The WandHERwild Podcast — Adventure, Wonder & Modern Motherhood

In this video, Monica shares about an upcoming audio event focused on intentional living for mothers, taking place in real-time February 3rd to 7th. Monica reflects on the personal trauma that inspired this event and emphasizes its accessibility for all mothers, regardless of financial or geographic constraints. She discusses the planning and collaboration with various speakers, highlights the key takeaways from their conversations, and explains what participants can expect. Additionally, details about participation, including live and recorded sessions, workshops to create community, and the option to purchase extended access for 365 days if you miss the live event.

00:00 Introduction and Event Announcement

01:10 The Inspiration Behind the Event

05:18 Connecting with the Community

08:30 The Joys and Challenges of Hosting

12:08 Audio Event Logistics and Final Thoughts

Quick Links:

Website | Free Resources | Members Space | Intentional Living for Mothers: FREE Audio Event

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*Trigger warning* This episode speaks about death and loss. Monica & Carolyn are not trained in grief work or counselling and are speaking from personal experience. Please feel free to skip over this episode if it doesn’t feel aligned for you right now.

In this episode of Wander(HER)wild the podcast, hosts Monica and Carolyn speak about their emotional journey of navigating grief and loss as mothers. They share personal stories of significant losses, including traumatic experiences with their children and the passing of close family members. The conversation touches on coping mechanisms, the importance of seeking professional help, and the unique challenges of grieving while caring for young children. They also discuss how they have addressed the topic of death with their kids, emphasizing the importance of honesty and openness. The hosts share resources and experiences that have helped them through their difficult times, providing comfort and insight for listeners who may be going through similar experiences.

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* Grieving as a mother is complex, layered, and deeply personal—especially when also caring for children.

* Loss can include not only death, but the fear of what might have happened, and the emotional trauma of near-losses.

* Both Monica and Carolyn experienced profound grief in 2024, including the loss of loved ones and trauma related to their children’s health.

* Grief often brings spiritual awakening and forces a reevaluation of values, priorities, and purpose.

* Children are highly intuitive and can sense and process loss in their own ways; honesty and presence are powerful tools when navigating grief as a family.

* Rituals, therapy, breathwork, time in nature, and community support can be powerful healing practices during grief.

* The grieving process is nonlinear; healing continues in small waves over time.

* Choosing what to believe about death can be empowering and bring peace, especially when conventional frameworks fall short.

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps

[00:00] Opening Reflections:Carolyn and Monica set the tone for a tender conversation about grief, motherhood, and personal loss.

[02:16] A Trigger Warning and Intentions:They acknowledge this topic may not be for everyone and clarify they are speaking only from personal experience.

[03:47] Monica’s Year of Grief Begins:Monica shares how her daughter’s medical emergency and ICU stay became the first of several life-shifting events.

[07:52] Losing Her Grandfather:Monica explains the synchronicity of her grandfather passing just as her daughter recovered, deepening the emotional weight of the season.

[10:36] Grieving Her Grandmother:She describes her grandmother’s vibrant spirit and the profound loss she felt after her unexpected passing.

[13:52] Carolyn’s Story: Watching Her Father Fade:Carolyn shares about her father’s undiagnosed neurological condition and the heartbreak of watching him suffer without answers.

[18:45] The Unknown & Surrender:The two reflect on how grief brings uncertainty and surrender, and how control must give way to trust.

[20:33] Signs, Energy & Post-Death Connection:They discuss powerful moments of feeling loved ones’ presence through energy, symbols, and synchronicities.

[24:15] Monarch Butterflies & Music Boxes:Carolyn and Monica share personal stories of symbolic signs from their fathers and grandparents after their passing.

[26:48] Choosing What to Believe:Grief becomes a doorway to defining your own beliefs about death, the soul, and spiritual connection.

[30:20] Coping in the Early Days:Monica recalls how stillness, rest, salt baths, and short walks helped her begin to emerge from paralysis after trauma.

