Breaking Free From Polished Pain: A Journey From Performance to Authentic Healing

In this powerful episode, Lynda Carmouche shares her transformative journey from polishing pain to embracing authentic healing. With remarkable vulnerability, Lynda reveals how her experience with divorce and betrayal led her to a breaking point—and the closet where she cried when no one was watching. As a psychotherapist expected to have all the answers, Lynda's story illuminates the dangerous disconnect between our public strength and private struggles.

You'll hear about:

• Lynda's personal story of betrayal and the emotional crisis that followed
• The generational and spiritual messages that keep us trapped in "being strong"
• Why processing pain is essential—and how "polishing" it creates deeper wounds
• The importance of identifying your safe space to authentically be human
• How childhood wounds create "cracks in our foundation" that affect adult relationships
• Practical strategies for setting and maintaining meaningful boundaries
• The transformative power of giving yourself "permission to pause"
• Breaking free from unrealistic expectations of perfectionism and constant service

Today, as a licensed therapist, speaker, and best-selling author of "Polished Pain: The Cost of Burnout and Unresolved Trauma," Lynda helps high-functioning professionals who appear strong on the outside but are silently unraveling inside. Her powerful message reveals that burnout isn't the problem—it's the proof of unprocessed pain and trauma.

Through Lynda's compassionate insights and lived experience, this episode illuminates how confronting our deepest wounds can lead to authentic healing and wholeness beyond the masks we wear.

CONNECT WITH LYNDA CARMOUCHE:

Website: https://www.lyndacarmouche.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lynda.carmouche
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lyndacarmouche/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lynda-carmouche-lcsw-s-acsw-7b62bb191

Book: Polished Pain: The Cost of Burnout and Unresolved Trauma (Free shipping available)
The Mirror Room: Get 10% off with code RABBITHOLE10

CONNECT WITH LISA:

All Links: linktr.ee/RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast
Facebook: facebook.com/rabbitholereflections
YouTube: @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast

NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY @ 7PM EST

Thank you for joining us on another journey down the rabbit hole! If this story resonated with you, be a light in someone's darkness by sharing this episode. Connect with our community on Facebook @rabbitholereflections, and catch our video episodes on YouTube @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast. Together, we're creating a world where shared stories of resilience light the way from darkness to strength. Through the darkness, into the dawn – I'm Lisa Van Slyke, and I'll see you next time.

** TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussion of childhood sexual abuse and related sensitive topics. **

**Finding Purpose Through Personal Healing: A Survivor's Journey to Empowering Others**

In this powerful episode, Tina Meyer shares her profound journey from victim to advocate as she discusses founding The Blue Butterfly Institute, an organization dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual trauma. With remarkable courage and vulnerability, Tina reveals how her personal experience with childhood sexual abuse and domestic violence led her on an eight-year healing journey that ultimately inspired her mission to create safe spaces for other survivors.

You'll hear about:

* Tina's personal story of surviving childhood sexual trauma and domestic violence
* The multi-layered healing process and how trauma impacts every aspect of functioning
* How darkness can transform into purpose and opportunity
* The importance of creating genuine safety in relationships and communication
* The founding of The Blue Butterfly Institute and its mission
* Practical approaches to trauma recovery that empower survivors
* Why community support is essential for healing from profound trauma

Today, as founder of The Blue Butterfly Institute, Tina combines her extensive background as an educator with her personal healing journey to provide free support groups, therapy services, and community education. Her work demonstrates how confronting our deepest wounds can lead to profound personal transformation and create ripples of healing for countless others.

Through Tina's inspiring story and compassionate insights, this episode illuminates the possibility of living beyond trauma and reclaiming one's power to create a beautiful life despite painful beginnings.

## CONNECT WITH TINA MEYER:
Email: tina@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au
Website: https://www.thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au
Facebook: https://facebook.com/thebluebutterflyinstitute
Podcast: The Cocoon

## CONNECT WITH LISA:
All Links: linktr.ee/RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast
Facebook: facebook.com/rabbitholereflections
YouTube: @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast
NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY @ 7PM EST

Thank you for joining us on another journey down the rabbit hole! If this story resonated with you, be a light in someone's darkness by sharing this episode. Connect with our community on Facebook @rabbitholereflections, and catch our video episodes on YouTube @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast. Together, we're creating a world where shared stories of resilience light the way from darkness to strength. Through the darkness, into the dawn – I'm Lisa Van Slyke, and I'll see you next time.

