Watch Us Thrive

*Trigger warning: This episode mentions acts of domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised.*
Meet Nilzara Rivera, a Trauma-Informed Intuitive Healer, Transformational Coach, and Light Language Practitioner. Nilzara has a passionate connection to God, which has helped to explore and fine-tune her skills in distant energy healing, healing meditations, and light language.
Her real, raw, yet loving approach creates a safe space where people are empowered to heal and unLayer the bullshit holding them back from being their unique expression of God.
In addition, Nilzara is a domestic violence survivor and advocate, has a degree in Applied Behavioral Science, is an international bestselling author, and has her Reiki 1, Life Coach, Health Coach, and Anger Management Coach Certifications.
But what best positioned Nilzara to be a healer and transformational coach was her decision to heal the emotional wounds that hindered her from prioritizing herself. She knows the exhaustion and pain that comes from living a life where her identity and self-worth rely on meeting the needs of others while neglecting her wants, needs, and desires. Nilzara now focuses on living a life of divine alignment. Learn how you can work with Nilzara here.
This week, Nilzara shares her experience with domestic violence and her journey to healing. She talks about her child and teen-hood, growing up in a dysfunctional family and the impact it had on her perception of love and relationships. She also discusses her transition to adulthood & the pattern of attracting toxic partners.
Nilzara emphasizes the importance of taking accountability for your own healing and the role of self-reflection in breaking the cycle of abuse. Our conversation also dives into the use of sex as a means of connection and the challenges survivors face in reclaiming their bodies after abuse.
We also discuss the importance of reclaiming ownership of your body and the impact of abuse on mental health. We touch on the need to reconnect with yourself and heal from trauma in order to thrive.
*If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please know that help is available. Call the 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for confidential support.
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Monica Rivera is a first-generation Latina from NYC who is a marketing professional, business coach and keynote speaker. After 15 years in Corporate America, she was feeling stuck. She devoured a plethora of self-help books and watched dozens of TED Talks looking for an answer, but every time an expert encouraged her to "follow your passion," she felt worse.
A self-proclaimed multipotentialite, she used to think something must be wrong with her because she couldn't settle on ONE thing. In 2017, she launched a weekly podcast called YOU WANNA DO WHAT!? after deciding that NO ONE is just one thing. We are layered, complex, fickle and creative. We are full of dreams, ideas, and goals.
For years, Monica lost sight of hers, but now she’s here to help you see success beyond a job title and a paycheck. Storytelling connects us and her signature approach comes down to giving professionals permission to pursue their personal goals through relatable stories and practical solutions. You can follow Monica on Instagram & LinkedIn.
This week, Monica shares her journey of coping with loneliness & healing from profound loss. She talks about her experience of losing her entire family as a teenager & how she initially dealt with grief and loneliness. She discusses the importance of addressing grief and creating safe spaces for ourselves and others to express heavy emotions.
Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction and Connection
• 00:56 - Monica's Background and Mission
• 05:40 - Dealing with Grief and Loss
• 09:55 - Questioning Faith and Finding Healing
• 11:51 - Addressing Grief and Creating Safe Spaces
• 14:37 - Navigating the Never-Ending Journey to Healing
• 15:56 - Lessons Learned and Softening the Edges
• 22:04 - Finding the Courage to Share Your Story
• 27:33 - Navigating Setbacks and Overwhelm
• 31:14 - The Power of Compassion and Empathy
• 32:39 - Defining Thriving: Compassion, Awareness, and Optimism
• 36:54 - Connect with Monica and Embrace Your Dreams

If you're someone who is currently dealing with loss, grief and struggling with feelings of loneliness, this episode is a must listen.
Share this podcast & leave a rating + review on Apple. New episodes premiere every Tuesday.
Follow me on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter & YouTube!
Get your free copy of The Thrive Guide!
Visit my website to stay up-to date.
Sponsors:
BetterHelp®— Get professional support when you need it. Receive 10% off your 1st month with my sponsored link!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/watch-us-thrive--5682406/support.

