Discover the transformative power of the age-old adage "Keep what you have by giving it away.” In this episode, we explore how this simple yet profound concept can shift our perspective on self, relationships, limitations, deprivation, boundaries, motives, and life's challenges. Through candid anecdotes and reflections, we identify opportunities to apply this principle in everyday situations, from navigating workplace dynamics to facing fears of scarcity and loss. With thought-provoking insights and practical guidance, this episode prompts introspection, encouraging listeners to examine their motives, challenge ingrained beliefs, and cultivate a mindset of abundance and interconnectedness. Tune in to discover how the act of giving can lead to profound personal growth and meaningful connections in both expected and unexpected ways. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lovelettersandmixtapes/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelettersandmixtapes  Twitter https://twitter.com/lovelettersnmix Website https://www.lovelettersandmixtapes.com/

“If the only tool you have in your emotional toolkit is a hammer, then everything in your life will look like a nail.” Explore the depths of emotional sobriety and learn practical tools to navigate life's challenges and opportunities with serenity, empathy, and resilience. From professional endeavors to personal relationships, discover how emotional sobriety can transform our approach to conflict, self-awareness, and compassion. Tune in for actionable insights and real-life examples on this liberating journey toward emotional sobriety. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lovelettersandmixtapes/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelettersandmixtapes  Twitter https://twitter.com/lovelettersnmix Website https://www.lovelettersandmixtapes.com/

This week, I spoke with Dylan Hundley, an artist, mother, punk, and lover. Dylan is the lead singer of the New York post-punk/new wave band Lulu Lewis. We discuss mental health, including addiction, PTSD, and panic disorder, the importance of creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued, the transformative power of extending a compassionate hand to others (and ourselves), and the liberating (and sometimes profoundly challenging) experience of letting go, whether that is a relationship, a job, or even a version of ourselves that no longer fits. Dylan shares about the impact of trauma, the healing work that brings us back to life, and the surprising opportunity to meet new and unexpected versions of ourselves. P.S. Her love letter made me cry CONNECT WITH DYLAN HUNDLEY https://www.instagram.com/lululewisdylan/ https://www.instagram.com/lululewismusic/ https://www.facebook.com/lululewismusic  CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lovelettersandmixtapes/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelettersandmixtapes  Twitter https://twitter.com/lovelettersnmix Website https://www.lovelettersandmixtapes.com/

Is wellness an extra treat we allow ourselves when we think we deserve it, or is it sustainable, transformative, and nourishing? Does our healing journey have to be aesthetic and social media-friendly to be impactful? I spoke with Sabrina Rollo of @VigorAndSage (https://www.instagram.com/vigorandsage) about how so many of the lessons we learn through holistic practices have clear applications in our everyday lives, including boundaries, mindfulness, and creating sustainable practices and supportive communities that align with the reality of our lives. We explore the beauty and challenges associated with witnessing real-life trauma and transformations and the complex (and often misunderstood) nature of healing. Very rarely is it a one-time event. Can we show up for ourselves and others with empathy and understanding when we are hit with yet another wave of shame and grief? Learn more about Sabrina at https://www.vigorandsage.com/. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lovelettersandmixtapes/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelettersandmixtapes  Twitter https://twitter.com/lovelettersnmix Website https://www.lovelettersandmixtapes.com/

I decided to share more about my recent journey of navigating life on life’s terms, including medical emergencies, relationships, fears, and judgments, while contemplating the power of showing up with willingness and compassion. Let’s explore our struggles with societal expectations of how and when we choose to do this, the healing power of surrender, and the transformative experience of challenging our habitual judgments. We’ll unpack the mental chatter that prevents us from setting down our emotional weapons and embracing vulnerability, curiosity, and generosity in daily interactions, highlighting that growth happens when we show up authentically and extend understanding to ourselves and others, even in the face of uncertainty. This episode is an invitation to reflect on how assumptions shape our perceptions and the potential for positive change when we choose empathy and connection over judgment. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lovelettersandmixtapes/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelettersandmixtapes  Twitter https://twitter.com/lovelettersnmix Website https://www.lovelettersandmixtapes.com/