**From College Weight Gain to Coaching Success: A Journey of Transformation** In this eye-opening episode, nutrition coach Zack Busch shares his powerful journey from fitness to fatigue and back again. Once naturally lean and athletic, Zack experienced the all-too-common college weight gain that left him feeling sluggish, unhappy, and disconnected from his former vibrant self. Through determination and strategic lifestyle changes, he not only reclaimed his health but discovered his purpose in helping others do the same. You'll hear about: * Zack's early relationship with fitness and how college habits derailed his health * The mental and physical toll of poor nutrition and inactivity * The pivotal moment that sparked his transformation journey * Practical nutrition strategies that actually work for busy schedules * How small habit changes create sustainable results * The mindset shifts necessary for lasting transformation * Real-world techniques anyone can apply, regardless of their starting point Today, as a Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach, Zack empowers clients through his Fit Fatherhood platform to master nutrition, build better habits, and achieve real, lasting results without sacrificing their priorities or sanity. His approach combines practical nutrition guidance with habit-based coaching designed for people managing busy, demanding lives. Through Zack's inspiring story and actionable advice, this episode tackles the common struggles with maintaining health in our modern world and offers a roadmap to reclaiming the energy, confidence, and vitality that many have resigned themselves to living without. ## SPECIAL OFFER FOR LISTENERS: FREE 30-Minute Breakthrough Strategy Session ($197 value) Book now at: https://www.fitfatherhood.net/zack-free30-booking ## CONNECT WITH ZACK BUSCH: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/zackbusch924/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@zackbusch924 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BH7KP5nBK5BR5lIS3Isws?si=93431c5a1b2f4e3f Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18tvKSggjq/ ## CONNECT WITH LISA: All Links: linktr.ee/RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast Facebook: facebook.com/rabbitholereflections YouTube: @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY @ 7PM EST #HealthTransformation #NutritionCoaching #SustainableWellness #HealthyHabits #FitnessJourney #RabbitHoleReflections

Thank you for joining us on another journey down the rabbit hole! If this story resonated with you, be a light in someone's darkness by sharing this episode. Connect with our community on Facebook @rabbitholereflections, and catch our video episodes on YouTube @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast. Together, we're creating a world where shared stories of resilience light the way from darkness to strength. Through the darkness, into the dawn – I'm Lisa Van Slyke, and I'll see you next time.

⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussion of childhood sexual abuse, porn addiction, and related sensitive topics.

🔄 BREAKING THE CYCLE | Joshua Jones on Overcoming Addiction & Finding Purpose | Rabbit Hole Reflections #5

In this open conversation, Joshua discusses how experiencing sexual abuse at a young age led to years battling pornography addiction, working in the adult entertainment industry, and struggling with substance use before finding a path to freedom.

You'll hear about:

* How childhood sexual abuse created vulnerability to addiction
* His intense struggle with pornography that took control of his life
* Working in the sex industry while trapped in addiction cycles
* The devastating impact on his relationships and first marriage
* The turning points that finally enabled him to break free
* His current mission helping other men overcome porn addiction

Today, Joshua leads men's groups and ministry work specifically addressing the widespread but often hidden struggle with pornography addiction. By sharing his story, he brings light to an issue many battle silently, offering both understanding and practical paths to recovery.

His journey demonstrates how confronting our deepest struggles can lead to profound healing and a purposeful life dedicated to helping others find freedom from similar chains.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR LISTENERS:
* FREE HOPE (Hour of POWER Experience) Session ($297 value)
Available at: https://tupos.us/hope
Connect with Joshua on any social platform and DM with phrase "Rabbit Hole POWER"

CONNECT WITH JOSHUA JONES:
* Website: JoshuaAlanJones.com
#TUPOS #BecomeTheExample

CONNECT WITH LISA:
* All Links: linktr.ee/RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast
* Facebook: facebook.com/rabbitholereflections
* YouTube: @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast

NATIONAL RESOURCES:
* SAMHSA's National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
* National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE (4673)
* National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 or 1-800-273-8255
* Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY @ 7PM EST

#PornAddiction #RecoveryJourney #BreakingFree #HealingFromTrauma #RabbitHoleReflections #TUPOS #BecomeTheExample

Thank you for joining us on another journey down the rabbit hole! If this story resonated with you, be a light in someone's darkness by sharing this episode. Connect with our community on Facebook @rabbitholereflections, and catch our video episodes on YouTube @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast. Together, we're creating a world where shared stories of resilience light the way from darkness to strength. Through the darkness, into the dawn – I'm Lisa Van Slyke, and I'll see you next time.

