The Gratitude Podcast

Celeste opens up about the hidden mental load of motherhood and the rise of the “mommy wine culture” that, for many, became a coping shortcut. She recounts how a panic attack and the looming threat of postpartum depression jolted her from a cycle of daily drinks to a sober lifestyle.

From that fear‑fueled wake‑up call, Celeste discovered a richer, more sustainable source of calm: gratitude, self‑care, and community. She walks us through the pivotal moment when she realized sobriety wasn’t a punishment but a gift, how setting boundaries re‑engineered her relationship with herself and her family, and why listening to our bodies is the first step toward true self‑awareness.

We also get a sneak peek at her upcoming book, It’s Not About the Wine: The Loaded Truth Behind Mommy Wine Culture, a deep dive into why so many parents turn to alcohol and—more importantly—how to break free.

Whether you’re a parent feeling the weight of endless responsibilities, someone curious about a sober life, or simply looking for a fresh perspective on gratitude, this conversation offers actionable insights, heartfelt honesty, and a reminder that the most profound change often begins with a single, courageous decision.

Stay tuned, grab a glass of water (or tea), and get ready to be inspired.

Resources:

Celeste's website: https://www.celesteyvonne.com/

Go to AquaTru.com now for 20% off using promo code GRATITUDE.

Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

Timestamps:

• 01:48 – Becoming a New Mom – The fear, uncertainty, and lack of parenting experience at birth.
• 02:26 – Alcohol Shifts with Motherhood – From social drinking to using wine as a coping tool for baby’s colic, reflux, and stress.
• 03:35 – Imposter Syndrome & “Mommy Needs Wine” Meme – Pressure to be the “good mom” and the rise of the wine‑culture joke.
• 04:06 – Vicious Cycle of Drinking – Drinking to feel confident, then waking up worse; early signs of postpartum depression/anxiety.
• 05:17 – Realization & Turning Point – Counting down to the next drink, feeling broken, deciding to quit.
• 06:18 – Life After Sobriety – Growing confidence, deeper connection with children, hope for other mothers.
• 07:58 – Gratitude & Feeling Emotions – How gratitude works alongside feeling and processing other emotions.
• 08:49 – Fear‑Driven Motivation – Panic attack that scared Celeste straight; fear as the spark for Day 1 sobriety.
• 10:03 – Foundations of Sustainable Sobriety – Gratitude, self‑care, education about alcohol, and community support.
• 11:31 – Surface vs. Deep Gratitude – Why addiction blocks genuine, embodied gratitude.
• 13:05 – First Deep‑Gratitude Moment – Seeing a peer’s sober‑week shout‑out, realizing sobriety could be a prideful achievement.
• 15:30 – Avalanche of Positive Changes – Improved relationships, health, anxiety reduction, stronger bond with kids.
• 16:50 – Mind‑Shift from “Have to” to “Get to” – Reframing sobriety as liberation, not deprivation.
• 19:19 – Redefining Self‑Care – Moving beyond bubble baths to boundaries, quiet time, runs, therapy, and community.
• 21:38 – Setting Boundaries as Self‑Care – Examples with partner, social events, and children; why it’s transformative.
• 24:32 – Self‑Awareness & Evolving Needs – How self‑care changes across life stages; importance of knowing oneself.
• 26:59 – “Put Your Oxygen Mask First” – Caring for self to be a better parent; breaking the martyr‑parent myth.
• 28:17 – Relearning Body Signals – Listening to physical cues after years of drinking; rebuilding trust with the body.
• 31:35 – Habitual Thinking & Its Impact – How habits blind us to our needs; the need to consciously prioritize self.
• 34:17 – From Self‑less to Self‑Aware Parenting – Teaching children self‑awareness by modeling it oneself.
• 38:45 – Leading by Example – How personal sober coping inspires others; ripple effect on family and community.
• 40:45 – Emotional Tone in the Home – Contrast between alcohol‑induced “roller‑coaster” mood and steady, grateful presence.
• 43:12 – New Survival Strategies – Replacing alcohol with healthier ways to cope; benefits for mom and kids.
• 44:51 – Book Promotion – It’s Not About the Wine – exploring mommy‑wine culture and pathways out of the trap.
• 45:57 – Core Book Message – Sobriety as liberation, not deprivation; practical tools for parents.
• 47:56 – Current Gratitudes – Celeste’s gratitude for sobriety, family, health, self‑care, and movement.
• 49:08 – Closing Call‑to‑Action – Share the episode with someone who might need it; keep seeking gratitude.

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In today’s episode we sit down with Nellie Harden, a marine‑science‑turned‑family‑wellness expert, mother of four teen daughters, and the founder of NellieHardin.com. Neli brings a unique blend of biology, psychology, faith, and culture to the table, and she’s on a mission to help families rebuild the foundation of worth, esteem, and confidence that many of us never received as children.

