Standing in Your Truth With Yanni

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Autism doesn't come with a handbook. When Lexi first noticed her son Alexander spinning repetitively at six months old, she had no idea she was witnessing early signs of autism. Despite mentioning these behaviors to doctors, it would be months before medical professionals validated her concerns.

Today, Lexi opens her heart about raising Alexander (affectionately called "Brother"), a non-verbal kindergartner on the autism spectrum, alongside her daughter Adeline, who faced her own medical challenges with a club foot requiring multiple surgeries and treatments. Through these unexpected journeys, Lexi has discovered strength she never knew she possessed.

"Some things Alexander likes – tight hugs or pressure. One thing we learned in occupational therapy is if he's having a meltdown in public, to just start applying pressure from head to toe," Lexi shares, offering a glimpse into the practical strategies that help her son navigate a world that can feel overwhelming to his senses. She explains how common environments like grocery stores can become sensory battlegrounds, with sounds and lights amplified tenfold for those on the spectrum.

This conversation transforms our understanding of autism beyond stereotypes. Alexander might not speak, but he communicates brilliantly by guiding people's hands to what he wants. He experiences joy through repetitive movements that bring him comfort. His sister has become his fiercest advocate, explaining autism to friends with remarkable compassion.

Whether you're raising a child with special needs or simply want to better understand autism, this episode provides profound insights into creating a more inclusive world. As Lexi powerfully states, "I don't need to fix Alexander to fit in. We just need to figure out how to fix those around us to accommodate him better."

Ready to become a more compassionate, informed member of your community? Listen now, and join us in standing for inclusivity and understanding during National Autism Awareness Month and beyond.

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Aaron Thomas joins Yanni for a profoundly honest conversation about living authentically and protecting your mental health. The episode opens with Aaron sharing his unique perspective on motivation—acknowledging life's finite nature pushes him to maximize each day and fulfill his purpose. "My motivation comes from my fear of dying and not doing all that God has called me to do," he reveals, setting the tone for a discussion that moves beyond surface-level advice.

The conversation takes a deep dive into mental wellbeing as Aaron explains the importance of surrounding yourself with people who genuinely see you while distancing from those who consistently drain your energy without replenishing it. This philosophy extends to his approach to relationships, where he presents the thought-provoking concept of "mutual using"—the idea that healthy relationships involve reciprocal exchange that benefits both parties.

At the heart of the episode is Aaron's transformative life motto: "Do not hide, protect, defend or prove who you are to anyone." This powerful statement becomes a framework for authentic living that has freed him from exhausting cycles of people-pleasing and seeking external validation. Aaron and Yanni explore how this mindset has strengthened their marriage, improved their mental health, and deepened their faith by allowing genuine vulnerability and growth.

The discussion culminates with Aaron's compelling work mentoring at-risk youth and his passionate encouragement to stop running from difficult emotions. "It's okay to not be okay," he reminds listeners, emphasizing that true healing begins with sitting with uncomfortable feelings rather than avoiding them. Whether you're struggling with boundary-setting, searching for purpose, or working to build authentic relationships, this episode offers wisdom that will resonate long after you finish listening.

Subscribe now for more conversations that blend practical advice, spiritual insights, and authentic stories that remind us of the power of standing in our truth.

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Standing In Your Truth Podcast with Yanni Thomas

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"No pasa nada" – a simple Spanish phrase that means "nothing is happening" or "it's going to be okay" serves as the powerful life motto for our guest, Nidia Soriano. This philosophy has carried her through life's most challenging moments, transforming what initially appeared as devastating setbacks into divine redirections.

Nidia opens up about the multifaceted approach she takes toward mental wellness – from tapping techniques and journaling to prayer and therapy. She and host Yanni share a profound moment of connection discussing how the combination of professional therapy and a strong relationship with God created transformative changes in their lives. "Between getting rebaptized and dedicating and getting a relationship with the Lord and therapy, those two things changed my life," Yanni reflects, with Nidia wholeheartedly agreeing.

The conversation takes a touching turn when Nidia reveals a parenting moment that stopped her in her tracks – her daughter coming home to ask, "Do you think I'm pretty?" Her response evolved into a beautiful morning ritual of affirmations where her daughter now confidently declares: "I am beautiful, I am strong, I'm confident." This practical application of self-love demonstrates how parents can proactively build their children's emotional resilience from an early age.

Perhaps most compelling is the discussion of the "ripple effect" our attitudes and actions have on those around us. Nidia articulates how our emotional state affects everyone we encounter throughout our day, creating either positive or negative chains of interaction. This perspective reinforces our responsibility to cultivate positivity not just for ourselves but as a gift to our communities.

