Stronger than you think

Stronger than you think

By Sarah VerhoefEducationSelf-Improvement
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Stronger than you think episodes

  • #46 Stronger than you think with Karen Taylor

    Grief changes you—but it can also reveal you.

    In this episode of Stronger Than You Think, Sarah is joined by transformation coach Karen Taylor for a deeply human conversation about loss, identity, and what it really looks like to reinvent yourself from the inside out.

    After Karen’s sister died in a tragic house fire, her world cracked open. What followed was a two-year journey of grief, healing, spirituality, and self-discovery—one that ultimately led Karen to a new purpose: helping women remember they are already enough.

    Together, Sarah and Karen talk about:

    • The “secondary losses” that show up after tragedy

      • Loving out loud and leaving no room for regret

        • Identity shifts (corporate leader → entrepreneur) and impostor syndrome

          • Why grief lives in the body—and what unprocessed grief can do

            • The difference between balance and harmony

              • Boundaries that say: “I love you… and that’s not mine to carry.”

                If you’re carrying grief, rebuilding your life, or learning how to love yourself again, this episode will meet you gently—and remind you how strong you already are.

                0:00 – Welcome & Meet Karen Taylor02:15 – Corporate Life, “Checking the Boxes,” and Identity05:20 – The Tragedy: Losing Karen’s Sister in a House Fire09:40 – Secondary Losses: Weddings, Babies, Milestones Without Her12:40 – “If You Help Me Understand… I’ll Help Others” (The Turning Point)15:10 – Reinvention From the Inside Out: Finding the True Self17:30 – What Is Atmology? (The Study of One’s True Self)20:10 – Grief Education, Coaching, and Why ‘Enough’ Matters23:05 – Work Ethic, Regret, and Rebuilding Priorities26:10 – Balance vs Harmony (and Why “Balance” Can Feel Like Fake News)30:00 – The Process: Past → Future → Present (and Why It Works)33:30 – Love Out Loud + Project Love Letter37:10 – Grief in the Body: Breath, Lungs, and Unprocessed Grief40:10 – Boundaries and Strength: “That’s Not Mine to Carry”42:30 – Stronger Than You Think: Karen’s Biggest Growth Moment44:30 – Closing: Walking With You + Final Encouragement

                💛 Grief, Loss & Love
                • “Grief cracked me open—and I got to know myself for the first time.”

                  • “I want people to love out loud so there’s no room for regret.”

                    • “You don’t get over grief—you learn how to live with it.”

                      ✨ Identity & Reinvention
                      • “The journey wasn’t just healing from loss—it was remembering who I am.”

                        • “I realized I didn’t understand the words I was saying… so I went deep.”

                          • “We are the creators of our reality.”

                            🧠 The Work (Practical Transformation)
                            • “You have to go backwards to go forwards.”

                              • “The meaning we attached as a child isn’t the meaning we would choose today.”

                                • “The present is the gift—and it’s where the miracles happen.”

                                  🔥 Boundaries & Strength
                                  • “I love you… but that’s not mine to carry.”

                                    • “Boundaries should keep people in your life—not keep everyone out.”

                                      🌿 Balance / Harmony
                                      • “Maybe it’s not balance. Maybe it’s harmony.”

                                        • “Work-life balance can feel like an unattainable standard we use to measure failure.”

                                          Connect with Karen Taylor https://www.facebook.com/karen.r.taylor.14

                                          48 min
                                        • Stronger than you Think with Nimesh Radia

                                          Welcome to Stronger Than You Think. Today’s conversation is one of those soul-level exchanges that reminds you just how guided you truly are. I’m joined by my friend Nimesh Radia, and from the very first moment, this conversation unfolds as a reminder to trust your intuition, release expectations, and be open to magic — even when you don’t know what it’s going to look like.

                                          What if trusting your intuition really is the key to everything?

                                          In this episode of Stronger Than You Think, Sarah is joined by spiritual mentor, Akashic Record reader, and podcast host Nimesh Radia for a deeply intuitive, heart-centered conversation about guidance, energy, and remembering who you truly are.

                                          Nimesh shares how the Akashic Records changed his life, how intuition speaks quietly (and lovingly), and why being open to magic without expectations allows life to unfold in powerful ways. Together, they explore spiritual gifts, trusting inner nudges, releasing conditioning, and creating space to receive support — without guilt.This episode is an invitation to stop searching outside yourself and begin trusting what you already know.If you’ve ever felt guided but unsure… intuitive but hesitant… or called to something deeper without knowing why — this conversation is for you.You are guided. You are supported. And you are stronger than you think.