Together we unpack:

• The five core human needs—to be seen, heard, loved, to belong, and to have purpose—and how unmet needs surface as “outside‑in” behaviors (slam doors, disrespect, isolation, lying).
• Why the world pushes us toward outside‑in validation (likes, comments, social approval) and how parents can deliberately flip the script to live “inside‑out.”
• The four roadblocks that keep us from meeting those needs: perfectionism, comparison, identity‑shifting, and people‑pleasing.
• Practical tools—the power of reflective questioning, the HALT acronym (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired), and the transformative habit of journaling (including shared parent‑child journals).
• Real‑life parenting moments: from a teen’s “rude” text to a drummer’s “rage‑drumming,” and how turning “you‑are” statements into “I‑am” reflections can reshape identity.
• Finding gratitude in the crevices—how even the darkest situations hold hidden joy, illustrated by a war‑torn flower that blooms against cement.

If you’re a parent, caregiver, or anyone craving deeper connection and a gratitude‑first mindset, this conversation delivers actionable insights and heartfelt stories that will inspire you to ask the right questions, pause before you react, and create a home where every family member feels truly seen and heard.

Grab a notebook, press play, and let’s dive into the inside‑out journey toward more grateful, purpose‑driven living.

Resources:

Neli's website: NellieHardin.com

Go to AquaTru.com now for 20% off using promo code GRATITUDE.

Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

Timestamps:

• 03:10 – Parenting the teenage years: four daughters, developmental challenges
• 04:32 – The “worth” chase: why many young people (especially women) hunt for validation
• 05:15 – Healing while parenting: building a solid self‑esteem foundation as an adult
• 06:26 – Turning personal growth into a mission to help other families
• 07:16 – Gratitude paradox: families are both our biggest blessing and challenge
• 08:19 – Real‑life example: handling a daughter’s disrespect with a reflective text
• 09:38 – “Four corners of a square”: each child needs unique guidance beyond hearing
• 10:41 – Home behavior as rehearsal for world‑wide interactions
• 11:19 – Drumming out frustration: distinguishing personal stress from interpersonal conflict
• 12:26 – Gratitude practice: ask “What was great today?” to shift perspective
• 13:38 – Power struggles & the five universal human needs (seen, heard, loved, belong, purpose)
• 14:18 – Deep dive into the five needs that drive behavior
• 15:14 – Peeling back behaviors to identify which need is unfulfilled
• 15:36 – Society’s grooming toward “outside‑in” living (likes, comments, attention)
• 16:16 – Feeling invisible, silenced, unloved – common pain points for younger generations
• 16:50 – “Belong to many, belong to none”: the paradox of over‑involvement
• 17:47 – Finding purpose & joy that wake you up each morning
• 18:25 – Awareness as the first step: recognize which need is missing
• 19:58 – Roadblock #1 – Perfectionism
• 20:43 – Roadblock #2 – Comparison
• 21:48 – Roadblock #3 – Identity shifting (the “chameleon” effect)
• 22:09 – Roadblock #4 – People‑pleasing
• 22:44 – Journaling: a powerful tool to unload thoughts and gain clarity
• 23:14 – Example: writing down negative self‑talk to test its truth
• 24:22 – Shared journaling between parents & kids to foster mutual understanding
• 25:46 – Pause before courageous conversations: importance of calm
• 26:31 – Brain science: stress shuts down the frontal lobe, leaving us in fight‑or‑flight
• 27:29 – Overcoming the “journal = homework” mindset
• 28:50 – Create distinct journaling rituals (time, senses, environment)
• 30:28 – Use prompt‑filled journals to guide entry, especially with children
• 31:04 – Power of questions: they steer direction and emotional state
• 32:01 – Starter question: “Am I operating at my best right now? Why? What can I do?”
• 34:44 – HALT acronym: Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired – not the time for big decisions
• 35:37 – Scheduling tough talks: choose moments when energy and focus are high
• 36:55 – Gratitude becomes harder when in HALT states; self‑care first
• 37:46 – How to connect with Nili: visit NellieHardin.com for resources

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Welcome back, Gratitude Seekers! In today’s powerful episode we sit down with Aaron Hale—a former U.S. Army EOD technician who survived a roadside‑bomb blast that stole his sight, and a later bout of meningitis that took his hearing. Instead of letting those losses define him, Aaron turned adversity into a launchpad for an extraordinary life.

From scaling 19,000‑foot peaks in the Peruvian Andes (guided by the first blind Everest climber) to crushing ultra‑marathons like the Badwater 135, Aaron proves that “seeing” the world can happen through the feet, the heart, and an unshakable sense of purpose. He channels that drive into a thriving online fudge brand—Extraordinary Delights (EODfudge.com)—and a growing portfolio of real‑estate ventures, all while living with his wife and three boys.