[33:42] Releasing Trauma from the Body:They talk about using breathwork, movement, and sound to process grief stored in the body.

[36:18] Journaling & Therapy:Carolyn explains how journaling, therapy, and finally booking a medium reading became key parts of her healing.

[39:05] Grieving While Mothering:They reflect on the difficulty of grieving while also showing up as mothers—often without space to fully fall apart.

[41:16] Talking to Children About Death:Carolyn explains how she approached grief with honesty, clarity, and resources that helped her children feel secure.

[44:15] Shifting Priorities After Loss:Monica shares how grief reshaped her life choices, leading to more presence, simplicity, and time with loved ones.

[46:12] Love in the Midst of Grief:Carolyn ends with a reflection on how, even in heartbreak, she was surrounded by unexpected love and support.

Resources Discussed in this Episode:

* Intentional Living for Mothers Summit

* Dr. Becky: How to talk about death with your kids

* Book for children who have lost someone they love: I wish you could see by Colby Gaudette

* Podcast Episode: Magic Hour with Taylor Paige # 104 Spiritual Connection through grief and challenging times

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

Subscribed

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In this episode of the Wand(HER)wild the podcast, Monica and Carolyn reflect on the accomplishments of Wand(HER)wild over 2024, including the growth and deepening connections within their Members Space community. They discuss the heartwarming support among members and the transformative effects of their workshops and rituals focused on motherhood. Looking ahead to 2025, they share exciting plans, including the Soul Manifesting Series, bi-monthly live guidance calls, a cacao ceremony, and the upcoming Sacred Connections Cohort that explores human design and astrology. They also reveal the Intentional Living for Mothers audio event, featuring conversations with 30+ thought leaders in intentional motherhood scheduled for February 3-7, 2025.*

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* Monica and Carolyn reflect on the growth and healing experienced during the launch of the Wander Wild member space in 2024.

* The community has created a safe container for vulnerable, real, and soulful conversations around motherhood and intentional living.

* Rituals, workshops, and guidance calls have deepened self-trust, intuition, and connection for both the hosts and their members.

* The member space fosters mutual inspiration, with moms supporting each other through burnout, breakthroughs, and small daily wins.

* 2025 is launching with exciting new offerings: the Soul Manifesting series, Sacred Connections Cohort, cacao ceremonies, and a free February audio summit.

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps

[00:00] Welcome to Wand(HER)wild: Monica and Carolyn reflect on the holiday season and the start of a new year.

[03:04] Celebrating 2024: Why it’s important to pause and reflect before diving into the new year.

[06:08] Creating a Space for Growth: Monica shares her journey of learning and guiding inside the community.

[09:12] The Witch Wound Cohort: Insights and challenges from leading a deeply personal seasonal offering.

[12:17] Real Conversations and Vulnerability: Finding safety and strength through open-hearted motherhood.

[15:21] Rituals, Breathwork, and Embodiment: Community transformations through spiritual practices.

[18:26] Power of Workshops: How vision boarding and intentional design are guiding collective alignment.

[21:30] The Magic of Guidance Calls: Connection and deeper relationships with members through live sessions.

[24:35] Collective Support in Action: Community validation, burnout support, and nervous system wisdom.

[27:39] From Inspiration to Intuition: How the WhatsApp space fosters confidence and self-trust.

[30:43] What’s Coming in 2025: A preview of rituals, guidance calls, and new cohorts inside the member space.

[33:48] Intentional Living for Mothers Summit: A look at the upcoming free audio event and guest conversations.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

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In this episode of Wand(HER)wild the podcast, Carolyn introduces a special segment from the Soul Manifesting Series led by Monica within the Members Space. This seven-part program offers audio- guidance to help women connect deeply with their hearts and souls to manifest their dreams. Monica shares her personal story of manifesting significant changes in her life, from studying engineering to living abroad, and the tips she has used over the past decade. She emphasizes the importance of persistence, trust, and community support in the manifesting journey. Listeners are invited to join the Member Space community for a FREE month to access the entire Soul Manifesting Series (details below) and engage in conversation with the mothers inside!

