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    Untethered with Jen Liss

    Break free, be you, and unleash your inner brilliance with "Untethered with Jen Liss," the empowering podcast where inspirational speaker, coach, and breathworker, Jen Liss, hosts enlightening interviews with people who've embraced an authentic, and often non-traditional, life. Learn from their inspiring journeys as they pursue their greatest passions, embrace their unique gifts, and achieve their fullest potential (so you can too!) Get ready for a transformative storytelling experience that will ignite your own path to success and strengthen your mind-body connection. Subscribe now and embark on your journey of self-discovery and growth and follow Jen Liss on Instagram @UntetheredJen for updates and inspiration.

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    Episodes (220)

    Seeing your potential through the eyes of others and how to write your own greatest story – with Itto and Mekiya Outini

    Seeing your potential through the eyes of others and how to write your own greatest story – with Itto and Mekiya Outini

    In today's episode, Itto and Mekiya Outini open up about the power of storytelling, overcoming personal challenges, and the unique paths that have led them to become advocates for writers worldwide.

    We begin with Itto and Mekiya telling the unlikely story of how they met, and how their union not only created great happiness for the two of them, but also their business Datekeepers, a platform where emerging writers find their voice and the courage to share their stories. 

    Itto shares how her early life living on the streets of Morocco due to a heart-breaking family betrayal eventually led her rise as a globally-recognized scholar. Mekiya shares how his life story is one of defying societal norms, and embracing a life that is true to himself. Their shared experiences, filled with resilience and self-love, serve as a beacon for anyone navigating the complexities of finding their own voice.

    At the heart of our conversation lies a universal reminder: the impact of a supportive community and influential mentors in our own life's stories. We explore the balance between receiving guidance and forging an independent path, and the transformative effect of educators who embolden, rather than diminish our personal power. 

    MEET ITTO AND MEKIYA
    Itto and Mekiya Outini are the founding editors of The DateKeepers, an international media platform that publishes short-form creative and journalistic nonfiction, spotlights individuals who’ve overcome extreme adversity to make meaningful contributions to their fields, and creates opportunities for emerging writers. 

    Itto Outini is a Fulbright Scholar, Steinbeck Fellow, and MacDowell Fellow. Her work has appeared in The Chicago Tribune, The Fulbright Chronicle, ABILITY Magazine, and elsewhere, and her life story has been on BBC. She’s spoken for Cal Tech University, The United Nations, Verizon Wireless, and The International Trade Centre and holds an MA in journalism and strategic media from the University of Arkansas.

    Mekiya Outini is a writer, freelance editor, and MacDowell Fellow with an MFA in fiction from the University of Arkansas. His short story “Baptism by Earth” won of the 55th New Millennium Award in Fiction, and his work has appeared in Chautauqua, The Coachella Review, Willow Springs, and elsewhere. The first two chapters of his novel, Ashes, Ashes, have been featured in the West Trade Review.

    The DateKeepers Website
    The DateKeepers LinkedIn
    Itto Outini LinkedIn
    Mekiya Outini LinkedIn

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    Embracing a life of joy and adventure beyond fear

    Embracing a life of joy and adventure beyond fear

    Ever wondered how it feels to step away from the beaten path and craft a life of unadulterated joy and adventure? 

    It's not Pollyanna. It's possible.

    On Tuesday, I spoke with Scot McKay, a fearless globetrotter who's traveled to 110 countries. Scot has crafted his life in a way that cuts through the noise of societal expectations. He's truly living an untethered existence. 

    In today's episode, I pull back the curtain on the main thing I see that he's done in his lifetime and how this philosophy can reshape your life's trajectory: Choosing curiosity and love over fear and control.

    Today, I reflect with you about  my own path alongside my husband, where we've turned fear into a foundation of safety within our relationship – which sparked in our teen years. As we've peeled back the layers of our own relationship, we've faced some huge challenges. There are so many tethers and fear-based patters we've created between the two of us without conscious awareness. Dismantling them, one by one, has been quite a journey. 