The episode concludes with a powerful reminder about self-love rooted in spiritual identity: "You are a child of God." When we truly internalize this truth, it transforms how we view ourselves and others, creating waves of love and acceptance that extend far beyond our immediate circle.

Ready to discover how standing in your truth can transform your perspective on life's challenges? Listen now and join the conversation about faith, mental health, and finding the courage to love yourself first.

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What happens when you stop trying to fix everyone and everything around you? In this deeply personal conversation, Cinda shares her transformative journey from an 18-year-old mother with limited horizons to becoming a respected community leader who's found her purpose in serving others.

"You can only do your part" – these six simple words changed everything for Cinda. After years of trying to control outcomes and fix situations beyond her influence, this realization freed her to focus solely on her responsibilities in each relationship, whether as a mother, wife, daughter, or community servant. The wisdom she shares about boundaries, self-acceptance, and personal growth resonates with anyone who's ever felt trapped by their own expectations.

One pivotal moment stands out in her story: receiving a food assistance box during a difficult time that was filled with expired and unfamiliar items. Rather than just feeling disappointed, this experience sparked her calling to ensure others wouldn't face the same situation. This led her down an unexpected career path from restaurant work to nonprofit leadership, all without the college degree she once thought was required.

What makes this episode especially powerful is Cinda's concept of "falling up" instead of down. Each setback became a stepping stone that ultimately elevated her to places she never imagined possible. Her authenticity shines through as she discusses learning that "no" is a complete sentence, embracing her true self (glitter and all), and finding the confidence to pursue goals independently.

Whether you're struggling with boundaries, feeling limited by your past, or simply trying to understand your purpose, Cinda's story offers both practical wisdom and inspiring hope. As she reminds us, "Be the social caterpillar or the big butterfly or a little ant on a hill, whichever one you want to be... just don't be afraid to be yourself."

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When faced with life's challenges, knowing which battles to fight can transform everything. In this deeply personal conversation, Esmeralda—a single mother of two teenagers and owner of HMS Fitness—shares how learning to pick her battles became her guiding life philosophy.

"You don't have to fight with everything you don't agree with," she explains, revealing how this mindset preserved her energy and sanity while navigating single parenthood, building a business, and healing from past relationship trauma. Her journey from a difficult marriage to creating a thriving life offers powerful insights for anyone feeling overwhelmed by constant conflict.

The conversation explores how our choices—from health decisions to relationship boundaries—create ripple effects throughout our lives. Esmeralda candidly discusses the importance of self-care, revealing that consistent exercise became her non-negotiable mental health practice. "If I don't work out consistently, I won't be able to sleep," she shares, challenging listeners to identify their own essential self-care practices.

Perhaps most powerful is the discussion about friendship and support systems. Esmeralda shares moving stories of friends who appeared exactly when needed during her darkest moments, demonstrating how the right people can help you weather any storm. "Your friends are either going to challenge you to grow, to do better and support you, or they're going to bring you down," she observes.

The episode concludes with a message of hope that resonates deeply: "Everybody is stronger than what they know." When life's battles seem overwhelming, remember that within you lies greater resilience than you realize. As Esmeralda reminds us, even depression spells out "I press on"—a powerful reminder that we can choose to move forward, no matter what battles we face.

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Reagan Saffel from Odessa College joins host Yanni for a heartfelt conversation about navigating life's disappointments and finding unexpected blessings along the way. What begins as a casual chat quickly evolves into a profound exploration of purpose, perspective, and personal growth.

When rejection hit Reagan hard—missing out on promotions and failing to get into physical therapy school—she found herself in a mental health struggle that many listeners will recognize. The turning point came unexpectedly during a supervisor meeting when her college president shared three simple words that would become her life motto: "Trust the process." This wisdom transformed her approach to setbacks, helping her recognize that closed doors often protect us from paths not meant for us.

The conversation delves into how mental health intertwines with our daily choices—from establishing consistent gym routines to carefully selecting who we allow into our inner circle. Reagan's secondary motto, "Progress, not perfection," reveals her journey away from crippling perfectionism toward a healthier perspective that embraces growth over flawlessness.

What makes this episode particularly powerful is Reagan's vulnerability about her struggles and the practical wisdom she offers. Whether discussing the impact of positive music on mindset, the importance of self-reflection, or the courage to share our stories, her insights feel both accessible and profound. The discussion about setting boundaries while maintaining a servant's heart will resonate deeply with anyone who finds themselves constantly pouring into others while neglecting their own wellbeing.

Reagan's commitment to "walking the walk" in all areas of life offers an inspiring example of authentic leadership and genuine relationships. By the end of this conversation, listeners will find themselves equipped with practical strategies for navigating disappointment, protecting their mental health, and embracing their unique purpose.

