Episoder
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Hello everyone and welcome to the Season Finale of another year of The Other Way podcast. I’m hopping on to wrap up the year with a solo podcast.
Today we’ll be covering:
- A life update: my mom, fertility, work, and more
- How I’m setting intentions for 2025: values over goals, my 2025 vision board
- Lessons from 2024
- The power of my spiritual practice and what that will look like in 2025
- Some rapid fire Q&A
As discussed in the episode, here are some resources I mentioned:
Identifying your values exercise
My vision board for 2025 and beyond (no set end date here)
As the year comes to a close, I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart. This podcast for me is more than just a platform for female wisdom but a community. I started The Other Way as a space for inspiration and connection during a time of deep personal transition. After leaving a decade-long career in tech to pursue a doctorate in Chinese Medicine, I found myself recovering from burnout, chronic endometriosis, and autoimmune flares. Though I identified as a high achiever on paper, I felt unmoored—disconnected from my body, feminine intuition, purpose, and spiritual path.
This podcast grew out of my desire to reconnect with my authenticity and cultivate a deeper sense of alignment. Through conversations with inspiring humans, researchers, spiritual teachers, and more, I’ve discovered wisdom and tools that have profoundly shaped my journey - and continue to do so. I am so grateful to each of you for tuning in and for all your wonderful feedback.
Happy Holidays and see you in the New Year!
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In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into ancestral wisdom and holistic motherhood with Krista Tarantino. Together, we'll explore time-honored traditions, modern insights, and transformative approaches to motherhood, postpartum care, and breastfeeding.
We'll cover:
Ancestral postpartum wisdom: What we can learn from our foremothers about healing and care after birth. Reconnecting with feminine wisdom: Embracing our cyclical nature and the concept of “rewilding” for women and mothers. The science and energetics of breastfeeding: How breast health connects to the heart and detox systems. Practical breastfeeding guidance: On-demand feeding, co-sleeping, and overcoming common challenges. The importance of care and nurture: Why receiving support is essential in the journey of motherhood.+ SO MUCH MORE!
About Krista:
Krista is an experienced Registered Nurse specializing in postpartum wellness and she is International Board Certified Lactation Consultant with a BA in Social and Behavioral Sciences. She is also a certified Innate Postpartum Care Provider which is care from the perspective of traditional teachings of midwifery, woven together with the modern sciences of Epigenetics, Pre and Perinatal Psychology, the Primal Continuum, Psychoneuroimmunology, Woman-Centered Physiology and Anatomy, Somatic Psychology and Neurobiology. Through her years of experience working in Mother/Baby care in multiple hospitals throughout California, she has witnessed the power women have at the most vulnerable time of their lives. Krista’s experience of watching and working with women giving birth to new life, feeling love and loss, and embracing the highs and lows of the transition into motherhood, she has identified that these these rights of passage that happen in women are powerful and deserve acknowledgment. Birth is so much more than the physical act of birth - a powerful emotional and spiritual shift takes place and when a child is born, so is a mother. Krista is honored to walk with women through these shifts and has been moved to encourage her patients to embrace them openly and fully. These transformational experiences have opened her eyes to the importance of conscious health care and postpartum wellness. Teaching women to find guidance through informed choice, community, and within themselves has become her mission. She believes that when women are educated and empowered, our wellness can be an intuitive art. Krista loves making herbal infusions, spending time in nature, being in the ocean, traveling, meditating and teaching women about connecting to our natural cycles and traditional postpartum healing modalities.To connect with Krista:
IG: earthmilkmoon
www.earthmilkmoon.com
www.thesolarroad.org🎉 Use THEOTHERWAY at checkout here for 20% off 🎉 -
Manglende episoder?
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In today’s episode, we’re joined by Simone Stolzoff, author of “The Good Enough Job”. Simone brings incredible insight into redefining our relationship with work and finding balance in a culture obsessed with productivity.
Workism: Where did America’s obsession with work come from? Why it’s crucial to rethink tying our purpose, identity, and worth to our work. The truth about “do what you love” – is it all it’s cracked up to be? How diversifying our identity and sense of worth can transform our lives. Finding meaning and identity beyond “what you do.” Redefining success for true happiness.+ SO MUCH MORE!