*Trigger warning: This episode mentions acts of domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised.*
Originally from England, Cat came to Australia on a working holiday with an ex of 9 years. That relationship eventually became physically abusive. They broke up when traveling after he strangled her and was told if she didn't leave, he would kill her.
After being single for a few months, Cat met someone else who love-bombed her and she ignored the red flags. Over the next 3½ years, she suffered mental, emotional, manipulative abuse & coercive control.
Through a support network of coaches, therapists, doctors & friends, Cat found the courage to leave him and began rebuilding her life to find herself again whilst going to court, giving police statements, applying for a visa, moving 9 times in 10 months & trying to keep her business going.
She now has been granted her permanent Australian residency, has an intervention order against him, her own apartment & a thriving business.
This week's converstion discusses Cat's experience with domestic violence. She shares her childhood experiences witnessing domestic violence and the impact it had on her relationships.
She talks about the pattern of abusive relationships she found herself in and the escalation of abuse.
Cat also opens up about her lowest point and the decision to leave the abusive relationship. She talks about the challenges she faced after leaving and seeking support.
Listen to this week's conversation if you or someone you know has experienced an abusive relationship. It's so important to continue shedding light on this silent epidemic.
Domestic violence affects SO many of us. It doesn't matter your background, social status, gender, age, etc. Domestic violence can happen to ANYONE.
Understand that the journey of reclaiming your life after domestic violence is in fact possible... If we're doing it, so can you💜
*If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please know that help is available. Call the 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for confidential support.
Resources for Australian audience:

• Lifeline
• The Orange Door

Share this podcast & leave a rating + review on Apple. New episodes premiere every Tuesday.
Follow me on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter & YouTube!
Get your free copy of The Thrive Guide!
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Sponsors:
BetterHelp®— Get professional support when you need it. Receive 10% off your 1st month with my sponsored link!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/watch-us-thrive--5682406/support.

*Trigger warning: This episode mentions acts of domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised.*
Kristina Meyer is a licensed clinical social worker & domestic violence survivor. She met her abuser at the age of 16. They were together for 11 years and married for 3. She underwent emotional, verbal, sexual and physical abuse in the relationship.
She is now using her experience to support others going through the same thing and to get the word out about domestic violence. She realized after coming out of that relationship that her trauma was even deeper than just the relationship.
Kristina has worked as a medical social worker and therapist in her career. She's been able to use her experience to help her clients heal from their traumas. You can follow her on Instagram & TikTok.
Kristina shares her experiences growing up in a household with domestic violence, the red flags she ignored in her own relationship & the process of leaving her abuser after 11 years.
We talk about the importance of self-love, forgiveness and getting to know yourself on the healing journey.
We also highlight the need to break the silence surrounding domestic violence and seek support from others who have gone through similar experiences. We encourage survivors to focus on themselves, reach out for help, and focus on their own path to healing.
Having these conversations is never easy. It's even harder to relive through the trauma we experienced as domestic violence survivors. But it's so important to continue the conversation and speak up against domestic violence. We are NO LONGER STAYING SILENT!🗣️
Please remember that there is SO MUCH POWER in speaking out and using your voice to share your story💜Help is available and healing is in fact possible.
*If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please know that help is available. Call the 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for confidential support.
Share this podcast & leave a rating + review on Apple. New episodes premiere every Tuesday.
Follow me on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter & YouTube!
Get your free copy of The Thrive Guide!
Visit my website to stay up-to date.
Sponsors:
BetterHelp®— Get professional support when you need it. Receive 10% off your 1st month with my sponsored link!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/watch-us-thrive--5682406/support.

Back at it again with another surprise solo episode! This convo was inspired by TikToker @higherupwellness. I was so moved after listening to his message that I had to share it with y'all and add in my 2 cents!
Some feathers might be ruffled with what is said, but I think some of us (myself included) need to hear it! If you've been feeling stuck and stagnant with where you're at in life, this episode is a must listen.
Be open to receive what's being said, put aside your triggers and get out a journal to take some notes. It just might be time for you to call yourself out on your sh*t!
Share this podcast & leave a rating + review on Apple. New episodes premiere every Tuesday.
Follow me on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter & YouTube!
Get your free copy of The Thrive Guide here! Visit my website to stay up-to date.
Sponsors:
BetterHelp®— Get professional support when you need it. Receive 10% off your 1st month with my sponsored link!
Neuro— Gum & mints to energize, calm + focus whenever you need it. Boost your energy when you want, focus your mind when you need. Visit Neuro to get 30% off your order!
Future— Future connects you with world-class personal trainers at home, at the gym…anywhere! Visit Future today to try out your first month for only $19!
Purple Garden™— Purple Garden is one of the most trusted providers in the psychic advisor space. They connect you with vetted psychic & astrology advisors who offer palm readings, oracle guidance & more. Get $10 of your 1st deposit matched by using promo code "Watch Us Thrive"!
STRIP Makeup— STRIP is a company focused on creating better options for makeup removal. Visit STRIP makeup today for an exclusive discount on any bundle!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/watch-us-thrive--5682406/support.

