Episodes
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2346:
Ingrid Y. Helander shares five powerful steps for defusing tension in overheated relationships, emphasizing the importance of pausing, self-reflection, and empathy. By fostering patience and curiosity, partners can shift away from conflict and rediscover unity. The practical strategies offered promote healthier communication and deeper personal insight, allowing for more meaningful and peaceful interactions.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ingridyhelanderlmft.com/5-steps-to-chill-out-overheated-relationships-calm-down/
Quotes to ponder:
"Couples have a special radar for the smallest cue of a potential negative reaction and once things heat up, it's hard to calm down."
"When you own 100% of your part in a relationship, you’ll have a lot more power for what happens within it."
"Take a moment and imagine that you and your dearest may want the same thing - like to be heard and loved - but you have been going about it in the wrong way."
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2345:
Kalen Bruce explains how you can help your children build positive habits using the Tiny Habits method developed by BJ Fogg. By starting with small, simple actions tied to existing routines and celebrating immediate successes, parents can empower their kids to create long-lasting habits that will shape their future. This method turns habit-building into a fun, rewarding experience that sticks.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://freedomsprout.com/tiny-habits/
Quotes to ponder:
"Habits like running, writing, reading, and lifting weights can start tiny, and become huge, gradually."
"Instead of trying to exercise, become a person who exercises regularly."
Episode references:
Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg: https://www.amazon.com/Tiny-Habits-Changes-Change-Everything/dp/0358003326
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Missing episodes?
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2344:
Cylon George offers a transformative approach to beating performance anxiety by encouraging us to connect with a transcendent purpose, prioritize the process over results, and embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth. Drawing insights from Kenny Werner's Effortless Mastery, George empowers readers to relinquish ego-driven fears and enjoy their performances, no matter the stakes.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.spirituallivingforbusypeople.com/how-to-beat-performance-anxiety
Quotes to ponder:
"My purpose in performing is to communicate the joy I experience in living."
"Some of us play as if there were a gun being held to our head, and there usually is - because we’re holding it!"
"It’s time to start playing some 'wrong notes.'"
Episode references:
Effortless Mastery: https://www.amazon.com/Effortless-Mastery-Liberating-Master-Musician/dp/156224003X
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2343:
Bradley Charbonneau narrates a heartwarming experiment where his family, alongside another, disconnects their children from phones during a month-long trip. The boys experience a screen-free lifestyle, engaging in deeper conversations, rediscovering hobbies, and building stronger family bonds. Though they still miss their devices, this brief escape opens their eyes to a new, more mindful way of living.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://passthesourcream.com/screen-time-apocalypse/
Quotes to ponder:
"You know, Dad, I think that over the course of this month I’ve noticed that so many kids are just glued to their phones and they don’t experience anything going on around them."
"I finally got to know my brother. Mom, did you know that he has blue eyes?"
"I hate to admit it, but I wanted to thank you for not letting us bring our phones on this vacation."
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2342:
Melissa Noel Renzi shares valuable insights on nurturing highly sensitive children (HSCs) in a way that embraces their emotional depth. From encouraging the healthy expression of emotions to understanding the importance of alone time, these affirmations support children in turning their sensitivity into a strength, fostering self-acceptance and compassion.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://highlysensitiverefuge.com/highly-sensitive-child-needs-to-hear/
Quotes to ponder:
“All of your emotions are acceptable.”
“The world needs special people like you.”
“Take all the time you need to process.”
Episode references:
The Highly Sensitive Person: https://www.amazon.com/Highly-Sensitive-Person-Thrive-Overwhelms/dp/0553062182
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2341:
Allison Carmen reflects on the deep emotional struggle parents face when their children suffer, sharing her personal experience of navigating uncertainty during her daughter's recovery from a concussion. By embracing the philosophy of "Maybe," she finds hope in the unknown and a more grounded perspective on parenting through adversity, encouraging parents to find resilience and presence in difficult moments.
Read along with the original article(s) here: http://www.allisoncarmen.com/how-can-we-find-hope-when-our-children-are-suffering/
Quotes to ponder:
"Uncertainty is the refuge of hope."
"Maybe her healing would take some time and that was okay, Maybe she would need therapy to heal, and Maybe we would spend more time together as a family during her recovery."
"With Maybe, more air enters into the room to help us breathe and get through the challenging times."
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2340:
Will Penney challenges the notion of self-love, arguing that it isn't about constantly feeling good about yourself but consistently acting in your long-term best interest. He extends this philosophy to loving others, emphasizing the power of showing love through actions, even when feelings of affection aren’t present, and how this approach can positively impact those around you.
Read along with the original article(s) here: http://bebetterstupid.com/love-is-not-a-thing/
Quotes to ponder:
"You don’t have to feel love for yourself, like, at all - and certainly not all the time."
"Consistently doing the loving thing for yourself is vital. This makes others more open to loving you, and it trains you in how you treat others."
