Self Improvement, Mindfulness and Mental Health Tips - The Coached Soul Podcast

In this episode of Coached Soul, host Steve Hudgins is joined by veteran therapist Bowden McElroy to explore the intricacies of narcissistic personality disorder. With over forty years of experience, Bowden clarifies the misconceptions surrounding narcissism, highlighting its roots in childhood experiences and how it is distinct from mere selfishness.

Listeners are guided through the nuances of how narcissistic traits are expressed differently in men and women and the societal misuse of the term. The discussion addresses the challenges in relationships affected by narcissism, particularly in marriages, and considers the potential for positive change.

Steve and Bowden delve into the true signs of narcissism and examine why it is predominantly diagnosed in men while clarifying its overlap with borderline traits in women. They explore the reluctance of some professionals to work with narcissistic individuals and offer strategies for managing such relationships effectively.

This episode provides valuable insights into understanding narcissistic personality disorder and offers practical guidance for those seeking to improve relationships affected by it. Tune in for a thoughtful examination of this complex topic.

Key Moments: 

01:10 Exploring Narcissism: Expert Insights

03:58 Raising a Narcissistic Child

06:28 Borderline Personality Disorder Explained

11:07 Narcissistic Generosity Dilemma

16:01 Cultivating Spiritual and Emotional Maturity

17:53 "Marriage: Beyond Surface Harmony"

22:18 Marriage Counseling: Individuation Over Communication

24:06 "Challenges in Treating Narcissism"

About the guest: 

Bowden McElroy is a licensed professional counselor who has been in the mental health field for over 40 years.

He works with adults, teens, and children in individual, marital, and family therapy. Part of that work includes teaching workshops and seminars on various topics. He helps people to get unstuck. When the difference between where you want to be and where you think you are in life seems huge, he helps people overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

How to connect Bowden: https://bowdenmcelroy.com/

About Coached Soul: 

Coached Soul is an empowering podcast hosted by Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

For more details, visit https://coachedsoul.com/

In Episode 159 of Coached Soul, the conversation continues as host Steve Hudgins sits down with Rachel Dick, a woman who has bravely navigated through substance abuse and found strength in her faith on the road to recovery. 

This episode delves into Rachel's personal journey, revealing her challenges in overcoming addiction and the transformative power of her Damascus moment. Listeners will gain insights into the significance of community support, the struggle with substance abuse, and the pivotal differences between religious obligation and a genuine relationship with faith. Rachel shares her experiences in a recovery program and highlights her subsequent efforts in helping others through prison ministry and her written works. 

This episode offers a profound message of hope and healing for anyone touched by addiction or seeking to support a loved one in recovery.

Key Moments: 

01:52 Understanding Addiction Challenges and Misconceptions

05:05 "Alcohol's Hidden Downfall"

09:57 Grace Over Judgment in Rehab

12:18 Embracing Caution in Recovery

16:15 "Finding Freedom Through Faith"

19:30 Spiritual Growth Through Legal Advocacy

24:11 Redefining Boundaries as Thresholds

About the guest : 

Rachel Dick grew up in a tumultuous and challenging family environment marked by chaos and dysfunction. Her parents' constant arguments created a hostile home atmosphere. During her early years, Rachel became rebellious, seeking freedom from her oppressive surroundings. At the age of 12, she faced a significant, life-altering event when a neighbor revealed to be a child predator led to a traumatic court case. The ordeal left Rachel with trust issues towards her parents, influenced by the manipulative words of the neighbor. He had promised her freedom to indulge in smoking, drinking, and other activities, which fueled her rebellion against her parents' authority. Despite these early struggles, Rachel's story is one of resilience and learning, navigating a path through challenging circumstances

Books on Amazon: 

Finding Freedom  - https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Freedom-Addicts-Story-Death-ebook/dp/B08BB776WX?ref_=ast_author_mpb

Unlocking Freedom - https://www.amazon.com/Unlocking-Freedom-Connection-Discover-identity/dp/B0CQV1HYJR/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30LQIM0PUH4Q6&keywords=unlocking+freedom&qid=1704335723&sprefix=unlocking+freedom%2Caps%2C138&sr=8-1

About Coached Soul: 

Coached Soul is an empowering podcast hosted by Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

In this episode, host Steve Hudgins welcomes special guest Rachel Dick, a holistic biblical counselor, to explore the profound challenges of childhood trauma and substance abuse. Rachel bravely shares her journey from a tumultuous upbringing plagued by emotional neglect and substance addiction to the transformative moments that inspired her pursuit of healing and helping others. 

Through candid discussion, Rachel recounts her experiences growing up in a chaotic and dysfunctional household, battling with early rebellion, and her subsequent descent into substance abuse. The episode delves into the emotional and familial dynamics that can perpetuate addictive behaviors, highlighting the critical need for open communication and understanding within families. 

