What if your burnout is actually a signal that it’s time to shift?
What if the path back to fulfillment isn’t more certifications or better time management—but more creativity, play, and aligned living?

If you’re a therapist, helping professional, or creative entrepreneur feeling burned out, stuck, or unsure how to keep showing up in this field you used to love… this episode is for you.

In this solo season finale of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, I share what I’ve learned in Season 5—and in my own life—about why creativity isn’t optional anymore. Not just as a bonus. But as a necessary part of sustainable, meaningful work.

This season has been the most “me” the podcast has ever felt. We talked about creative living, storytelling, nervous system regulation, entrepreneurship, embodiment, and how to do more of the work that lights us up.

And behind the scenes? I turned 40.
I danced in a contemporary show.
I choreographed a duet with my friend Allie about perfectionism and authenticity.
I celebrated, rested, cried, and reimagined what I want to build.

And most importantly—I listened.
To my body. To my joy. And to the parts of me that still get scared when I try something new.

Many of us became therapists or helpers because we’re deeply empathetic and want to create change. But somewhere along the way, you might find yourself asking:

I hear these questions all the time from folks in my community. And I’ve asked them myself.

Which is why this episode is about offering both reflection and direction. Because creativity, when we make space for it, helps us unlock new answers to these questions.

Here’s what I believe:
Creativity and joy aren’t frivolous. They’re essential.

They help us connect with our own aliveness. They open up possibilities. They offer healing not only for ourselves, but for our clients and communities.

And they are especially important for therapists and helping professionals navigating:

In short? Creativity is your asset.
Not a distraction. Not a hobby. But a path to deeper alignment and more sustainable impact.

If you’re feeling stuck, uninspired, or unsure how to move forward, here are two simple ways to begin reconnecting with your Zone of Genius:

🔍 Free Resource: Uncover Your Zone of Genius Guide
A short, powerful reflection tool to help you identify the work that brings you joy and flow. It’s helped dozens of therapists and creative entrepreneurs start imagining new ways to use their skills—with more ease and purpose.
➡️ Download it here

🌿 New Offering: The Intentional Collective
A virtual, low-pressure weekly gathering for therapists and helpers who want to make space for creativity, rest, or aligned work.
We meet for 45 minutes on Monday mornings to ground, reflect, and set intentions for the week.
This isn’t a course. It’s a container for support, accountability, and space to explore your next right step.

Get more details and join here.

✨ You don’t need to have it all figured out to join—just a desire to reconnect with what matters most.

This season featured some incredible guests—all modeling how to integrate creativity, embodiment, and alignment into their work:

Each of them is doing work that aligns with their unique gifts. Each one offers a different version of what’s possible when we give ourselves permission to come alive.

I’ll be taking a summer pause from the podcast to rest, reflect, and create behind the scenes.
Here’s what’s in the works:

🌀 The Inspired Innovators Circle – A 3-part in-person Grand Rapids series integrating yoga, creativity, and the book Big Magic by Liz Gilbert.
📬 The Intentional Collective – Weekly virtual gatherings + Voxer accountability for ongoing creative support.
📖 Future Retreats + Workshops – Stay tuned for a potential 3-night creative retreat, and new writing and movement workshops.

➡️ See all upcoming offerings here: drshawnhondorp.com/events

I’ll leave you with a quote I’ve loved for years, from Howard Thurman:

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

So if you’re asking yourself:
“What do I do now?”
“How else can I use my skills as a therapist?”
“What if I want something more?”

Start here:

You don’t need to burn everything down. You just need to start listening again.

🎧 Listen to Episode 151: Why Creativity Isn’t Optional Anymore for Therapists and Helpers
📬 Join the email list for updates + resources: drshawnhondorp.com/contact
🌀 Grab your free Zone of Genius guide: pages.drshawnhondorp.com/zone

Disclaimer:
This blog and podcast are for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical or mental health advice and are not a substitute for professional consultation or treatment.

Episode 150: Finding Community, Healing Together, and Living in Alignment with Randi Rubenstein

What does it mean to find real community in a world that often feels disconnected?

In this episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, I sat down with Randi Rubenstein for the final conversation in our three-part series on Creativity, Entrepreneurship, and Living an Aligned Life. This time, we explored the transformative role of community in healing, leadership, and building a more connected and joyful life.

From the mastermind group Randi accidentally created years ago to the healing communities I’ve found through dance, parenting circles, and entrepreneur spaces, we both reflect on the power of being seen, held, and co-creating with others. But we also don’t shy away from the complexity—how community can also bring up fear, past wounding, and the need for strong Pack Leadership (Randi’s term for grounded, non-reactive leadership rooted in care).