                                          Episode Timestamps

                                          00:00 – Welcome & Gratitude

                                          01:10 – Meeting Nimesh & Energy Connection

                                          02:45 – What Are the Akashic Records?

                                          04:30 – Receiving What You Need vs What You Want

                                          07:30 – Loss, Soul Contracts & Spiritual Guidance

                                          10:00 – Finding Your Voice & Purpose

                                          12:00 – Trusting Intuition Without Overthinking

                                          16:00 – Ego vs Intuition

                                          18:45 – Building a Relationship with Your Guides

                                          21:30 – Expectations, Magic & Letting Go

                                          24:30 – Asking for Help as Strength

                                          26:00 – Being Seen, Felt & Energy Alignment

                                          29:00 – Living Open to Magic

                                          30:00 – Protecting Your Energy in Public Spaces

                                          31:45 – Spreading Love Without Expectations

                                          33:30 – Being Seen, Felt & Guided in Real Time

                                          35:15 – Intention vs Words: Why Energy Speaks First

                                          37:00 – Listening From the Soul, Not the Ego

                                          39:10 – Creating Safe Space for Others to Be Heard

                                          41:30 – Trusting Why You’re Called to Certain Places

                                          43:45 – When the Universe Confirms Alignment

                                          45:30 – Letting Go, Receiving Support & Closing Reflections

                                          Powerful Quotes from the Episode

                                          ✨ Intuition & Guidance

                                          “Intuition is quiet, gentle, and loving — it doesn’t shout like the ego.”

                                          “Trust your intuition. The more you trust it, the stronger it becomes.”

                                          “You receive what you need, not always what you want.”

                                          🌿 Being Open to Magic

                                          “If you’re open to magic, the people will show up.”

                                          “Let go of expectations — that’s where the magic lives.”

                                          “What if it really is that easy?”

                                          💛 Purpose & Presence

                                          “Why limit yourself to one purpose?”

                                          “My intention is always to leave people better than I find them.”

                                          “Your intention is felt before your words are heard.”

                                          Connect with Nimesh

                                          📸 Instagram: @nimesh_radia

                                          🌐 Website: nimesh-radia.com

                                          📩 Email: [email protected]

                                          1 hr 2 min
                                        • #44 Stronger than you Think with Michael Anthony

                                          In this powerful and deeply honest episode, I sit down with author, coach, entrepreneur, and digital nomad Michael Anthony, whose new book Life Is Dope is sparking a movement around resilience, hope, and the power of choice.

                                          Michael’s story is raw, courageous, and unbelievably inspiring. From surviving childhood abuse, abandonment, and violence — including being shot and stabbed — to rebuilding his life one micro-decision at a time, his journey is a living reminder that success comes to those who persevere long enough to take it.

                                          Together, we explore:

                                          ✨ What it really means to persevere when life feels impossible✨ Why life is a crockpot — not a microwave✨ The moment he almost gave up, and the quiet voice that changed everything✨ How emotional honesty and forgiveness can become your greatest superpowers✨ Why success values herself and must be chosen, not waited for✨ The difference between triggers and activation✨ The gift within the hardships you never asked for

                                          Michael and I speak the same language — truth, faith, identity, resilience, and the belief that we are ALL capable of rewriting our story.

                                          If you’re in a hard season, rebuilding, or simply need a reminder that you’re stronger than you think… this conversation will move you to your core. 

                                          📚 Books Mentioned

                                          Life Is Dope — Michael Anthonyhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F88F9NJL

                                          Forget the Label — Sarah Verhoefhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G18JCY2Z 

                                          Remember: You’re stronger than you think… and I’m walking with you. 

                                          43 min
                                        • #43 Stronger than you Think with Kristin Gutierrez

                                          Have you ever felt stuck, afraid to make a move because you might fail? In this energizing conversation with Kristen Gutierrez, we explore the power of saying "yes" and figuring it out along the way. From corporate success to unexpected job loss, Kristen's journey is a testament to the magic that happens when we embrace uncertainty and take action.