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* Soul manifesting is a deeply personal, intuitive process rooted in aligning with your heart and desires—not rigid goal-setting.

* Monica shares her personal journey manifesting everything from a career in engineering to multicultural motherhood abroad.

* True manifesting includes struggle, setbacks, healing, and growth—not just instant results.

* Real-life manifestation requires resilience, visualization, trust, journaling, and affirmations.

* Reflection and surrender are essential parts of the soul manifesting process.

* Community support can strengthen and sustain your manifestation journey.

* This practice is meant for those ready to take bold, aligned action with deep trust in timing and outcomes.

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps

[00:00] Soul Manifesting BeginsCarolyn introduces the episode and shares how Monica’s story fits into the Soul Manifesting Series inside the members' space.

[01:45] What Is Soul Manifesting?A softer, more feminine approach to setting intentions—one rooted in intuition, not rigid resolutions.

[03:10] Monica’s First ManifestationMonica recalls choosing a nontraditional path as a petroleum engineering student and calling in her first job abroad.

[05:00] Manifesting Humanitarian WorkShe shares how her dream of community service in Africa became reality—long before she knew what manifesting was.

[07:20] From Travel to Multicultural Family LifeMonica reflects on how her global journey shaped her vision for motherhood and building a life in Norway.

[09:40] A Healing Birth StoryAfter a traumatic C-section, Monica manifests a healing VBAC experience through clarity and advocacy.

[11:50] The Power of Personal VisionWhy the soul-led path often looks unconventional—and how Monica’s story validates trusting that pull.

[13:30] Tools That WorkShe outlines simple but powerful practices like journaling, visualization, and daily intention-setting.

[16:10] The Journey Is the LessonMonica explains how delays, setbacks, and “plot twists” are vital parts of manifesting what your soul needs.

[18:30] Who Soul Manifesting Is ForIt’s for those ready to trust, surrender, and take bold, heart-led action—no outside permission needed.

[19:40] Behind the HighlightsShe opens up about the hard parts: burnout, loss, miscarriage, and how they shaped the dream.

[22:20] Soul vs. EgoThe importance of aligning your intentions with service, heart, and authenticity—not validation or status.

[23:15] What’s Next for ListenersCarolyn invites listeners into the members’ space for deeper support, connection, and continued manifesting guidance.

[25:10] Outro from CarolynInvitation to join the members space and explore more mother-centered resources.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

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In this episode of Wander(HER)wild the podcast, Monica and Carolyn discuss the importance of slowing down and reflecting during the winter season, especially for mothers. They share personal experiences of dealing with the cold winter in Canada and Norway, discuss the concept of 'wintering' and offer guidance on how mothers can embrace stillness amidst the holiday rush. The episode also emphasizes celebrating accomplishments and setting intentions rather than resolutions for the new year. The conversation is filled with tips on creating space for reflection and presence while navigating motherhood and the external pressures of society.

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* Wintering is a biological and spiritual invitation to slow down. Nature models this seasonal shift, yet modern life pushes productivity—especially for mothers.

* Moms often feel the conflict between seasonal stillness and societal pressure. The holidays and year-end demands can make it hard to honor what your body and spirit truly need.

* Slowing down doesn’t have to be perfect or all-or-nothing. Small shifts—like five minutes of stillness or saying no to one thing—can create profound peace.

* Grounding rituals help anchor us in presence. Whether it's walking barefoot on the earth, wrapping up in a cozy blanket, or doing a sensory mindfulness practice, these rituals regulate the nervous system.

* Presence is a gift we give ourselves and our families. Putting away screens, engaging the senses, and simplifying the to-do list helps moms be more fully here.

* Reflection helps close the year with intention. Looking back with gratitude rather than pressure to “do more” creates space for celebration and grounded forward movement.