Is it possible to find self-acceptance and wholeness in relationships, workplaces, and locations where we don’t belong? The relationship is ending, we need to find a new job, and we should have started packing our things and looking for a new home weeks ago. Instead of tenderly connecting with our wholeness, our flaws, or the parts of ourselves we’re insecure about, we lean into perfectionism. We attempt to control outcomes and not let anyone see that our outsides don’t match our insides. We’ve all had moments where we felt out of place and encountered self-doubt and fear, and burned ourselves out in the pursuit of perfection. Every one of us has gone to extreme lengths to fit into certain areas of our lives, to connect with people or groups where, in order to stay, we had to wear a mask, and it was incredibly heavy. In this episode, we explore how uncomfortable, self-denying, and self-defeating it is to force something to work when it is clearly not working. Instead of shaming ourselves for not fitting in, we offer a tender invitation and acknowledgment that maybe the mess of our very human experience, the parts of ourselves we’d rather hide, are exactly what the world needs. Let’s rediscover the inherent worthiness of simply being our authentic selves. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lovelettersandmixtapes/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelettersandmixtapes Twitter https://twitter.com/lovelettersnmix Website https://www.lovelettersandmixtapes.com/

I am so excited to introduce all of you to Wendi Eckstein, my long-time friend and teacher. We sat down for a beautiful discussion about Reiki, energy work, boundaries, energetic hygiene, and the importance of honoring and cultivating our intuition. We explore what it means to be a deeply sensitive person while living a spiritual life in this human world and how it can be humble, powerful, and completely counterintuitive to the idea of spirituality that we are constantly sold. We talk about what it means to be a care conduit vs. a caretaker, showing up with both boundaries and unconditional love and how we can nurture ourselves while also showing up for others. Wendi also shares a vulnerable love letter to her younger self that we probably all need to hear. To contact Wendi: hellowendieckstein@gmail.com   CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lovelettersandmixtapes/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelettersandmixtapes?lang=en  Twitter https://twitter.com/lovelettersnmix Website https://www.lovelettersandmixtapes.com/

Let’s explore the phrase, "I am less than the actions I take," and reflect on the profound implications of aligning thoughts with actions. Originating from a talk by Earl Hightower, the phrase serves as a powerful catalyst for introspection, urging listeners to release themselves from the stories all have running on a loop in our minds about who we are and who we could be “if only…” We explore the nuances of self-perception, the inconsistency between intentions and behaviors, and the importance of discernment. Whether this applies to our family of origin or intimate partnerships or occurs in the workplace, we can find ways to navigate the complexity of conflicts and resolutions, emphasizing the freedom that comes from evaluating one's actions first. Ultimately, the episode challenges listeners to assess the authenticity of their principles by examining whether they stand up in uncomfortable moments, inspiring a journey toward consistent alignment of thoughts and actions for personal growth and positive change. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lovelettersandmixtapes/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelettersandmixtapes?lang=en  Twitter https://twitter.com/lovelettersnmix Website https://www.lovelettersandmixtapes.com/

We are exploring the interconnectedness of our physical, mental, and emotional well-being and how holistic health can make a big impact by bringing our lives into balance. In today's episode, we spoke with Noell Eanes, M.Ac., an acupuncturist with over 10 years of experience in Eastern medicine and classical five-element acupuncture to understand the steps we can take to enhance our health and overall wellness and acknowledge our spiritual essence in the human experience. The episode is a rich dialogue about healing childhood trauma and the transformative power of honoring our intuition and aligning with our heart's desires. The discussion further explores the connection between the elements and meridians in Chinese medicine, offering a profound understanding of how nature's patterns are reflected in our bodies. The episode concludes with a heartfelt love letter to Noell's younger self, unraveling the layers of self-discovery, acceptance, and empowerment. Follow Noell on intsgram @lovebasedmedicine. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/lovelettersandmixtapes/⁠ TikTok ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelettersandmixtapes⁠ Twitter https://twitter.com/lovelettersnmix

Today, we're exploring the physical, mental, and financial impact of work trauma. Toxic and abusive work environments can be so commonplace in our culture that we feel pressure to accept the unacceptable. They begin to chip away at our self-esteem, negatively impact our health,  and drastically increase both social isolation and our fears of deprivation. So, what can we do when we start noticing the red flags? Do we automatically talk ourselves out of gut feelings, second-guessing our instincts? Do we make lifestyle adjustments to accommodate our new traumatic reality, thinking it's just a phase? For so many of us, work trauma brings us to a breaking point. From the “Sunday scaries” to suicidal ideation, It’s a silent struggle that many face but few talk about openly. I spoke with Christine Barron of Work Trauma is Real and The Glass Ceilings Podcast about tools for navigating toxic work environments and building ourselves back up in the aftermath.  CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lovelettersandmixtapes/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelettersandmixtapes Twitter https://twitter.com/lovelettersnmix

