If perfectionism is your favorite weakness, this one’s for you. Dr. Ellen Hendriksen, clinical psychologist and author of How to Be Enough: Self-Acceptance for Self-Critics and Perfectionists, joins Vic to unpack the roots of perfectionism, how it shows up in everyday life, and why so many of us feel like we have to earn our worth. They explore the difference between healthy ambition and toxic self-criticism, how to find that middle ground where you’re still growing without burning out, and what it really means to practice self-compassion. Vic opens up about her own struggles with perfectionism—from how playing D1 volleyball enhanced her inner critic to why she regrets overplanning Max’s 30th birthday—and shares the tools she’s learning to prioritize presence over performance. Whether you overthink, overachieve, or feel like you’re never quite doing enough, this conversation will help you let go of the pressure and embrace the messiness of being human.

Website: ellenhendriksen.com

Instagram: @ellen_hendriksen

Book: How to Be Enough: Self-Acceptance for Self-Critics and Perfectionists by Dr. Ellen Hendriksen

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Quince: Treat your closet to a little summer glow-up with Quince. Go to quince.com/realpod for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns! 

Paper Doll By Dylan Mulvaney: Buy your copy of Paper Doll here or wherever books are sold!

Paired: Head to paired.com/realpod to get a 7-day free trail and 25% off if you sign up for a subscription. 

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

 Produced by Dear Media. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever wondered how Vic started The Hidden Opponent? Or what it really takes to launch and run a non-profit? This episode is your crash course! Vic shares why she founded THO, how Kobe Bryant played a key role, and the real behind-the-scenes of building a movement for student-athlete mental health. She also introduces THO’s new CEO, their Avengers-level Board of Directors, and gives a sneak peek at the adidas x The Hidden Opponent collab — out now! If you’re passionate about mental health or want to make a difference, this episode will leave you fired up to take action. 

Shop the collection: 

Learn more: thehiddenopponent.org

Follow: @thehiddenopponent

Vic’s TEDx Talk: The Hidden Opponent: Student Athletes And Mental Health

Read:  Geese Are Never Swans by Kobe Bryant

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Cozy Earth: Get 40% off with my code REALPOD and to celebrate Moms everywhere, this weekend only May 2-4, Cozy Earth is giving my listeners a special promo: Buy One, Get One Free Bamboo pajamas! Use code REALPODBOGO to take advantage of this. She deserves the best! 

LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that’s 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.

BetterHelp: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month. 

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

 Produced by Dear Media. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Australian-born creator, actress, and entrepreneur Cartia Mallan joins the pod for a vulnerable and reflective convo about anxiety, identity, content creation, grief, and growing up online. They dive into boundary setting with friends, social media burnout, staying true to yourself in a trend-obsessed world, and how to rebuild self-trust when you’ve been over-giving. Cartia also opens up about navigating grief after the loss of her father and the complex emotions that come with it. This ep is core Real Pod: healing, relatable, and packed with perspective shifts you didn’t know you needed.

Connect with Cartia:

Instagram: @cartiamallan

YouTube: Cartia Mallan

Related episodes:

Real Pod: Emmanuel Acho: How To Find Your Life’s Purpose

Move with Heart: Ep 104: Unlocking Your Unlimited Self with Jenna Zoe & David Ghiyam (PART 1)

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Cozy Earth: Get 40% off with my code REALPOD and to celebrate Moms everywhere, this weekend only May 2-4, Cozy Earth is giving my listeners a special promo: Buy One, Get One Free Bamboo pajamas! Use code REALPODBOGO to take advantage of this. She deserves the best! 

NO BULL: For Real Pod listeners, NOBULL is offering 30% off your order. Visit nobullproject.com/realpod for 30% off your entire order.

Quince: Shop Mother’s Day at Quince. Go to quince.com/realpod for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns. 

Paper Doll By Dylan Mulvaney: Buy your copy of Paper Doll here or wherever books are sold!