BREAKING FREE FROM SHAME | Jocelyn Firth on Money, Spirituality & Self-Discovery | Rabbit Hole Reflections #4

In this illuminating conversation, Tarot reader and wellness guide Jocelyn Firth shares her journey from emptying her cup for others to rediscovering her authentic self through spiritual practice. With honesty and wisdom, Jocelyn explores the often unspoken shame surrounding money and spirituality, offering insights on how these taboo topics impact our sense of self-worth and fulfillment.

You'll hear about:

* Jocelyn's pivotal moment of realization in 2020 that catalyzed her transformation * How years of prioritizing others led to a disconnection from her own passions
* The complex relationship between shame, money, and spiritual practice
* Using Tarot as a practical tool for decision-making and self-discovery
* Finding balance between family responsibilities and personal aspirations
* Embracing a holistic approach to wellness that honors mind, body, and spirit

Beyond simply surviving the wake-up call that 2020 provided, Jocelyn has transformed her experience into purpose through Raven Heart Tarot, where she guides women toward self-love and empowerment. Her refreshing perspective—viewing life at 50 as merely the halfway point—offers hope and inspiration for those feeling that time is slipping away.

With a diverse background including certifications in Life and Nutrition Coaching, Tarot Reading, Ho'oponopono, Akashic Records, and Chakra balancing, Jocelyn provides a multifaceted approach to helping women reclaim their narrative and rediscover their inner fire.

SPECIAL OFFERS FOR LISTENERS:
* Seven-day free trial in the Coven of the Woo Woo Sisterhood
* Free guide: "How to Stay Out of the Rabbit Hole (And Keep Your Sanity Intact)"

CONNECT WITH JOCELYN FIRTH:
* Raven Heart Tarot: facebook.com/ravenhearttarotpage
* Raven Heart Tarot Coven: facebook.com/groups/ravenhearttarotcoven
* Instagram: instagram.com/raven_heart_tarot
* TikTok: tiktok.com/@ravenhearttarot

CONNECT WITH LISA:
* All Links: linktr.ee/RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast
* Facebook: facebook.com/rabbitholereflections
* YouTube: @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast

NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY @ 7PM EST

#BreakingShame #SpiritualJourney #TarotWisdom #MoneyMindset #RabbitHoleReflections

Thank you for joining us on another journey down the rabbit hole! If this story resonated with you, be a light in someone's darkness by sharing this episode. Connect with our community on Facebook @rabbitholereflections, and catch our video episodes on YouTube @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast. Together, we're creating a world where shared stories of resilience light the way from darkness to strength. Through the darkness, into the dawn – I'm Lisa Van Slyke, and I'll see you next time.

🚀 FROM LAYOFF TO FREEDOM-BASED EMPIRE | Sarah Labrecque, Business Coach | Rabbit Hole Reflections #3

In this inspiring conversation, business growth coach Sarah Labrecque shares her remarkable journey from being laid off during maternity leave to building multiple six-figure businesses. With candor and practical wisdom, Sarah reveals how she transformed a devastating setback into the catalyst for creating a freedom-based entrepreneurial life on her own terms.

You'll hear about:
* Sarah's unexpected layoff during maternity leave and the pivotal decision to bet on herself
* How she transformed her corporate expertise into a lifestyle business generating substantial income
* Her unique approach to building profitable businesses with a micro audience of under 700 followers
* The strategic systems that helped her scale to $20K/month without endless hustle
* Practical insights for ambitious women looking to convert their expertise into real income
* The balance she's created between motherhood and entrepreneurship

Beyond simply surviving her corporate layoff, Sarah has built an empire that allows her to thrive on her own terms. As a business growth coach who's actually done what she teaches, she offers activation-based training focused on implementation rather than theory. Her story demonstrates how strategic action and unwavering determination can transform life's most challenging moments into extraordinary opportunities.

True to her practical nature, Sarah's approach is results-oriented and no-nonsense, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to create more freedom and income in their lives.

CONNECT WITH SARAH LABRECQUE:
💼 AI to Income Workshop ($37):
https://sarah-labrecque.mykajabi.com/offers/7zfbaL9K
📸 Instagram: @itssarahlabrecque
📱 Facebook: Sarah Labrecque

CONNECT WITH LISA:
🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast
📱 Facebook: facebook.com/rabbitholereflections
▶️ YouTube: @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast

NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY @ 7PM EST

#BusinessTransformation #FemaleEntrepreneur #CorporateToFreedom #MompreneurSuccess #RabbitHoleReflections

Thank you for joining us on another journey down the rabbit hole! If this story resonated with you, be a light in someone's darkness by sharing this episode. Connect with our community on Facebook @rabbitholereflections, and catch our video episodes on YouTube @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast. Together, we're creating a world where shared stories of resilience light the way from darkness to strength. Through the darkness, into the dawn – I'm Lisa Van Slyke, and I'll see you next time.

⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussion of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and suicidal thoughts.

🎖️ HEALING AFTER MILITARY SEXUAL TRAUMA | Tanya Lakins, Marine Veteran | Rabbit Hole Reflections #2

In this powerful and honest discussion, Marine Veteran Tanya Lakins shares her journey through the aftermath of Military Sexual Trauma and the invisible wounds of PTSD. With the same courage that defined her military service, Tanya reveals both her darkest moments and the path she forged toward healing and reclaiming her life.

You'll hear about:
* Tanya's traumatic experience with MST and how it affected her life and military service
* Her challenging path through PTSD and suicidal ideation toward recovery
* The turning points that shifted her from survival to recovery
* How she embraced holistic approaches and self-care as part of her healing routine
* Her mission to help other veterans and trauma survivors heal
* Practical strategies anyone can use during difficult times

Beyond surviving, Tanya has transformed her experience into purpose through her holistic healing practice, True Balance Wellness in Gladstone, MO. Her new mission is to help as many veterans as possible, while also providing comprehensive wellness services to all her clients. Her story demonstrates how facing our deepest wounds can become the foundation for profound transformation.

True to her Marine spirit, Tanya's approach is authentic, direct, and non-sugar-coated, offering invaluable insights for anyone navigating their own dark moments.

VETERAN RESOURCES MENTIONED:

🛡️ Shield of Sisters (MST support): www.shieldofsisters.com
⚔️ The Battle Within (PTSD retreats): www.thebattlewithin.org
🏔️ Warriors Ascent (Veteran retreats): www.warriorsascent.org
🎖️ Veteran Service Officers (Disability Claims Help): www.mvc.dps.mo.gov/service/serviceofficer

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
🌟 National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE (4673) or online.rainn.org
🌟 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 or 1-800-273-8255
🌟 Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
🌟 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788

CONNECT WITH TANYA LAKINS:
💆‍♀️ True Balance Wellness: truebalancekc.com
📱 Facebook: facebook.com/truebalancekc
👤 Personal: facebook.com/tanya.lakins.1

CONNECT WITH LISA:
🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast
📱 Facebook: facebook.com/rabbitholereflections
▶️ YouTube: @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast

NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY @ 7PM EST

#PTSD #VeteranHealing #MilitaryTrauma #HolisticRecovery #RabbitHoleReflections

Thank you for joining us on another journey down the rabbit hole! If this story resonated with you, be a light in someone's darkness by sharing this episode. Connect with our community on Facebook @rabbitholereflections, and catch our video episodes on YouTube @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast. Together, we're creating a world where shared stories of resilience light the way from darkness to strength. Through the darkness, into the dawn – I'm Lisa Van Slyke, and I'll see you next time.

🌟 SPECIAL RE-LAUNCH EPISODE: Near-Death Experience & Coming Back with Author Kellie Fitzgerald | Rabbit Hole Reflections #1

Welcome to our first Rabbit Hole Reflection! Lisa returns after a hiatus to interview author Kellie Fitzgerald, our very first guest from the original podcast run.

In this powerful conversation, Kellie shares her profound Near-Death Experience (NDE) and the life-changing insights she gained after "returning from the dead." You'll hear about:

- Kellie's extraordinary near-death experience
- The spiritual insights she received from the other side
- How she transformed this experience into her book "Yes I Died, but I am Totally Fine Now"
- Her children's book series "Laehli and the Elephants" and the movie project
- The wisdom that shifted Kellie from chaos to calm

Grab your favorite beverage and join us for 45 minutes as we venture down the Rabbit Hole to explore transformation and truth.

CONNECT WITH KELLIE FITZGERALD:
📚 Books: "Yes I Died, but I am Totally Fine Now" & "Laehli and the Elephants" series
▶️ YouTube: @kelliefitzgeraldauthor6689
📱 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IbbiLane
🔮 Energy Healing: https://www.facebook.com/EnergyhealerandreaderKellieFitzgerald

NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY @ 7PM EST

Thank you for joining us on another journey down the rabbit hole! If this story resonated with you, be a light in someone's darkness by sharing this episode. Connect with our community on Facebook @rabbitholereflections, and catch our video episodes on YouTube @RabbitHoleReflectionsPodcast. Together, we're creating a world where shared stories of resilience light the way from darkness to strength. Through the darkness, into the dawn – I'm Lisa Van Slyke, and I'll see you next time.