"You can always approach someone with intent of putting them first, to think about their needs, and to move heaven and earth for them as if they’re the most important person in the world."
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2339:
Will Penney challenges the typical notions of love, arguing that love is not about a constant feeling but about consistent actions. He explains that love in relationships is imperfect, and the key lies in showing love even when the feelings fade temporarily. It's the deliberate actions, not fleeting emotions, that truly define love.
Read along with the original article(s) here: http://bebetterstupid.com/love-is-not-a-thing/
Quotes to ponder:
"Your feelings of love aren’t the love that keeps families together, that connects you with strangers and allows you to feel good about yourself."
"The love you feel is, in the big picture, pretty irrelevant. The love you show is fucking everything."
"I don’t feel love for my wife all the time because literally nobody feels love for literally anything all the time."
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2338:
Evan Marc Katz highlights the struggles many face in dating when they pursue unattainable partners while ignoring those who genuinely appreciate them. He emphasizes the importance of letting go of rigid ideals and opening up to the possibilities of love from people who truly value and connect with you. Katz urges us to reconsider our expectations, leading to more fulfilling relationships.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.evanmarckatz.com/blog/dating-tips-advice/the-real-reason-youre-still-single
Quotes to ponder:
"Real relationships aren’t about credentials; they’re about connection."
"By thinking you’re 'better' than everyone who wants you, you’re eliminating the greatest source of love around - the person who wants you!"
"The key is in letting go of the image you’ve been holding onto."
Episode references:
Marry Him: https://www.amazon.com/Marry-Him-Case-Settling-Mr/dp/0525951512
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2337:
Tamara Patterson from The Gottman Institute highlights the importance of teaching children emotional intelligence to improve their quality of life. By validating their feelings and guiding them on how to express emotions appropriately, parents can nurture their child's confidence and emotional maturity. This article offers practical tips on helping children process emotions while encouraging parents to reflect on their own emotional responses.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.gottman.com/blog/helping-little-ones-big-emotions/
Quotes to ponder:
"You’re crying because your brother took your toy away. That made you feel sad. That would make me feel sad, too."
"Spend some time reflecting on how you deal with tough feelings such as anger, shame, guilt, fear or sadness and decide if there is something you can do differently today."
"Emotional intelligence can prevent them from resorting to unhealthy ways of coping."
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2336:
Nia Shanks reveals how true success in fitness, health, and self-worth often comes from rejecting popular advice and embracing a more personalized, fulfilling approach. By valuing who you are over societal standards and discarding rigid diet and exercise rules, you can build a life of wellness, strength, and joy.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.niashanks.com/opposite-popular/
Quotes to ponder:
"Base your self-worth on who you are as a person and what you contribute to this world because no set of numbers can define you."
"Stop caring about what other people think and live a life that brings you and your loved ones joy."
"Get better, not tired."
Episode references:
FitOn: https://fitonapp.com
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 2335:Lisa Merlo-Booth highlights how essential it is for parents to work on their own emotional well-being in order to raise healthy children. She reflects on how her competitive nature unconsciously influenced her kids and emphasizes that personal growth not only benefits parents but also sets the foundation for their children's development. By becoming more conscious of our behaviors, we can model healthier attitudes for our children to follow.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://lisamerlobooth.com/raising_healthy/ & https://lisamerlobooth.com/raising-strong-healthy-daughters/Quotes to ponder:"I can’t raise healthy children unless I’m healthy. I can say all the right things, read the right books, watch the right shows, etc.; however, I can’t bring my children farther along than I am myself.""As I continue to gain internal strength and confidence in myself rather than in what I do, my children gain a similar strength.""If we struggle to hold ourselves in warm regard, we teach our daughters to do the same."Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2334:
Stacy Kaiser shares her insights on finding happiness as a single parent, emphasizing self-empowerment and joy despite the challenges. She offers practical tips on nurturing yourself, building support systems, and focusing on the positives in life to maintain balance and happiness while raising children alone.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://livehappy.com/how-to-find-happiness-as-a-single-parent/
Quotes to ponder:
"Our well-being as individuals has a huge impact on our ability to be a truly focused and motivated parent."
"I have always felt empowered by being a single mother. I’ve gained strength from knowing that I’m in control of the bulk of the decisions in my life and my children's lives."
"Teach your children that they are important and responsible members of a family."
Episode references:
Journal of Happiness Studies: https://www.springer.com/journal/10902
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2333:
New parenthood often brings stress, particularly around differing parenting styles, intimacy issues, dividing chores, and financial strains. April Eldemire from Gottman.com offers actionable insights on how couples can strengthen their relationship by fostering empathy, improving communication, and addressing these challenges as a team. This approach helps new parents maintain a healthy relationship while adjusting to life with a baby.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.gottman.com/blog/4-key-issues-new-parents-partner-solve/
Quotes to ponder:
"Communicating effectively is key, so be sure to schedule some time to discuss parenting even just 10 minutes a day of quality face time can drastically increase a couple’s friendship and intimacy."