Don't miss the beautiful reminder that there's only one you—that's your superpower—and someone needs to hear your story. Subscribe and join the conversation about standing in your truth through life's most challenging moments.

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Andy Gutierrez drops wisdom bombs about personal accountability and growth in this transformative episode. A business owner, pastor, and ultra-marathon runner (yes, he's completed 100-mile races!), Andy shares his powerful life philosophy: "Don't complain about something you aren't willing to fix."

Throughout our conversation, Andy unpacks how this principle applies to every area of life. From fitness goals to marriage relationships, career advancement to mental health—countless people remain stuck in cycles of complaint without taking meaningful action. Andy vulnerably shares his own journey through procrastination and fear, revealing how he finally broke through self-imposed limitations by asking "Why not me?" instead of "I can't."

The discussion takes a particularly poignant turn when addressing marriage. Andy's refreshingly blunt advice about prioritizing your spouse ("forget them kids!") comes from hard-earned wisdom after 17 years of marriage. With divorce rates approaching 60%—with most happening after children leave home—his insights on maintaining connection through intentional dating are both practical and urgent.

Time management emerges as another crucial theme. Andy challenges the common "I don't have time" excuse, noting how we effortlessly make time for what we truly value. His practice of conducting monthly "time audits" offers a practical way to ensure our schedules align with our stated priorities.

Whether you're struggling with procrastination, feeling stuck in a relationship rut, or simply wanting more from life, Andy's straightforward advice will inspire you to stop making excuses and start taking action. Life is too short to wait—someone is always watching, and your time to start is now.

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The freedom that comes from realizing "You're not meant for everyone" can be utterly life-changing. Returning for Season 4 of Standing in Your Truth, newly-married host Yanni Thomas explores this powerful life motto that liberated her from the prison of people-pleasing.

Yanni vulnerably shares how she would shrink her naturally bubbly, kind, and admittedly loud personality around certain people, attempting to contort herself into whatever shape would gain their approval. This pattern led to feelings of depression and disconnection from her authentic self until a simple truth set her free: just as not everyone enjoys every food (Yanni's limited appreciation for sushi serves as her example), not everyone will appreciate your unique gifts and personality—and that's perfectly okay.

Drawing from Matthew 5:14-16, Yanni reminds listeners they are called to be "the light of the world" and "salt of the earth"—not hidden or bland to accommodate others' preferences. She challenges listeners to evaluate their social circles: "Are you surrounded by people you're having to shrink for?" Before relationships damage your mental, physical, or spiritual health, recognize when environments aren't supporting your authentic self and have the courage to step away.

The episode closes with powerful encouragement for anyone feeling alone or unseen. "You are loved, you are needed, you are wanted, and you are made to do amazing things. Don't let anyone tell you different." God created only one version of you, with unique contributions only you can offer the world. Stop hiding, embrace your authenticity, and let your light shine—those who don't appreciate it simply aren't your people.

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What if reconnecting with family could change your life? This episode is a warm journey through my recent experiences, from an uplifting return to school at Odessa Community College to the heartwarming joy of a family reunion. Hear about the unique benefits of the Presidential Positive OC Scholarship and how its emphasis on community service and positivity has been a game-changer for me. I also share a rough Monday turned bright thanks to an inspiring positivity-focused meeting, which serves as a reminder of the power of a supportive community. 

Additionally, I'm thrilled to recount the priceless moments of having my family visit from California. Meeting my nephew for the first time and showing my loved ones around Odessa has been a testament to my personal growth and improved mental health through counseling. This reunion was not just about reconnecting but also about recognizing the strides I've made in creating a happier, healthier life. Tune in for an episode filled with personal triumphs and the radiant positivity that's guiding my journey.

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What if your biggest challenges could lead to your greatest growth? In this powerful season premiere of "Standing in Your Truth," I share my personal journey of navigating life's tough moments and the profound growth that followed. Inspired by the TV show SWAT, we'll explore the importance of a supportive inner circle and how to distinguish between friends, associates, and acquaintances. You'll hear firsthand how setting boundaries has helped me refine my support network to create healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

Stepping away from a prestigious job isn't easy, but sometimes it's necessary for mental and physical well-being. Join me as I open up about the emotional journey of leaving a toxic environment and embracing self-discovery and spiritual awakening. We'll reflect on the battle with ego, the significance of self-worth, and the power of genuine prayer and worship. To all those facing mental health challenges, I offer a heartfelt prayer and a reminder of your inherent value and God's unwavering love. This episode is filled with candid reflections and uplifting messages aimed at supporting your journey of growth and self-acceptance.

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Standing In Your Truth Podcast with Yanni Thomas

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