                                          Embracing Imperfect Action

                                          • Discover how Kristen turned a devastating job loss into an opportunity for growth
                                          • Learn why done is better than perfect and how it can propel your business forward
                                          • Explore the concept of seeking comfort in action rather than inaction
                                          • The Power of Saying No

                                            • Understand why focusing on one thing can lead to explosive growth
                                            • Learn how to let go of distractions and prioritize what truly matters
                                            • Discover the freedom that comes from setting clear boundaries
                                            • Celebrating Failures and Wrong Decisions

                                              • Explore why dead ends and "wrong" choices can be valuable learning experiences
                                              • Learn how to measure your progress by looking back, not just forward
                                              • Discover the importance of celebrating every step of your journey, even the missteps
                                              • Shifting Your Mindset for Success

                                                • Understand the impact of vulnerability and authenticity in business and life
                                                • Learn how to overcome imposter syndrome and step into your true potential
                                                • Discover strategies for scaling your business without burning out
                                                • This conversation is a wake-up call for anyone feeling stuck or afraid to take the next step. Kristen's raw honesty and practical wisdom offer a roadmap to breaking free from fear, embracing imperfect action, and creating the life and business you've always dreamed of.

                                                  Are you ready to say "yes" to your dreams and figure out the details along the way? Join us for this inspiring discussion and discover how embracing uncertainty can lead to extraordinary success.

                                                  51 min
                                                • #42 Stronger than you Think with Tyler Butterworth

                                                  Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a social media sensation in the military? In this engaging conversation with Tyler Butterworth, we explore the unexpected journey of an Army National Guard recruiter who became a viral content creator.

                                                  Tyler shares his fascinating story of how he stumbled into the world of social media while trying to connect with potential recruits. From his early days of making "serious" recruiting videos to finding his true voice through humor and authenticity, Tyler's path to online stardom is both inspiring and entertaining.

                                                  The Accidental Influencer

                                                  • Discover how Tyler's recruiting tactics evolved from cold calls to Instagram DMs
                                                  • Learn about the viral video that launched his content creation career
                                                  • Explore the balance between military professionalism and personal authenticity
                                                  • Family, Fun, and Millions of Followers

                                                    • Hear how Tyler's children became an integral part of his content
                                                    • Understand the challenges of maintaining privacy while sharing your life online
                                                    • Learn about Tyler's approach to dealing with unexpected fame and recognition
                                                    • The Man Behind the Mustache

                                                      • Uncover the surprising origin story of Tyler's iconic facial hair
                                                      • Explore the pressure of maintaining a personal "brand" in the public eye
                                                      • Discover how Tyler navigates fan expectations in real-life encounters
                                                      • A New Chapter: From Full-Time Soldier to Content Creator

                                                        • Be the first to hear about Tyler's decision to step back from his full-time military role
                                                        • Understand the motivations behind his career shift and future plans
                                                        • Learn how he balances his passion for content creation with his commitment to service
                                                        • This conversation offers a unique glimpse into the life of someone who has found unexpected success by simply being himself. Tyler's story is a testament to the power of authenticity, adaptability, and finding humor in everyday situations.

                                                          Are you ready to discover how a simple desire to connect with recruits led to a social media empire? Join us for this engaging discussion and learn how embracing your true self can lead to extraordinary opportunities.

                                                          30 min
                                                        • #41 Stronger than you think with Kimberly O'Neal

                                                          Have you ever felt like your skills and talents were gathering dust while you focused on raising your children? In this inspiring conversation with Kimberly O'Neal, founder and CEO of Modern Day Stay at Home Mom, we explore how stay-at-home moms can reclaim their professional identities without sacrificing their role as primary caregivers.

                                                          Kimberly shares her personal journey from struggling with postpartum depression to creating a platform that connects talented stay-at-home moms with businesses seeking flexible, skilled workers. We discuss the challenges of balancing motherhood with career aspirations and how her innovative approach is changing the game for both moms and employers.

