The Choosing Change Podcast

This week, Miriah and Abby discuss the often-overlooked reality of vacation anxiety. Miriah and Abby explore why stepping away from our daily routines doesn't automatically mean our minds and bodies can switch into relaxation mode. From the pressure to have the "perfect" trip to the challenges of slowing down after months of stress, we discuss the ways our nervous systems can struggle to adjust when it's finally time to rest. Miriah and Abby offer practical, compassionate strategies for supporting your mental health before, during, and after travel. Whether you're planning a big getaway, a staycation, or simply hoping to find more rest in your life, this conversation offers permission to let go of unrealistic expectations and create space for genuine enjoyment.

This week, Miriah and Abby dive into a conversation about the college transition process. As the school year winds down and graduation approaches, the transition to college looms large for many families. This shift is not only significant for teens but also for parents and siblings, as everyone navigates the emotional and practical changes that come with this milestone. Tune in for key insights on maneuvering through this transformative time.

Many people underestimate the power of body language in today's technological world. However, it still plays a crucial role in the dating process and significantly impacts the way we form connections. In this episode Abby and Miriah explore how to decode body language signals, understand their implications, and put this knowledge to use in improving your dating interactions.

This week, Miriah sits down with our wonderful community partner Sandra Zell, Pennsylvania attorney and divorce mediator. Sandra shares her expertise on divorce mediation, a process where both parties come together to resolve their differences without the need for separate attorneys. Navigating divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences of a person's life, but mediation may help cut through the chaos, allowing for open communication even when emotions run high.

This week, Abby and Miriah tackle one of our most-requested topics: How to be a truly supportive partner. The ladies explore the importance of communication (and metacommunication!), discuss the role that self awareness plays in partner communication, and explain why it can sometimes feel hard to offer support. Whether you're in a new relationship, a long-term partnership, or are simply trying to grow into the best version of yourself, this conversation is for you.

This week, Miriah is joined by Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, Christine Hennigan, ChFC®, CDFA®. Miriah and Christine explore the many emotional, logistical, and financial challenes that often arise during the divorce process. Christine unpacks common financial mistakes that occur during the divorce process and shares key steps to take when you realize that a divorce may be likely. For listeners hoping to approach the divorce process with financial confidence and clarity, this episode is a must-listen!

This week, Miriah sits down for an enlightening conversation with Molly McGraw, Clinical Research Nurse Practitioner and lead yoga instructor at LOVE Infrared Fitness Studio. Miriah and Molly delve into Molly's unique orientation, which blends Western science and ancient yoga philosophy, and explore how this background impacts Molly's approach to fitness. Miriah and Molly also discuss the concept of cycle syncing, emphasize how the societal pressures around fitness can often divert us from what feels right, and identify the importance of embracing moments of rest when needed. This wide-ranging conversation is a must-listen for anyone with an interest in mindful movement.

This week, Miriah and Abby sit down for a chat about a topic that frequently comes up in the therapy room — how to know when it is time to end an adult friendship. The ladies discuss physical and emotional cues that indicate a friendship might be unhealthy, explore the importance of shared values in sustaining friendships over time, and role play conversations around boundary violations in relationships. This episode emphasizes that recognizing the signs of a draining friendship, understanding your emotional responses, and communicating openly can help you navigate this difficult decision.

Miriah is joined by psychiatric nurse practitioner Brianna Dawson, PMHNP-BC, who specializes in maternal mental health. In this in-depth conversation, Brianna sheds light on the often-overlooked complexities of maternal mental wellness, explains the concept of the "fourth trimester," and elaborates on how biological, psychological, and social factors interplay in shaping maternal mental health.

This week, Miriah sits down with Ellen McAliney, PT, DPT, the owner of Essence Physical Therapy, to explore the role that your pelvic floor plays in overall wellbeing. Miriah and Ellen explore the function and importance of the pelvic floor before diving deep into an exploration of the connection between trauma and pelvic floor health. Ellen also identifies signs of potential pelvic floor dysfunction and discusses why pelvic floor health may often go overlooked in larger conversations about wellness. Enjoy!