* Resolutions aren’t necessary; intentions can be softer and more soulful. Instead of rigid goals, setting intuitive intentions can align with what mothers truly need and want in the year ahead.

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps

[00:00] Welcome to Wander(HER)wildMonica and Carolyn set the tone for a cozy, honest conversation about wintering and intuitive motherhood.

[01:15] The Call to Slow DownCarolyn shares how the cold, dark Canadian winter is pulling her inward for reflection and rest.

[02:35] What Does Wintering Mean?Monica explores the contrast between nature’s cues to rest and society’s pressure to stay productive.

[05:10] Slowing Down Despite the HustleThe hosts reflect on the intense demands of motherhood during the holidays and the importance of honoring your natural rhythm.

[08:00] Making Space for Rest as a MomReal-life ways to embrace wintering, even when you can’t pause everything—like micro-moments and sensory grounding.

[10:30] Grounding Rituals for OverwhelmMonica shares her barefoot grounding ritual, and other sensory practices like wrapping in a blanket come up as simple supports.

[13:00] Simplify & Let Go of PerfectionThe hosts talk about releasing pressure, saying no, and tuning in to what truly matters during the holiday season.

[15:00] Presence Over PerfectionA conversation about screen time, anchoring in the now, and being fully with your kids and yourself.

[17:40] Reflection > ResolutionCarolyn introduces her Substack piece on reflecting at year-end and celebrating growth instead of rushing into a "new you."

[21:00] Let the New Year Start SlowlyMonica reminds us that it’s okay to reflect into January—and that the lunar new year often feels more aligned.

[23:00] Intentions Over ResolutionsBoth hosts share how they set gentle, soulful intentions instead of rigid resolutions—and invite listeners to do the same.

[25:50] What They’re Manifesting for 2025Monica speaks on calling in healing and body care; Carolyn reflects on connection and collaboration as her 2024 theme.

[28:00] You’re Not Alone—Support Is HereThey share how the in-person retreats and digital member community hold space for this kind of seasonal reflection and support.

[30:20] Join the Community & Free GiftListeners are invited to leave a review and receive a free month in the members space—with access to the slow living workshop replay.

[32:00] Final Reflections & GratitudeThe episode closes with deep appreciation for the community and an encouragement to listen to your body this season.

[37:50] FinalCarolyn and Monica thank listeners for tuning in, reflect on the organic flow of their conversation, and encourage mamas to stay inspired and supported through the season.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

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How can we teach our children to think independently, stay compassionate, and speak their truth—while doing the same ourselves in a polarized world? In this episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica and Carolyn explore cancel culture from the perspective of motherhood, community, and mindful self-expression. They share their own experiences, including Monica’s global perspective as an expat and reflections from their private Wand(HER)wild community channel.

Key Takeaways From The Episode:

* Cancel culture can inhibit meaningful dialogue and growth

* Modeling respectful disagreement teaches kids emotional intelligence

* Global perspectives foster empathy and understanding

* Mindful media use can protect mental health and authenticity

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps

[00:01] Cancel Culture in the Motherhood Space: Monica and Carolyn open up about how cancel culture is showing up in their community post-election, and how it affects women’s ability to express authentic viewpoints.

[00:04] What Is Cancel Culture, Really? A clear and grounded definition of cancel culture—and how it’s evolved from accountability to often reactionary judgment.

[00:07] Lessons from Living Abroad: Monica shares her global perspective as an expat and how living in various countries has cultivated empathy, tolerance, and curiosity around differing opinions.

[00:12] Triggers as Mirrors for Growth: The hosts discuss how emotional triggers in conversation are actually opportunities to explore inner healing and personal development.

[00:14] Modeling Respectful Disagreement for Our Kids: Mothers have a unique opportunity to show children that disagreement doesn’t equal disrespect—and how to remain rooted in relationship over being "right."

[00:16] Handling Social Rejection as a Mother: Monica talks about the emotional impact of being socially rejected or "cancelled" and how to reframe those moments with compassion and sovereignty.