This week, I sit down with Dr. Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey, an abstract artist and podcaster. We talk about her journey of rediscovering creativity and using it as a tool for personal development.
Growing up in a practical and traditional family, she suppressed her artistic side. However, in her mid-20s, she attended a painting retreat that reignited her passion for art.
Driven by a desire to help others live life on their own terms, she combines her expertise in psychology and creativity to guide her clients in painting their own path.
We discuss the importance of embracing imperfection, overcoming fear & tapping into your inner child in order to unlock your creativity and THRIVE in life! Visit here to learn more.
Creativity is not limited to art; it can be found in everyday activities. I hope by listening to this week's episode with Clarissa, you give yourself permission to tap into creativity, try new things and step out of your comfort zone.
And remember this:
🎨Embrace imperfection and give yourself permission to pivot and change.
🎨Fear is often based on false evidence appearing real; challenge your fears and focus on the message you want to share.
🎨Live a life that aligns with your passions & values, and leave a legacy of helping others live their best lives.
Now, go out there and BE GREAT!💕
Share this podcast & leave a rating + review on Apple. New episodes premiere every Tuesday.
Follow me on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter & YouTube!
Get your free copy of The Thrive Guide! Visit my website to stay up-to date.
Sponsors:
BetterHelp®— Get professional support when you need it. Receive 10% off your 1st month with my sponsored link!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/watch-us-thrive--5682406/support.

This week, I sit down with Nicole as she shares her journey of healing & transformation. She opens up about her traumatic childhood, including experiences of abuse & addiction. We talk about the importance of speaking up, asking for help & setting boundaries. You’ll learn about various tools and resources for personal development. By the end of our convo, you’ll embrace your authentic self and learn how to thrive despite your own past traumas.
Originally from Boston, Nicole Yianacopolus aka Blu Nyle is a trend creator & trail blazer with a mission to inspire people to know they can make it through anything—and live happy, joyous + free! She’s a Certified Yoga Teacher, Reiki Master & Spiritual Empowerment Coach. Her story of triumph inspires everyone who comes into her presence.
Blu Nyle, which stands for Building Love Unconditional New You Limitless Empowerment, is a force to be reckoned with. As an advocate for mental health & healing ourselves to truly achieve genuine happiness, she’s dedicated to doing her part in helping heal the world.
Her mission is to stand up for people who might not have the strength to share their stories. Through her entertainment & healing arts, Blu shares her truth with the fire of 1,000 suns. You can purchase her book, Trauma Thriver: Mess To The Message, here.
Thriving after trauma means not just surviving, but actively adapting, building resilience & discovering newfound purpose in the face of challenges. I hope by listening to Nicole's story, it will inspire you to embark on your own personal growth journey. We're cheering you on💕
Share this podcast & leave a rating + review on Apple. New episodes premiere every Tuesday.
Follow me on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter & YouTube!
Get your free copy of The Thrive Guide! Visit my website to stay up-to date.
Sponsors:
BetterHelp®— Get professional support when you need it. Receive 10% off your 1st month with my sponsored link!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/watch-us-thrive--5682406/support.

*Trigger warning: This episode mentions acts of domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised.*
In this week’s episode, I sat down with Tori Benitez, a survivor of domestic violence and founder of Onyx Arrow Consulting. Tori helps those escape abusive relationships who are forced to not only co-parent with their abusers, but navigate the family court system. She specializes in strategies to help protective parents and their children.
Tori shares her personal experiences with multiple abusive relationships and the different forms of abuse she's dealt with. We highlight the concept of coercive control & signs of abuse to look out for. We also discuss the challenges of leaving an abusive relationship & navigating the legal system. We talk about how important it is to document the abuse you're dealing with and ways to seek help after leaving.
Leaving an abusive relationship is one of the hardest things a victim of DV can encounter. I want people to know that just because you left the relationship doesn't mean that the abuse stops. There's so much more that goes into leaving, and this week we're talking about it.
I hope by listening to our conversation, you can learn how to protect yourself from post-separation abuse and take back power once you leave that toxic relationship. It can be a challenge, but if we both have done it, you ABSOLUTELY can too!
*If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please know that help is available. Call the 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for confidential support.
Share this podcast & leave a rating + review on Apple. New episodes premiere every Tuesday.
Follow me on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter & YouTube!
Get your free copy of The Thrive Guide!
Visit my website to stay up-to date.
Sponsors:
BetterHelp®— Get professional support when you need it. Receive 10% off your 1st month with my sponsored link!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/watch-us-thrive--5682406/support.