Aaron shares the daily gratitude practices that keep him grounded, the humor and imagination that help him rewrite his “what‑if” story, and the community of friends—like fellow blind adventurers Eric Weinmayer and Lonnie Bedwell—who keep his spirit alive. Whether you’re battling your own “rock bottom” or simply looking for a boost of inspiration, this conversation offers a roadmap for turning limitation into limitless possibility.

Stay tuned, grab a cup of coffee (or a spoonful of fudge), and get ready to be reminded that gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a catalyst for adventure, creativity, and lasting impact. 🎧✨

Resources:

EOD Fudge: https://eodfudge.com/

Point of Impact podcast: https://pointofimpactpod.com/

Go to AquaTru.com now for 20% off using promo code GRATITUDE.

Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

Timestamps:

• 00:21 – 01:05 | Guest Intro: Aaron Hale’s background – former Army EOD tech, lost vision & hearing, now ultra‑marathoner, fudge entrepreneur, real‑estate investor.
• 01:05 – 02:57 | Communication Challenges: How blindness & deafness make everyday conversation a deliberate, effort‑heavy act.
• 02:57 – 04:08 | Sensory Loss Details: 95 % visual intake, cochlear implant limitations, and the struggle with text‑to‑speech tools.
• 04:08 – 05:39 | Six‑Month Dark‑Silence Gap: Hospital stay, total sensory blackout, and the loneliness of the COVID lockdown period.
• 05:39 – 06:49 | Partner’s Support: Wife’s hand‑written letters, the missed opportunity to learn Braille earlier.
• 06:49 – 08:00 | Finding Humor & Perspective: Turning internal “why me?” doubts into external, self‑deprecating humor and focusing on what can be done.
• 08:00 – 09:32 | Shift from “I can’t” to “What can I do?” – Applying military triage mindset to daily life and responsibilities.
• 09:32 – 11:48 | Mission‑Oriented Mindset: Stories from bomb‑tech deployments, tool triage, and the “no excuse for mission failure” principle.
• 11:48 – 13:06 | Gratitude for Veteran Community: Drawing strength from fellow wounded vets and using their struggles as motivation.
• 13:06 – 15:12 | Birth of the Fudge Business: Thanksgiving cooking as therapeutic “culinary therapy” that sparked Extraordinary Delights (EODfudge.com).
• 15:12 – 17:58 | Scaling the Business: From home kitchen experiments to a commercial kitchen, turning passion into a thriving venture.
• 17:58 – 22:09 | Adventure & Physical Activity: Climbing, kayaking, marathons, and the “seeing the world through my feet” concept.
• 22:09 – 24:27 | Adventure Logistics: Guides, trekking poles, rope teams, and learning from blind mountaineer Eric Weinmayer.
• 24:27 – 26:59 | High‑Altitude & Endurance Feats: Summit of 19,000‑ft Peruvian Andes, Badwater 135 ultra‑marathon, and the power of team support.
• 26:59 – 29:45 | Gratitude for Relationships: Stories about friends like Lonnie Bedwell, the importance of self‑lessness, and community bonds.
• 29:45 – 31:14 | Creative Imagination: Using imagination to rewrite narratives, solve problems, and fuel gratitude.
• 31:14 – 34:24 | Thanksgiving as Favorite Holiday: Tradition, gluttony, and gathering loved ones around the table.
• 34:24 – 36:35 | Holiday Cooking on Deployment: Boosting morale for troops with massive bread spreads, linking food to home and gratitude.
• 36:35 – 38:30 | Personal Gratitude List: Family, veteran brothers/sisters, community, health, mind, and real‑estate ventures.
• 38:30 – 42:04 | Daily Gratitude Practice: Morning journal of three things grateful for; imagination’s role in sustaining the habit.
• 42:04 – 44:44 | Turning Gratitude into Action: From journal to daily goals, social media sharing, and using the story as a blueprint for others.
• 44:44 – 46:48 | How to Connect: Podcast (“Point of Impact with Aaron Hale”), website (pointofimpactpod.com), and fudge shop (eodfudge.com).
• 46:48 – End (47:40) | Closing Thank‑You & Call‑to‑Action: Share the episode, spread gratitude, and keep seeking it.

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Welcome back, Gratitude Seekers! In today’s special episode we sit down with two brilliant, sibling healers from the UK—Kate Oliver, a chartered psychologist with a three‑decade career rooted in Oxford‑trained research, and her brother Toby Oliver, a trauma‑informed yoga therapist, meditation guide, and grief counsellor. Together they’ve co‑authored Rise & Shine, a practical guide that shows how a few mindful minutes each morning can transform anxiety, burnout, and everyday overwhelm into clarity, calm—and a deeper sense of gratitude.