Discover the subtle signs of passive-aggressive communication, from backhanded compliments to weaponized incompetence and deliberate procrastination. Learn how these behaviors negatively impact relationships in families, romantic partnerships, and at work. Where do these passive-aggressive tendencies originate? What is their intention? And how do they destroy relationships and shift power dynamics? Join us as we discuss practical strategies to recognize and navigate these situations, foster trust to build stronger, more authentic connections in your life, and emphasize the benefits of modeling respectful communication and creating emotional safety. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES IG @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Spotify @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES TikTok @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Twitter @LOVELETTERSNMIX

Have you ever found yourself on emotional autopilot, going through the motions yet feeling completely out of alignment? You are not alone. For many of us, this disconnection with our authentic selves happens without us even noticing. In this episode, we delve into the discomfort of feeling like a stranger to oneself and the energy mismatches that leave us lost and bewildered in a modern-day wilderness defined by societal expectations, technology, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. With themes of compassion, discernment, and empathy, we explore the complexities of modern life. It's a journey into reclaiming our authentic selves in a world that almost demands conformity and opening up to the beauty of encountering those who reflect our true essence and the lessons learned from those who enter our lives with friction. The podcast takes a deeper dive into the interconnectedness of authenticity and setting boundaries. Rather than focusing solely on external actions, I share introspective journal prompts, challenging listeners to explore their contribution to relationship dynamics.  CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES IG @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Spotify @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES TikTok @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Twitter @LOVELETTERSNMIX

I'm sure you've heard the saying, “Time heals all wounds.” But what have we actually experienced in the overlap of time and harm? Have we magically forgiven others and learned valuable lessons, or have resentments festered and habits formed that prevented us from the ability to navigate conflict resolution with honesty, willingness, and integrity? Let’s unpack the myth of automatic healing, challenging the notion that the mere passage of time can passively mend emotional wounds and repair harm. Healing is an active and intentional process requiring introspection, patience, understanding, and integration of discomfort.  Together, we will explore the grief of conflict and the many solutions we can find in the consistent practice of accountability, apologies, and making amends. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES IG @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Spotify @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES TikTok @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Twitter @LOVELETTERSNMIX

So often, discussions around failure focus on our education or our profession. But what happens when we experience real or perceived failure in other areas of our lives, whether that is our relationships, resources, or health? This episode is a reminder that to fail is to be human and to be human is to be a little uncomfortable at times, yet society often stigmatizes failure as a mark of inadequacy. Failure often leaves emotional wounds, and while it can be difficult to access during moments of shame, accountability, discernment, and self-forgiveness become the balm that heals these wounds. Does failure define us? Is it informative? And can we possibly work with it instead of just beating ourselves up? Compassion allows us to see the shared humanity in our struggles and establishes a foundation where individuals feel safe to be authentic and where failure is met with kindness rather than judgment. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Send me a love letter: lovelettersandmixtapes@gmail.com IG @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Spotify @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES TikTok @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Twitter @LOVELETTERSNMIX

My dear friend Lauren De Vine joins us for a tender discussion about integrating the many different versions of ourselves, even if it may be uncomfortable for us or disappoint others. We explore themes of trauma, forgiveness, and the practice of regularly asking ourselves challenging but liberating questions to move through this world with open-heartedness with a few tips from Vinny Ferraro, Frank Ostaseski, and Jiddu Krishnamurti. To learn more about Lauren, visit her website HeyLDV.com, or connect with her on Instagram at @lauren_de.vine. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Send me a love letter: lovelettersandmixtapes@gmail.com IG @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Spotify @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES TikTok @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Twitter @LOVELETTERSNMIX