                                                          Bridging the Resume Gap

                                                          • Discover how Kimberly is working to eliminate discrimination against stay-at-home moms in the job market
                                                          • Learn about her efforts to pass legislation recognizing the valuable skills developed during time at home
                                                          • Explore the untapped potential of the stay-at-home mom workforce
                                                          • The Power of Purpose Beyond Parenting

                                                            • Understand how maintaining professional skills can boost mental health and self-esteem
                                                            • Hear real-life success stories of moms finding fulfillment through flexible work opportunities
                                                            • Learn how children benefit from seeing their mothers pursue their passions
                                                            • A Win-Win for Businesses and Moms

                                                              • Explore the diverse range of talents available in the stay-at-home mom community
                                                              • Understand how businesses can benefit from tapping into this skilled and motivated workforce
                                                              • Learn about the free resources and support available for moms looking to re-enter the workforce
                                                              • This conversation is a wake-up call for anyone who has ever felt that staying home with children means putting their professional dreams on hold. Kimberly's passion and innovative approach offer a roadmap for moms to reclaim their identities, contribute their skills to the workforce, and create a more balanced, fulfilling life.

                                                                Are you ready to reimagine what's possible for stay-at-home moms in the modern workforce? Join us for this empowering discussion and discover how you can be part of this exciting movement.

                                                                50 min
                                                              • #40 Stronger than you Think with Damilare Adeyeri Part 2

                                                                Have you ever set a goal that seemed impossible, only to achieve it in ways you never imagined? In this inspiring conversation with Damilare Adeyeri, we explore the power of intention, persistence, and seizing unexpected opportunities.

                                                                Damilare shares his remarkable journey from writing down a dream to lead 13,000 people on stage to becoming a key player in Tony Robbins' events. His story is a testament to the magic that happens when you combine clear intentions with consistent action.

                                                                The Power of Persistent Intention

                                                                • • Discover how Damilare kept his dream alive for three years
                                                                • • Learn the difference between wishing and true intention
                                                                • • Explore practical ways to take action towards your goals, even when progress seems slow
                                                                • Recognizing Opportunities in Unexpected Places

                                                                  • • Understand why sometimes we need to look elsewhere to find what's right in front of us
                                                                  • • Learn how Damilare's journey as a coach led him to his ultimate goal
                                                                  • • Explore the importance of staying open to new possibilities
                                                                  • Overcoming Obstacles and Maintaining Focus

                                                                    • • Discover strategies for dealing with frustration and setbacks
                                                                    • • Learn how to shift your perspective on challenges
                                                                    • • Explore the power of accepting reality while still pursuing your dreams
                                                                    • Creating a New Identity for Each Life Phase

                                                                      • • Understand why we can't go back to who we were before major life changes
                                                                      • • Learn how to embrace your evolving identity
                                                                      • • Explore ways to set new goals that align with your current life stage
                                                                      • This conversation is a powerful reminder that our biggest dreams are often closer than we think. Damilare's journey shows us that with persistence, awareness, and a willingness to adapt, we can achieve goals that once seemed out of reach.

                                                                        Are you ready to reconnect with your deepest aspirations and take bold action towards them? Join us for this energizing discussion and discover how you can turn your own intentions into reality. 

                                                                        28 min
                                                                      • #39 Stronger than you Think with Shawna Martinez

                                                                        Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the day-to-day operations of your business, longing for more time to focus on growth and innovation? In this inspiring conversation with Shawna Lee Martinez, co-founder of MTZ Solutions and founder of Ultra Exit, we explore the power of organization, delegation, and strategic planning in creating a thriving, sustainable business.

                                                                        Shawna shares her journey from behind-the-scenes operator to confident business leader, offering valuable insights for entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. From her early days balancing family life with entrepreneurial ambitions to building a remote team of 20+ experts, Shawna's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability.

                                                                        The Art of Business Organization

                                                                        • Discover how to identify tasks you dislike and create step-by-step guides for delegation
                                                                        • Learn the power of screen recording to document your processes
                                                                        • Explore strategies for optimizing your business operations and freeing up your time
                                                                        • From Overwhelm to Operational Independence

                                                                          • Understand the concept of "operational independence" and how it can transform your business
                                                                          • Learn how to create systems and automations that support your life, not run it
                                                                          • Discover the importance of documenting processes for smooth transitions and team training
                                                                          • Preparing for Your Business's Future

                                                                            • Explore Shawna's insights on preparing businesses for growth, rest, or sale
                                                                            • Learn about the Ultra Exit framework for e-commerce businesses
                                                                            • Understand the value of creating a knowledge base for your company's operations
                                                                            • Embracing Personal Growth as an Entrepreneur

                                                                              • Hear how Shawna overcame her fear of public speaking to expand her business
                                                                              • Learn the importance of pushing past comfort zones for business growth
                                                                              • Discover how to balance work and family life while pursuing entrepreneurial dreams
                                                                              • This conversation is a wake-up call for entrepreneurs feeling stuck in the daily grind of their business. Shawna's practical wisdom and inspiring journey offer a roadmap to creating a more organized, efficient, and fulfilling entrepreneurial life.

