"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk to blossom." -- Anais Nin

Bronwyn Schweigerdt is a licensed psychotherapist and host of the Angry at the Right Things podcast. In her work, she emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and processing emotions, particularly anger, which is often repressed or disowned. She believes that emotions such as hatred and betrayal, if left unaddressed, can manifest as mental health issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or even psychosis.

Rather than focusing on fixing others’ problems, Bronwyn's approach encourages people to confront and verbalize their most difficult feelings. She asserts that these emotions don't disappear—they stay within the body and, if ignored, can cause long-term psychological distress. By helping individuals externalize their anger and reconnect with it, she helps them break free from harmful cycles and heal their relationships with both their anger and themselves.

Bronwyn holds two master's degrees—one in counseling and another in nutrition—and is a well-rounded professional who also serves as a public speaker and author. Through her therapeutic work, she has helped many people achieve lasting relief from mental health struggles by addressing the root causes of their emotions.

You can find Brownwyn on FB, on Instagram @schweigerdtbronwyn, and of course, on the various podcasts apps with her show, "Angry At The Right Things." You can also watch/listen here: https://angryattherightthings.com/

Thank you Bronwyn for this insightful and thought-provoking conversation. It was truly illuminating!

Welcome Julie Kirschke! Thank you so much for being on Sharing Out Loud AND being a part of my own recovery journey through the She Walks Canada FREE WEEKLY Coaching calls.

From Julie:

Addiction is in the face of the girl next door, it can be in the computer lab with a tech specialist, it can be in the Principal's office, it can be at your Dentist, or in my case ..….. it was in the mirror.

I didn’t want to be an alcoholic, drinking was my favorite thing! 

It relieved my stress after a long day of mommin’, it was my reward when I did something right, it was in all the celebrations I made up so we could have a party. Alcohol Abuse Disorder had me.

The thing is, alcohol is an addictive substance. If you drink it enough you can (and most likely will) become addicted. It didn’t matter how many 30-day cleanses I did to prove I wasn’t an alcoholic, on day 30 I was loaded.

Eventually, I couldn’t stop. I would need a drink in the morning to relieve the shakes and help me function. My brain was wired to believe the only thing that would help pain was alcohol. It wasn’t until I decided to get help that I learned all the other issues behind my addiction. 

In treatment, I got to know my traumas very well and work through them. I also got to understand how I am the way I am. Perfectionism and people-pleasing were crippling effects of childhood trauma. Because of that, I believed I wasn’t worthy, good enough, or even loveable. In adulthood, I put so much pressure on myself to prove how great I was that I lost my most valuable thing…........me.

What I have uncovered in my years of sobriety is something I will never give away again. 

MY SOBER SELF is wise, honest, loving, loveable, funny, courageous and resilient. If I were to wager a guess, I bet yours is too.

If you are looking for individual help Julie is your person! You can find her on Instagram @julzkirschke, or you can go to her website: https://www.mysoberself.ca/

​Julie also does intermittent coaching in the She Walks Canada FREE weekly calls.

Thank you again, my friend. You are a true gem of a human and a bright light in the sober community.

XXX,
Heather

Rebecca! Where have you been all my life? If we had met in high school or college, we would have been fast friends, there is no doubt in my mind. And it might not have been a stretch seeing that Rebecca grew up in MI, summered "Up North" at family cabins/cottages (as I did and still do), and went to Michigan State, where several of my family members and friends have gone.

About Rebecca:
Rebecca's career is in real estate and home remodeling/construction, but her passion is people; how can she change the lives of her clients? How can she help them get the most out of the sale of their home so that they walk away with the money they need to purchase another property, retire with a little more ease, or send their children to college...

Like many people in real estate, this was not what she thought she would ever be doing. She thought she was going to be a lawyer but then switched her major to geography/topography (after a professor suggested she had some talent). And what did she do with that? She was a teacher for a while but was also a filmmaker, which ultimately is what took her to California.

Rebecca does something most people in this world don't. She listens and then takes action. If someone she trusts and respects suggests she should do something (job, career, life "stuff"), she does it! She JUMPS and then guess what happens? She SOARS. This doesn't mean her life is all roses all the time, we all have our fair share of troubles, but she lives life to the fullest and she gives to others because that is what makes her truly happy.

In addition to investing, remodeling and selling houses, Rebecca is the most enthusiastic DETROIT LIONS fan I have ever met! She has spent her whole life cheering them on, waiting for the team to have an opportunity to play in the Super Bowl and this might just be the year!

Rebecca, you are one of the most kind and generous humans I have ever met. Thank you so much for talking to me! I look forward to our follow-up conversation very soon.

You can find Rebecca on Instagram @houseofsekulich

And for any real estate needs you can visit her here: https://www.sekulichhomes.com/

She's back! Ok, she never left! Our conversation went from menopause to sobriety all in one session so I decided to split it into 2 episodes. However, there is a big  connection between drinking and perimenopause (hint: they don't mix!).

Sober stories never get old because anyone struggling needs to know they are not alone, and the more stories we hear, the more we can confirm that there is power in the community.