We’ll dive deep into the core of their work:

• Why mornings matter – how the way we start our day sets the tone for everything that follows.
• The SHINE framework – Silence, Happiness, Intention, Nourishment, Exercise—simple, bite‑size practices that fit even the busiest schedules.
• Everyday hacks – drink water at the bedside, swap scrolling for breathwork, get a splash of daylight, and even shake out the night’s stiffness.
• The gratitude shift – Kate’s personal journey from generalized anxiety to daily gratitude journaling, and how repeatedly noticing the “enough” in our lives rewires the brain for positivity.
• Practical tips for habit change – clearing the path, making routines visible, using alarms wisely, and building tiny wins that fuel dopamine and self‑trust.

Whether you’re a high‑achieving professional, a caregiver, or simply someone looking to reclaim a sense of peace, Kate and Toby share relatable stories, evidence‑backed research, and a menu of flexible practices you can start in five minutes or expand as life allows.

Grab your copy of Rise & Shine—available in English, Romanian, Polish, and Italian—and get ready to redesign your mornings, one grateful breath at a time. Let’s rise together!

Resources:

Kevin's website: https://kevinmiller.co

Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE to get $250 off select AirDoctor air purifiers, including the 3500, 4000, and 5500 models!

Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

Timestamps:

• 02:36 – Kate’s 30‑year psychology career; creation of “Rise & Shine.”
• 03:15 – Toby’s background: therapist, trauma‑informed yoga teacher, grief counsellor.
• 04:34 – Why the morning sets the tone for the whole day.
• 05:50 – We’re never taught how to build a useful morning routine.
• 06:53 – “Rise & Shine” goal: simple, practical, doable changes for busy lives.
• 08:14 – Everyone already has a morning routine—good or bad; recognize it.
• 09:22 – Misattributing sluggishness to self‑identity instead of habits (e.g., hydration).
• 10:44 – Changing habits changes feelings; awareness is the first step.
• 12:07 – Beliefs about “not being flexible” are habits that can be reshaped.
• 13:39 – Limiting beliefs limit possibility; new choices create new perspectives.
• 14:39 – Phone scrolling wastes time and fuels negative mood.
• 15:57 – Ruminating in the morning fuels anxiety and dread.
• 16:47 – Repeated habits reinforce identity (“neurons that fire together, wire together”).
• 17:50 – Small, consistent tweaks build momentum and confidence.
• 19:02 – Flexible, “menu‑style” routines accommodate any schedule.
• 20:05 – Reclaim time by swapping scrolling for purposeful actions; 5‑minute starter.
• 21:05 – Benefits of early morning daylight exposure (10‑20 min).
• 21:57 – Easy prep: water bottle/glass by the bed for instant hydration.
• 23:01 – Clear the path: place yoga mat, move alarm out of reach, avoid snooze.
• 24:24 – Importance of recharging yourself to keep helping others.
• 25:21 – Tiny wins (water, smile, gratitude) build self‑trust and optimism.
• 26:20 – Each small habit releases dopamine, reinforcing confidence.
• 27:27 – Introduction to the SHINE acronym; first pillar = Silence.
• 28:30 – Silence = intentional stillness; simple breathing practice to calm mind/body.
• 30:17 – Case study: morning breathing stopped a client’s panic attacks.
• 31:12 – Second pillar = Happiness; positive morning mood boosts performance.
• 33:54 – Core gratitude practice: journal five things you’re grateful for each morning.
• 35:23 – Ongoing daily gratitude shifts outlook, creates contentment, eases relationships.
• 37:22 – Practices are free; consistency is the only requirement.
• 38:43 – The more you practice, the stronger the effect (magical compounding).
• 39:58 – Third pillar = Intention; set clear direction for the day.
• 41:29 – “To‑Do List” vs. “To‑Be” mindset: align tasks with desired qualities.
• 43:00 – Adjust attitude for each task (focus, openness, playfulness) throughout the day.
• 45:41 – Fourth pillar = Nourishment; water, sunlight, mental diet, and breakfast.
• 47:35 – Morning “mental diet”: podcasts, books, language learning to stimulate the brain.
• 50:51 – Breakfast fuels the brain; skipping it can trigger anxiety‑like symptoms.
• 54:18 – Fifth pillar = Exercise; gentle movement, shaking, yoga.
• 55:47 – “Motion is lotion”: simple shaking releases stiffness and boosts circulation.
• 58:57 – Yoga connects breath, body, and gratitude; accessible for all ages.
• 1:00:22 – Yoga practice deepens the flow of gratitude in the body.
• 1:03:37 – Book availability (Rise & Shine) and social media handles for Kate & Toby.