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

 Produced by Dear Media. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The bride is back! Victoria’s best friend of 20 years, Aubrey Gavello, spills the tea on all things wedding planning and what it’s really been like stepping into her bridal era. They dive into the highs and lows of planning a wedding, the traditions Aubrey’s keeping (and skipping), and how she’s shifting into that marriage mindset. From how she knew her fiancé, Wood, was the one to navigating the whole merging-finances-or-not thing—nothing’s off limits. Aubrey also opens up about the pressure to make the big day perfect, staying grounded in what really matters, and her best tips for current or future brides. Tune in for the real, unfiltered version of wedding planning you definitely won’t find on Pinterest!

Instagram: @aubreygavello

TikTok: @aubreygavelloo

Check out these related episodes:

Should You Merge Finances With Your Spouse?!

AUBREY AND WOOD ARE ENGAGED! THEIR FULL STORY

// SPONSORS //

LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that’s 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.

Better Help: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month. 

Quince: Shop Mother's Day at Quince! Go to quince.com/realpod for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. 

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

 Produced by Dear Media. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Q&A’s and break up tips to simply navigating every stage of life, influencer-turned-entrepreneur Payton Sartain brings you the sisterly advice you didn’t know you needed and honest conversations you’ve always wanted. Whether it’s Payton alone or a conversation with a friend, Note to Self is a space to get grounded, explore new perspectives, and ultimately, empower yourself and others. Grab some wine or a mocktail and enjoy the conversation!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Vic is yapping with The Gals on the Go! Danielle Carolan and Brooke Miccio (longtime YouTube creators and podcast co-hosts) join Victoria for a fun and honest conversation about what it’s really like to grow through your 20s. They talk about starting a business with your best friend, how their dynamic has evolved over time, and what it takes to keep both the friendship and the brand strong. Danielle opens up about managing anxiety on tour and deciding to go on beta blockers, while Brooke shares how her mindset has shifted in relationships, work, and routines. From building confidence in business settings to finding your personal “anxiety toolkit,” this episode is packed with real talk on navigating career growth, overstimulation, and the sometimes weird in-between of mid-twenties adulthood.

Instagram: @galsonthegopodcast

Website: galsonthegopodcast.com

Podcast: Gals on the Go

// SPONSORS //

LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that’s 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.

NO BULL: For Real Pod listeners, NOBULL is offering 30% off your order. Visit nobullproject.com/realpod for 30% off your entire order.

Paper Doll By Dylan Mulvaney: Buy your copy of Paper Doll here or wherever books are sold!

Miss Understood: Listen to MissUnderstood: The ADHD in Women Channel, just search for “MissUnderstood” in your podcast app. 

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

 Produced by Dear Media. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Vic is diving deep into all things style in this solo episode of Real Pod! After three years on a personal fashion journey, #VicsFits, she’s here to spill everything she’s learned - from the closet cleanout strategy that changed her life to the secrets of curating a wardrobe that actually makes outfit planning easy. Vic gets real about why she struggled with fashion after years as an athlete (practice shirts only), the body image breakthroughs that reshaped how she shops, and the game-changing realization about personal style that she learned from working with celebrity stylists. If you’ve ever felt like you have nothing to wear despite a full closet, this episode is for you. Tune in for practical tips, reflection on style mishaps, and a reminder that the best fashion rule is to wear what you love!

Shop My Closet!

Declutter With Me! Real Pod Episode

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AG1: AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 and 5 free travel packs in your first box! So make sure to check out drinkag1.com/realpod to get this offer! 

Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxury you deserve with Quince! Go to quince.com/realpod for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. 

Better Help: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month. 

Miss Understood: Listen to MissUnderstood: The ADHD in Women Channel, just search for “MissUnderstood” in your podcast app. 