Here’s what we explore in this deep and energizing conversation:

✨ What makes a community feel safe, healing, and energizing (vs. performative or depleting)
✨ How strong Pack Leadership creates safety and builds trust
✨ Why we often carry wounds from early communities and how to find spaces that help us heal
✨ The connection between novelty, leadership style, and nervous system regulation
✨ Why co-creating (vs. top-down leading) is the secret to sustainable group work
✨ How our own zones of genius show up in leadership roles
✨ Navigating sensitivity and overwhelm when leading or participating in group spaces

One of the biggest takeaways? While we are wounded in community, we are also healed in community. The difference lies in the presence of safe, emotionally regulated leadership. Randi shares how the community she built within Mastermind Parenting grew out of a simple parenting course—and how the women in that group didn’t want to leave because they finally felt held. That accidental community is now a co-created space that has helped women start businesses, change their lives, and feel a sense of deep belonging.

We unpack how Pack Leadership (a grounded, non-reactive presence that models calm confidence and sets clear boundaries) is essential for a safe group space. But not the “dominate or control” kind of leadership—this is about responding from our Self energy and encouraging everyone to bring their voice and genius to the table.

Co-creation is the heart of it all. Whether it’s a mastermind group, a dance retreat, or a kitchen-table podcast, there is power in shared ownership. That’s what turns a program or group into a community.

As two sensitive leaders, Randi and I also talk about how it can be hard to feel the pain of others so deeply—and how to stay grounded and effective as a community builder. Whether you’re leading a large group or building small, intentional spaces, trusting your energy, pace, and personal capacity is vital.

We also explore how our nervous systems guide us toward the right communities. Randi shares her “straightjacket or skinny dipping” metaphor for gauging how a space feels in your body. Does it feel constrictive or expansive? Energizing or draining? That intuitive guidance is part of aligned leadership.

From mastermind groups to dance studios, local creative meetups, and therapist circles, we reflect on where we’ve found aligned, life-giving community. It takes courage to find your people—and to walk away from spaces that don’t feel right. But it’s worth it.

If you’re a therapist or creative entrepreneur in the Grand Rapids area, make sure you’re on my email list to hear about upcoming events, including my next in-person collaboration with yoga teacher and therapist Jen Bullen. We’ll be launching a local group experience that blends yoga, creativity, and community care.

🌐 Learn more about Randi’s work: https://mastermindparenting.com/
📩 Join the community: https://drshawnhondorp.com/contact/

Disclaimer:
This blog and podcast are for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical or mental health advice and are not a substitute for professional consultation or treatment.

Episode 150: Writing, Play, and the Power of Creative Connection with Michelle Ringle & Alyssa Jewell

Have you ever felt the quiet nudge to write something down, even if just for yourself?

In this heartwarming and deeply thoughtful episode, I sit down with two gifted educators and writers, Michelle Ringle and Alyssa Jewell, to explore the transformative power of creative writing. This conversation was one I truly looked forward to—and it didn’t disappoint. Michelle and Alyssa bring so much depth, honesty, and encouragement to the question so many of us carry: What might open up if we let ourselves write?

We cover so much ground: how writing can be a form of self-connection and healing, how creative practice doesn’t have to look like rigid daily routines, and how society’s productivity obsession often blocks our creative energy before we even begin. Whether you’ve been writing for years or feel creatively stuck, this one’s for you.

In this episode, we explore:

✨ Why writing is for everyone—not just “writers”
✨ How creative writing can help us heal grief, rage, and burnout
✨ What happens when we write with no agenda (and why that’s powerful)
✨ Why play is essential for adult women—and how Michelle created a whole Secret Society around it
✨ Bridging the gap between language learning and creative expression
✨ The real reasons many of us feel creatively blocked—and how to unblock
✨ The power of story to reconnect us with ourselves and others

Meet the Guests: Writers, Educators, & Creative Facilitators

Michelle Ringle is a mother, educator, adventure facilitator, and poet currently pursuing her MFA in Poetry at Western Michigan University. With over two decades of teaching experience, Michelle brings her trauma-informed, feminist lens to creative and educational spaces. She’s also the founder of the Secret Society of Ladies Uniquely Trying Stuff—a playful initiative encouraging women, especially mothers, to re-engage with physical play and joy.