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Have you ever found yourself working relentlessly toward a goal, only to realize you aren't actually enjoying the journey? Or maybe you’ve caught yourself mindlessly scrolling through screens and going through the motions, wondering if the things you are doing are actually bringing you true fulfillment?

Today, I am sitting down with Kevin Miller, an author, former pro athlete, and a true expert on the mechanics of personal drive. Kevin is the host of the podcast What Drives You, and he brings a profoundly refreshing perspective on what it actually means to be ambitious.

In this episode, we dive deep into the core of our daily motivations to uncover the real why behind our actions. We discuss:

• The Gratitude Balance: How to maintain the drive to achieve great things while remaining deeply contented and grateful for the present moment.
• Questioning the "Norm": Why we need to stop sleepwalking through life, put down our screens, and evaluate if our habits are genuinely serving us.
• The Healing Power of Nature: The incredible grounding effects of "forest bathing," touching the earth, and stepping away from our artificial, concrete environments to reconnect with our roots.
• Defining Your Own Why: How to peel back the layers of societal expectations to discover what truly brings you joy and peace.

Kevin’s insights are a beautiful reminder that success means nothing if we aren't present enough to appreciate it. I know this conversation will challenge you to look at your own routines in a brand-new light. Let's dive right in!

Resources:

Kevin's website: https://kevinmiller.co

Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE to get UP TO $300 off today!

Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

Timestamps:

03:15 – Meet Kevin Miller: The formal introduction of today’s guest—a certified health and nutrition coach, former pro athlete, personal drive expert, and author.

08:30 – The Tension Between Contentment and Ambition: A deep dive into the fear many high-achievers have: Will practicing gratitude and being content with today kill my drive to succeed tomorrow?

14:45 – Forest Bathing and Grounding: Kevin discusses the profound physical and mental benefits of stepping outside. He shares his experience living in a National Forest, the concept of "forest bathing," and the importance of physically touching the earth.

21:20 – Waking Up from the "Norm": A critical look at modern society. The discussion shifts to why spending our days in concrete boxes and staring at screens is an unnatural state, and how to consciously evaluate if this lifestyle is serving us.

28:10 – Uncovering Your True "Why": Kevin explains how to dig beneath surface-level achievements to discover what actually drives you. He challenges listeners to ask if they are pursuing goals for themselves, or simply to prove something to someone else.

35:40 – Superficial Goals vs. Authentic Purpose: An exploration of why reaching the "top of the mountain" often feels empty if the pursuit was driven by ego rather than genuine meaning or service.

41:15 – The Concept of Meaningful Work: Why true fulfillment often comes from engaging in activities that serve others and bring personal joy. They discuss why many successful people choose to keep working long after they have the money to retire.

46:30 – What Kevin is Most Grateful For: Kevin reflects on his current blessings, expressing deep gratitude for the personal insights he is gaining, his ability to serve, and the audience that allows him to do this meaningful work.

Experience more abundance on georgianbenta.com/abundance

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Our guest today is Caitlyn Spears, and her story is a masterclass in resilience and rewriting your own narrative. Caitlyn is a certified health and nutrition coach, a fitness coach, and the founder of Complete by Caitlyn. But the journey she took to build this empowering life was born out of intense heartbreak and a terrifying health crisis.

Imagine being 18 years old, growing up in a tiny town of just 2,500 people in Oklahoma, and suddenly getting scouted for America's Next Top Model. Caitlyn made it all the way through the grueling casting process, only to be cut right before filming and told to "work on her body." That devastating blow to her confidence was just the beginning. Shortly after, her family entered a period of deep grief, and Caitlyn’s health began to rapidly fail. She experienced terrifying, debilitating symptoms—including temporary blindness and paralysis—which ultimately led to a life-altering diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.

But instead of letting this defeat her, Caitlyn used this stark introduction to her own mortality as a profound wake-up call. She realized that our time here is finite, and she completely shifted her mindset to focus on what she can control and what she does have.

In today's conversation, we dive into:

• The Power of Daily Practice: How her simple, non-negotiable 5-minute daily gratitude journal keeps her anchored.
• The 66-Day Shift: Why building true, lasting habits requires a 66-day minimum, and how to start rewiring your brain today.
• Taking Radical Ownership: How to stop sleepwalking through your days, silence negative self-talk, and intentionally design a life that brings you joy.

Caitlyn’s energy is absolutely radiant, and her perspective is a beautiful reminder that we do not need to wait for a tragedy to start appreciating the gifts in our present moment.

Resources:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caitlinsheyspears/

Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE to get UP TO $300 off today!

Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

Timestamps:

01:30 – Meet Caitlyn Spears: The host officially welcomes listeners and introduces Caitlyn, a certified health, nutrition, and fitness coach, and the founder of Complete by Caitlyn.

03:15 – Defining True Gratitude: Caitlyn shares her personal definition of gratitude, describing it as an "intense appreciation for the present moment" and recognizing the gifts hidden in the now.

05:45 – Small Town Roots to Top Model Dreams: Caitlyn opens up about her upbringing in Wilburton, Oklahoma, getting scouted for America's Next Top Model at 18, and the crushing blow to her confidence when she was cut just before filming.

09:20 – Navigating Grief and a Health Crisis: The conversation shifts to the profound loss of her father to colon cancer, followed by the terrifying onset of her own unexplained physical symptoms, including temporary blindness and paralysis.

13:10 – The MS Diagnosis & The Tennis Court Epiphany: Caitlyn recounts receiving her Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis. She shares a defining memory of trying to play tennis with her mom while impaired, leading to the lifelong realization that simply having mobility makes life inherently "easy."

18:30 – Confronting Our Own Mortality: A deep dive into why humans naturally put distance between themselves and the reality of death, and how embracing our finite timeline is the key to living with true intention.

23:15 – The 66-Day Habit Minimum: Caitlyn breaks down her signature 66-day framework for building resilience and new routines. She explains the three 22-day phases: shedding old habits, implementing new ones, and making them second nature.

28:00 – Waking Up from the "Sleepwalk": A discussion on why so many people live their lives on autopilot, going through the motions, and how to take radical ownership to actively design a life that brings actual joy.

32:45 – Finding Light on the Darkest Days: Caitlyn shares a striking reality check for shifting your mindset on a bad day: asking yourself what a loved one who has passed away would give to experience the "boring" or stressful day you are currently living.

36:20 – Expressing Deep Gratitude: Caitlyn reflects on the people she is most thankful for right now, highlighting her mother, her partner, and her children, while emphasizing the importance of outward appreciation.

38:50 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Connect: Final takeaways from the conversation and information on where listeners can connect with Caitlyn online and explore her coaching programs.

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Today, I'm thrilled to share a really eye-opening and inspiring conversation I had with Natalie Sader. Natalie is a clinical psychologist and the founder of My Food Innergy, where her mission is to empower women to love themselves unconditionally.

In this episode, we dive deep into her personal journey, starting with what it was like growing up as a woman in Lebanon. She shares how she used to live in survival mode just trying to meet strict societal standards, and how moving to the US finally gave her the freedom to cut those cords and discover her true self.

We also talk about some incredibly powerful mindset shifts. Natalie explains a brilliant technique for practicing gratitude: zooming out and watching your life from afar, almost as if it were a movie. This simple shift helps you see the abundance around you that you might otherwise miss when you're hyper-focused on what's lacking. We also discuss a beautiful piece of wisdom from her father—that contentment is an "endless treasure"—and how being truly grateful for what you have doesn't mean you lose your ambition for more. Finally, we even touch on the profound, grounding gratitude that comes from simply having food on your plate.

It’s a wonderful chat about shifting from feeling like life is just happening to you, to becoming an active, joyful participant in your own journey. I can't wait for you to hear this one, so let's dive right in!

Resources:

Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE to get UP TO $300 off today!

You can find more about Nathalie, here: https://www.nathaliesader.com/

Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

Timestamps:

[03:45] Natalie discusses the strict societal pressures and standards she faced growing up as a woman in Lebanon, and the immense freedom she found upon moving to the US.

[08:15] The power of "zooming out": Natalie explains how stepping back to view your life from a third-person, movie-like perspective helps you recognize the blessings you might otherwise miss.

[13:30] Reflecting on past therapy sessions, Natalie shares how she shifted from feeling like a passive victim to becoming an active, empowered participant in her own life.

[18:20] The catalyst for change: How moving, getting pregnant, dealing with anxiety, and facing a physical issue sparked her profound awakening and journey into holistic healing.

[22:50] "Contentment is an endless treasure": Exploring her father's Arabic wisdom and understanding how you can remain highly ambitious while being deeply grateful for what you already have.

[26:15] Discussing an Oprah Winfrey quote that resonated with Natalie, highlighting the truth that focusing on what you lack will only ever create more lack.

[28:40] Building the "gratitude muscle" through small, daily acts of appreciation, like finding joy in the simple ability to hold a morning cup of matcha or coffee.

[31:10] Natalie’s profound perspective on food, drawing from her childhood experiences in Lebanon, and the pure, grounding gratitude of simply having a meal on the table.

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Have you ever caught yourself sleepwalking through life? Just going through the motions, checking off boxes, and assuming that tomorrow is a guarantee?

