mentioned:

• Episode 83: Is your Self Care Helpful or Harmful?

Books and Resources Mentioned:

• Real Self Care A Transformative Program for Re-defining Wellness (Cleanses Crystals and Bubble Baths Not Included) by Pooja Lakshmin Md.

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @medium.lady

Key Terms

1. Fall Season Mindfulness

• MLT Ep 84 - September to October: Monthly Planning and Mindful Transitions

Access my FREE Downloadable Workbook: "How to Start a New Month with Medium Effort and Mindful Fun."

In this episode, we dive into my monthly planner once more, and explore the art of planning self-care for the upcoming month. We follow these essential steps:

What is Known?

• Reflecting on what's certain in the month ahead.

What is Unknown?

• Anticipating the surprises and uncertainties.

Who Am I and What Do I Like?

• Exploring your own identity and preferences.

By answering these questions, we craft a unique plan to align with the month's energy. For me, these answers led to the following plan:

Reading: Delving into "Outlive" by Peter Attia, "You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty" by Akwaeke Emezi, "A Song of Snakes and Songbirds" by Suzanne Collins, and "Cassandra in Reverse" by Holly Smale.

Play: Embodying a new character every day from TV, books, or movies, embracing their style, attitude, or outlook.

Try: Committing to setting my outfit the night before for 30 days straight.

Focus: Channeling my thoughts towards getting out of my own way, especially in parenting.

Catch up on other episodes in the September Self-Care Series, including discussions on self-care personas and overcoming resistance to change.

Other Helpful Episodes:

• Episode 83: Is your Self Care Helpful or Harmful?

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @medium.lady

Are you feeling the resistance to the fall transition creeping in? I know I am. 1. What is Known About the Month Ahead: We'll assess what's on the horizon for September and set our intentions accordingly.

2. What I'm Learning from the Past: Reflecting on the past month helps us gain valuable insights for the future.

3. Personal Favorites and Seasonality for the Month Ahead: Paying attention to the things you already love and the signs that cue you to the new season can ground you in the present.

📖 **Monthly Plan for September**: I'll walk you through my September plan, sharing my reading list, a fun playtime challenge, and a personal growth goal for the month.

Books Referenced:

Episodes Mentioned (Spotify Links):

Don't miss out on the tools and insights you need to tackle the fall season with grace and positivity. 

If you want to connect further, I'd love to hear from you on Instagram you can find me @medium.lady !

If you want allll the book content make sure you're also following Medium Lady Reads

Hello, hi! This episode delivers part two of my conversation about women’s health and empowerment with Sarah Rich.  Drawing from her background in Sexuality, Marriage, and Family studies, coupled with a minor in psychology, Sarah brings a distinctive perspective that shapes our conversation. Her versatile career journey—from construction to taxes and beauty—has honed her adaptability and nurtured an insatiable curiosity.

Venturing abroad during her dynamic 20s ignited her love for exploration, a passion she now fuels through running, rowing, boxing, and weight lifting. Sarah embraces the roles of a devoted spouse and a mother of three, excelling in both her professional pursuits and her familial bonds.

With over a decade dedicated to fostering student development at a university, Sarah empowers young minds to flourish, though her true calling lies in championing diversity and inclusivity. Her advocacy extends to women, visible minorities, and LGBTQIA+ individuals, enriching lives through her unrelenting commitment.

In this continuation of our candid conversation about menstrual health, join us as we dive even deeper into the topic of women's cycles and the broader spectrum of experiences that come along with it. Host Erin Vandeven and her best friend Sarah explore these matters with openness and a touch of humour – all while engaging in some makeup playtime!

1. Breaking the Silence: We address the importance of more open conversations surrounding menstrual health. By doing so, we aim to foster inclusivity, alleviate feelings of isolation, and diminish societal marginalization.

Join Sarah and I as we continue to uncover the unspoken facets of women's health and strive to empower individuals on their unique journeys of self-discovery.

Key Topics:

• Menstrual health

Connect with Sarah:

• @aseversarah on Instagram

Connect with Host:

• @medium.lady on Instagram