About Simone:
Simone Stolzoff is an author, journalist, and workplace expert from San Francisco. A former design lead at the global innovation firm IDEO, his work has been featured in The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Wall Street Journal, and various other publications. His debut book The Good Enough Job: Reclaiming Life from Work was the #1 bestselling work-life balance book of 2023 and has been translated into over a dozen languages. He is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and Stanford.
To connect with Simone:
simonestolzoff.com
articlebookclub.substack.com
IG: thepizza_bagel
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In today’s episode, I am diving into how to cultivate creativity, authenticity, and intuition in both online and offline spaces. This theme is near and dear to my heart as we explore the practices and mindsets that help us reconnect with our inner guidance and flow.
Joining me is Gaby Azorsky, a Reiki Master and healing arts practitioner whose passion for energy work and creative empowerment shines through everything she does. Gaby shares her expertise in tapping into intuition, fostering connection with the divine, and balancing structure with flow. Together, we unpack practical tools to bring more clarity, inspiration, and harmony into your life.
Here’s what we’ll cover in today’s episode:
Cultivating creativity and authenticity online and offline Tapping into your intuitive gifts Daily practices for fostering intuition What is Reiki? Balancing discipline with flow Practical tips for embracing creative flow The power of cycles+ SO MUCH MORE!
This conversation is filled with inspiration and actionable takeaways to help you feel more connected, balanced, and creatively alive. Tune in and allow Gaby’s insights to spark transformation in your life!
About Gaby:
Gaby Azorsky is a healing arts practitioner and medicine woman weaving together Reiki, meditation, clairvoyance, and folk herbalism ~ based in Los Angeles, California.
Her practice is rooted in the heart, Heaven and Earth, compassion, deep listening, and re-membering our true essence. She is the host of the podcast Serial Deeper, and sees clients in her 1:1 healing practice, in group courses, and in her monthly membership, The Flower Portal.Connect with Gaby:
IG: @gaby.azorsky
gabyazorsky.com -
In this episode of 'The Other Way,' I'm interviewing Emily Smith, a licensed acupuncturist specialized in both traditional Chinese medicine and Japanese acupuncture. We delve into the differences between Japanese and Chinese acupuncture, the importance of energetic health, and how societal interactions impact our wellbeing. Emily shares her journey and insights into cultivating healthy energy, emotional work, and the interconnectedness of life, offering valuable perspectives on holistic wellness.
We cover:
Exploring Japanese acupuncture and how it differs from Traditional Chinese Medicine. Understanding energetic health, how it impacts well-being, and ways to cultivate and protect energy. Recognizing and managing "energy vampires" vs. "energy givers" in relationships and activities. Practical tips for processing energy through movement, connection, and setting boundaries, especially during the holiday season. Embracing a holistic perspective on health that integrates physiological, emotional, and energetic dimensions.About Emily (in her own words):
Holistic Medicine caught my attention after I saw how Western Medicine generally provides one-size-fits-all treatments based on data for primarily white men. My relationship with my health and wellness has been fraught with confusion and misinformation. Many traditional cultures have medicinal wisdom for all stages of life, and Western Medicine has learned from this. Still, it doesn`t help us understand how we can assist our bodies in maintaining wellness.
This is where I come in. I love helping people find their personal user`s manual. Our body always communicates with us, but in a language we haven`t learned or prefer not to listen to. Once we learn to listen and appreciate our bodies` signals, our minds can relax, and our bodies will become trusted allies and precious homes for peace, inspiration, and aliveness. This, I believe, is our birthright.
Posture Matters—our bodies are finely tuned instruments. Misalignment and chronic postural compensations change our healthy, energetic flow. Additionally, energetic holding patterns from injury, developmental/ systemic social wounding, and environmental stress wreak havoc on our natural well-being. Breathing and movement are essential to wellness and pain free living. I help people enjoy our modern lifestyle by remembering innate wellness and resilience.
To connect with Emily:
https://emilysmithacupuncture.com/about/emily
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In today's episode, I am diving into a topic near and dear to my heart: finding a balance between striving, achievement, and spiritual surrender. I chat with Bristol Baughan—founder of Regenerative Media Lab, author, leadership coach, and executive producer—who shares her journey of redefining success with a regenerative mindset. We delve into topics like burnout, the balance between masculine and feminine energies, the importance of cycles in creativity, and how to cultivate a regenerative fuel for sustainable achievement. Plus, hear Bristol's insights on practicing surrender and navigating uncertainty in today's world.