Alyssa Jewell holds a Ph.D. in Creative Writing and Poetry, and her work explores the connection between creative writing and English as a Second Language (ESL) education. She teaches college-level ESL, English composition, and creative writing in Grand Rapids, MI. Alyssa’s poetry has appeared in Cherry Tree, Poetry Daily, Virginia Quarterly Review, and more, and she’s passionate about using writing to heal and connect across differences.

Writing as a Life-Giving Practice

For both Michelle and Alyssa, writing is less about producing something for others—and more about tuning into their own inner worlds. Michelle shares how morning pages and nature walks help her process emotions and stay grounded, while Alyssa opens up about writing her grandfather’s eulogy and the healing power of naming truth through story.

Writing doesn’t need to look like publishing a novel. It can be 10 minutes in the morning. It can be one sentence you write down while walking in the woods. It can be a eulogy, a journal entry, or a line of poetry that cracks you open.

“Our bodies often know before we do,” Michelle reflects. “Writing gives those feelings space to live.”

From Burnout to Creativity: Permission to Choose What’s Life-Giving

Michelle shared how pursuing an MFA while raising three children was a radical act of reclaiming joy. After years of teaching others how to write, she realized she wasn’t making space for her own creative voice—and that needed to change.

Alyssa describes the journey of bridging her two worlds—ESL education and poetry—and why giving ESL students space to tell their stories is not just powerful, but essential.

“I think we’re meant to create,” Alyssa says. “We heal through it. We grow through it. And sometimes, we even find our people through it.”

A favorite quote from this episode:

“We are in a culture that values logic—and I believe that’s a patriarchal ideal. Emotional knowing is just as important, but it takes practice. Creativity helps us build that muscle.” — Michelle Ringle

First Steps for New Writers (and Curious Non-Writers)

Both Michelle and Alyssa encourage anyone curious about writing to start small. Try a few minutes of free writing. Notice your senses while sitting in nature. Jot down lines you overhear in a coffee shop. There’s no right or wrong way to begin.

Recommended resources from this episode:

🖋️ The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
🖋️ Poetry Unbound podcast by Pádraig Ó Tuama
🖋️ The Cure for Chronic Pain podcast with Nicole Sachs (featuring expressive writing for healing chronic pain) → Listen here

Future Collabs & Events Coming Soon!

We’re actively dreaming up some creative gatherings with Michelle and Alyssa—think writing, nature, yoga, and soul-nourishing community. If this episode sparked something in you, make sure you’re on my email list so you’re the first to hear when new offerings launch.

💌 Join the community here

Connect with Michelle & Alyssa

🌐 Learn more about Alyssa’s work and writing: alyssajewell.org

Stay tuned for more from these two incredible humans—I have no doubt we’ll be hearing more from them soon.

This blog and podcast are for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical or mental health advice and are not a substitute for professional consultation or treatment.

What does it take to turn pain into purpose—and how can creativity, food, and cultural traditions transform how we approach mental health?

In this episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Elisa Pérez-Arellano, LMSW—founder of Inclusive Empowerment Services and the visionary behind Recetas que Sanan (Recipes That Heal), a wellness initiative that reduces stigma and improves access to healing resources.

Elisa’s story is one of incredible resilience, innovation, and heart. From her lived experiences as an immigrant and survivor of teen dating violence to creating a therapeutic cooking show with her husband, she’s inspiring new ways to connect, heal, and build community through authenticity and cultural wisdom.

✨ Elisa’s journey immigrating from Mexico to the U.S. at age 16
✨ The trauma and resilience that shaped her as a therapist
✨ Why she left traditional systems to build her own bilingual practice
✨ The creation of Recetas que Sanan—a cooking show that opens mental health conversations through food
✨ How creative expression, storytelling, and joy support healing
✨ Why therapists need their own therapy (and how healing enables deeper impact)
✨ The importance of speaking out about collective pain and the current political climate

After years of working in traditional clinical settings and feeling deeply unfulfilled, Elisa decided to start her own private practice in 2020—right as the pandemic hit. With clarity about her gifts and a drive to create meaningful, culturally responsive care, she launched Inclusive Empowerment Services, LLC.

But Elisa’s work goes far beyond therapy sessions. As a bilingual public speaker, trainer, and educator, she’s passionate about bringing stories, lived experience, and emotional wisdom into schools, businesses, and community organizations.

“I knew I had gifts I wasn’t using—and I had to do something about it.”

What happens when you combine traditional cooking, storytelling, and emotional education? You get something completely magical—and that’s exactly what Elisa created with Recetas que Sanan.

This bilingual wellness initiative uses food as a gateway into deeper conversations about mental health and emotional well-being—particularly in Latinx and Spanish-speaking communities where stigma remains high.

