Katie Thompson shares her journey from a government consultant facing burnout to a full-time creative entrepreneur. She discusses the signs that prompted her to leave her 9-to-5, the logistics of making the leap, and how she aligns her work with her core values of authenticity and community. She also leaves great advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Keywords: career transition, entrepreneurship, burnout, financial planning, authenticity, community, side hustle, creative career, mental health, work-life balance

Key Topics

• Signs of burnout and mental health awareness
• Logistical steps for quitting a job responsibly
• Aligning work with personal values and authenticity
• Building savings and side income before quitting
• Handling family and boss reactions to career change
• Work-life balance as a full-time creator

Takeaways

• A lot of the burnout Katie experienced came from the misalignment between her 9-to-5 and her own goals
• Katie started growing her affiliate income as a blogger to build up her savings before leaving her consulting job
• Navigating family reactions can be tough when quitting your 9-to-5
• Work-life balance as an entrepreneur looks different for everyone
• Having the mindset that “everything is figureoutable” will help you thrive as an entrepreneur
• Katie’s biggest advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to breathe, take time to figure it out (rather than impulsively quitting your job), and give yourself space to feel all the emotions

Sound Bites

• "I had a breakdown in the middle of the workday."
• "Everything on paper looks perfect, but my mind said no."

Chapters

03:23 The Breaking Point: Realizing the Need for Change

06:08 Understanding Burnout and Misalignment

07:30 The Quarter-Life Crisis: A Turning Point

14:57 Preparing for the Leap: Logistics and Finances

22:24 The Unseen Challenges of Quitting a 9-to-5

31:10 Handling the “I’m Leaving” Conversation with Your Boss

35:34 Aligning Work with Personal Values

38:22 Work-Life Balance as an Entrepreneur

42:13 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

If you know someone who could benefit from listening to this episode, please share it with them. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback. You can also support the podcast by subscribing, rating, reviewing, and/or commenting on your favorite platform. Thank you! 🙂

Newsletter: ⁠https://thenakedtruthwithlauren.kit.com/newsletter⁠

Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠

IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtruth.pod⁠

Contact Us: ⁠https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/contact

Connect with Katie:

Website: https://pinkchickadee.com/ 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/_thepinkchickadee/ 

Thank you to our partners this week:

Cozy Earth: Get 21% off bamboo sheets, pajamas, & more with code TRUTH at https://promocode.to/cozy-earth/truth-4zy

More Labs: Get 25% off clinically proven recovery energy drinks with code NAKED at https://promocode.to/more-labs/naked-tjj 

In this episode, Michelle Nosrati, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in trauma and EMDR therapy, shares insights on trauma, healing, and how subconscious patterns influence our adult relationships and self-perception. Discover practical tools and deep understanding to support your healing journey.

Keywords: trauma, EMDR, self-healing, relationships, mental health, therapy, emotional wounds, trauma-informed care

Key Topics

• Trauma and its types (Big T and Little T)
• EMDR therapy
• How childhood experiences shape adult relationships
• The role of the nervous system in trauma responses
• Self-sabotage and social media comparison
• Healing from emotional neglect and abuse
• The importance of listening to your gut
• Building genuine connections as an adult

Sound Bites

• "Trauma is often unhealed wounds from the past."
• "Constant striving can be a trauma response."
• "Listen to your gut — it’s your inner wisdom."

Chapters

04:08: Michelle’s High and Low of the Week

07:30 Michelle's Journey to Becoming a Therapist

12:15 Imposter Syndrome and Its Roots

17:04 The Definition of EMDR Therapy

22:37 The Power of EMDR Therapy

26:36 Understanding Trauma: Big T vs. Little T

31:20 The Impact of Trauma on Romantic Relationships

39:12 Navigating Adult Friendships and Connections

43:43 Listening to Your Gut: Finding Purpose and Peace

If you know someone who could benefit from listening to this episode, please share it with them. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback. You can also support the podcast by subscribing, rating, reviewing, and/or commenting on your favorite platform. Thank you! 🙂