    This episode isn't just about wanderlust; it's an intimate exploration of how fear-based decisions can stifle personal growth and dim the brilliance of our relationships. It's a call to reevaluate the anchors holding us back and an inspiration to chase the life that makes us say, "heck yes, this is living!" 

    Embrace the wisdom, the personal anecdotes, and the infectious optimism that could very well be the nudge you need to start navigating towards your own extraordinary, untethered life.

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    What's keeping you from being happy - with Scot McKay

    What's keeping you from being happy - with Scot McKay

    What do sharks, entrepreneurship, and sipping coffee with Pablo Escobar have in common?

    Scot McKay! Yes, today's guest has a storied history, and we dive deep into all of it.

    In today's episode, Scot shares his leap from employee to entrepreneur, and all the wild tales in between.  His journey from being a challenging employee to becoming a successful dating and relationship coach is not just about romance; it's about the courage to embrace change and the power of laughter in the face of fear.

    We discuss the impact that travel and cultural exposure can have on our preconceptions and prejudices. Scott touches on raising children with a global perspective, fostering inclusivity, and how these adventures have reshaped his understanding of happiness and success in his own career and life.

    In our final thread, we examine the importance of authenticity and the allure of human connection. Scott advocates for a virtuous masculinity, one that chooses love over fear and finds strength in vulnerability. Whether we're discussing the unconditional love of pets or the magic found in life's simplest moments, this episode is a reminder to listen, be present, and let life unfold with curiosity and openness.

    MEET SCOT MCKAY
    Scot McKay has shared bad jokes with North Korean military officers, sipped
    coffee at Pablo Escobar’s home (served by his maid), survived a shark attack
    while surfing, held his breath as the pride of lions walked by his tent, and blitzed
    through California canyons with his knee on the double-yellow line at 140 mph.
    Yet somehow, he has also been referred to as the “sane one” on Twitter by Scott
    Adams, of all people.

    But despite once being mobbed by the Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders, being able
    to back a 30′ travel trailer into its slot on the first try, and that time he beat the
    World Champion at his own sport (no details provided), he’s still the most
    objective and down-to-earth dating expert out there.

    His show The Mountain Top has also been named a Top 10 Dating Podcast by
    DatingAdvice.com, and a long time ago Grader.com weirdly ranked Scot the #1
    most influential Facebook user in the world.

    Schedule your FREE consultation with Scot and Emily McKay: scotandemily.com/free

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    How to make your affirmations work for you

    How to make your affirmations work for you

    Can one, single question really change the trajectory of your life?

    Yes, I believe it's true, and that the antidote to our ego-based problems is the loving curiosity invoked by the question, "What if...?"

    In this episode, we explore the concept that your own curiosity is the medicine you're looking for, shedding light on the ethos of creativity that binds together artists, scientists, and innovators: the power of inquiry. 

    I invite you to let go of the ego's craving for certainty and dissect the traditional dichotomy of right and wrong, uncovering how curiosity is the cornerstone of unlocking our full creative and magical potential. 

    This is a call to awaken your dormant potential, to stir the very essence of your creative spirit, and to recognize that by igniting this internal flame, the impact transcends beyond the self.

    When we foster a mindset that values exploration and questions over ego, the doors to limitless possibilities swing wide open. Tune in to transform your perspective and supercharge your inner brilliance—because it's time we all started asking more questions and caring less about the comfort of being right. 

    This is a Thursday Thread episode calling back to Ania Halama's episode on Tuesday, and we end on a moment of breath to call in possibility through the power of inquiry.


    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    Discovering your worthiness and the key to uncovering imposter syndrome – with Ania Halama

    Discovering your worthiness and the key to uncovering imposter syndrome – with Ania Halama

    Ever felt like you're striving to wear a mask of competence and confidence, but while some other voice is silently screaming "fraud" inside?

    Ania Halama, is on the podcast today to share her journey from corporate chaos to a spiritually awakened life. We unravel the threads of self-doubt and explore how healing practices like plant medicine (psilocybin and ayahuasca) can lead to profound growth, offering the same insights as years of therapy.