Generosity can often feel like an expression we reserve for moments when it suits us, or when we are overflowing with abundance, or when it is convenient and makes us look really, really good, and of course, only for those we deem worthy. But what about generosity as a lens through which we view our place in the world? This goes much deeper than gratitude or kindness; generosity is claiming responsibility for what we can bring to a situation and how, more often than not, our gift isn’t the shiny, glamorous, or attractive thing we hope the world remembers us by. It is usually far simpler and much more uncomfortable to part with. Today, we are discussing generosity as medicine, and we are asking ourselves the powerful question, what is the most generous thing I can do in this situation? CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Send me a love letter: lovelettersandmixtapes@gmail.com IG @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Spotify @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES TikTok @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Twitter @LOVELETTERSNMIX

What does it mean to keep our side of the street clean? In this episode, we will explore the power of owning our actions, energy, words, behavior, and choices, paving the way for positive change in our lives. In a world that encourages us to point fingers or critique instead of create, we’ll take a look at the other options we have: radical responsibility and personal accountability. We’ll discuss the incredible potential that unfolds when we choose to be accountable for our own narrative. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration for a more grounded and empowered approach to their life. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Send me a love letter: lovelettersandmixtapes@gmail.com IG @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Spotify @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES TikTok @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Twitter @LOVELETTERSNMIX

I think it’s important to talk about post-traumatic stress disorder with compassion, and that’s exactly what I set out to do with this episode. This is a perfectly imperfect episode that someone who is struggling with PTSD might need to hear. In this episode, we’ll explore what it feels like to be blindsided by PTSD triggers and flare-ups and which emotional tools we can use to navigate the aftermath.  The truth is, this episode is not just about the struggle—it's about resilience, compassion, and the real-life experience of getting through a workday when all you want to do is hide from the world.  Whether you're personally navigating the complexities of PTSD or seeking to understand and support those who are, this episode provides a safe space to explore the multifaceted nature of trauma and the transformative potential of building an emotional toolkit. Also, I just had a really hard day, and I’m sure someone out there did as well. So, tune in for an honest and heartfelt conversation that embraces vulnerability and self-acceptance in the midst of adversity. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Send me a love letter: lovelettersandmixtapes@gmail.com IG @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Spotify @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES TikTok @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Twitter @LOVELETTERSNMIX

Are you the person everyone turns to in a crisis or when they need advice or resources, but you never feel you can ask that of others? Do people only invite you to things if everyone else is busy? Are you often the recipient of other people's drama and trauma but not their consistent friendship and support? Today, we are exploring what it means to be the "filler" person, the overlooked or invisible backup option person who exists on the emotional outskirts of everyone else's life and is only called in to do emotional labor. Whether in our friendships, romantic partnerships, workplace dynamics, or our family of origin, being the filler person is a paradox of being the reliable confidant in moments of crisis while feeling invisible during times of celebration. The episode gently encourages self-reflection, prompting listeners to consider their roles in relationships—whether they identify with the overlooked friend or recognize patterns of expecting emotional support from others. It is a powerful reminder that being the invisible filler friend doesn't define one's worth. Instead, it serves as an invitation to explore the richness of one's own life, finding liberation outside the gaze of others. Through a compassionate exploration of human connections, we invite listeners to reflect, grow, and embrace their wholeness beyond the roles others may assign to us. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Send me a love letter: lovelettersandmixtapes@gmail.com IG @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Spotify @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES TikTok @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Twitter @LOVELETTERSNMIX

What happens when the self dissolves and a deeper, more authentic essence emerges? In this episode, we discuss the journey of self-discovery through loss. Whether shedding the layers of societal expectations, confronting the unknown, or navigating the aftermath of life-altering events, loss of our identity, our "somebody-ness" can shake us to our core, but it also offers us the opportunity to transcend the boundaries of self and tap into the energetic thread that connects all of us. How does one navigate the void left by the dissolution of familiar roles and labels? What spiritual practices aid in the reconstruction of a more authentic self? Is there beauty in the breakdown, or is that just something we tell ourselves? Together, we'll explore how moments of crisis can be catalysts for profound spiritual awakening. From the ashes of identity loss, we discover the potential for rebirth and the emergence of a truer self. CONNECT WITH LOVE LETTERS AND MIXTAPES Send me a love letter: lovelettersandmixtapes@gmail.com IG @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Spotify @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES TikTok @LOVELETTERSANDMIXTAPES Twitter @LOVELETTERSNMIX