Today, I am sitting down with a truly incredible human being, April Seifert. April is a life design strategist, but the journey she took to get there is what will really blow you away. By the time she was just 11 years old, she lost her father to cancer, bringing her face-to-face with the reality of human mortality at an incredibly young age. And if that wasn't enough, shortly after his passing, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, leading to terrifying periods where she temporarily lost her vision and even her ability to walk.

But here is why I am so excited for you to hear this conversation: instead of letting these immense hardships make her bitter, April used them to cultivate a profound, intense appreciation for the present moment. She shares an unforgettable story about how finally getting her vision and mobility back made her realize just how easy life actually is—and how the things we constantly take for granted, like simply walking across a room, are actually massive gifts.

In this episode, April challenges us. She asks us not to wait for a tragedy, a loss, or a severe diagnosis to start living intentionally. She walks us through exactly how to close the gap between ourselves and our own mortality, so we can stop putting our dreams on hold and start actively designing the life we actually want to live.

Resources:

Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE to get UP TO $300 off today!

You can find more about April, here: https://www.leadingauthorities.com/uk/speakers/april-seifert

Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

Timestamps:

04:15 – Defining Gratitude in the Present: April shares her personal definition of gratitude, describing it as an "intense appreciation for the present moment" and recognizing the gifts hidden in the now.

08:30 – A Childhood Interrupted by Loss: April opens up about her Midwestern upbringing and the heartbreak of watching her father battle colon cancer, ultimately losing him when she was only 11 years old.

14:20 – The MS Diagnosis & Facing Mortality Again: Shortly after her father's passing, April details the terrifying onset of her own medical symptoms—including temporary blindness and paralysis—leading to a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.

19:45 – The Tennis Court Epiphany: April shares a profound memory of trying to play tennis with her mom while physically impaired. She reflects on the sheer relief of regaining her vision and mobility, leaving her with the lifelong perspective that, comparatively, "life is easy."

24:10 – Closing the Gap with Our Mortality: A deep discussion on human nature. April explains why we constantly try to put distance between ourselves and the concept of death, and why accepting our finite timeline is the key to truly living.

29:30 – The Blueprint for Life Design: April breaks down her actionable framework for changing your life: 1) Radical self-awareness, 2) Identifying the points of friction in your current day, and 3) Intentionally designing your ideal state.

34:15 – Waking Up from the "Sleepwalk": A striking reality check on why we shouldn't wait for a tragedy to start living. April asks a powerful question to shift your mindset on a bad day: What would a loved one who has passed away give to have the "boring" day you're wasting today?

37:30 – Expressing Deep Gratitude: April reflects on the people she is most thankful for right now, highlighting her incredibly resilient mother, her endlessly supportive husband, and her two young daughters.

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Imagine checking off every box society tells you will bring happiness: getting a top-tier education, landing a lucrative job on Wall Street, and even achieving fame and fortune as an MTV rap star in your twenties. Nimo had all of that. But despite reaching the pinnacle of conventional success, he realized something crucial was missing, and he still felt empty inside.

So, what did he do? He walked away from it all. Nimo made the life-altering decision to step off the treadmill of achievement to seek a deeper purpose. That search eventually led him to India, where he has spent years working with children in underprivileged slum communities. Today, he creates beautiful, deeply meaningful songs that he gives away entirely for free through his project, Empty Hands Music.

In this episode, we dive deep into his transformation and explore:

• The Gratitude Equation: How actively practicing the simple act of complaining less directly increases the gratitude we feel in our daily lives.
• Gaining a Macro-Perspective: Taking a step back to view our personal struggles within the massive, 4.5 billion-year history of the Earth, and how that shift can instantly dissolve our anxieties.
• The Power of Service: How losing yourself in the service of others—a lesson Nimo draws from Mahatma Gandhi—is actually the most profound way to find out who you truly are.
• Actionable Practices: Real, daily habits you can use to anchor yourself in gratitude, whether it is taking a moment of silence before a meal or intentionally playing "gratitude games" with the kids in your life.

Nimo’s energy is incredibly uplifting, and his message carries a vibration that I know will leave you feeling lighter and more inspired. This isn't just an interview; it's an invitation to look at your own life through a profoundly different, more appreciative lens.

I hope this conversation brings as much joy and perspective to your day as it did to mine. Let’s dive in!

Resources:

Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE to get UP TO $300 off today!

You can find more about Nimo, here: https://www.emptyhandsmusic.org/

Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

Timestamps:

03:15 – Chasing the "Perfect" Life: Nimo opens up about his early life, including his Ivy League education, working on Wall Street, and the intense pursuit of conventional success.

07:30 – The MTV Rap Star Days: A look back at Nimo starting a rap band in high school, experiencing the highs of fame and fortune, and why it ultimately felt empty.