Cooking intuitively and sharing her personal stories while preparing traditional meals, Elisa helps viewers feel seen, nourished, and safe to explore emotions in a way that feels natural and culturally resonant.

“Cooking is my magic. It’s where my feelings live—and where connection begins.”

Elisa generously shares about her early years in the U.S.—navigating family reunification, language barriers, and role reversal as a teen helping her parents navigate systems. She also opens up about surviving teen dating violence, and how that lived experience fuels her trainings and outreach today.

Her commitment to authenticity is woven throughout her work. Whether she’s leading a community workshop or filming an episode of Recetas que Sanan, she brings her full, human self—breaking the mold of what a therapist “should” be.

“I’m cool. I’m human. I show up as myself—and I want others to feel safe doing the same.”

Elisa is currently seeking sponsors to grow her bilingual show and expand access to culturally-grounded mental health conversations. Your support helps cover kitchen rental, ingredients, and tech equipment.
🌐 Learn more and connect: https://www.facebook.com/IESMichigan/
🔗 Elisa Pérez-Arellano on LinkedIn

Elisa offers individual therapy, consulting, and dynamic trainings on inclusive practices, mental health, and trauma-informed care.
🌐 Visit her website: www.616ies.com

💌 Join my email list for therapist resources, creative community, and upcoming events! [Sign up here]

Disclaimer:
This blog and podcast are for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical or mental health advice and are not a substitute for professional consultation or treatment.

Episode 147: Redefining Success, Healing Through Business, and Sustainable Online Growth with Melvin Varghese, PhD

What if your business could be a source of healing—not just hustle?

In this episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, I had the joy of talking with Dr. Melvin Varghese—licensed psychologist, host of the Selling the Couch podcast, and founder of one of the most thoughtful, heart-centered online business communities for therapists.

Melvin is someone I deeply admire—not only because he’s built a wildly successful podcast and sustainable business—but because he’s done it with integrity, intention, and a whole lot of wisdom. We went deep in this honest, funny, and eye-opening conversation about what it really takes to build a business that supports your life (and doesn’t deplete it).

We talked about so much, including:

Melvin didn’t jump into online business overnight. After years of juggling group practice, community mental health, and part-time clinical work, a snowstorm in Philly changed everything—he lost 21 client hours in one week and began wondering: Is there another way?

Inspired by mentors like Pat Flynn and driven by a desire for more time freedom, Melvin launched Selling the Couch in 2015 – using an ironing board in his home for some of the early interview episodes. His early episodes were recorded before sunrise and edited by hand between client sessions. Slowly and strategically, he built a podcast that now reaches listeners in over 120 countries and has surpassed 1.8 million downloads.

“I wanted to design a career around my family and health instead of fitting my family and health around a career.”

Unlike many therapists who try to leap into online business and end up burned out (🙋‍♀️), Melvin took a long-game approach.

He shares how:

We also explored the deeper internal work of entrepreneurship—especially for those of us raised in systems or cultures where “working harder” was equated with worth. As the child of Indian immigrants, Melvin shares how he had to unlearn deeply held messages about laziness, productivity, and success.

“If I wasn’t grinding myself to the bone, I felt like I was dishonoring my parents’ sacrifices.”

Through years of personal therapy, brainspotting, and reflection, he’s found a new rhythm—one grounded in self-trust, presence, and purpose.

Today, Melvin works a Monday–Thursday schedule filled with focused deep work, daily hikes, learning blocks, and time with his daughter. Fridays are for rest, restoration, and a weekly trip to the wellness spa. It didn’t happen overnight—but it did happen by design.

“Most people are trying to build their lives around their careers. I wanted to build my career around my life.”

If you’ve ever felt like online business wasn’t for you—or that it had to mean compromise, hustle, or slick marketing—you’ll want to listen to this one.

Melvin’s story is proof that you can build a business with heart, rest, integrity, and purpose—and that it’s never too late to redefine what success means to you.

🌐 Learn more about Melvin’s work: sellingthecouch.com
💼 Connect with Melvin on LinkedIn

Want More Support & Connection?
💡 Join my email list for therapist resources, creative community, and upcoming retreats! [Sign up here]

Disclaimer:
This blog and podcast are for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical or mental health advice and are not a substitute for professional consultation or treatment.

Episode 146: From Actor to Therapist—Reclaiming Identity & Embracing Self-Energy with Adeshola Nnamdi, LMFT

What does it look like to live with deep intention—and how can our past lives, creativity, and cultural roots shape the therapists we become?

