On this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler sits down with Stephanie Schultz—founder of Blue Blood Metal Jewelry
, Senior Art Consultant with SH Modern, and Pure Barre Fort Myers
instructor. Stephanie’s journey has taken her from museum fundraising to the world of fine art and one-of-a-kind jewelry, with features in British Vogue and even the Real Housewives universe.

But today, Stephanie opens up about something deeper: the “traitor within” that silenced her voice for years. Raised between two cultures, she shares how shyness, self-doubt, and fear of anger shaped her childhood—and how those patterns resurfaced in her adult relationships and career. Together, Jessica and Stephanie explore:

• The link between childhood silencing and adult intimacy blocks
• Learning to identify triggers in relationships—and choosing vulnerability over fear
• How anger can be a healthy signal instead of something to repress
• The role of creativity, teaching, and fitness in building confidence
• Why taking risks (even scared) can bring true connection and growth

Stephanie’s honesty and insight remind us that healing isn’t about perfection—it’s about practice, self-compassion, and daring to be seen.

Highlights

• “Silence felt like safety, but it also created distance.”
• “You can take risks with the right people—and that helps you risk again.”
• “Parents don’t have to be perfect; they just need to be good enough.”
• “Do it scared. Bravery is contagious.”

Connect with Stephanie

• Jewelry: Website
  | Instagram: @bluebloodmetal
  
  
• Personal: Instagram: @stephanie_m_schultz
  
  
• Pure Barre Fort Myers: @purebarrefortmyers
  
  

Connect with Jessica

• Website: jessicaannepressler.com
  
  
• Instagram: @jessicaannepressler

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