In this episode, I’m getting real about the dark sides of self-growth no one warns us about to prevent you from falling down the rabbit holes I have. From turning healthy boundaries into brick walls, to attributing happiness to success, I share the lessons I learned the hard way about finding balance, protecting your peace, and actually enjoying the process. I share personal stories about losing connection with the people I love, tying my worth to productivity, and creating a rigid life that left no room for joy or spontaneity. If you’ve ever wondered why your self-growth journey feels exhausting, lonely, or like a constant “optimization” race, this episode will give you the perspective shift you need — to slow down, reconnect, and build a version of growth that actually feels good. While self-growth isn't always easy or comfortable, it shouldn't leave you feeling isolated and in a worse head space than before. Whether you're in the depths of your self-growth journey or just starting, this episode is here to remind you that you're not alone, growth isn't linear, and true fulfillment comes from within.

Personal IG: @macileejones

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Podcast IG: @myverbaljournal.letschat

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Remedi Health: https://www.remedi.care/services?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21043837814&gbraid=0AAAAA9UTn0NSkkRtYuBbQjzjk_DumIisI&gclid=Cj0KCQjwzOvEBhDVARIsADHfJJSEOs0YlpxEglr6_sBF64xAnZYQrIEUM9GXAhlzR6qbI_J2o3GsV7AaApI1EALw_wcB

Today I'm joined by Lilly VanAlsburg and we discuss the complexities of friendships and dating in your 20s, and share personal experiences and insights. We explore red flags and green flags in relationships, the challenges of long-distance dating, the impact of cheating, and so much more. Making and keeping friends in your 20's can be difficult when everyone is in different places and on their own timelines. This conversation touches on the importance of maintaining friendships post-college, the role of social media and dating apps in modern relationships, and the emotional journey of healing after a breakup. We encourage you to reach out to friends and put yourself out there during life transitions. If you're feeling lost or alone in college or post-grad, this episode is for you.

Personal IG: @macileejones

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Podcast IG: @myverbaljournal.letschat

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Lilly's IG:

https://www.instagram.com/lilly.vanalsburg?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=azF4d3FwODlocTU=

In this final part of the macronutrient series, we’re breaking down one of the most misunderstood and feared nutrients: fat

From hormone health and brain function to satiety and energy, dietary fats are essential, and under-eating them can do more harm than you think. In this episode, I share my personal experience with overcoming my fear and restriction of fat. We get into the science behind different types of fats (saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, omega-3s and omega-6s), and what to actually look for in your diet and supplements.

Whether you’re working on hormone balance, struggling with hunger or mood, or just trying to understand what “healthy fats” even are, this episode will help you fuel your body with confidence and clarity.

Personal IG: @macileejones

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Podcast IG: @myverbaljournal.letschat

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In this episode, we dive into the concept of hyper-independence, especially as it shows up in young adulthood. I break down how to recognize when “protecting your peace” crosses into emotional isolation, and explore the root causes—like trust issues, societal expectations, and past wounds. I also open up about my own experience with hyper-independence and share practical tools to help you move toward healing. Join me as we challenge the idea that strength means doing it all alone—and learn how vulnerability can be the first step toward deeper, more authentic connection.

Personal IG: @macileejones

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Podcast IG: @myverbaljournal.letschat

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In this episode, I reflect on my recent abroad trip and share insights about my experiences in Sevilla, Rome, Portugal, and Paris. From the positives to the things that are a work in progress, this trip was full of life lessons and key to personal growth. I discuss my ongoing journey with nutrition, fitness, and mental health while being out of routine, and emphasize the importance of being present and enjoying the small things. I learned so much about other cultures and about myself and I can't wait to share it with you!

Personal IG: @macileejones

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Podcast IG: @myverbaljournal.letschat

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Today we discuss how to differentiate between stress and anxiety, and how to cope. If you find yourself constantly stuck in the productivity guilt loop and feel as if you're never doing enough, join the club. It's time to get off the hamster wheel and reconnect with your inner child this summer!

Personal IG: @macileejones

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Podcast IG: @myverbaljournal.letschat

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This week we welcome Cassidy Storts, Registered Dietitian back on the pod to discuss current nutrition trends. From intermittent fasting, to juice cleanses, to the carnivore diet, and so much more. There's so much to learn and takeaway from this episode! If you're looking to connect with a Registered Dietitian, Cassidy is an amazing resource: https://dohertynutrition.com/cassidy-storts/

Personal IG: @macileejones

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Podcast IG: @myverbaljournal.letschat

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Let’s chat about how to know when you need rest vs when you need to dig into the grind and push yourself. It’s not all or nothing, we need rest to progress and we need to work hard to succeed, but it’s difficult to know when to do what. Here are some tips and my personal experience with burnout and rest guilt. Being disciplined is knowing when taking a step back is the most productive thing you can do.

Personal IG: @macileejones

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Podcast IG: @myverbaljournal.letschat

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This week we discuss aspects of self-sabotage and how we are our own worst enemies at times. I open up about how I've been self-sabotaging lately and how to recognize when you are. We get vulnerable and discuss dealing with emotions, isolating, and cognitively restructuring our thought patterns. You deserve good things.

Personal IG: @macileejones

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Podcast IG: @myverbaljournal.letschat

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This week I'm diving into my fitness journey over the past 5 years as I have transitioned from being a college soccer player to navigating fitness on my own and becoming a Certified Personal Trainer. These gym tips are meant to help you anywhere you are in your own journey!

Personal IG: @macileejones

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Podcast IG: @myverbaljournal.letschat

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