    In the conversation, we also delve into how other modalities like EFT tapping, breathwork, and meditation can complement your own awakening, revealing how these methods can unlock doors to personal breakthroughs and an abundant life.

    I get personal about how these tools have transformed my own daily life, walking you through my own moments of clarity and connection. With Ania's mentorship, we illuminate the path for you to embrace a life of authenticity and love, encouraging a bold step into the realms of limitless potential and manifestation.

    MEET ANIA HALAMA
    Ania Halama is a world traveler who has helped thousands of heart-centered individuals align with their ideal clients to attract wealth, health, love, mental health, and spiritual wealth.

    Ania started out working a corporate job that left her living paycheck to paycheck. Exhausted and worn out, she was limited to her dreams of a better life. Ania longed for the freedom to live life on her terms and time to enjoy life to the fullest.

    One day she decided to take a leap of faith, quit her job, and begin a journey of self-discovery. The journey has taken Ania all over the world and helped her create businesses learning new skills and sharing them along the way.

    Ania is a #MillennialManifestor, Spiritual & Integration Mentor, Plant Medicine Facilitator & Intuitive Digital Artist. She is also an intuitive Healer, Reiki Master, Angel Healer, EFT Certified Practicioner, Ho’oponopono Master, Akashic Records reader and Law of Attraction master.

    Website: https://aniahalama.com/
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/aniatravels/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ania.e.halama/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/aniatravels

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    How starting a podcast gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams

    How starting a podcast gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams

    How do you know the path you're on is taking you where you want to go?

    I've taken some big leaps into the unknown. I know it can be hard to trust where the journey is leading you. In episode, I share some of the biggest turns I've taken, decisions I've made, and moments I've listened to my intuition that have led to the most transformative results.

    One of those was starting this podcast. 

    I hope this episode helps you to see that discovering your voice through taking aligned action will always lead you to something wonderful. Listen to the nudges, and let them show you the way to your next step – so you can step into your purpose with confidence and clarity.

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    How to instantly create a shift in your clarity of purpose

    How to instantly create a shift in your clarity of purpose

    At the end of your life, how do you want people to feel about you?

    In this episode, I invite you to use one of the tools presented by Danielle Cobo in her episode on Tuesday to help you define your purpose in life. Yes, I'm going to ask you to write your own obituary.

    Is this activity a bit morbid? Maybe. But it's incredibly enlightening, in the best way, uncovering your core values so you can align your daily actions to the mark you truly wish to leave on the world.

    This practice is like holding a mirror to your deepest intentions, fostering clarity to propel you toward your most meaningful ambitions with determination.

    As I share my personal epiphanies from this practice, I invite you into this space of vulnerability and discovery, too.

    Here's how to do the exercise:
    1. Write your obituary based on what you think people would say today.
    2. Write your obituary based on how what you'd like people to say when you die.

    Let me know how it goes!

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    Unstoppable Grit: Break Through the 7 Roadblocks Between You and Your Goal

    Unstoppable Grit: Break Through the 7 Roadblocks Between You and Your Goal

    When the going gets tough, what's the secret ingredient that helps us push through? Danielle Cobo, a leadership maven with a past steeped in Fortune 500 sales management, joins us to unpack the elements of Unstoppable Grit.

    Her authentic storytelling and insights will inspire you as she breaks down her journey from personal challenges to becoming a best-selling author. This episode is packed with strategies for anyone seeking to anchor their passions in perseverance and take bold steps towards living their most brilliantly untethered life.

    From the crushing loss of a loved one to the corrosive nature of a toxic workplace, Danielle opens up about the tribulations that reshaped her gritty path. Her story is one of shifting from victim to victor, embracing growth even in the darkest of times, to help you gain clarity on how you can leverage your own trials as fuel for your future successes.

    But Danielle's Book, out today! https://amzn.to/4aMVbD0

    MEET DANIELLE COBO
    Danielle Cobo is an international female speaker for organizations, associations, and the public sector. She works with audiences to harness the grit and resilience to lead through change.