We covered:
Moving from an extractive and destructive approach to productivity to a regenerative Our energy as “fuel” + how certain kind of fuel (lack/scarcity based/competitive) is more destructive vs. constructive Bristol’s own story of burnout and redefining her relationship with success, productivity, and creation How “surrender” isn’t about giving up - how to do so while still moving forward The power of cycles in our work and creation process The interconnectedness of masculine and feminine energy in the workplace - and why we need both (and likely need to cultivate more feminine energy!) -
Join us in a deep dive with Elaine Glass, author of "Get Quiet: Seven Simple Paths to the Truth of Who You Are" as we explore the universal quest for identity and inner peace. Elaine shares her personal journey of surrender, self-discovery, and spiritual awakening, offering insights to help you reconnect with your authentic self amidst life’s chaos. This episode inspires self-reflection and a beginner’s mindset, guiding us towards inner harmony and fulfillment.
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In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Stephanie Phelan, whose journey takes her from the high-energy world of the Today Show to the calming, intentional practice of yoga. After the tragic loss of her brother, Stephanie found a path to healing and transformation through mindfulness, meditation, and Ashtanga yoga. She opens up about turning moments of anxiety into empowering energy and how yoga taught her to find strength in stillness. Stephanie’s story reminds us that even through life’s hardest moments, there’s a way to live with heart and purpose. Grab your headphones and let’s dive into this inspiring, soulful conversation!
Here’s a little look at what we’ll be covering today:
Transition: the practical and spiritual aspects of a massive life change Stephanie’s journey with a powerful career shift The power of loss and grief into transformation; how Stephanie’s experience losing her brother propelled a deeper awakening The power of meditation and mindfulness to bring awareness to our experiences (the benefits + the tangible “how” behind this practice) The power of finding the “Dharma” or spiritual wisdom in everyday life; bringing your movement routine or even a traffic jam into part of your practice Navigating life as both a business owner and spiritual teacher+ SO MUCH MORE!
About Stephanie:
Stephanie Phelan M. A. is founder of Inner Light Shine, an integrative approach to mind/body healing. Stephanie is also a published author and a former producer for The Today Show.
Following a distinguished career with NBC Network News, Stephanie’s personal yoga practice evolved into a pathway of service and teaching following life-altering events.
Sincere devotion led her to earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology, to complete 1000 hours of Yoga Alliance Teacher Trainings, and on-going study with renowned psychologists and yoga scholars.
After decades of study and practice, Stephanie ultimately calls LIFE her greatest teacher.Her Ashtanga-inspired Vinyasa Flow classes are a fusion of seamless sequencing, carefully curated soulful playlists, humor, and alignment instruction. She weaves wisdom from yogic scriptures into a dynamic and sometimes sweaty class that focuses on the breath as a pathway to steady the mind, open the heart and allow for an experience of clarity and inner calm. She radiates love and joy. You will leave class smiling with your inner light shining.
Connect with Stephanie:
IG: stephanieingridphelan
www.stephaniephelaninnerlight.com
Serenity in Sardinia, Yoga Retreat
Metta Yoga Studio
The Studio Mill Valley
Soulful Flow, Haramara Yoga Retreat -
Hi, dear community! Have you ever wondered what juicy sex, breathwork, and constipation have in common? If you’re like me, and you had no idea - this episode will be a t.r.e.a.t. for you! All my ladies (and men) out there listening: we’re diving into pelvic floor health with Tanya Goodrich, a PT, DPT, and expert in pelvic health. You’re going to love her infectious energy and passion for the health of our pelvic floor - and with good reason. These important, layered muscles are the base of our core and affect so much: from our breath to our ability to birth, poop, pee -> and have amazing sex.
What is the pelvic floor and how does it affect our overall health The link between constipation and your pelvic floor, urinary issues, painful sex, and so much more How to optimize your pelvic floor health pre- and post-pregnancy (and in perimenopause and beyond) Why Kegels are NOT the answer for everyone + the potential link between constricted pelvic floor muscles and your “Type A” personality Tips for birthing better What is diastasis recti, why it matters, and how to treat it
Some of what we’re gonna cover today:
+ SO MUCH MORE! I was on fire after our interview. It is rare that I bring on a guest who covers a topic I know so so little about - but I truly think this is the FUTURE of wellness hype. Let’s dive in.