11:00 – The Turning Point: The realization that the pursuit of fame was actually a "walking path of suffering," and the moment he decided to step away from his old life.

15:45 – Gaining a Macro Perspective: Nimo shares a powerful visualization for anxiety: looking at the 4.5 billion-year history of the Earth and realizing human existence is just a tiny, magical "speck of dust."

19:20 – The Gratitude Equation (Complaining Less): Nimo breaks down why gratitude isn't just about giving thanks—it’s also about actively complaining less. He shares a fun story about teaching this concept to kids at an elementary school.

23:10 – Moving to the Slums of India: The life-changing decision in 2010 to move to India and work with children in underprivileged slum communities, inspired by Gandhi’s quote about losing yourself in the service of others.

26:40 – The Birth of Empty Hands Music: The philosophy behind Nimo's current path, and why he made the radical choice to never charge for his albums, music, or tours.

29:15 – "Suffering and Gratitude Cannot Coexist": Nimo shares the advice he would give his younger self about taking resources for granted and getting caught up in superficial complaints.

31:30 – Daily Anchors for a Grateful Life: Actionable habits Nimo uses to stay grounded, including finding a space of stillness and the simple act of taking a moment of silence or prayer before every meal.

33:15 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Connect: Final takeaways from the conversation and where listeners can explore Nimo’s free music and videos at EmptyHandsMusic.org.

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Mike isn't just a Pennsylvania State Representative; he is an author and someone who has been navigating life with depression and anxiety for over 16 years. We dive into why he’s dedicated his career—both in and out of politics—to shattering the stigma that still surrounds mental illness.

Here is a look at what we discuss in this episode:

• The Power of "Not Being Alone": Mike shares a poignant memory from his first week of college, crying on the phone with his parents, and the life-changing realization that he wasn't the only one struggling behind closed doors.
• Gratitude as a Grounding Tool: We talk about how gratitude can keep you anchored during dark moments, but also the "double-edged sword" of feeling guilty for struggling when your life looks "perfect" on paper.
• Writing Through the Struggle: Mike opens up about his new book, Redemption—a sci-fi story about 20 young adults on a spaceship—and how he used it to process his own journey through clinical depression.
• Finding Perspective: We explore how the simple act of serving others and volunteering can actually help pull you out of your own head and improve your mood.

Mike is a great example of how you can be a high-achieving, seemingly "happy" person while still fighting these internal battles. I hope this conversation reminds you that no matter what you’re going through, you are not alone, and there is always a path forward.

I really think you’re going to find a lot of value in Mike’s story. Let’s jump in!

Resources:

Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE to get UP TO $300 off today!

You can find the book on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Redemption-Spades-Trilogy-Book-1-ebook/dp/B07C7M8WT8/ 

Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

Timestamps:

04:30 – Meet Mike Schlossberg: Mike discusses his background in state politics, his 16-year battle with clinical depression and anxiety, and how his mental health journey inspired his sci-fi novel, Redemption.

08:45 – The Illusion of Happiness: The host asks how Mike can be so outgoing and happy on the outside while battling depression on the inside. Mike explains the "dual tracks" of the human mind and experiencing multiple emotions simultaneously.

13:20 – Crossing the Line into Clinical Illness: Mike outlines the diagnostic criteria for mental illness, explaining how to recognize when normal sadness crosses the line into a clinical issue that interferes with daily functioning.

17:15 – The Double-Edged Sword of Gratitude: A deep dive into how gratitude keeps Mike grounded. He candidly discusses the challenge of feeling guilty for being depressed when your life looks objectively wonderful from the outside.

22:40 – Finding Perspective Through Suffering: The host shares the value of gaining comparative perspective, referencing Viktor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning and how understanding the struggles of others can be therapeutic.

26:15 – Advice to a Younger Self: Mike reflects on what he would tell his 20-year-old self. He discusses how depression breaks your thinking patterns and the importance of recognizing the good things that still exist in your life.

31:00 – The "Perfect Life" Trap & Social Media: A discussion on why high-achieving people with seemingly perfect lives still struggle with mental health. They touch on biology, the pressure placed on overachievers, and the negative impacts of social media.

34:50 – Legislative Action for Mental Health: Mike explains how his personal struggles influence his political work. He highlights his efforts regarding anti-suicide legislation, supporting mothers with postpartum depression, and fixing public school funding.

37:20 – Expressing Personal Gratitude: When asked who he is grateful for right now, Mike lists his wife Brennan, his two children, his extended family, his incredibly supportive staff, and his constituents.

38:45 – Book Release Details & Closing: Final information on Mike's young adult novel, Redemption, where listeners can purchase it on Amazon, and closing thoughts on the power of sharing our stories.

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