Together, Steve and Rachel emphasize the importance of empathy, education, and prayer in navigating the complexities of addiction, offering hope and insights for both those struggling and their loved ones. 

Tune in to hear Rachel's powerful story and learn how she overcame her past to become a beacon of strength and support for others facing similar battles.

Key Moment : 

03:13 Chaotic Childhood and Rebellion

09:19 Abandoning Church Rituals

11:43 Escaping Reality Through Substances

15:50 Embrace Openness in Struggles

18:32 Chasing Highs and Identity

20:57 Hope for Families of Addicts

23:59 Reexamining Judgment in Christianity

25:57 Facing Rock Bottom: A Turning Point

About the guest : 

Rachel Dick grew up in a tumultuous and challenging family environment marked by chaos and dysfunction. Her parents' constant arguments created a hostile home atmosphere. During her early years, Rachel became rebellious, seeking freedom from her oppressive surroundings. At the age of 12, she faced a significant, life-altering event when a neighbor revealed to be a child predator led to a traumatic court case. The ordeal left Rachel with trust issues towards her parents, influenced by the manipulative words of the neighbor. He had promised her freedom to indulge in smoking, drinking, and other activities, which fueled her rebellion against her parents' authority. Despite these early struggles, Rachel's story is one of resilience and learning, navigating a path through challenging circumstances

Books on Amazon: 

Finding Freedom  - https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Freedom-Addicts-Story-Death-ebook/dp/B08BB776WX?ref_=ast_author_mpb

Unlocking Freedom - https://www.amazon.com/Unlocking-Freedom-Connection-Discover-identity/dp/B0CQV1HYJR/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30LQIM0PUH4Q6&keywords=unlocking+freedom&qid=1704335723&sprefix=unlocking+freedom%2Caps%2C138&sr=8-1

About Coached Soul: 

Coached Soul is an empowering podcast hosted by Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

In this episode, Steve Hudgins is joined by guest Anthony J. Mohr, as they dive into the complexities of growing up in a blended family and the transformative journey that led Anthony to become a judge and author. 

Anthony shares personal anecdotes from his childhood, recounting his experiences with step-siblings and the unique challenges and joys that come with a blended family dynamic. The conversation also touches on Anthony's unexpected path to law and his eventual role as a judge, offering listeners an introspective look at the intricacies of family relationships and professional growth. 

As they discuss Anthony's memoir, "Every Other Weekend," the episode reveals the delicate balance of writing one's story and the reflection it brings. This episode promises to provide listeners with insightful reflections on family, personal growth, and the pursuit of one's passion. 

Tune in to explore these themes and learn more about Coached Soul.

Key Moments: 

06:10 Avoiding Family Law Case

08:22 Judges Value Prepared Lawyers

12:05 From Kangaroo Court to Judgeship

15:32 "Siblings' Limited Pre-Publication Feedback"

17:26 "Audience Consideration in Storytelling"

19:59 Lesser-Known Book Awards Acknowledged

23:35 Single Life in 1970s California

About the guest : 

Anthony J. Mohr served for twenty-six years as a judge on the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. He also sat as a judge pro tem on the California Court of Appeal. In January 2021, he became a fellow at the Advanced Leadership Initiative at Harvard University and is now a senior editor of the Harvard ALI Social Impact Review. His stories and essays have received five Pushcart Prize nominations. He has worked on the staffs of Evening Street Review, Fifth Wednesday Journal, Hippocampus Magazine, and Under the Sun.

How to connect with Anthony :  https://anthonyjmohr.com/

About Coached Soul: 

Coached Soul is an empowering podcast hosted by Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

In this episode, host Steve Hudgins is joined by a special guest, Anthony J. Mohr. Anthony shares his remarkable journey of navigating life through the lens of a child in a blended family. As an accomplished author and judge, TAnthony discusses the emotional impact of his parents' divorce at the age of nine and his experiences adjusting to life with two different father figures in a rapidly evolving world. 

The episode delves into the influence of these dynamics on Anthony's life, his career path, and his unique perspective on blending families. Listeners will gain insights into the resilience required to adapt to family changes and hear Anthony's valuable advice for others in similar situations. 

Be prepared to be inspired and enlightened as the episode uncovers the fascinating narrative behind Anthony's book, "Every Other Weekend." Tune in and embark on this transformative journey.