In this episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Adeshola Nnamdi, MA, LMFT—an actor who made a pivot into clinical psychology and psychotherapy, is IFS-trained, and deeply passionate about storytelling, healing, and identity. Shola is the first male guest on the podcast—and the first to serenade us too!

We covered so much in this heartfelt, funny, and powerful conversation:

Before becoming a therapist, Shola had a rich acting career—appearing in many films and on television, including on a hit NBC sitcom called The Single Guy that aired between Seinfeld and Friends, working with Spike Lee (check out the video just below this paragraph!), and even hanging out at Saturday Night Live. But despite his outward success, he found himself burnt out, disconnected, and chasing applause rather than purpose.

Eventually, through sobriety and soul-searching, he found a new path: one rooted in service, meaning, and connection.

“What would my life look like if I stopped seeking validation and just trusted?”

Shola’s artistic background deeply informs his work as a therapist. He describes therapy as a kind of performance art—not because we’re faking it, but because we’re bringing our full selves into the room and responding in real time.

“Bad acting is pushing… having an agenda. That can happen in therapy too.”

IFS, in particular, allowed him to slow down, be present, and trust in both his clients and himself. Instead of working from parts that strive or fix, he now leans into the power of Self-energy—and it’s transformed his clinical work.

Shola also shares the powerful story of changing his name from Shawn Michael Howard to Adeshola Nnamdi, a decision rooted in personal healing and cultural reclamation. After George Floyd’s murder and years of reflection, he realized he no longer wanted to carry a name passed down from a history of enslavement.

“I didn’t want to die with a slaveholder’s name on my tombstone.”

The name Adeshola means “he brings prosperity” and Nnamdi means “my father lives.” It’s a name he carries with honor, intention, and power.

We also explored how creativity plays a crucial role in the therapist’s life—not just through hobbies, but through presence, flexibility, and flow.

“We’re creating in there. It’s art.”

Shola’s Zone of Genius is connection. Whether on stage or in the therapy room, he brings joy, attunement, and aliveness to the people around him. He’s passionate about helping others do the same—both professionally and personally.

If you’ve ever questioned your career path, felt boxed in by your therapist role, or longed to bring more you into your work—this episode is for you.

Shola offers individual, couples, and group therapy and brings warmth, wisdom, and a strong grounding in both EFT and IFS.
🌐 Learn more: idigtherapy.com

💡 Join my email list for therapist resources, creative community, and upcoming retreats! [Sign up here]

This blog and podcast are for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical or mental health advice and are not a substitute for professional consultation or treatment.

Episode 145: The Science of Creativity: Why Creative Hobbies Fuel Innovation and Healing

Have you ever felt stuck in your work, unsure how to break through to the next level of impact and fulfillment? You’re not alone. Many therapists, psychologists, and helping professionals find themselves yearning to create something bigger than traditional one-on-one sessions—a book, a podcast, a new therapy approach, a retreat, or an online course. Yet, they feel paralyzed, unsure how to make space for creativity in their already full lives.

But what if creativity wasn’t a luxury? What if engaging in artistic hobbies wasn’t just a way to ‘relax,’ but a scientifically-backed method to enhance your innovation, impact, and overall effectiveness?

A groundbreaking study highlighted in Originals by Adam Grant analyzed Nobel Prize-winning scientists between 1901 and 2005, comparing them to their equally skilled but less accomplished peers. Both groups had deep expertise in their respective fields, yet the Nobel laureates were dramatically more likely to engage in creative pursuits outside of their scientific work (Root-Bernstein, & Root-Bernstein, 2019). Here’s what the research found:

The pattern doesn’t just apply to scientists. A large-scale study of entrepreneurs and inventors found that those who started businesses and contributed to patent applications were also more likely to engage in arts-related hobbies, such as painting, literature, and sculpture (Woronkowicz & Noonan, 2019).

If you’re a therapist, psychologist, or wellness professional dreaming of making a greater impact but feeling creatively blocked, this study offers a profound insight: the key to unlocking your next big idea may not be more certifications or academic research, but rather, more time spent in creative play.

Engaging in the arts rewires the brain to make novel connections. Just as Nobel laureates use creativity to approach scientific problems in unique ways, therapists and wellness professionals can use it to craft new healing modalities, write transformative books, or design workshops that truly shift paradigms.

Many of us hold deep grief, shame, or burnout from years of emotional labor. Creativity offers a powerful means of processing emotions. Studies in neuroscience show that engaging in artistic pursuits activates the default mode network (DMN), the part of the brain responsible for self-reflection, insight, and emotional integration. This is why many people report breakthroughs in therapy or deep personal healing when they take up dance, writing, or painting.