About Tanya:
Tanya Goodrich, PT, DPT, a distinguished figure in women's pelvic health, brings over 15 years of experience to her practice and advocacy efforts. With a background in dance from the California Institute of the Arts and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of California, San Francisco, she possesses a unique blend of expertise.
As the founder of Healthy Pelvis Physical Therapy, Tanya specializes in addressing a wide range of pelvic health issues, including those related to pregnancy, postpartum care, menopause, pelvic pain, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and sexual health. She extends her influence beyond clinical practice, serving as a recognized speaker on these topics and providing guidance to organizations like Ever now, focused on menopause care, and Blossom Birth and Family, a nonprofit supporting women and families in the Bay Area.
Through her comprehensive approach and dedication to education and innovation, Tanya Goodrich continues to make significant contributions to improving women's pelvic health and well-being. Tanya was recently featured in Maria Shriver's Sunday Paper as an "Architect of Change" for women's health.
Connect with Tanya:
IG: Thehealthypelvis -
I am so excited for this episode and conversation as we welcome the one and only Emily Greene, also known as Emily the Medium, to the podcast! Today we are exploring the spiritual side of fertility and the world of spirit babies. Emily shares her unique ability to connect families with their spirit babies, offering a deeper look into the energy of conception, the meaning behind miscarriage, the two-week wait, and so much more.
Spirit babies: what are they, how do they show up We discussed WHY diving into spirit realms or energetics is crucial to our fertility journey. The energetics of conception, miscarriage Spirit babies pass us by? Do they evolve? The two-week wait -> what is happening during that time? Are spirit babies propelling our evolution+ so much more!
If you want to dive deep into this concept, today’s episode is for you. I’d also say that it’s not just for women or couples looking to conceive; it’s relevant for everyone across all stages of this journey.
About Emily:
Emily Greene, known professionally as Emily the Medium, is a highly acclaimed psychic medium, who specializes in supporting families connect to the energies of their children, or their ‘spirit babies’, at all phases of their journey: whether they’re struggling with fertility challenges, in the preconception phase, or while they’re pregnant. In addition, Emily also supports families in raising their sensitive children, and helping them to acclimate to Earth, as well as helping individuals understand and master their innate intuitive abilities.
Connect with Emily:
IG: Emilythemedium -
In this episode, I open up about the unexpected blessings that can come from life’s toughest moments. When my mom was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer, everything changed. But through the struggle, our family found a closeness we hadn’t felt in years. Watching her respond positively to chemo brought a sense of peace I never expected, teaching me the deep power of surrender and acceptance.
In a world that’s all about hustle and deadlines, I reflect on what happens when you let go of control and redefine success on your own terms. Meditation and the art of acceptance have completely transformed how I handle life’s curveballs, from canceled plans to unexpected challenges. Instead of letting anxiety run the show, I’ve found more ease by considering both the worst and best-case scenarios—leading to a sense of fulfillment that feels more genuine.
Join me as I share how this mindset shift has changed both my personal and professional life, and why I’m stepping into a future that’s less focused on outcomes and more centered on living in the present. -
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Sarah Villafranco, a former ER physician turned founder of Osmia, a non-toxic skincare brand. Sarah opens up about her incredible journey from the intense world of emergency medicine to creating products that promote natural beauty and health. She shares what it was like to shift her identity and purpose, offering a truly inspiring perspective for anyone considering a big career change.
We dive into the harmful chemicals hiding in everyday skincare products—think parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances—and the impact they can have on hormonal health and fertility. Sarah breaks it all down and gives us practical tips on how to detoxify your routine without the overwhelm.
We also touch on some of the larger issues, like the risks these chemicals pose to pregnant women and cancer patients. It’s all about empowering you to make safer, healthier choices without feeling alarmed. Towards the end, Sarah and I get real about aging. We push back against the anti-aging narrative, exploring how Osmia takes a refreshing stance by not promoting anti-aging products. Instead, we celebrate natural beauty, embracing imperfections, and encourage a more positive outlook on aging. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who wants to nourish their skin and soul, while living in harmony with their body at every stage of life.