    She is the author of “Unstoppable Grit: Breakthrough the 7 Roadblocks Standing Between You and Achieving Your Goals” and hosts the globally top-rated podcast "Unstoppable Grit Podcast with Danielle Cobo."

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellecobo/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedaniellecobo/?hl=en
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDanielleCobo/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanielleCobo
    Website: www.DanielleCobo.com
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@daniellecobo

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    Start living your life with no regrets

    Start living your life with no regrets

    What is one thing in your life you're afraid you might regret if you don't do it?

    It's totally human to have regrets, or the fear of regret. Even Taylor Swift and Super Bowl champ Travis Kelce experience them! But it's my goal to help each of us have a heck of a lot less of them. Maybe even none!

    In this Thursday Thread, I share own evolution from hairstylist to corporate strategist to online business owner to the voice behind this podcast and how this continuous (and courageous) growth and transformation has helped me to avoid the big R in many ways. I hope it inspires you to take more courageous action, too. 

    I believe every "yes" for ourselves, whether it's in our career, job, relationships, family choices, living situation, and so on, is a stepping stone to your most regret-free life and how owning your decisions gives you the opportunity to mindfully craft your own unique journey.

    This episode isn't just about career pivots; it's a deeper look at crafting a life without regrets, one where relationships shine as the cornerstone and adaptability is your north star.

    As I note in the episode, living regret-free is about consciously uncovering the areas in your life you're ignoring. These shadow parts will only crave more and more attention, after all! So why not honor them by giving them what they need before they become shadow monsters?!

    We close the episode with a moment of conscious breathing, grounding you in the here and now, and encouraging you to embrace the lessons of your own journey with open arms and an open heart.

    Questions to consider for yourself after listening to this episode:

    • Where is that one area where I am not looking at? (relationships, career, love, financial, family, or something else)
    • Where am I scared to turn inward? Can I take one tiny, courageous step toward it today?
    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    Charting Unfamiliar Paths: Embracing Rejection, Pursuing Passion, and Captivating Audiences - with Kyle Hamilton

    Charting Unfamiliar Paths: Embracing Rejection, Pursuing Passion, and Captivating Audiences - with Kyle Hamilton

    Ever felt the rush of adrenaline when charting an unknown path? That's exactly what Kyle Hamilton, our guest and founder of birr agency, experienced when he traded the prospect of a "serious" career like medicine or law for the thrill of building his own digital marketing firm.

    This episode peels back the layers of Kyle's journey, highlighting the transformative power of embracing rejection and the cascade of opportunities that follow. His insights into honing in on the perfect audience and commanding social media presence are gold mines for any entrepreneur looking to leave a mark in the digital world.

    Meanwhile, I get real about the magnetic pull of following your dreams, as we explore a tale of a law career left behind for the wild embrace of photography. There's something about listening to your gut and manifesting your desires that creates a life of richness and authenticity. We dive into the essence of choosing passion over expectation and the joy that comes from aligning with your heart's calling—a conversation that will kindle the fire within to pursue what truly sets your soul ablaze.

    Closing out, we unpack what it means to live untethered, a life brimming with potential and free from the weight of regret. I recount my own crossroads moment between the hospitality industry and a budding passion for photography, and how my wife's logical counsel charted our course. The episode wraps with an entrepreneur's guide to captivating an audience and the art of storytelling in marketing, sprinkled with personal revelations on overcoming business fears through breathwork and mindset coaching. Prepare to be energized to seize opportunity with both hands and chart a course true to who you are.

    MEET KYLE HAMILTON

    Kyle Hamilton, the visionary founder of birr agency ltd, blends over a decade of digital marketing expertise with business solutions. His journey, from dirt-bag-ski-bum to serial entrepreneur, reflects his passion for exploring all of life's paths, and facing all of its challenges head on. His entrepreneurial experiences help clients develop impactful digital marketing strategies that drive business results. Kyle's leadership has transformed birr agency into a leading digital marketing agency, renowned for personalized, results-driven solutions across diverse channels. A respected industry speaker and thought leader, Kyle is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and experience.