[00:19] Disagreements in Family Dynamics During the Holidays: With the holiday season in mind, the hosts share how to navigate political or emotional conversations with extended family while staying grounded in connection.

[00:21] When You’re the One Being Cancelled: From real-life experiences, Monica shares how it feels to be on the receiving end of cancel culture and how to stay true to your voice amidst misunderstanding.

[00:23] Social Media as a Double-Edged Sword: A look at how social media can both amplify your voice and create fear of backlash—and how to mindfully manage that balance as a mother and creator.

[00:24] Digital Boundaries for Emotional Health: Carolyn offers practical ways to disengage from the noise, stay centered, and protect your mental health by setting clear boundaries around screen time.

[00:25] Community Conversations That Matter: The episode reflects on how the Wand(HER)wild community has become a safe haven for open dialogue—without judgment or fear.

[00:26] A Holiday Reminder: Your Voice Matters: The hosts affirm that while it’s okay to disagree, love and family bonds are worth protecting—and that your voice still has a place at the table.

[00:27] Announcing the Soul Manifesting Series: A sneak peek into their upcoming offering designed to help mothers manifest their soul-aligned life with practical tools and deep inner work.

[00:29] Final Reflections & Ways to Connect: Monica and Carolyn close the conversation with warmth, inviting listeners to share their thoughts and connect with the community.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Virtual Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | Bespoke In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

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In this episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica and Carolyn have a conversation with Wanderwild Family Retreats Wellness Lead, Tommie, to discuss what it means to revive your self-love as a mother. They discuss some tangible ways to move through feelings such as shame and guilt while our bodies are changing as mothers. They touch on personal journeys of forming a new relationship with their body and their body image as a way to find acceptance for their whole selves. Tommie's story echoes both the challenges and triumphs of reviving self-love and she offers inspiration to mothers who are navigating their unique journeys towards empowerment.

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* Why self-love evolves in motherhood

* How yoga and movement can reconnect you with your body

* Tips for overcoming body shame and perfectionism

* How to model body positivity and compassion for your children

* The power of affirmations and mindful parenting

* A behind-the-scenes look at Tommie’s children’s yoga book, “Being Me Is Special”

Additional Support & Resources:

National Eating Disorders Association

Postpartum Support International

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Tommie's Book: Being Me is Special

Time Stamps

[02:00] Defining Self-Love Revival: The hosts reflect on how motherhood reshapes their relationship with their bodies and inner worth.

[06:00] Meet Tommie: Our guest shares her wellness background and why this topic is close to her heart.

[12:00] The Body Image Journey: Tommie opens up about eating disorders and learning to embrace her postpartum body.

[15:00] Small Steps, Big Impact: Tips for taking micro-actions to reconnect with your body and spirit.

[17:00] The Social Media Diet: Why curating your feed is self-care.

[21:00] Yoga & Pilates for Healing: Tools for grounding, awareness, and rebuilding core strength.

[29:00] Raising Body-Positive Children: How to model healthy self-talk and start early with affirmations.

[36:00] Being Me Is Special: A peek into Tommie’s children’s yoga book that blends movement with self-love.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Virtual Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | Bespoke In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

Subscribed

Thanks for listening to The Wand(HER)wild the podcast! Feel free to share with a mama friend.

The holidays can be magical—but also incredibly overwhelming. In this week’s episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica and Carolyn dive deep into the internal dialogue that shapes our experience as mothers, especially during the busiest season of the year.

They explore how our inner voice influences the way we show up—emotionally, mentally, and energetically—and share simple, soulful ways to shift self-talk, reclaim time, and move through the holidays with more grace and ease.

Whether you're feeling stretched thin or just craving a softer way to experience this season, this conversation is for you.

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* How your internal narrative shapes your reality as a mother

* Why awareness—not perfection—is the first step to healing

* Simple mindset tools to create more presence and peace

* How to model self-compassion and mindfulness for your kids

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps

[00:00] – Welcome & Holiday Pressure: Monica and Carolyn set the tone for the conversation, sharing how the holidays often amplify mental clutter for moms.