For me, dance has become an essential part of my healing journey. After not dancing for 18 years, I found myself drawn back in through a simple six-week beginner tap class. That one small decision unlocked a deeper connection to my body, my emotions, and my creativity. I’ve since added contemporary dance back into my life and even choreographed a duet with a fellow therapist.

Interestingly, the study shows that performing arts (acting, dance, and magic) had the strongest correlation with innovation, making practitioners 22 times more likely to win a Nobel Prize. That alone is enough for me to believe in the transformative power of creative movement.

Many in our field hesitate to embrace creativity because of what their academic peers might think. But consider this: some of the most celebrated minds in history didn’t just stay in their lane—they expanded into multiple disciplines.

A lot of therapists (myself included) have had to unlearn perfectionism. For me, dance has taught me to embrace the messy process—learning to accept that I won’t get the choreography right the first time (or the tenth!). But it has also helped me trust that I will get it eventually.

When we create for the sake of joy rather than expertise, we break free from the conditioning that tells us everything must have a productive outcome.

Despite knowing the benefits, many therapists and helping professionals struggle to prioritize creative time. Here’s how to break through:

I’m passionate about creating collaborative spaces for therapists, healers, and entrepreneurs to explore creativity in a safe and inspiring way. Here are some exciting events coming up:

Make sure you’re on my email list to get updates about these and other future events!

Your next big idea—the one that could transform your career and help countless others—won’t come from grinding harder. It will emerge from giving yourself permission to play, to create, and to engage in the kinds of hobbies that light you up.

So, what will you create today?

💡 Join my email list for exclusive resources, therapist community meetups, and upcoming retreats! Sign up here!

Study on Nobel Prize-winning scientists and artistic hobbies:

Root-Bernstein, R., & Root-Bernstein, M. (2019). Polymathy among Nobel laureates as a creative strategy. Creativity Research Journal, 31(4), 400–407.

This study, conducted by researchers at Michigan State University, examines the role of polymathy—engagement in multiple disciplines or hobbies—in the creative strategies of Nobel laureates.

Study on entrepreneurs, inventors, and arts-related hobbies:

Woronkowicz, J., & Noonan, D. S. (2019). Arts majors as entrepreneurs and innovators. Small Business Economics, 52(3), 743–755.

This large-scale study investigates the correlation between arts education and entrepreneurial as well as innovative activities, highlighting that individuals with arts-related backgrounds are more likely to engage in entrepreneurial ventures and contribute to patent applications.

This blog and podcast are for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical or mental health advice and are not a substitute for professional consultation or treatment.

Episode 144: Finding Your Zone of Genius Through Culturally Immersive Travel with Kelsey Wilson & Amanda Cisneros

Have you ever dreamed of experiencing travel in a way that fully immerses you in another culture—where you’re not just a visitor, but an active participant in the local community? That’s exactly what Kelsey Wilson and Amanda Cisneros have built with Travec Travel, a company specializing in culturally immersive travel for families and individuals. But beyond that, their journey is an inspiring look at how leaning into your Zone of Genius can create a career and life that feel deeply fulfilling.

In this episode of The Innovative Therapist Podcast, we explore how Kelsey and Amanda discovered their unique strengths and built a business that aligns with their passions. We’ll also discuss how immersive travel experiences can be life-changing—not just for their clients, but for them as entrepreneurs.

Kelsey and Amanda’s partnership was almost serendipitous—what they call an “arranged marriage” of entrepreneurship. Though they didn’t know each other long before starting the company, their shared passion for travel, language, and culture quickly solidified their vision.

Amanda, a seasoned Spanish teacher, had extensive experience leading student trips abroad, but she always dreamed of expanding that model to families. Her Zone of Genius is in crafting detailed itineraries, logistics, and building deep connections between travelers and local cultures. Meanwhile, Kelsey had worked in global travel sales and had the entrepreneurial spirit to bring that vision to life. Her Zone of Genius lies in helping potential clients find the right travel experience for them, empowering them to believe in themselves and take the leap.

Together, they launched Travec Travel just two and a half years ago, and since then, they’ve built a company that fosters meaningful, intentional travel experiences.

Unlike traditional travel companies that often cater to tourists without deep cultural immersion, Travec Travel offers:

Travec Travel has evolved significantly since its launch. Initially, the founders thought they would primarily work with families looking to live abroad long-term. However, they found that their real niche was in planning short-term, intentional family travel.

