Today, we're taking a closer look at a fear that keeps coming up for so many of us—the fear of letting our true selves show up fully, quirks and all. Through personal stories, we explore what it means to drop the mask and find the courage to reveal who we are at our core, especially in a world that often encourages us to blend in.

Sharing our own experiences, we talk about how small, personal acts can become big steps toward self-acceptance. It can feel surprisingly scary to embrace our quirks in public, especially when they don’t align with the norm.

Here's the thing, the fear of showing up authentically is often a challenge that doesn’t ease with time—but embracing who we are is always more rewarding than hiding, regardless of the outcome.

Together, we examine the ways fear can exaggerate the impact of a situation and hold us back, while also offering us powerful opportunities for connection and growth.

Embracing who we are isn’t always comfortable, and we’re not everyone’s cup of tea. Yet, in letting ourselves be seen, we open the door to richer relationships and a deeper sense of worthiness. So, grab a cup of tea, settle in with us, and let’s explore the beauty and bravery of being seen.

✨ You are meant to shine. ✨

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What happens when a serious health scare forces you to reassess your life choices? Lauree Ostrofsky's remarkable journey from a traditional PR career to becoming a beacon of women's empowerment offers an inspiring example. Lauree's transformative path began with a sabbatical through Europe and took a dramatic turn when she discovered she had a brain tumor. Her story underscores the power of resilience and the incredible potential that emerges when one follows their true calling.

We also dive into the empowering mantra "I'm Scared and Doing it Anyway," drawn from Lauree's personal experience. Lauree's openness about her vulnerabilities invites others to embrace their own fears. We discuss how self-kindness and understanding that fear is a natural part of life can lead to significant personal growth. Lauree highlights the power of curiosity in managing fear and the importance of nurturing oneself, just as you would a child facing their first big challenge.

Finally, we explore the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. Lauree shares invaluable insights on self-compassion, the role of "linchpins" in our personal development, and the impact of our thoughts, beliefs, and the people around us. As Lauree's story illustrates, while we can't always control our external circumstances, we have immense power over how we respond and the mindset we choose to cultivate. Join us for an enriching conversation that promises to leave you inspired and ready to harness your own resilience.

Stay in touch with Lauree on her website, LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook. You can also find out what kind of overthinker you are with this fun quiz!

✨ You are meant to shine. ✨

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Have you ever felt like the weight of the world is too much to bear? You’re not alone.

In this vulnerable episode, Sarah Anne and Sarah Kelly explore their own experiences of losing and rediscovering hope, including a recent period where Sarah Anne felt completely devoid of hope—a state she had never experienced before. It was not fun.

Together, we explore the heavy, suffocating grip of hopelessness and the steps we've taken to navigate those moments when anxiety and depression take hold. (Spoiler: the answer lies in community and connection!)

When in that state of hopelessness, even the simplest acts of self-care and reaching out for support can feel impossible. The things that did bring us joy, hope and connection stop working. We don’t have the energy to do the things we normally do to keep regulated and balanced.

But what if we could ask for help? Or even just accept help when it is offered? How might our community guide us back to joy and hope? Letting others in, even when it’s terrifying, can remind us that we’re not alone. And help us reconnect to hope.

Whether you’re facing a significant life challenge or just the everyday grind, this episode offers practical advice, stories from our experiences with mental health, and a powerful reminder that it’s okay to not have everything together.

If you’re struggling with the feelings of hopelessness, isolation, anxiety, depression or self-harm, please reach out for help. Our podcast is for educational and informational purposes only, based on our personal experiences, and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. A licensed mental health professional can help you discover the path of healing right for you. We’re here, and we understand.

Listeners in the USA can call the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline Monday-Friday from 10am-10pm ET at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text “HelpLine” to 62640, or visit https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/ for more resources.

✨ You are meant to shine. ✨

Stay in touch! Sign up for our weekly emails or follow us on social on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.