About Sarah:
Dr. Sarah Villafranco attended Georgetown University Medical School, and went on to complete a four-year residency in emergency medicine at George Washington University. She moved to Colorado, where practiced as a board-certified emergency medicine physician at Aspen Valley Hospital, Snowmass Clinic, and Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs, CO. She stepped away from the emergency room to launch Osmia Skincare in April of 2012. She remains a licensed physician in Colorado, and helps people find skin health as CEO of her brand.
Connect with Sarah:
IG: osmiaskincare -
I am so excited to welcome our next guest - a very special mentor of mine, Susan Griffin-Black, co-founder of EO Products. Today we're joining Susan as she shares her journey across fashion, Founding EO products, her Zen practice, and motherhood.
Susan talks about balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with mindfulness while raising a family and staying true to her values. Her story is filled with incredible moments from her early days at Esprit to discovering the wellness industry at Neal’s Yard in London.
We also dive into the challenges of growing EO Products from her garage and the balance between work and life. Plus, hear her insights on ethical business, funding, and building a company that aligns with family values.
This episode is perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to create sustainable, values-driven businesses!
About Susan:
Susan is a proud mama of two wildly creative artists and is now a joyful grandma, too! She’s also the heart and co-founder/co-CEO of EO Products, a personal care brand that started in her garage in 1995. Alongside her partner Brad, Susan set out to make the magic of pure essential oils something everyone could experience. Since 1997, they’ve been crafting their products right in Marin, staying true to their roots. It all began with a simple stockpot of shower gel in their garage, and now it’s become a journey they never could have imagined—one led purely by passion and a whole lot of heart.
Connect with Susan:
IG: sgriffinblack & eoproducts -
What can Zen philosophy teach us about navigating the unpredictability of entrepreneurship and life? Tune into The Other Way as we chat with Leo Babauta, bestselling author and founder of Zen Habits, to explore how we can embrace joy and opportunity, even in the face of chaos. Leo shares his personal journey with a warmth and authenticity that will resonate with anyone who’s going through tough times.
From overcoming imposter syndrome to practicing mindfulness, Leo’s wisdom shines as we discuss practical ways to live fully in each moment. We also dive into the power of compassion and curiosity for personal and professional growth. You won’t want to miss this heart-to-heart episode filled with insightful lessons from one of the most genuine voices in simplicity and mindfulness. Let Leo’s mission to help others thrive through uncertainty inspire you.
About Leo:
Leo Babauta is a simplicity blogger & author. He created Zen Habits, a Top 25 blog with a million readers. He’s also a best-selling author, a husband, father of six children, and a vegan. In 2010 moved from Guam to California, where he leads a simple life.
He’s also a Zen student, and is on a mission to help the world open through uncertainty training.
Connect with Leo:
IG: officialzenhabits
LinkedIn: leo-babauta-zenhabits
zenhabits.net -
This episode takes us on a beautiful journey exploring the deep connections between Buddhism, Reiki, Daoism, and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
We dive into Lara’s inspiring path—from her beginnings in Europe to working as a designer in NYC, and eventually immersing herself in the study of Chinese Medicine and Reiki, while embracing the practice of Buddhism.
Together, we explore the essence of Yin and Yang and how energy is at the heart of our experiences, health, and balance.
Tune in to hear how we can live in harmony with Qi, the life force energy that flows through our bodies, relationships, and minds
About Lara:
Lara is a dedicated Zen Buddhist practitioner who blends Eastern and Western healing modalities, including Reiki, Breathwork, CranioSacral therapy, Herbology, and Holistic Health Coaching. With over a decade of experience, she helps clients achieve balance and well-being by addressing physical and emotional challenges.Since 2011, Lara has pursued Chinese Medicine in NYC, earning two Master’s degrees to become a licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist. As a Reiki Master for seven years, she has trained students worldwide, offering in-person sessions in Southern California and online.
Connect with Lara:
IG: laraelliott1 -
What if the key to transforming your career and personal life lies in embracing discomfort and letting go of numbing habits? In this episode of "The Other Way," we sit down with Cecily Mak, a mother, writer, podcast host, Founder of the ClearLife movement, and co-founder of Wisdom Ventures, who shares her journey from a high-powered career in law to leading a movement focused on intentional living.