                                                                                Are you ready to take control of your business operations and create the freedom you've been dreaming of? Join us for this enlightening discussion and discover how you can become the CEO your business needs – and deserves.

                                                                                54 min
                                                                              • #38 Stronger than you think with Damilare Adeyeri Walk and Talk Part 1

                                                                                Have you ever felt stuck on your path to success, unsure how to navigate the obstacles in your way? In this inspiring conversation with Damilare Adeyeri, we explore the power of perspective and how it can transform our approach to life's challenges.

                                                                                Join us as we take a scenic walk through nature, using the trail as a metaphor for our journey through life. We discuss how our focus shapes our experiences and why the obstacles we encounter can become our greatest teachers.

                                                                                The Power of Perspective

                                                                                • Discover why your emotional state is always within your control
                                                                                • Learn how to reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth
                                                                                • Explore the impact of positive interpretation on your daily experiences
                                                                                • Navigating Life's Trail

                                                                                  • Understand why focusing on where you want to go is crucial for success
                                                                                  • Learn how to use obstacles as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks
                                                                                  • Explore the importance of adaptability when faced with unexpected turns
                                                                                  • Embracing the Journey

                                                                                    • Discover why "starting over" is a myth and how to leverage past experiences
                                                                                    • Learn to recognize and appreciate the progress you've made
                                                                                    • Explore techniques for lifting yourself and others up along the way
                                                                                    • This conversation is a powerful reminder that our attitude and focus determine our happiness far more than our circumstances. Damilare's insights offer a fresh perspective on how we can approach life's challenges with resilience and optimism.

                                                                                      Are you ready to shift your mindset and see obstacles as opportunities? Join us for this uplifting discussion and take the first step towards a more empowered way of living.

                                                                                      22 min
                                                                                    • Stronger than you think with Diane Arkenstone

                                                                                      Have you ever wondered about the healing power of music? In this inspiring conversation with Diane Arkenstone, we explore the incredible journey of a heart patient turned composer who found strength and healing through the vibrations of sound.

                                                                                      Diane shares her remarkable story of overcoming childhood heart surgeries and transforming her physical limitations into a beautiful musical career. From her early dreams of being an athlete to discovering the soothing power of guitar vibrations against her body, Diane's path to becoming a renowned composer of healing music is both touching and inspiring.

                                                                                      The Heart-Music Connection

                                                                                      • Discover how Diane's childhood heart condition led her to music
                                                                                      • Learn about the power of visualization in healing
                                                                                      • Explore the unique connection between musical vibrations and physical well-being
                                                                                      • A Symphony of Healing

                                                                                        • Understand how Diane's music is used in hospitals and therapy settings
                                                                                        • Learn about the impact of gentle melodies on stress reduction and relaxation
                                                                                        • Explore the concept of music as a catalyst for healing in various environments
                                                                                        • The Art of Composition

                                                                                          • Discover Diane's unique approach to creating healing music
                                                                                          • Learn about her use of unconventional guitar tunings
                                                                                          • Explore the process of channeling creative energy into musical expression
                                                                                          • From Rock Star Dreams to Healing Harmonies

                                                                                            • Hear about Diane's journey from aspiring rock musician to healing music composer
                                                                                            • Learn about her experiences in the music industry, including her time at Gibson Guitars
                                                                                            • Discover how she found her true calling in creating gentle, restorative melodies
                                                                                            • This conversation is a beautiful reminder of the profound impact music can have on our lives and our health. Diane's story of resilience, creativity, and healing will inspire you to listen more deeply to the music around you and within you.

                                                                                              Are you ready to experience the transformative power of healing harmonies? Join us for this uplifting discussion and discover how music can become a powerful ally in your journey to wellness and inner peace.

                                                                                              49 min

                                                                                            About Stronger than you think

                                                                                            From the publisher's feed

                                                                                            Welcome to the Stronger Than You Think Podcast, where we uncover the incredible stories of individuals who have surpassed their limits and discovered their true strength. Hosted by Sarah Verhoef, Master Practitioner at Sage Energy Healing, this podcast is dedicated to celebrating resilience, personal growth, and empowerment.