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

 Produced by Dear Media. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alencia Johnson joins Real Pod! Alencia is an award-winning cultural commentator, political strategist, and former senior advisor to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Now, she’s adding author to her resume with her new book Flip the Tables: The Everyday Disruptor's Guide to Finding Courage and Making Change. In this episode, Alencia and Victoria get real about how to stay hopeful in a world that feels chaotic, the fine line between unplugging for your mental health and stepping up to make a difference, and why the most radical act of resistance might just be joy and rest. They also dive into Alencia’s personal journey as a disruptor - from standing on cafeteria tables as a kid to shaking up political spaces as an adult. If you’ve ever wondered how to use your voice, challenge the status quo, or just protect your peace in today’s world, this episode is for you! Don’t miss this powerful conversation about courage, community, and change - tune in now!

// RESOURCE LINKS // 

Follow Alencia on Instagram: @AlenciaJohnson 

Read Alencia’s Book: Flip the Tables: The Everyday Disruptor’s Guide to Finding Courage and Making Change 

// SPONSORS // 

The Knot: Let The Knot be your partner in all things wedding planning. Get started at theknot.com/audio. The Knot

Premier Protein: Premier Protein: Visit premierprotein.com and go to Where To Buy to find a retailer near you or to find where to buy online. 

NO BULL: For Real Pod listeners, NOBULL is offering 30% off your order. Visit nobullproject.com/realpod for 30% off your entire order.

Miss Understood: Listen to MissUnderstood: The ADHD in Women Channel, just search for “MissUnderstood” in your podcast app. 

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

 Produced by Dear Media. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi, aka Dr. A, joins Real Pod for an absolute masterclass in women’s health! You may have seen her on Keeping Up with the Kardashians (yes, she delivered Khloe’s baby!), but today she’s here to drop life-changing knowledge on fertility, PCOS, endometriosis, and what you need to be asking your OBGYN. Dr. A shares her incredible journey from growing up in Iran during the revolution to becoming one of the most sought-after OBGYNs in Los Angeles. She opens up about how her past fueled her passion for advocating for women’s health, why so many conditions go undiagnosed, and the exact tests and questions every woman should be bringing to her doctor. From understanding your egg count to debunking birth control myths and tackling the link between PCOS and eating disorders, this episode is packed with crucial info that could change the way you approach your health. Get ready to take notes - Dr. A is giving us the ultimate roadmap to self-advocacy, and you do not want to miss it!

SHE MD Podcast

Breast Cancer Risk Calculator

Ovii PCOS Quiz

Vic’s Appearance on SHE MD

Real Pod Instagram

Watch Real Pod on YouTube

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Better Help: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month. 

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LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that’s 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.

The Knot: Let The Knot be your partner in all things wedding planning. Get started at theknot.com/audio. 

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

 Produced by Dear Media. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jeffrey Saad is back on Real Pod! The beloved chef, entrepreneur, optimist and family friend is here to share the life lessons that keep him grounded through the highs of success and the toughest lows of challenges. Jeffrey shares the difference between happiness and joy, how he reprogrammed his mindset to embrace every moment, and why optimism is the ultimate performance enhancer. He also reveals something deeply personal—his recent cancer diagnosis. With the wisdom and heart that define him, he explains how he's approaching this new battle with the same passion, gratitude, and determination that has shaped his entire life. From his philosophy on living fully to the radical act of finding joy in uncertainty, this is an episode that will change the way you see the world. Tune in for an inspiring and deeply moving conversation about resilience, perspective, and the power of choosing joy— no matter what life throws your way.

Follow Jeff on IG: @chefjeffreylsaad 

Jeff’s First Appearance on Real Pod

The Circle with Jefferey Saad

// SPONSORS // 

AG1: AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 and 5 free travel packs in your first box! So make sure to check out drinkag1.com/realpod to get this offer! 

The Knot: Let The Knot connect you to all of the people, places, and tools you need to bring your wedding to life. Get started at the knot.com/audio. 

Cozy Earth: Visit cozyearth.com/realpod or use my exclusive code REALPOD for 40% off best-selling sheets, pajamas, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey, let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here. 

Premier Protein: Visit premierprotein.com and go to Where To Buy to find a retailer near you or to find where to buy online. 

Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

 Produced by Dear Media. 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.