Key Moments: 

00:10 Book Origin Interview Introduction

04:26 Trauma's Lifelong Impact

07:04 "Radio Star Known as Aaron Duke"

12:05 Childhood Escape to Happiness

15:17 "Absent Father and Kept Letters"

17:27 Caught Between Two Worlds

20:52 Balancing Cultures and Legal Perspectives

22:54 School Struggles and Turnaround

About the guest : 

Anthony J. Mohr served for twenty-six years as a judge on the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. He also sat as a judge pro tem on the California Court of Appeal. In January 2021, he became a fellow at the Advanced Leadership Initiative at Harvard University and is now a senior editor of the Harvard ALI Social Impact Review. His stories and essays have received five Pushcart Prize nominations. He has worked on the staffs of Evening Street Review, Fifth Wednesday Journal, Hippocampus Magazine, and Under the Sun.

How to connect with Anthony :  https://anthonyjmohr.com/

About Coached Soul: 

Coached Soul is an empowering podcast hosted by Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

In this episode, hosts Steve Hudgins and Kenya Evelyn delve into the intricacies of Valentine's Day and the different dimensions of love and connection in our lives. Steve, a licensed professional counselor, and Kenya, a therapeutic life coach, discuss themes of romantic and self-love through captivating cultural stories and personal experiences. 

They emphasize the significance of self-acceptance and personal introspection, encouraging listeners to explore deeper personal insights. With a focus on the unconditional and authentic nature of love, this episode serves as a timely reminder for all, whether celebrating with others or embracing self-reflection. 

The hosts provide valuable wisdom on fostering healthier relationships and nurturing a more loving perspective toward oneself and others. Tune in to embark on a journey of self-discovery and connection.

Key Moments: 

06:12 "Support During Family Challenges"

07:37 "Seeing Each Other in Marriage"

11:16 Selfless Love Over Commercialism

13:09 Self-Love as True Nourishment

16:48 "Every Place is Gold"

19:38 Manifest Valentine's Intentions

22:54 Ending Well Sets New Beginnings

About Coached Soul: 

Coached Soul is an empowering podcast hosted by Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

For more details, visit https://coachedsoul.com/

In this episode, hosts Steve Hudgins and Kenya Evelyn delve into the complexities of love and relationships during the love-filled month of February. As Valentine's Day approaches, they explore the societal pressures surrounding relationships and the search for love. Steve shares his personal journey of being single for eight years, sparking a conversation on the challenges and rewards of dating as a therapist. Kenya brings depth to the dialogue, emphasizing the significance of confidence, curiosity, and safety in romantic partnerships.

Together, they explore the nuances of love through the lens of personal growth, healing, and self-love. Kenya, married for nearly two decades, reflects on her evolving understanding of romantic love and the importance of seeing oneself as whole. Both hosts advocate for intentionality and communication in relationships, urging listeners to engage in couple check-ins and embrace love as a choice in action. They tackle the concept of true love being rooted in daily choices and the quiet commitment to nurture connections.

With their combined insights, Steve and Kenya stress the value of healing within relationships, challenging the notion of solitude in the healing process. They underscore the importance of self-love and how it radiates into partnerships, encouraging listeners to acknowledge and address emotional triggers. 

Join them on this transformative journey to understand the power of love, healing, and growth in relationships, as they offer practical advice and heartfelt wisdom to foster healthier and more meaningful connections.

Key Moments: 

05:25 Reflect, Evolve, Heal Together

09:24 "Patterns of Behavior in Relationships"

10:31 Understanding Emotional Triggers in Relationships

16:04 "Check-In and Mutual Submission"

19:48 "Roles of Listener and Servant"

23:03 Fix, Don't Replace Relationships

26:24 Healing Before Relationships

27:19 "Love Yourself, Love Others"

About Coached Soul: 

Coached Soul is an empowering podcast hosted by Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

For more details, visit https://coachedsoul.com/

In this episode, Steve delves into the importance of self-love and setting healthy boundaries in relationships. As the new year unfolds, he encourages listeners to reflect on their past and plan for a more fulfilling future. Steve distinguishes between setting meaningful goals and succumbing to fleeting resolutions, emphasizing the significance of self-worth in fostering deeper connections with others.

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, often referred to as "Love Month," Steve shifts the conversation from commercial gestures of love to the essential yet often overlooked practice of loving oneself. Drawing from his personal experiences and extensive research, including a dissertation on relationship dynamics, he sheds light on common issues such as emotional unavailability, codependency, and the importance of taking sabbaticals between relationships to rediscover one's identity and needs.

Throughout the episode, Steve shares insights on maintaining authenticity, managing anxious attachment styles, and cultivating a love that fosters mutual respect and understanding. Whether listeners are navigating the complexities of dating or seeking to enhance their current relationships, this episode offers valuable advice on building a foundation of self-worth and authenticity.

Listeners are invited to tune in and discover how self-love can pave the way for healthier, more fulfilling relationships. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and join Steve Hudgins in this heartfelt exploration of love and self-discovery on "Coached Soul."