[02:00] – What Is Internal Dialogue?: Carolyn explains how internal thoughts shape daily actions and her own journey from anxiety to awareness.

[06:00] – Rewriting the Narrative: How reframing our thoughts can lead to emotional shifts and more empowered action.

[09:00] – Becoming the Observer: Carolyn shares how to pause and notice your thoughts without identifying with them.

[13:00] – Practicing Self-Compassion: Loving-kindness meditations, mirror affirmations, and why it’s hard (but healing) to say "I love you" to yourself.

[17:00] – Supporting Our Kids: How storytelling, books, and embodiment help model emotional awareness for children.

[23:00] – Tools to Calm a Busy Mind: Real-life practices like meditation, journaling, naps, and nature to soothe mental overload.

[26:00] – It's Not All on You: Acknowledging societal pressures and how they set moms up to feel overwhelmed.

[28:00] – Redefining Holiday Expectations: Releasing perfection and embracing traditions that feel aligned to your values.

[30:00] – About the Time Bending Workshop: What to expect and how it supports moms in reclaiming presence and space.

[32:00] – Final Reflections & Invitation: Carolyn and Monica reflect on their journeys and invite listeners into community-centered healing.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Virtual Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | Bespoke In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

Subscribed

Thanks for listening to The Wand(HER)wild the podcast! Feel free to share with a mama friend.

Have you ever dreamed of traveling with your kids but felt held back by fears of sleep disruptions, logistics, or safety concerns? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica and Carolyn dive deep into mindful family travel—how to make it more meaningful, stress-free, and empowering.

Monica shares her recent solo trip to Morocco with her daughter.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

How to embrace mindful travel and avoid the tourist trap mentality

Overcoming fears around traveling with kids (sleep schedules, health concerns & more!)

The beauty of slowing down and letting kids lead the way in exploration

How to support local communities while traveling and make a positive impact

Lessons from traveling to 80+ countries and why Morocco was such a special experience

Whether you’re planning a big adventure or just dreaming about your next trip, this episode will inspire you to step outside your comfort zone, travel with intention, and create deeper connections—with your children and the world around you.

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps:

[00:00] – Introduction: Welcome to The Wand(HER)wild Podcast and setting the theme of the episode—mindful family travel, overcoming fears, and embracing slow, intentional journeys.

[02:30] – Monica’s Travel Experience & Background: Monica shares her deep-rooted love for travel, having visited over 80 countries and lived on four continents, shaping her unique perspective on mindful exploration.

[05:45] – Defining Mindful Travel: Discussion on what mindful travel means, avoiding the tourist-trap mentality, and making intentional choices that prioritize sustainability, cultural awareness, and respect for local communities.

[09:15] – Monica’s First Experience with Mindful Travel: Reflecting on a college trip to Kenya, where she built a water filtration system for a local community, Monica explains how this pivotal experience influenced her approach to travel and social impact.

[14:00] – Why Mindful Travel Matters: Examining the importance of choosing local accommodations, supporting small businesses, and being conscious of how tourism dollars affect local economies and cultures.

[18:30] – The Reality of Traveling with Kids: Carolyn opens up about the fears and logistical challenges of traveling as a mom, including worries about disrupted sleep, exhaustion, and the overwhelming task of planning trips with young children.

[22:45] – Common Fears of Traveling with Kids & How to Overcome Them: Exploring concerns about adjusting to new time zones, maintaining routines, handling jet lag, and ensuring access to reliable healthcare while traveling abroad.

[30:15] – The Magic of Slow Travel: Discussing the benefits of a slower, more intentional approach to travel with kids, emphasizing quality over quantity and allowing space for organic experiences rather than packed itineraries.

[34:40] – Embracing Spontaneity & Presence: Monica and Carolyn reflect on how children naturally help adults slow down, be present, and appreciate the small joys of travel, from discovering new foods to noticing cultural nuances.

