• Episode 42: Overwhelmed but Grateful: The Life I Chose and the Life That's Hard
    Jan 20 2026

    In this episode of Elena Out Loud, I'm getting honest about something many of us feel but don't always say out loud: being overwhelmed while also deeply grateful for the life we're living.

    I talk about the emotional complexity of a full and busy life and what it's like to hold the tension between gratitude and stress — especially as a mother and a professional wearing many hats. This conversation isn't about complaining or fixing everything; it's about naming what's real.

    We explore why it's okay to feel contradictory emotions at the same time, why overwhelm doesn't cancel out gratitude, and why asking for help is not a failure but a necessity. I also share a few simple practices that help me manage the mental load, like writing things down and letting go of the belief that I have to do everything myself.

    This episode is for anyone who loves their life and still feels stretched thin — an invitation to acknowledge what's hard, honor what's good, and remember that you don't have to carry it all alone.

    If this episode resonates, I'd love for you to follow the podcast, leave a review, or share it with someone who might need this reminder.

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    16 mins
  • Episode 41: Stepping into the Flame: My Journey to Launching a YouTube Channel
    Jan 13 2026

    In this episode, I'm sharing something that feels both exciting and vulnerable: the story of how I finally decided to start my YouTube channel.

    This didn't happen overnight. For a long time, I let self-doubt, procrastination, and fear keep me stuck. I questioned whether I had anything useful to say, whether my voice really mattered, and whether putting myself out there would actually make a difference. If I'm being honest, it was easier to keep thinking about it than to actually do it.

    Through conversations with my life coach and moments of reflection — including a message that kept coming up for me through oracle cards — I was reminded of something powerful: sometimes you don't need certainty, you just need courage. For me, that meant choosing to "step into the flame" and take a risk on a dream I've been holding close for years.

    This episode is about more than starting a YouTube channel. It's about what happens when we stop waiting to feel ready, surrender to the process, and allow ourselves to create simply because it matters to us. The reference I make the actor that talks about writing a poem tearing it up into tiny pieces and throwing it away is Sir Ian McKellen.

    If this conversation resonates with you, I'd love for you to listen, reflect, and share it with someone who might need the reminder that their voice matters too. And if you're enjoying the podcast, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, or connecting with me — your support helps this community grow and keeps these conversations going.

    00:00 Introduction and Overcoming Initial Hurdles 01:51 The Intimidation of YouTube 02:37 Purpose and Goals of the Channel 04:53 Morning Practices and Oracle Cards 07:47 Stepping into the Flame 11:54 Gratitude and Final Thoughts
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    15 mins
  • Episode 40: Good Grief! Navigating Grief with Compassion and Honesty
    Dec 9 2025

    In this deeply personal episode, I open up about a recent loss in my family and the waves of grief that have followed. This isn't a polished story — it's real, raw, and honest. I share what it's been like to sit with my emotions, give myself permission to not have it all together, and allow space for both chaos and compassion.

    Grief can feel unpredictable — one day heavy, the next quiet — and that's okay. I'm learning to let things be as they are, without trying to manage or "fix" every feeling. Through this conversation, I hope to remind anyone going through loss that you don't have to navigate it perfectly. You just have to show up for yourself with love and honesty.

    If you're grieving or supporting someone who is, this episode is an invitation to breathe, feel, and remember that it's okay not to be okay.

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    29 mins
  • Episode 39: Boundary Backlash - Learning How to Hold Boundaries as a Latina Parent
    Nov 12 2025

    In this episode, I share a real-life story about a recent playdate that turned into a powerful lesson on boundaries, communication, and cultural expectations. When another parent reacted negatively to a boundary I set, it forced me to reflect on how I uphold my values — especially as a Latina mom navigating community, respect, and self-worth.

    I'll talk about why saying "no" can feel so hard, how cultural norms can shape our boundaries, and what it looks like to stand firm with love and confidence. If you've ever struggled with guilt, people-pleasing, or tough conversations, this episode will resonate deeply.

    💬 Topics I cover:

    • Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries as a Latina parent

    • Handling conflict and difficult conversations gracefully

    • The emotional side of saying "no" without guilt

    • Cultural pressures and generational expectations

    • Building confidence and self-trust in parenting

    Whether you're a mom, a parent, or someone learning to honor your own needs, this episode will remind you that boundaries are an act of self-love and respect.

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    26 mins
  • Episode 38: My Perimenopausal Journey Pt. 1
    Jun 24 2025

    In this episode I'll tell you about my perimenopausal journey and the lack of support I've been getting from my medical team. I'll also tell you changes I've been making in how I communicate and interact with medical professionals.

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    25 mins
  • Episode 37: The Me I Used to Be
    Jun 10 2025

    Well that was a long break! When I first started this podcast in 2025 (5 years ago!), it started because I've been a long time writer, and vlogger. I in fact have never stopped writing, journaling, or vlogging, I did however stop sharing all of my thoughts with you. So, welcome back. In this episode I'll share what I learned from the past five years, and especially pandemic, why I took a break from publishing, what I regret about my past self, and a little bit about Chakras.

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    17 mins
  • Episode 36: Creating a New Reality with Chantel Rodriguez
    May 12 2020

    In this episode I get the amazing chance to speak with artist, wellness entrepreneur, and over all game changer, Chantel Rodriguez. She shares her beautiful family story and talks about how those early experiences impacted how she lives her life, loves her family, and builds her business.

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    59 mins
  • Episode 35: Healing Your Body Through Hypnosis with Nicole Hernandez
    Apr 28 2020

    In this episode I speak with certified Hypnotherapist, Nicole Hernandez. We talk about her journey to hypnotherapy and how she healed her own body from a chronic illness through the power of hypnosis and meditation. I can't wait for you all to hear this amazing interview!

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    59 mins