Through collaboration with schools, Travec Travel now organizes capstone trips for students in Spanish immersion programs, as well as customized experiences for individuals and families looking for meaningful, connected travel. Their signature destinations include:

And they’re in the process of expanding to Puerto Rico and Chile!

One of the themes we explored in this episode is how travel—and learning a new language—can be a deeply creative process. It activates different parts of the brain, challenges perfectionism, and pushes us out of our comfort zones in the best possible way.

For Amanda, the creativity comes in designing seamless, enriching itineraries that allow travelers to fully experience a new culture. For Kelsey, creativity shows up in how she connects with prospective travelers, helping them navigate their fears and embrace adventure.

They shared how seeing their clients—especially single moms—gain confidence and independence through travel has been one of the most rewarding parts of their work. They also reflected on how entrepreneurship has given them the freedom to do work that lights them up while balancing motherhood and creativity.

This conversation reminded me of the importance of leaning into what excites us, whether that’s through entrepreneurship, creative projects, or travel. Amanda and Kelsey are proof that when you align your work with your Zone of Genius, not only does it feel fulfilling, but it also creates meaningful impact for others.

I’d love to hear from you—have you ever had a transformational travel experience? Or have you discovered your Zone of Genius? Send me a message and let me know how this conversation impacted you!

💡 Join my email list for exclusive resources, therapist community meetups, and upcoming retreats! Sign up here!
💡 If you’re intrigued by the idea of immersive travel experiences for you or your family, check out Travec Travel’s upcoming trips at www.traveltravec.com and follow them on social media on Instagram or Facebook!

This blog and podcast are for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical or mental health advice and are not a substitute for professional consultation or treatment.

Episode 143: Embodiment, Healing, and Community with Jen Bullen

Introduction
Welcome back to The Innovative Therapist Podcast! In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Jen Bullen, an embodiment and somatic healing coach, body image whisperer, and diet culture rebel. Jen and I met in a truly serendipitous way—at my first retreat in October, when I needed a last-minute yoga instructor. The class she led was one of the most moving experiences of my life, and I knew then that I had to have her on the podcast to share her wisdom.

Jen’s journey into this work is deeply personal and filled with moments of transformation. From her background in healthcare to her pivot into embodiment coaching, she brings a unique perspective on healing, presence, and the importance of community support. In our conversation, we explore her path, the role of creativity in healing, and the profound impact of nurturing relationships.

Like many healers, Jen’s journey into her current work wasn’t linear. She spent 18 years in healthcare as a first responder and nurse before realizing the toll it was taking on her mental and emotional well-being. Seeking relief, she turned to yoga—not initially as a formal practice, but simply as a space where she could breathe and exist. Over time, yoga became a bridge to deeper embodiment and self-understanding.

Jen shares how she first approached yoga as something to “do” rather than to be with, but as she continued her practice, she began to understand its power. Her curiosity led her to study trauma, movement, and somatic healing, eventually integrating these into her work.

One of the most striking things about Jen is the grounded presence she brings into a room. But as she shares, this wasn’t always the case. Ten years ago, her energy was scattered, pulled in different directions. Through deep self-work, understanding her own nervous system, and aligning her life with natural cycles, she found her way to greater embodiment.

Jen talks about the Ayurvedic principles that guide her work and how she helps clients reconnect with their bodies in personalized ways—whether through movement, breathwork, creative practices, or even gardening. The key, she emphasizes, is allowing space for clients to step into what feels right for them, rather than prescribing a rigid method.

In our conversation, we explore the idea that creativity is an essential part of healing. Jen reflects on how creativity shows up in her life—not just in art or movement, but in the way she holds space for people.

She also shares an insight from a friend who is a professional artist—how scheduling dedicated creative time was a game-changer for her. Instead of waiting for inspiration to strike, she made space for it. Jen applies this concept to her own life, recognizing that creativity isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for staying connected to herself and her work.

One of the most powerful stories Jen shares is about how she and her extended family came together to support her stepson’s wife after childbirth. In a culture that often leaves new mothers isolated, they created a circle of care—cooking, holding the baby, and offering emotional support.

Jen describes the moment when her husband’s ex-wife handed him their grandchild—a silent, yet deeply healing exchange that spoke to the power of community and shared history. This experience reinforced for me something that my parent coach has often said – that the nuclear family is a failed experiment; we are meant to raise children and support each other in community.

As therapists and healers, we often think big—how can we change the world? But Jen reminds us that sometimes, the most powerful work happens in the smallest, most personal moments. Whether it’s delivering soup to a sick neighbor or simply making space for someone to be seen and heard, these small acts ripple outward in ways we can’t always measure.