If you are in the middle of a bad divorce or have gone through a bad divorce, this might be something you can relate to. Too many women go down the path of alcohol abuse when their marriages break up because let's face it, divorce can be downright ugly. But Patti's story does have a happy ending so for anyone struggling, there is hope. And there is always hope when it comes to recovery as well. We just have to be ready and willing to ask for help.

xxx,
Heather

“Nobody realizes that some people extend tremendous energy merely to be normal.” -Albert Camus

Meet Chrissy Janiga, LCSW. Certified Alcohol-Free, Mindset, Success, Spirituality, and NLP Coach. Plus, she's an author and a Podcast Host (Soulful and Sober).

A little about Chrissy...

I often thought about not drinking. However, due to alcohol being normalized in our society and labels like alcoholic, I never got help.  I never identified myself as a problematic drinker. Years later, I realized you can stop anything that isn’t serving you.  Drinking impacted my health and brought on a lot of shame. On my 39th birthday, I decided to work on my relationship with alcohol.   My journey was far from perfect, and I believe the messy middle helped me quit.   

After I officially said I quit, it was like a weight was taken off my shoulders.  I no longer had to worry about moderating and trying to control an unpredictable substance.  By listening to my intuition and not drinking, I realized I needed to strengthen my intuitive powers. During a walk, I had the idea to write a children’s book and published my first book in May 2023.  I have now begun to work on a non-fiction book. Doors truly did open once I stopped drinking alcohol.  

Thank you so much Chrissy for giving me your time. You can find more information about Chrissy and her coaching programs on her website, www.chrissyjaniga.com

Follow her on Instagram! @chrissyjaniga

And of course, check out her podcast, Souful and sober.

PART 1 of 2 with the amazing Patti Palmer.

Part 1: MENOPAUSE.

NO ONE IS COMING TO SAVE US! But by sharing our menopause stories, we can give you hope and, hopefully, the knowledge to arm you with confidence when speaking with your doctor.

What’s stopping you from taking control of your menopause health? Is it fear of Uncertainty? Maybe you think you don’t have enough time to focus on yourself.

Let me tell you, it’s never too late to take the reins and Patti talks to us about her path to feeling better. Menopause isn’t something that should be endured—it’s something you can actively navigate. Yes, it can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to sit back and let it take over.

We women know what it’s like to juggle the demands of life, but your health deserves to be a priority. Don’t let fear hold you back from exploring your options, finding the right treatments, or adjusting your lifestyle to feel better.

If Patti and I can do it, so can you. Ask questions, get informed, and don’t be afraid to make the right changes for you. Let’s break the silence around menopause and show the world what it means to thrive at every stage of life.

Go follow Patti on Instagram @patti_palmer_re! 

Meet Malyasia Harrell, Founder of Blissful Life Consulting | Spiritual Transformation Coach | Mental Health & Wellness Advocate | Psychotherapist | Corporate Wellness Strategist & Consultant | Military Veteran | Keynote Speaker | Author | University Board Member | Philanthropist | Podcast Host.

WOW! That is a lot of accolades😲.

As a psychotherapist, coach, speaker, and veteran, Maylasia has observed how resilience has become a buzzword in our culture. While resilience is important, she likes to take a different approach with her clients and when speaking at events.

It was the life-altering event she experienced in 2020—a near-death encounter, that reshaped her entire perspective and purpose. Being on the other side of the therapy chair, transitioning from caregiver to patient during her own healing journey, allowed Maylasia to cultivate a profound level of empathy and understanding. It is this deeply personal experience that now fuels her passion for assisting others in their own paths to healing and empowerment.

The near-death experience served as a catalyst for Malaysia to delve deeper into complementary and alternative medicine, seeking holistic approaches that address not just the physical, but also the emotional and spiritual dimensions of wellness. This journey also led her to become a staunch advocate for suicide prevention and mental health awareness, recognizing the crucial role of emotional well-being in overall health.

The company Malaysia founded, Blissful Life Consulting, is dedicated to providing holistic wellness solutions that integrate traditional therapy with complementary and alternative approaches for individuals, groups, leaders, and employees. Their vision is to inspire a world where holistic well-being is a fundamental human right, accessible to all, fostering resilience, joy, and purpose.

It was such a pleasure having Malyasia on the podcast. I am deeply grateful and will be keeping tabs on her to see what amazing things she'll do next!

Be sure to grab her new book when it launches! "God Has My Six. Igniting Your Spitituality To Manifest Your Dream Life".

Contact Info:

• Website: www.malaysiaharrell.com & www.blissfullifeconsulting.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malaysiahharrell/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078172556342d
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malaysia-h-harrell-a322b19b/
• X: @MalaysiaHarrell

I’m excited to share a glimpse into the inspiring journey of my friend, AnaLori Smith, whom I met through the amazing free weekly sober coaching calls with SHE WALKS CANADA. Since January, I’ve come to know AnaLori as the beautiful, funny, intelligent, tiny queen she truly is. I really had no idea what her sober story entailed and I knew nothing of her early life.