[38:10] – Monica’s Solo Trip to Morocco with Her Daughter: Monica shares her experience of traveling alone with her 3 year old daughter, Mahira, for her sister’s wedding, highlighting the challenges and joys of exploring a new country as a mother and the importance of adjusting expectations when traveling with a toddler.

[46:30] – Responsible Tourism & Supporting Local Communities: A conversation on how travelers can be more conscious of their choices by supporting local businesses, ethical accommodations, and experiences that directly benefit communities rather than large corporations.

[50:20] – Key Takeaways & Lessons from Mindful Travel with Kids: Reflecting on the balance between planning and flexibility, how travel expands a child’s worldview, and why unstructured adventures often lead to the most meaningful experiences.

[55:45] – The Power of Travel Retreats for Mothers & Families: Discussion about Monica’s originating business, Wanderwild Family Retreats and how these curated experiences remove the stress of trip planning, offering mothers and children an intentional, community-driven travel experience.

[58:30] – Closing Thoughts & Encouragement: A final reflection on why moms should embrace adventure, step outside their comfort zones, and trust themselves to travel with their kids, even if it feels intimidating at first.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Virtual Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | Bespoke In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

As the seasons shift and we move into the darker, more introspective months, there’s a deep call to look inward, embrace our truth, and step into self-empowerment. But for many of us, something holds us back—a lingering fear of judgment, of taking up space, of fully owning our power.

In this week’s episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, we dive into The Witch Wound—a deep-rooted, inherited societal fear that has shaped the way women express themselves for centuries. From the historical witch trials to the modern-day struggles of confidence, visibility, and self-expression, this conversation explores it all.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

* What The Witch Wound is and how it still affects women today.

* The ways it manifests in people-pleasing, perfectionism, and self-doubt.

* How to break free from limiting beliefs and reclaim your voice.

* Somatic practices and embodiment work to heal the Witch Wound.

* The importance of sisterhood and community in the healing process.

If you've ever felt afraid to take up space, struggled with self-doubt, or hesitated to step into your power—this episode is for you.

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps:

[00:00] – Introduction: Setting the theme for the episode—exploring The Witch Wound, self-empowerment, confidence, and stepping into authenticity.

[02:30] – The Mystical Energy of This Season: Discussing the introspective and transformative energy of fall, Scorpio season, and the thinning veil during this time of year.

[06:00] – What is The Witch Wound?: Carolyn shares her initial skepticism and journey to understanding the Witch Wound, setting the foundation for the discussion.

[10:15] – Monica’s Personal Experience with The Witch Wound: A powerful story about a holotropic breathwork session that revealed The Witch Wound to Monica and how it shaped her healing journey.

[15:50] – Historical Context: The Origins of The Witch Wound: Exploring the witch trials from the 1300s to the 1800s and how the persecution of women has left a lasting imprint on modern society.

[21:10] – How The Witch Wound Shows Up Today: Identifying modern manifestations of The Witch Wound, including self-doubt, perfectionism, people-pleasing, fear of judgment, and competition among women.

[27:00] – Steps to Heal & Reclaim Your Power: A deep dive into how awareness, boundary-setting, embodiment practices, and self-expression can help heal The Witch Wound.

[32:40] – The Power of Community & Sisterhood in Healing: The importance of women supporting women and breaking cycles of distrust, comparison, and competition.

[38:15] – Visibility & Self-Expression as an Act of Reclamation: How embracing personal truth, creativity, and voice is essential to healing generational wounds.

[42:00] – The Witch Wound Healing Cohort: Introduction to Wand(HER)wild’s Witch Wound Healing Cohort—what it includes and how it provides a safe space for women to explore and heal.

[45:30] – Final Reflections & Invitation to Join: Encouragement to step into empowerment, embrace authenticity, and begin the healing journey within a supportive community.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Virtual Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | Bespoke In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

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