We also touch on the importance of honoring cycles—whether it’s the natural rhythms of the seasons or the energetic shifts in our own bodies. Jen shares how she aligns her business with these cycles, recognizing that creativity and productivity ebb and flow. Pushing through exhaustion doesn’t serve anyone; sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is pause, breathe, and wait for the right moment to act.

As we wrap up, Jen leaves us with this reflection: true healing happens when we show up for ourselves and each other—not with an agenda, but with presence and willingness. Whether we are supporting new mothers, leading groups, or simply deepening our own creative practices, we can all embrace the role of midwife—not just for others, but for ourselves.

Join the Conversation
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Do you resonate with Jen’s approach to healing, community, and creativity? Share your reflections in the comments or send me a DM on Instagram. And if you’re local to Grand Rapids, keep an eye out—Jen and I might just be planning something special in the future!

Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, stay curious and keep creating.

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If you’re a therapist or helping professional looking for ways to build a meaningful, sustainable practice, I’d love to connect. Join my email list to be the first to know about local and online community events designed to foster connection and creativity.

To learn more about Jen’s work and how you can connect with her, check out her website here.

Disclaimers: This blog and podcast are for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical or mental health advice and are not a substitute for professional consultation or treatment.

Episode 142. Empowering Your Financial Future: A Conversation with Laura Corbiani

Welcome back to The Innovative Therapist Podcast! Today, we’re diving into part two of my conversation with financial expert Laura Corbiani. If you missed part one, be sure to check it out, as we covered essential topics like money, power, and common mindset blocks around finances. This episode is all about tangible actions to become more financially empowered—because who doesn’t need that?

We’ll discuss key topics like:

Let’s dive in!

Talking about money can be overwhelming. Many people feel like they need to know everything before they even start, leading to avoidance and anxiety. If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. Financial concerns can exist even when someone is in a good financial position. The key is shifting from judgment to curiosity about your financial health.

One of the most crucial building blocks of financial wellness is an emergency fund. This is a cash cushion set aside in a savings account, separate from investments, to cover unexpected expenses. Here’s a general guideline:

Keeping this money in a separate savings account (instead of a checking account) can help prevent accidental spending. Automating a small amount to transfer weekly or monthly can make building this fund easier.

If you have access to employer benefits, it’s important to take full advantage of them. Some key areas to explore include:

Investing can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Target-date funds are a great place to start—they adjust risk levels based on your projected retirement year. Investing consistently, even in small amounts, can lead to long-term financial security.

One of the biggest financial challenges women face is negotiating for higher pay. Research shows that women tend to apply for jobs only when they meet 100% of the qualifications, whereas men apply when they meet about 60%. Additionally, women negotiate their salaries less frequently, which can lead to earning significantly less over their careers.

A few key takeaways:

Not everyone needs a financial advisor, but here are some situations where hiring one might be beneficial:

When choosing an advisor, ask if they are a fiduciary, meaning they are legally required to act in your best interest. You can also ask, “How do you get paid?” to understand whether they work on commission, a flat fee, or a percentage of assets managed.

Financial satisfaction isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about feeling in control of your financial decisions. A great exercise is to reflect on when you’ve felt financially stable and what factors contributed to that sense of security.

If you’re an entrepreneur or therapist looking to create more financial freedom, consider:

Financial freedom isn’t just about wealth—it’s about having choices, security, and the ability to live a life that aligns with your values. Take the next small step today, and future-you will thank you!

Want to explore new income streams that align with your values? Download my free guide: pages.drshawnhondorp.com/income

Creative ideas for income for Therapists and Helpers Free Guide: Grab it for free here.

Financial Satisfaction Surveys:

The Financial Satisfaction Survey is a self-assessment of how you feel about various aspects of your current financial life. The Personal Insights Survey delves into your past financial experiences and explores how they’ve influenced your perspectives and preferences.

These materials help people reflect on their financial history and current financial feelings. This understanding can lead to setting more meaningful financial goals and identifying any underlying money stories that may impact your financial satisfaction. With these insights, you can make more informed decisions about investing and managing your finances.

To learn more about Laura’s work and how you can connect with her, check out her website here.

Disclaimers: This blog and podcast are for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical or mental health advice and are not a substitute for professional consultation or treatment.

This podcast is for general purposes only and not legal, financial or tax advice. For individual advice, consult your financial advisor, accountant, and/or legal counsel.

Investment advisory services offered through Equita Financial Network, Inc. an investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Equita Financial Network also markets investment advisory services under the name, Astraea Wealth Management LLC.