"Your partner trusts you enough to be vulnerable and wants a positive sex life, and it is a crucial time to respect that trust and vulnerability."
"The two of you are a team, and while raising a child is a big challenge, you have each other’s backs."
Episode references:
USDA Report on the Cost of Raising a Child: https://www.usda.gov
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2332:
Dr. Diana Kirschner breaks down the key signs that distinguish the marrying kind of men from those who are not commitment-ready. Backed by research, she highlights factors such as upbringing, spiritual practices, and attitudes toward commitment. This insightful guide helps women recognize early red flags and understand what to look for in a partner who is truly marriage material.
Read along with the original article(s) here: http://lovein90days.com/the-marrying-kind-of-men-seven-key-signs-2/ & http://lovein90days.com/does-he-have-soulmate-potential/
Quotes to ponder:
"Be discerning in looking for the men that are marriage material. They will only break your heart if they are not ready for commitment."
"Those who came from traditional backgrounds in intact families and those who attended religious services regularly each month were more likely to agree with: 'You’d be ready to marry tomorrow if the right person came along.'"
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2331:
Karen Stanley reflects on the importance of focusing on the lessons learned in love rather than dwelling on why things didn’t work out. By shifting attention to gratitude for each person’s role as a teacher, she emphasizes how this mindset helps cultivate self-awareness, personal growth, and the ability to attract a meaningful relationship.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://mrskarenstanley.com/lessons-learned-in-love/
Quotes to ponder:
"People just do what they do. And it doesn’t matter WHY anyone does what they do; it only matters that you learn from them."
"If you look back and ask why something happened, or spend too much time trying to understand WHY someone did something or didn’t do something, it only takes you backward in the wrong direction."
"Everyone who comes into our lives is a teacher."
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2330:
In this insightful article, Eddie Corbano explains the five reasons men might leave women they love, emphasizing that relationship breakdowns are not about assigning blame but understanding incompatibilities. Drawing from Christian Carter's advice and personal experiences, Eddie dives into the emotional complexities behind men's decisions to end relationships, touching on communication issues, attraction, codependency, and personal growth.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://lovesagame.com/5-reasons-men-break-up-with-women-they-love/
Quotes to ponder:
"Often times a man will leave a woman because he sees that she depends too much on him and has lost her own sources of happiness."
"When a man doesn't FEEL that deep level of connection with a woman, at least every so often to remind him of why he's with her, then he'll forget why - and the relationship will become just a whole bunch of 'work' to him."
"People are motivated by the things THEY WANT, and not what others feel and want."
Episode references:
Christian Carter's Newsletter: https://www.catchhimandkeephim.com
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2329:
Shawna Scafe shares the roller-coaster of emotions and lessons learned after having two children back-to-back. From realizing the ease of one child to discovering her own resilience, she emphasizes how parenting a second child challenged her beliefs, improved her time management, and ultimately deepened her capacity for love and patience.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://simpleonpurpose.ca/why-i-needed-two-kids-asap/
Quotes to ponder:
"I needed to realize that having one wasn’t as hard as I was making it out to be."
"The beautiful thing about being a mom is that every day you are drained of everything: time, patience, energy, love. But every day there is more."
"When you find out you are having another baby you will wonder if you have enough. Enough love, enough patience, enough energy, enough time."
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2328:
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner highlights the dangers of financial infidelity in relationships, stressing how secret debts and financial dishonesty can lead to significant trust issues, stress, and even divorce. She offers practical advice on recognizing warning signs and encourages open communication about money to build healthier, more transparent relationships.
Quotes to ponder:
"There are things you can do though if you don’t want financial infidelity in your relationship."
"Being open about your money situation can help prevent any surprises."
"You and your partner should sit down every so often - so that everyone can work towards the family’s financial goals together."
Episode references:
Forbes article on financial secrets: https://www.forbes.com
National Endowment for Financial Education: https://www.nefe.org
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2327:
Kelly Eden reflects on her journey of discovering her and her child's highly sensitive nature, highlighting the challenges and strengths that come with it. Highly sensitive children can experience overstimulation, strong emotional responses, and unique sensitivities, but they also possess empathy, creativity, and deep insight. Understanding and supporting these traits can transform sensitivity into a powerful gift.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://highlysensitiverefuge.com/highly-sensitive-child/
Quotes to ponder:
"Highly sensitive kids are curious, full of wonder, kind, and reflective. They surprise you with their ideas and the little amazing things that they notice in the world around them!"
"Feelings are the language of highly sensitive people. They view the world through an emotional lens."
"Highly sensitive people are empathetic to others and animals, are very tuned in to emotions, think deeply, and see details others miss."
Episode references:
The Highly Sensitive Child by Dr. Elaine Aron: https://www.amazon.com/Highly-Sensitive-Child-Helping-Overwhelms/dp/0767908724
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