Key Moments: 

01:32 "Improving Life: Goals and Self-Love"

05:04 Healthy Boundaries in Relationships

08:42 Self-Love Enables Healthy Dating

13:06 Authenticity and Love in Relationships

16:44 "Authentic Love: Healing Leadership"

19:58 Love Yourself Every Day

22:42 "Authenticity, Forgiveness, and Self-Love"

25:18 "Spread Love This Valentine's Day"

 About Coached Soul: 

Coached Soul is an empowering podcast hosted by Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

For more details, visit https://coachedsoul.com/

In this episode, host Steve Hudgins continues his insightful discussion with Connie Portman, a veteran private chef who has successfully transitioned into a health coach. In the previous episode, Connie shared her journey to becoming a private chef and her unique understanding of food and health. 

Now, she gets into how her personal experiences, such as supporting loved ones through cancer diagnoses, inspired her shift to health coaching. The conversation covers the pivotal role of nutrition, practical strategies for sustaining a healthy lifestyle, and ways to approach weight loss and dietary changes realistically. 

Connie emphasizes the significance of emotional well-being, examines societal eating habits, and offers practical advice for families with diverse dietary needs. This episode is brimming with valuable insights, perfect for anyone looking to set attainable health goals for 2025 or navigate nutritional challenges. Tune in and be inspired on your path to better health!

Key Moments: 

01:03 Empowering Change Through Culinary Coaching

03:54 "Surviving Cancer: Inspiring Hope"

07:41 Sustainable Weight Loss Strategies

10:48 Understanding Emotional Eating Patterns

15:13 Simple Wellness Habits

17:42 "Mind-Body Connection and Emotions"

22:57 Collaborative Eating Disorder Support

23:50 Blended Families and Eating Habits

About the guest : 

Connie Portman is a Private Chef & Health Coach. As a child,  hailing from the picturesque Amish Country in Pennsylvania, she discovered her culinary passion amidst lush farms and fresh, holistic produce. This early exposure to wholesome ingredients shaped her eating style and fueled her dream of becoming a professional chef. Connie honed her skills in the demanding environment of professional kitchens, mastering the intricacies of cooking. However, she eventually recognized the profession's physical toll on her body, leading her to pivot her career while still cherishing her love for food.

Website: https://www.choosingnewpaths.com/

About Coached Soul: 

Coached Soul is an empowering podcast hosted by Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

For more details, visit https://coachedsoul.com/

In this episode, host Steve Hudgins introduces Connie Portman, a professional chef turned certified health coach, to discuss starting the new year free from the pressure of traditional resolutions. Connie brings a unique perspective shaped by her upbringing in Amish Country, Pennsylvania, which fostered her passion for clean, healthy food.

Listeners will hear about Connie’s transition from crafting exquisite dishes in luxury resorts to becoming a private chef for notable clients like musician Bruce Hornsby. Steve and Connie explore sustainable, realistic health goals, emphasizing the importance of heirloom produce and highlighting the nutrient decline in modern farming practices.

Connie shares practical tips for healthier eating, including the benefits of growing your own food and making informed choices between organic and conventional produce. The conversation covers a range of topics from seasonal eating and navigating farmers' markets to understanding the broader food system.

Packed with valuable advice, this episode encourages listeners to embrace mindfulness and empowerment in their food choices, setting the stage for future discussions on holistic nutrition. Join the Coached Soul podcast as it unveils the joys and responsibilities of creating a sustainable, healthy lifestyle for 2025!

Key Moments: 

01:32 Food was healthier growing up, unlike today.

06:38 Intimate party at Bruce Hornsby's house.

10:24 Encouraging men to cook alleviates family guilt.

11:42 Meal planning, preparation, cooking, family approval process.

17:25 Overseas apples appear natural; ours waxed.

20:01 Discussing organic food choices at local markets.

22:03 Eat seasonally: Winter vegetables and organic greens.

25:53 Food system breakdown due to bacterial contamination.

About the guest : 

Connie Portman is a Private Chef & Health Coach. As a child,  hailing from the picturesque Amish Country in Pennsylvania, she discovered her culinary passion amidst lush farms and fresh, holistic produce. This early exposure to wholesome ingredients shaped her eating style and fueled her dream of becoming a professional chef. Connie honed her skills in the demanding environment of professional kitchens, mastering the intricacies of cooking. However, she eventually recognized the profession's physical toll on her body, leading her to pivot her career while still cherishing her love for food.

Website : https://www.choosingnewpaths.com/

About Coached Soul: 

Coached Soul is an empowering podcast hosted by Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

For more details, visit https://coachedsoul.com/