During our sober calls, we often touch on personal stories, but it wasn’t until recently that I learned just how remarkable AnaLori’s journey has been. From the start, she’s captivated us with her vibrant spirit (her growth in sobriety is incredible), but the depths of her experiences are nothing short of astonishing.

AnaLori’s life began with tragedy. Sadly, her mother passed away during childbirth in a war-torn country leaving AnaLori, who also has Cerebral Palsy, orphaned and alone. After a few months in an orphanage, she was adopted by an American family who lovingly brought her into their large family (9 children in total! AL is the youngest) but like many of us, as she grew into her teenage years, AnaLori discovered that alcohol could help with social anxiety and all of the other challenges teens experience. And once alcohol got into her system, well, she was off to the races.

Intrigued? You should be! I am not going to give it all away here -- you are just going to have to take a listen! I will give you a hint! AnaLori used to be confined to a wheelchair but a few months ago she donated it to someone in need❤️ since she can now walk with just her walker and of course, ride around town on her little yellow bike!

Her journey reminds us that transformation is possible, even when the odds seem stacked against us. AnaLori is not just a survivor; she’s a beacon of hope for all of us navigating our paths. I’m grateful to have her in my life and to witness the incredible strides she’s made.

Let’s celebrate AnaLori by sharing this incredible podcast episode with everyone you know, and following her on Instagram @analorismith.

Thank you, AnaLori, for SHARING OUT LOUD with me. It was truly an honor to have you on the pod.

xoxo,
Heather

Meet Katey Armstrong!

I was first introduced to Katey when she was on the YOU ARE NOT BROKEN Podcast with Dr. Kelly Casperson talking about Menopause and her experience with prolapse, (when 1 or more of the organs in the pelvis slip down from their normal position and bulge into the vagina). As soon as I started listening I knew I had to have her here on SHARING OUT LOUD because I too am experiencing menopause, AND I experienced prolapse as well (we think no one talks about menopause - NO ONE talks about prolapse!!!).

Katey and I talked about everything...

• Taking her power back with MENOPAUSE by being fully educated with what's going on in her body and demanding the best care from her doctor (she is on HRT).
• Picking herself up by the bootstraps to reinvent herself after a shocking discovery in her marriage.
• Being the ultimate STRONG grandmother so that she play with her grandchildren as they grow!
• Working with the elderly in extended care facilities to change their mindset on not giving up on what they can do to change their bodies physically -- you CAN get stronger with movement, even at 80!
• Building and motivating an online fitness community with LIVE ZOOM classes each week.

Katey is one amazing, unique, and powerful woman, a woman who cares so deeply for others, all she wanted to do was talk about her ZOOM fitness clients and her elderly fitness clients whom she has been motivating in extended care facilities for YEARS! These are the people that bring her absolute joy. They are the REASON she is motivated to take charge of her health! She needs to be the best she can be so that she can continue to have the energy to keep them motivated.

I know you are going to love Katey as much as I do so go follow her on social media and be sure to check out her ZOOM exercise programs on her website!

Follow Katey on Instagram @healthyevolutionbykatey

Visit her website: https://www.healthyevolution.ca/

Celebrating National Menopause Month: Be Loud and Proud!

October is National Menopause Month, a time to spotlight a "natural phase" of life that affects half the population but often remains shrouded in silence. It’s time to break the stigma, embrace our journeys, and advocate for the care we deserve!

Why Go Loud and Proud?

Menopause is a significant transition that can bring a mix of physical, emotional, and psychological changes. Yet, it’s often talked about in hushed tones or avoided altogether. This secrecy can lead to misinformation, a lack of support, and feelings of isolation for those experiencing it. Being loud and proud can create a culture of openness and understanding.

Demand the Care We Deserve

It's crucial to advocate for our health and well-being during this time. Here are some steps to help you and others:

1. Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power! Understand the symptoms, treatment options, and what to expect. Share this information with friends and family to demystify menopause.
2. Speak Up: Don’t be afraid to discuss your experiences with healthcare providers. If you feel unheard or dismissed, seek a second opinion, or 3rd or 4th! Keep going until you find someone who will listen. Your health matters!
3. Build a Support Network: Connect with others going through similar experiences. Share stories, advice, and resources. Community support can make a world of difference.
4. Challenge the Stigma: Use social media and community platforms to share your journey and encourage others to do the same. The more we talk, the more normalized it becomes!
5. WATCH THE NEW DOCUMENTARY, THE M FACTOR, on PBS. October 19, 2024.

Menopause is not an ending; let’s celebrate our strength, and resilience, by being loud and proud. By doing this, we can pave the way for better understanding and care for future generations.

So, let’s unite this month (and beyond) and make some noise! Share your stories, support each other, and demand the care we all deserve. Together, we can transform the narrative around menopause and ensure that no one feels alone in their journey. 💪✨

Want to share on this podcast? Please reach out on Instagram @heathermdanby or you can email me at [email protected].

LFG!!!

xxx,
Heather


CORRECTION: National Menopause Day is the 18th, not the 17th. And the M Factor doc is out on the 19th! I was just so excited I misspoke!