Cecily’s journey going from 20 years of diverse experience as an attorney, revenue leader, and COO to launching the ClearLife movement, authoring a book, and her podcast Releasing dimmers: aka substances, media, habits that “numb” or alleviate our uncomfortable emotions As a mindfulness practitioner, how Cecily balances aspiration with presence and contentment The key questions Cecily asks herself to tune into her values, her North Star, and honing her intuition Daily practices for tapping into her intuition (including a simple way to recognize “signs” from the Universe) Navigating imposter syndrome and doubt (Even top tier executives and founders experience this! Loved the honesty) How a devastating breast cancer diagnosis pointed her more firmly towards her path (validation that “rock bottom” moments can point us towards our greatest gifts)
Today we cover:
+ so much moreAbout Cecily:
Cecily Mak is a mother to two sons, writer, podcast host, co-founder of Wisdom Ventures, and the visionary behind ClearLife. ClearLife is a journey toward an undimmed life, where intention and presence flourish, unencumbered by the stigmas of addiction.Cecily's ClearLife journey, influenced by her triumph over breast cancer in 2022 and her late mother's battle with alcoholism, fuels her mission of transformation and healing. Through her work, she extends a compassionate hand to those navigating similar paths, guiding them toward a life defined by connection, clarity, and well-being.
With over 20 years of diverse experience as an attorney, revenue leader, and COO, Cecily has spearheaded the growth of startups across various industries, including music, publishing, mindfulness, well-being, and crypto. As co-founder of Wisdom Ventures and co-founding limited partner of How Women Invest, Cecily is a champion for greater human connection and well-being. Her board memberships and support for various organizations, notably at SIY Global, and The U.S. Alcohol Policy Alliance, underscore her commitment to ethical leadership and social responsibility.
Whether parenting her two sons, supporting impact-driven entrepreneurs, or engaging with a global community, Cecily embodies the principles of ClearLife, inspiring others to embrace authenticity and heart-centered living. Her dedication to fostering presence, healthier relationships, and intentional living resonates deeply with individuals seeking a path of alignment and fulfillment.
On Substack On Instagram On LinkedIn
Connect with Cecily: -
🌱 BONUS TREAT: Marysia's School of the Sacred Wild Apprenticeship program starts 9/7; we have a special 15% off code for The Other Way listeners:
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What if you could transform personal trauma into a thriving career? Our latest conversation with Marysia Miernowska, a celebrated herbalist, teacher, and earth activist, promises to reveal exactly how she did it. From the brink of homelessness after a traumatic divorce, Marysia built a successful herbalism school, authored insightful books, and launched an award-winning skincare line. Discover the profound wisdom she gained along the way and her practical tips for using herbal remedies to find peace amidst life's chaos. Her Eastern European heritage, especially the wisdom passed down from her great-grandmother, adds a rich cultural layer to her journey.
Marysia’s story is not just about professional success; it's a heartfelt exploration of motherhood and personal resilience. We examine the emotional tides of becoming a (single) mother, from the grief over lost freedoms to the deep reservoirs of love and empathy motherhood uncovers. Through personal anecdotes, Marysia shares how she navigated family illness and found beauty even amid hardship. Her experiences offer insightful reflections on accepting life’s cycles of death and rebirth, ultimately fostering greater personal growth and resilience.
Finally, our conversation turns to the incredible healing power of nature and herbalism. Marysia recounts her early memories of foraging in Poland and her transformative experiences in Northern Vermont. Hear how she overcame a difficult breakup and near-homelessness, which deepened her commitment to herbalism and community support. Learn about the practical benefits of connecting with nature, from managing acute stress to syncing daily rhythms with natural cycles. Marysia also shares tips on functional freeze, balancing calm and warrior practices, and the importance of morning rituals. Join us for an enriching discussion that might just inspire you to explore the natural world for emotional and spiritual nourishment.
To connect with Marysia: -
Welcome back to The Other Way! I'm Kasia, your host, and I'm thrilled to reconnect with you all after our season break. As many of you know, I wrapped up last season during a challenging time. My mom was diagnosed with cancer just days before our last episode, and I've been in NYC since mid-July, supporting her, navigating this uncertainty, and celebrating the moments that matter—like my brother’s beautiful wedding, which we brought to New York so my mom could be a part of it.