Newsletter: ⁠https://thenakedtruthwithlauren.kit.com/newsletter⁠

Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠

IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtruth.pod⁠

Contact Us: ⁠https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/contact

Connect with Michelle:

Website: https://www.myemdrla.com/ 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/myemdrla/ 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@myemdrla

In this episode, Lauren explores how to stop overthinking and start living intentionally by applying the 'no regrets' rule. She shares personal stories about making bold decisions, creating actionable vision boards, and embracing discomfort as a path to growth. She leaves us with 1 small practical action for the week to cut through overthinking.

Keywords: overthinking, no regrets rule, vision board, personal growth, decision making, digital nomad, self-improvement, goal setting, resilience, life regrets

Key Topics

• The 'no regrets' decision rule
• Using vision boards for goal setting
• Personal stories of taking bold actions
• The importance of discomfort in growth
• Building resilience through challenges

Takeaways

• The top 3 life regrets are missed opportunities for education, not taking career risks, and not expressing feelings.
• The 'no regrets' rule helps cut through fear and overthinking, enabling bold decisions.
• Creating specific, detailed goals on vision boards facilitates real-life action.
• Discomfort is a teacher and essential for growth.
• Community support and resilience are crucial in navigating life's challenges.

Sound Bites

• “People most often regret what they didn't do"
• "Discomfort is the teacher"

Chapters

02:10 Creating a Vision Board for Action

03:42 The Power of the No Regrets Decision Rule

07:16 Navigating the Digital Nomad Experience

11:59 Pushing Beyond Your Comfort Zone

13:50 Taking Action on Overthinking

If you know someone who could benefit from listening to this episode, please share it with them. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback. You can also support the podcast by subscribing, rating, reviewing, and/or commenting on your favorite platform. Thank you! 🙂

Newsletter: https://thenakedtruthwithlauren.kit.com/newsletter⁠

Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠

IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtruth.pod⁠

Contact Us: ⁠https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/contact

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the topic of dating with a college friend, Caroline. Caroline is back for season 2, and this time she shares her journey from dating burnout and toxic relationships to finding a healthy, fulfilling partnership. She discusses her non-negotiables, lessons learned, and practical advice for navigating the messy world of dating in your 20s and beyond. 

Keywords: dating, relationships, self-growth, mental health, non-negotiables, healthy relationships, dating burnout, manifestation, self-awareness, personal development

Key Topics

• Dating burnout and ghosting
• Recognizing red flags in relationships
• Self-awareness and therapy's role in dating
• Non-negotiables for healthy relationships
• Nervous system regulation in love
• Manifestation and attracting the right partner

Takeaways

• You can't rely on hope alone; effort and self-work are essential.
• Recognize red flags early, like inconsistent communication.
• Therapy helps identify and articulate your non-negotiables.
• Healthy relationships require effort from both partners.
• Manifestation works when combined with action and self-improvement.

Sound Bites

• "I started feeling burnt out from dating."
• "I manifested my current partner."

Chapters

03:11 High and low of the week: family moments and work stress

06:10 First cringe memories: ghosting and immature communication

09:55 Dating in college and OG Tinder days

16:15 Longer-term relationships in college and after

17:26 Red flags ignored in past relationships

25:59 Realizing burnout and the need for change

29:25 Manifestation story: meeting her current partner

35:50 Non-negotiables in a healthy relationship

42:27 Advice to younger self: patience and self-awareness

If you know someone who could benefit from listening to this episode, please share it with them. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback. You can also support the podcast by subscribing, rating, reviewing, and/or commenting on your favorite platform. Thank you! 🙂

Newsletter: https://thenakedtruthwithlauren.kit.com/newsletter⁠

Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠

IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtruth.pod⁠

Contact Us: ⁠https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/contact

In this episode, Elena Agaragimova, People & Operations leader at Horizon Industries and co-founder of Shiftwell.ai, shares her journey through talent development, entrepreneurship, and wellness. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, mindfulness, and the mind-body connection in achieving the personal and professional growth you crave. Discover practical strategies for managing change, stress, and self-doubt, and learn about her innovative workplace well-being startup, Shiftwell.ai.