    Connect with Kyle

    @wearebirr on all social media channels
    kyle@wearebirr.com
    www.wearebirr.com

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    Feeling triggered? Here's why that's a good thing.

    Feeling triggered? Here's why that's a good thing.

    Can feeling triggered be a good thing?

    What if these moments of emotional hijacking aren't our adversaries, but rather, opportunities for lessons, growth and chances to heal? 

    Join me for this Thursday Thread where I unpack the ways in which triggers can potentially be harnessed as catalysts for empowerment. In the episode with Glenn Cohen on Tuesday, we dissected the nuances of neurological wounding and the seemingly invisible threads that connect our past experiences to our current habits and beliefs. In this episode, I pull out a thread specifically in regard to triggers.

    In my own life, and in my work, I have seen how turning inward toward a moment of emotional discomfort can produce new pathways to learning and development. We have to feel to heal, after all!

    This conversation doesn't stop at mere understanding — learning from our triggers is about taking actionable steps toward transformation.  Listen in as I share a moment from my own childhood that impacted my ability to use my voice, and how podcasting and breathwork have supported me in turning inward to unleash my gifts.

    I hope this episode inspires you to embrace your triggers, using modalities like coaching, therapy, breathwork, meditation, or other therapeutic avenues to support you in working with your nervous system's patterns. 

    This episode isn't about coping; it's about thriving through the very triggers that once held us captive.

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    Transforming Pain into Growth with Glenn Cohen

    Transforming Pain into Growth with Glenn Cohen

    Ever had one of those realizations that a tiny moment from your childhood has been hanging around, silently choreographing your sense of self-worth for decades?

    That's the kind of profound self-discovery and healing that master coach Glenn Cohen and I navigate in this conversation. As we unravel tales of personal transformation, we discuss how neurological wounds, engraved by past pains, can be alchemized into potent catalysts for growth.

    Our conversation roams the labyrinth of the human psyche, where Glenn illuminates the interplay between our nervous system and our deepest beliefs – all to equip you with practical strategies for mindful living. Each breath becomes a step toward reclaiming our wholeness, as we learn the art of intentional breathing to reshape long-standing, disempowering patterns.

    To conclude, we look to relationships, where some of our most difficult triggers offer opportunity for growth. Glenn and I discuss how our interactions can either propagate negative legacies or halt them in their tracks.


    Meet Glenn Cohen
    Glenn Cohen is a Master Neurological Life Coach with two decades of research and clinical practice that has led thousands of individuals and couples to heal their unresolved neurological wounding, growing into the highest versions of themselves. Founder of the Center for Neurological Intelligence, Cohen has authored two groundbreaking books that present his practical learnings into a step-by-step process to gain Neurological Intelligence and master your inner worlds.   Neurological Intelligence, Volume 1: An Owner’s Manual for the Human Operating System and Neurological Intelligence, Volume 2: Strategies and Tools to Heal and Grow are new and practical approaches, tapping into human consciousness to heal the human system.

     

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    The Art of Overcoming Self-Made Boundaries for Success

    The Art of Overcoming Self-Made Boundaries for Success

    What are the secrets to transcending the self-imposed barriers?

    On the previous episode featuring Nicoa Cornelius, we talked about the mindset and limitation that even top executives can't seem to shake off. In this Thursday Thread episode, I delve into the psychology behind our tendency to cling to limitations, and how a simple shift in focus can lead us from feeling stuck to unleashing our full potential.

    This conversation isn't just about identifying the chains we place on ourselves; it's a hands-on guide to turning your gaze from the hurdles to the finish line, finding joy in the now, and using a shift in your own perspective as a powerful lever for transformation.

    I'll also share the telltale signs that you might be creating your own biggest roadblocks, and active ways to shift your own perspective so you can see new possibilities instead. I share a compelling exercise that will challenge you to switch up the way your brain is seeing the world so you can actively view it through a vibrant, new lens.