While I have many personal updates to share in a solo episode soon, we’re celebrating the start of a new season today. We’re transitioning into fall, or as Chinese Medicine calls it, “Late Summer.” This Earth element season is a time of transition, marking the shift from the active Yang energy of spring and summer to the Yin introspection of fall and winter. I can feel the change in the air here in NYC, with cooler mornings and the subtle natural shift. We’re only here until Sunday before returning to California, so I’m soaking up every moment with family and the last hints of East Coast summer.
In this new season, we’re diving deep into the paths less traveled, all through a feminine lens. We’ll explore themes that resonate with my life journey—women’s health, fertility, career, spirituality, and more. This year has brought about significant shifts for me, both personally and professionally, and I’m leaning into surrender and presence in ways I never imagined.
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the themes we’ll be exploring this season:
Awakening Fertility: We’ll dive into preconception, conception, and beyond, with insights on how to optimize our bodies, minds, and spirits. Expect conversations with experts in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and herbalism. Cultivating Creative Fertility: Exploring the powerful link between our wombs and creative potential. Modern Spirituality: Applying Zen lessons to our contemporary lives, especially in balancing aspiration and contentment for the ambitious among us. Transitions: Finding peace through life’s stages, from birth and death to identity shifts. Anxiety, Imposter Syndrome, and Creativity: Navigating these common challenges with grace and self-compassion. Releasing Addictions: Tackling our dependencies on tech, stimulation, shopping, and even our own bad habits.And that’s just the beginning! We have an incredible lineup of guests whose wisdom I can’t wait to share.
Thank you so much for tuning in and being a part of this beautiful community. I’m beyond excited to embark on this journey with you in the Fall 2024 season of The Other Way. Let’s dive in!
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Hi everyone, welcome back to the show. Today’s episode is a season wrap-up and life update. It isn’t something I had been expecting to share, but it’s a profoundly significant update and season of life for me. My initial plans were to share a bit about my recent reiki training in Ojai, a bit about my trip to Spirit Weavers in June, and chat about some business items that have come up along with my Zen practice but life has a funny way of redirecting things. My mom was diagnosed with cancer and frankly, a lot has changed in the last two weeks.
This experience has been painful and also in the strangest ways, openhearted and beautiful. I would never have wished for this experience, but I accept it and have found something to be grateful for throughout it. I deeply credit my Zen and mindfulness practice for this open-hearted perspective.
Sending out love to those who need it - and thanking every one of you for tuning into this season of the other way. Join us in the fall for more conversations about paths less traveled, spirituality, wellness, women’s health, and more.
XX
-Kasia
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Today we have another hormonal health deep dive for you all: we’re covering female life stages of fertility into perimenopause with Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Maddy Pollack. Maddy’s story is kind of wild: After surviving cancer at 25 years old, she became passionate about nutrition, movement and mindfulness in order to get more control over her own health and to help others do the same. Maddy dove into the world of female hormones a few years later when she realized her stress levels were causing her own hormones to be out of balance.
We cover so much today - in really what feels like a conversation not just an interview. Some topics:
- Maddy’s journey with cancer at a young age: not just the experience but navigating the mental aspect of such a harrowing diagnosis
- The power of food, movement, and mindfulness for health
- Debunking misconceptions about food and hormonal health: teaser, protein isn’t all you think it is babes
- How the workouts you’re doing might be messing up your hormones
- Why mindfulness is so important for hormonal regulation + non meditation ways to practice mindfulness
- Maddy’s own wellness routine
+ so much more!
About Maddy:
Maddy Pollack is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, specializing in Women's Hormone Health & Balance. After surviving cancer at 25 years old, she became passionate about nutrition, movement and mindfulness in order to get more control over her own health and to help others do the same. Maddy dove into the world of female hormones a few years later when she realized her stress levels were causing her own hormones to be out of balance. She now guides clients in learning more about their own specific menstrual cycle, syncing foods & movement with their cycle, reducing stress levels through mindfulness and improving their overall wellbeing through a sustainable nutrition approach.
To connect with Maddy:
IG: maddypollack_health - Vis mere