Keywords: resilience, mindfulness, career change, workplace well-being, gut health, stress management, entrepreneurship, talent development, Shiftwell.ai

Key Topics

• The human brain's response to change
• The connection between physical health and mental performance
• Innovative approaches to workplace well-being
• Mindfulness practices for stress resilience
• The importance of gratitude and self-awareness in personal growth

Takeaways

• Change is difficult because our brain perceives it as chaos.
• The mind and body are deeply interconnected, impacting performance and well-being.
• Shiftwell.ai assesses holistic human factors to improve engagement and productivity.
• Simple practices like pausing, practicing gratitude, and going to the gym can significantly boost resilience.
• Managing self-doubt involves understanding your fears, planning for worst-case scenarios, and taking consistent action.

Sound Bites

• "Our brain perceives change as chaos"
• "Go to the gym to manage stress"

Chapters

02:27 The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Talent Development

08:53 Mind-Body Connection in Performance

18:03 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change

27:02 Mindfulness Practices for Resilience

29:35 Navigating Mental Health and Career Choices

34:04 The Importance of Gratitude in Overcoming Challenges

42:38 Introducing Shiftwell: A New Approach to Employee Engagement

50:35 The Role of AI in Enhancing Workplace Well-being

52:33 Mindfulness and Presence in the Workday

If you know someone who could benefit from listening to this episode, please share it with them. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback. You can also support the podcast by subscribing, rating, reviewing, and/or commenting on your favorite platform. Thank you! 🙂

Newsletter: https://thenakedtruthwithlauren.kit.com/newsletter⁠

Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠

IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtruth.pod⁠

Contact Us: ⁠https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/contact

Connect with Elena:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/

In this episode, Lauren shares her personal journey navigating the challenges of her 20s, including career doubts, challenges while traveling, and the importance of vulnerability and mindfulness in growth. She discusses the illusion of social media and shares real struggles and lessons learned from a trip to Guatemala last year. She leaves us with 1 small practical action for the week: the regret check.

Keywords: Career growth, vulnerability, mindfulness, travel lessons, self-improvement, overcoming fear, personal development, life lessons, mental health, resilience

Key Topics

• The reality of career doubts and the fear of failure
• Travel challenges as lessons in resilience and vulnerability
• The importance of mindfulness and being present
• How to handle physical and emotional challenges during growth
• Decision framework: Will I regret it if I don't try?

Takeaways

• Staying grounded isn't about reaching perfection, but rather handling pain with grace.
• Vulnerability is cringy but essential for growth.
• Fear of failure often keeps us stuck in unfulfilling jobs.
• Physical challenges teach mental resilience and push boundaries.
• Try using the 'Will I regret it if I don't try?' framework for life decisions.

Sound Bites

• "Social media is a myth."
• "You can't do hard things alone."
• "Will I regret it if I don't try?"

Chapters

01:50 Social Media Illusions and Self-Doubt

03:08 Story about a non-glamorous Guatemala Trip

12:06 Lessons from a Challenging Adventure

16:45 Taking Action: The Regret Check

If you know someone who could benefit from listening to this episode, please share it with them. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback. You can also support the podcast by subscribing, rating, reviewing, and/or commenting on your favorite platform. Thank you! 🙂

Sign Up for Our Free Financial Freedom Webinar: https://thenakedtruthwithlauren.kit.com/finance

Newsletter: https://thenakedtruthwithlauren.kit.com/newsletter

Email: [email protected]

IG: https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtruth.pod

Contact Us: https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/contact

Here’s a quick tutorial on how to create a digital vision board that reflects your goals using Pinterest and Canva! I discuss my process of designing a vision board, tips on journaling and manifestation, and the significance of visualizing your future. I also share the book that started it all, “Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life” by Roxie Nafousi.

