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Nancy took an unexpected ten-month break from her podcast, Shut Up and Smile, due to a series of personal challenges. Now she’s back, excited to relaunch Season Two in September. Here are the main highlights she covers in her update:

1.     Reasons for the Hiatus

• After planning only a short pause, life threw numerous obstacles her way—medical concerns, family dynamics, and unexpected emotional stress—that prolonged her break.
• She struggled with self-doubt about continuing creative projects but ultimately persevered thanks to encouragement from loved ones.

2.     Personal and Family Changes

• Nancy’s household experienced both joy and upheaval: she welcomed her second step-grandchild over the summer and undertook major home renovations.
• Her “bonus” daughter, B, who had been living with them and receiving substantial help, abruptly moved out and cut off contact, leaving Nancy hurt and questioning her own boundaries.
• Meanwhile, her son Jordan left home but returned, offering Nancy solace and a sense of closure after B’s departure.

3.     Friendship Ups and Downs

• Nancy lost a close friend, Leah, over misunderstandings and hurt feelings surrounding a July 4th event and a wedding. Despite efforts to reconnect, Leah blocked Nancy on all platforms, leaving Nancy both shocked and saddened.
• Reflecting on the conflict, Nancy notes that sometimes friends walk away without resolution, and she’s had to accept that as part of life.

4.     Health Struggles

• Nancy copes with five autoimmune diseases (including fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic fatigue), which flare up in colder months.
• She dealt with severe throat issues, possibly related to a new RA medication, resulting in an emergency endoscopy and ongoing treatment.
• Recent months brought additional surgeries and health scares, amplifying her anxiety and PTSD.

5.     A New Book and Future Podcast Plans

• Nancy has been working on a book about her journey as an abuse survivor and hopes it will inspire others to share their own stories.
• Season Two of Shut Up and Smile will feature co-host Keery, plus guests who will share stories of survival and discuss mental health and other important topics.
• She’s determined to continue advocating for abuse survivors and to encourage conversations that support healing.

Despite the setbacks and heartaches, Nancy’s renewed energy and optimism drive her forward. She invites listeners to revisit Season One episodes and get ready for a bigger, better Season Two, launching in September, complete with new content, interviews, and her forthcoming book.