    By becoming the artist of your existence, you'll see how minor tweaks in your daily flow can open doors to your most joyful and exciting opportunities. Dreaming big and celebrating personal growth go hand in hand, and in this episode, I'll show you why they're crucial in chipping away at the walls of your comfort zone.

    I hope you enjoy the two somatic, mindfulness, and creativity exercises offered in this episode to support you in shifting your perspective.

    The book mentioned in this podcast episode:
    The Art of Noticing by Rob Walker

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    How to create your life by design – with Nicoa Cornelius

    How to create your life by design – with Nicoa Cornelius

    Have you ever stood at the crossroads of comfort and the unknown, wondering whether to take the leap? Nicoa Cornelius, once a corporate executive, took that jump and rebuilt her life from the ground up, becoming an executive coach and a life architect.

    Listen into this episode with me and Nicoa as she not only shares her incredible transformation but also guides us through the principles of designing a life where passion and purpose aren't just buzzwords, but the very foundation of our daily existence.

    This episode isn't just about career changes; it's a deeper look into how we can acknowledge our past selves, understand our evolving desires, and navigate the delicate balance between joy and satisfaction in our work.

    From the raw lessons of entrepreneurship to the concept of energy leadership, we unpack the essence of personal empowerment. It's an exploration of how a shift in mindset can lead us out of victimhood and into a state of control over our own narratives. Get ready for an honest conversation that might just change how you approach your day-to-day life, with laughter, learnings, and a newfound sense of agency.


    MEET NICOA
    Nicoa is a seasoned guide helping leaders help themselves create authentic leadership legacies. With a successful career as a Human Resources executive with General Electric, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Allscripts, spanning 20+ countries she has been there, done that when it comes to employee engagement and leadership development. Fifteen years ago she quit her six-figure job with a stay-at-home husband, three kids 12 years old and under in the middle of an economic downturn with no plan! Yes, a few panic attacks ensued but she knew deep down it was the right thing for her soul. Since then she has excelled as a certified coach, happiness trainer, author, speaker, and most recently as the host of the Coffee With Nicoa podcast. Nicoa brings energetic seasoned perspectives to every interaction. Her clients and audiences gain powerful tools and insights waking them up to new levels of awareness they can immediately apply in their lives.

    Websites: Nicoa.Coach and CoffeeWithNicoa.com

    LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/coffeewithnicoa

    RETREAT: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/your-island-gathering-donna-dowson-bald-head-island-68287901

    LIFE BY DESIGN JOURNAL: https://amzn.to/47BVhKB

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    Embracing Your Guiding Word: A Year of Space, Growth, and Mindful Intention

    Embracing Your Guiding Word: A Year of Space, Growth, and Mindful Intention

    How do you like to set intentions? You may know that choosing a word of the year is my favorite way to both set and stay on track with my own. In this episode, I offer a personal perspective on why I chose my Word of the Year "S P A C E" and how it has already been showing up for me in the first few weeks of 2024.

    To me, spaciousness means more room for fun, magnificence, and "wow" moments. It also means reducing pressure – both internal and external. 

    Hear about the humbling moments where I've lost my patience with my adorable new rescue dog, Alfred, revealing the raw edges of living in tune with such a powerful word. I invite you to come explore the emotional landscapes that shape our lives far beyond physical achievements, and how tuning in to our deepest feelings can illuminate the path forward – no matter your word or intention this year.

    As we breathe together in this episode, you'll be guided through a mindfulness practice designed to ground you in the present and infuse your heart with your chosen intention. 

    Your own insights are a thread in the tapestry of our shared human experience, highlighting the importance of granting ourselves grace and stepping into the light of self-compassion. So let's continue to radiate our unique lights, keeping them bright and unwavering, as we journey through the year, anchored by our guiding word.

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

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    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    How taking a step back and adjusting your priorities can be a huge step forward

    How taking a step back and adjusting your priorities can be a huge step forward

    Ever have an unexpected situation come up that forces you to press pause? Shifting gears can bring up fear, frustration, and anxiety around dropping the ball on our previous promises and priorities. 

