In this Season 2 kickoff of the Pass the Mic Podcast, guest host Mandy Schulis—a transformational Narrative Coach, trauma-informed Licensed Massage Therapist, creator of The Story Shift, and author of 48 Hours to Change Your Life—interviews Mariela Ayala in a powerful conversation centered on personal growth, resilience, and self-love. Drawing from two decades of entrepreneurial experience and her personal triumph over domestic violence, Mandy explores how overcoming limiting beliefs, embracing vulnerability, and shifting old narratives can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Through honest reflection and thoughtful dialogue, the episode touches on health transformation, the importance of boundaries, and the role of community in healing and growth. Blending coaching methodologies with holistic healing practices, including Reiki, Mandy highlights embodied leadership and the transformative power of owning and sharing your story. This episode encourages listeners to take responsibility for their narratives, pursue meaningful change, and boldly step into their next chapter with intention and courage.
Key Topics & Timestamps
Defining Story Shifting (00:04:10) Explains what story shifting means to her and the importance of learning and unlearning.
The Power of Knowing What You Want (00:05:40) Discussion about self-love, clarity on desires, and moving beyond surface-level thinking.
Pivotal Moments: Weight Loss & Identity (00:08:26) Mariela shares her journey through weight loss, misdiagnosis, and breaking free from limiting beliefs.
The Deeper Why Behind Transformation (00:16:08) Exploring Mariela's motivations beyond health, focusing on life goals and confidence.
Healthy Habits for Future Generations (00:19:28) Emphasizes the importance of modeling healthy habits for children and building a positive family culture.
The Power of Food & Challenging Norms (00:20:03) Discussion on the impact of food, breaking away from prescribed norms, and embracing flexibility.
Challenging Old Narratives & Embracing Authenticity (00:22:17) Talks about the difficulty of letting go of old stories and the value of authentic connections.
Transitioning from Illness to Professional Life (00:24:34) Describes her shift from living with illness to navigating the professional world and networking.
Reframing the Story: Embracing Faith & Self-Investment (00:28:08) Shares how embracing both her faiths and investing in herself led to personal growth.
Learning to Love Yourself (00:31:30) The conversation centers on self-love, societal expectations, and the challenges of identity.
Manifesting & Preparing for Partnership (00:39:28) Discussion about manifesting the right partner, setting intentions, and the importance of clarity.
Envisioning Family & Parenting (00:45:17) Describes her vision for parenting, family life, and being present with her future children.
Creating Community & Embracing Joy (00:49:36) Expresses her desire to build joyful, authentic relationships and community experiences.
Advice to Her Past Self (00:51:08) Shares what she would tell her younger self about resilience and self-worth.
Letting Life Be Easier & Inviting Support (00:54:00) Reflects on learning to let others in and making life less difficult by accepting help.
Looking Ahead: Next Chapter & Coaching (00:56:22) Discusses her future plans, including coaching and helping others shift their mindset around food.
Taste Buds & Food as Medicine (00:57:27) A brief discussion on how taste buds change and the impact of food choices on health.
Final Words on Story Shifting (00:59:20) Offers advice on shifting your story, meeting new people, and finding emotional safety.
Powerful Quotes from the Episode
Mariela, "I said no to say yes to myself, because you say no to things, to past versions of yourself, to embrace new versions of yourself."
Mariela, "When you put yourself first, you're not putting anybody last, because people that respect you will respect that you're doing what you need to do to better yourself."
Mariela, "My disability was my identity; that's all I knew. When I learned I was misdiagnosed, my circle became a cage and I knew I had to break free."
Mariela, "I don't want to die with 'what if.' This is a journey of a lifetime. I get to plan for more than a day because I'm alive."
Mariela, "I started to embrace myself as a whole. When I was a service to myself, I was investing in myself to be strong, because I am a foundation trying to help others build."
Resources CONNECT with Mandy Schulis Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amanda.schulis Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandyschulisofficial?igsh=MTI3Z2Mwa29xaHA5Nw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandyschulis/ Book:
48 Hours to Change Your Life: https://amzn.to/49gBXFS
Connect with the Show
Pass the Mic Podcast: A unique monthly format featuring different experts in their zones of geniusResilient Voice Media: A global podcast network and production company amplifying great people who do great workHost: Gabi Garland, founder of Resilient Voice MediaJanuary Guest Host: Mandy Schulis, Transformational Narrative Coach & Creator of The Story Shift
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