I'm back with a solo episode this week which was inspired by a TikTok video on my FYP. The video is courtesy of Ashley Taylor Maland & the minute I heard it, I was inspired to dive deeper into the message behind it.
If you've been around for a while, you know about my past relationship history. If you're new around here... let's just say it's been ZERO STARS, DO NOT RECOMMEND🫠
The most powerful part of my healing journey has been taking a step back & re-evaluating my situation. It's been sitting in my mess & facing those "inner demons" I neglected for so long. It's not using someone else as a way to avoid dealing with my sh*t & start prioritizing myself.
I hope by listening to this week's episode, you find it in yourself to start loving on you a little more. Especially for my women who are currently dealing with a not-so-great relationship.
Make 2024 the year you put YOU first & cut ties with anything + anyone who isn't serving your highest self. It's okay & so f*cking necessary to be SELFISH!
Share this podcast & leave a rating + review on Apple. New episodes premiere every Tuesday.
Follow me on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter & YouTube!
Get your free copy of The Thrive Guide here! Visit my website to stay up-to date.
Sponsors:
BetterHelp®— Get professional support when you need it. Receive 10% off your 1st month with my sponsored link!
Neuro— Gum & mints to energize, calm + focus whenever you need it. Boost your energy when you want, focus your mind when you need. Visit Neuro to get 30% off your order!
Future— Future connects you with world-class personal trainers at home, at the gym…anywhere! Visit Future today to try out your first month for only $19!
Purple Garden™— Purple Garden is one of the most trusted providers in the psychic advisor space. They connect you with vetted psychic & astrology advisors who offer palm readings, oracle guidance & more. Get $10 of your 1st deposit matched by using promo code "Watch Us Thrive"!
STRIP Makeup— STRIP is a company focused on creating better options for makeup removal. Visit STRIP makeup today for an exclusive discount on any bundle!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/watch-us-thrive--5682406/support.

*Trigger warning: This episode mentions acts of domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised.*
This week, I sit down with Chelsea Guarriello, as she shares about her experience dealing with an abusive narcissistic relationship and how she's been able to thrive after leaving!
Chelsea Guarriello is a former celebrity makeup artist turned 7-figure online business owner. She was sick of working dead-end jobs to make ends meet. She dreamt of traveling, getting paid while doing it and making money in her sleep.
Drop-shipping changed Chelsea’s life. Within the first month, she made $20,000. Since then, she’s made 7 figures with her drop-shipping business. She knew she wanted to spread the knowledge she learned which is how her business HUNIGOLD and signature drop-shipping courses, Online Business Mastery & Pennies 2 Gold, were born.
Chelsea has motivated and mentored thousands on how she’s made millions in E-commerce, drop-shipping & selling digital products. Her mission is to put more women at the top and create generational wealth.
Rebuilding your self-esteem, setting boundaries, & rediscovering who you are is crucial in order to create a fulfilling life beyond narcissistic manipulation. I want you to know that there IS a beautiful life to live after dealing with an abusive relationship.
I hope by listening to Chelsea's story, it gives you hope if you find yourself in a similar type of situation. This is your reminder that you CAN go from surviving to THRIVING and we're here to support you!🫶🏼
*If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please know that help is available. Call the 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for confidential support.
Share this podcast & leave a rating + review on Apple. New episodes premiere every Tuesday.
Follow me on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter & YouTube!
Get your free copy of The Thrive Guide here! Visit my website to stay up-to date.
Sponsors:
BetterHelp®— Get professional support when you need it. Receive 10% off your 1st month with my sponsored link!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/watch-us-thrive--5682406/support.