    I had an experience exactly like this myself this month, and in this heart-to-heart, I share the personal details of how my unexpected January has helped me step back and adjust my priorities.  

    This experience has led me to understand the profound impact of stepping back and slowing down, something that every leader needs to do – but is often a struggle for those of us who have long "fed" on the hustle. 

    Join me as I reflect on how I've learned to tune into my intuitive signals to prevent burnout and how choosing my 'Word of the Year' has been a beacon that steered me through some difficult decisions this month. Plus, I'll unravel the story of how Alfred T Dog bounded into my world, a bundle of fur wrapped in life lessons on readiness and adaptability.

    Adopting Alfred wasn't just about gaining a pet; it was an expedition through my own vulnerabilities, a test of patience, and a reshuffle of my priorities that I hadn't anticipated. This chapter is a candid look at our shared experiences—from his comedic husky howls interrupting breath work sessions to the warmth he's brought into my life as we faced the cold grip of a Portland ice storm together. 

    His paw prints have softly padded over the blueprints of my January goals, teaching me valuable lessons about the importance of adaptability in both personal growth and creating a nurturing environment for our fluffy family member. 

    Join us on this deeply personal ride and maybe, just like me, you'll find your own Alfred: an unexpected (and sometimes frustrating) shift in your plans that turns out to be the greatest gift you could have received. 

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
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    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    How to embrace authenticity and show up with the gifts you have now

    How to embrace authenticity and show up with the gifts you have now

    Ever found yourself stuck in the limbo of "not ready yet" or "not good enough"? 

    Let's tackle the art of showing up authentically in a little heart-to-heart, Thursday Thread style. In Tuesday's episode, Mitzi lCampbell lit our path with her insights on creating space in our lives for growth, illuminating the power of self-reflection, and how it can magnify the impact of our every action. 

    One of the key points made in this conversation is that, whether you're diving into a good book, a coaching program, or simply absorbing a film, the real magic unfurls in the moments of contemplation that follow.

    In this reflective contemplation, you can begin to recognize and utilize the gifts you possess RIGHT NOW to uplift yourself and those around you. 

    From battling the mind's traps to championing the importance of coaching for personal development, join your unicorn crew in this inspiring exploration of embracing your uniqueness and leveraging your current arsenal of skills to make a difference today.

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    What it means to take responsibility for your own healing with Mitzi Campbell

    What it means to take responsibility for your own healing with Mitzi Campbell

    As you step into 2024, have you taken time to reflect on the roads traversed and those which await you? In my latest conversation with the insightful Mitzi Campbell, a beacon of healing and transformation, we unravel the power of our past in shaping a more intentional and enlightened future.

    Mitzi, with her trauma-informed coaching expertise and 35 years of experience in academia, shares the art of embracing life's ebbs and flows. Her story of overcoming vertigo and the serendipitous turns that followed is a compelling narrative of resilience and the willingness to say 'yes' to life's unfolding script.

    The fabric of our lives is woven with stories that connect us, raise consciousness, and reveal the extraordinary in the ordinary. Mitzi and I delve into the world of storytelling as a catalyst for unity and personal growth. The conversation taps into our innate drive to evolve, to cast off limiting beliefs, and to truly own the stories we write with each breath we take.

    The journey toward growth and a fulfilling life is punctuated by our willingness to engage, to reflect, and to assume responsibility for our trajectory. This episode explores the shift from the confines of academia to the liberating realm of entrepreneurship, as embodied by the creation of Mitzi's own Blessings Journal.

    The discussion around the journal's role in fostering gratitude and a growth mindset, coupled with lessons from Carol Dweck's seminal work "Mindset," provides listeners with the tools to cultivate self-awareness and embrace change. Our chat culminates with an exploration of the victim mentality and the magnetic pull of growth that propels us away from stagnation.

    Mitzi's insights serve as a gentle nudge to recognize the everyday magic that surrounds us and to actively participate in the narrative (and healing) of our lives.