Takeaways:

• Vision boarding is a powerful tool for manifesting goals
• Digital tools like Canva make vision boarding super accessible
• Journaling and visualization are essential parts of the manifestation process
• Vision boards can be created for any time frame, not just yearly
• Inspiration can be drawn from various sources, including Pinterest
• Personal reflections help clarify goals for the vision board
• Sharing vision boards in workshops can foster community and support

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

01:02 Understanding Manifestation

01:39 Lauren’s Ritual for Vision Boarding and Goal Setting

03:37 Creating a Digital Vision Board using Pinterest and Canva

10:28 Exporting the Vision Board from Canva

10:44 Personalizing Your Computer Wallpaper

10:55 Vision Board Workshops: Setting Intentions for 2026

11:41 Season One Wrap-Up and Future Insights

Sign Up for Our January Virtual Vision Board Workshop: https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/vision-board-experience

Join Me Live at the Planet Wildlight Retreat on January 23rd: https://www.planetwildlight.com/ 

Contact Us: https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/contact

Newsletter: https://thenakedtruthwithlauren.kit.com/newsletter 

Email: [email protected] 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtruth.pod 

In this episode, Lauren shares her unfiltered journey of transitioning from a corporate job to building her own six-figure business. She discusses the emotional ups and downs of entrepreneurship, the financial challenges she faces, and the importance of maintaining a work-life balance. Lauren emphasizes the significance of pursuing your passion and purpose while navigating the uncertainties of being a solopreneur. She also reflects on the pros and cons of entrepreneurship and encourages listeners to take small steps towards their own goals.

Takeaways:

• Lauren quit her corporate job to pursue her passion for mental health advocacy 
• Entrepreneurship is filled with uncertainty and emotional challenges
• Imposter syndrome is a common struggle
• Financial stability is a big concern when starting a business
• Work-life balance can be harder to maintain as a solopreneur
• Success is not a straight path; it requires hard work and dedication
• Diversifying income streams is crucial for financial security
• The impact of Lauren’s work is more visible and fulfilling as an entrepreneur
• Investing in personal growth and coaching can enhance business success

Chapters:

01:34 The Leap into Entrepreneurship

03:30 Emotional Ups and Downs

08:26 Financial Progress and Challenges

14:30 Action Plan to Accomplish Six Figure Goal

17:41 Pros and Cons of Entrepreneurship

22:13 Reflection and Encouragement

If you know someone who could benefit from listening to this episode, please share it with them. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback. You can also support the podcast by subscribing, leaving a review, commenting, and responding to the poll. Thank you! 🙂

Sign Up for Our DC Vision Board & Yoga Workshop: https://www.wellnessliving.com/rs/event/bhaktiyogadc?k_class=589849&k_class_tab=58341 

Contact Us: https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/contact

Newsletter: https://thenakedtruthwithlauren.kit.com/newsletter 

Email: [email protected] 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtruth.pod 

In this episode, Lauren sits down with Ronika, a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and founder of Montreal Financial, who teaches her clients how to confidently manage their finances. They explore the importance of financial education, how to invest to grow your wealth, and the journey of entrepreneurship. Ronika shares her insights on overcoming limiting money beliefs, the significance of building a solid financial foundation, and the power of compounding savings. The discussion also touches on the importance of mindset shifts, the value of side hustles, and practical money habits. If you’re looking to build financial confidence, this episode is for you.