    MEET MITZI CAMPBELL
    Mitzi has spent over thirty-five years in education. She is a Transformational Teacher. Her dynamic skills in the areas of academia, psychology, non-profit leadership and the creative arts inform her life story in continuous, priceless, and powerful ways and allow her to impact and uplift others with divine sincerity. Mitzi is the creator and host of The Blessons Podcast where she uses her platform to connect humanity and inspire personal growth and self-discovery for the good of all.

    Website: View Mitzi's website
    Podcast: Blessons Podcast
    Instagram: @mitzianncampbell

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    How to start winning (by forgetting the finish line)

    How to start winning (by forgetting the finish line)

    Have you ever caught yourself measuring your self-worth by the trophies on your shelf, instead of the passion in your heart? 

    Join me in this Thursday Thread as I pull a thread of insight from my conversation with Alan Stein Jr. where I discuss the why falling madly in love with the process, rather than being fixated on the finish line, is the key to success. In a society that often confuses achievement with fulfillment, it's time we deconstruct that narrative and learn why the journey itself holds the key to our deepest joy and potential for success.

    This episode is designed to reignite the flames of passion for what you do, reminding you that your present moment joy is your everyday strategy for longterm results.

    Through the lens of a pivotal Stanford study, I explore how reward-based motivation might be dimming the light on passions that used to shine bright. And finally, we wrap up with a guided breath meditation that will help you tap into your present joy. 

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach

    Unlocking Personal Brilliance and Overcoming Burnout with Alan Stein Jr

    Unlocking Personal Brilliance and Overcoming Burnout with Alan Stein Jr

    Ever get exhausted while pursuing your goals?

    You're not alone. In fact, Alan Stein, Jr knows exactly how difficult it can be to maintain a passionate and positive mindset while becoming elite at your game. That's why he's come on the podcast today to teach you how cherishing every moment of your journey is the key to overcoming even the most overwhelming feelings of burnout.

    Alan is a performance coach renowned for coaching NBA stars, and in his current role transforming performance in the corporate world, Alan shares his valuable insights on making significant career pivots without losing sight of one's aspirations.

    This episode promises a roadmap to personal brilliance that is illuminated by Alan's experiences and wisdom, offering guidance for anyone looking to enhance their life's work, whether it's on the court, in the boardroom, or behind the microphone.

    We explore the depths of burnout, breaking down the myth that it's solely a physical condition and shining a light on its emotional and psychological facets. Reconnect with the passion for your work as we present strategies to rekindle your professional spark. From extending compassion to yourself to navigating the complexities of corporate support systems, Alan shares personal wisdom on how to gracefully overcome the challenges of burnout and reclaim your enthusiasm for high achievement.

    Concluding with a candid discussion on redefining success and happiness, this episode encourages you to craft your own benchmarks for a fulfilling life. We challenge societal norms and invite you to embrace an abundance mindset, turning envy into admiration and using others' achievements as inspiration for your own.

     Alan and I share personal reflections on how to fall in love with the work you do, emphasizing the importance of the journey over the destination. Tune in for an episode that not only inspires but also equips you with the tools to navigate the complexities of professional jealousy and channel your inner brilliance for a truly abundant life.

    MEET ALAN STEIN, JR
    Alan Stein, Jr is a world-renowned coach, speaker and author. He spent 15+ years working the highest performing basketball players on the planet and now teaches audiences how to utilize the same strategies in business that elite athletes use to perform at a world-class level.

    Alan specializes in improving individual and organizational leadership, performance and accountability.  He inspires and empowers everyone he works with to take immediate action and improve mindset, habits and productivity.

    Website: alansteinjr.com
    Instagram: @alansteinjr
    X: @alansteinjr
    YouTube: alansteinjr

    Support the show

    Join Brilliant Breathwork, the monthly membership offering multiple weekly live breathwork sessions with Jen and other trauma-informed facilitators, an extensive vault of replays, and a supportive community for authentic, creative, and radiant growth.

    Other ways you can support:

    • Share an episode and tag Jen on Instagram @untetheredjen
    • Follow/subscribe to get updates of new episodes
    • Leave a review!

    Connect with Jen

    Music created and produced by Matt Bollenbach