Takeaways:

• Understanding money is not as complicated as it seems
• Education is key to building a solid financial foundation
• Starting to save and invest early can lead to huge benefits
• It’s essential for women to understand and have access to their financial data
• Most people have limiting money beliefs, which are irrational beliefs about money
• Mindset shifts are necessary for overcoming financial barriers
• The most impactful way to improve your financial situation is to increase your earnings
• Weekly money habits, like reviewing subscriptions and investments, can improve financial wellness
• Side hustles can provide additional income and fulfillment
• Investing in ETFs can be a smart way to grow wealth
• Patience is essential in the entrepreneurial journey

Chapters:

02:16 Ronika's Journey: From Corporate Finance to Entrepreneurship

05:01 The Importance of Financial Education

06:44 Balancing Passion and Profession

13:31 Debunking Money Myths

14:33 Building a Financial Foundation in Your 20s and 30s

24:34 Limiting Money Beliefs and Their Impact

28:28 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs

33:43 Mindset Shifts for Financial Success

36:50 The Importance of Financial Awareness

39:34 Habits for Financial Well-being

48:47 Lessons from the Entrepreneurial Journey

54:33 Embracing Gratitude in Daily Life

55:34 The Impact of Gratitude on Mindset and Business

If you know someone who could benefit from listening to this episode, please share it with them. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback. You can also support the podcast by subscribing, leaving a review, commenting, and responding to the poll. Thank you! 🙂

Contact Us: https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/contact

Newsletter: https://thenakedtruthwithlauren.kit.com/newsletter 

Email: [email protected] 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtruth.pod 

Connect with Ronika:

Website: https://www.montrealfinancial.ca/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@montrealfinancial 

Newsletter: https://www.montrealfinancial.ca/newsletter 

Sam Vander Wielen walked away from a legal career that drained her to build a 7-figure business selling legal templates online. Her secret? Radical authenticity, even in the face of huge personal challenges.

In this powerful episode, Lauren sits down with Sam, a former attorney turned successful entrepreneur, to dive deep into her journey of authenticity, vulnerability, and resilience. They discuss the importance of separating self-worth from professional output, the role of social media in business, Sam’s struggles with grief and mental health, and the significance of sharing personal stories. Sam also shares her insights on finding happiness in the present moment and the hobbies she’s embraced to foster creativity and joy. The conversation emphasizes the value of community and the ongoing journey of self-discovery.

Takeaways:

• Authenticity is living in alignment with your values
• Navigating grief can be a complex journey
• It's important to separate your self-worth from your professional output
• Sharing personal stories can be healing but should not be solely for others' benefit
• Finding happiness in the present moment is crucial for mental health
• Social media can be both a tool and a distraction
• It's okay to take breaks from social media for mental clarity
• Building a supportive community is essential for personal and professional growth
• Vulnerability can lead to deeper connections with others

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Sam

04:12 Navigating Personal and Professional Challenges

06:36 The Journey from Attorney to Entrepreneur

12:16 Facing Life's Intense Challenges

18:04 The Impact of Grief on Identity

23:45 Finding Balance Between Work and Self

29:05 Untangling Worth from Output

33:32 Building a Mental Fortress Against Criticism

37:16 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

43:04 Finding Happiness in the Present Moment

45:36 Understanding 'When Then' Thinking

52:58 The Importance of Authenticity

57:47 Sharing Vulnerable Stories for Connection

Connect with Sam:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/samvanderwielen/

Website: https://www.samvanderwielen.com/ 

Sam’s Sidebar Newsletter: https://samvanderwielen.samcart.com/referral/easy-email/mjtp7HYCj2mJXAUR

On Your Terms Podcast: https://www.samvanderwielen.com/podcast/

Free Workshop ‘5 Steps to Legally Protect & Grow Your Online Business’: https://samvanderwielen.samcart.com/referral/Legal-workshop/mjtp7HYCj2mJXAUR 

The Ultimate Bundle®: https://samvanderwielen.samcart.com/referral/ultimate-bundle/mjtp7HYCj2mJXAUR 

If you know someone who could benefit from listening to this episode, please share it with them. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback. You can also support the podcast by leaving a review, commenting, and responding to the poll. Thank you! 🙂

Contact Us: https://www.thenakedtruthwithlauren.com/contact

Newsletter: https://thenakedtruthwithlauren.kit.com/newsletter 

Email: [email protected] 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtruth.pod