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Paula discusses the importance of boundaries in various aspects of life, emphasizing their role in self-care and mental health. She highlights the challenges of setting and maintaining boundaries, noting cultural and generational influences. Paula suggests practical steps, such as starting with setting setting one specific boundary. She stresses that boundaries are essential for protecting personal energy and promoting meaningful self-care. In addition, Paula speaks on the fear of conflict and the need for self-reflection to identify and address feelings of shame and guilt associated with setting boundaries.

In this episode, you will hear:

• impact of boundaries on self-care and mental health
• cultural and generational influences on boundaries
• practical steps for boundary setting
• normalizing discomfort and progress

Boundaries Freebie - https://bit.ly/boundarylevelup

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Paula discusses the challenges and realities of starting a private practice for new graduates in the mental health field. She emphasizes the importance of realistic expectations, noting some New York specific themes that pre-licensed clinicians often face. Paula highlights the need for business acumen, financial literacy, and networking to name a few core themes in addition to strong clinical skills. She advises against jumping into full-time private practice immediately post-graduation, citing legal restrictions, financial instability, and the necessity of appropriate supervision. Paula also stresses the importance of self-advocacy, setting boundaries, and continuous learning to avoid burnout and ensure sustainable practice.

In this episode, you will hear:
+ challenges of starting a private practice
+ legal and financial considerations
+ operational and administrative challenges
+ impact of external factors on private practice
+ personal and professional growth

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Paula examines the concept of acceptance, emphasizing it as an action rather than a belief. She differentiates acceptance from approval, noting that acceptance is a verb and requires active participation. Paula highlights the challenges of acceptance, including confusion with giving up and the fear of judgment. She shares some personal experiences and the importance of self-compassion and accessing community support. Paula encourages listeners to practice acceptance by meeting reality, setting boundaries, and seeking rest. She stresses that acceptance is not surrender but a courageous acknowledgment of one's circumstances.

In this episode, you will hear:
+ defining acceptance
+ personal and collective challenges
+ cultural and religious influences
+ overcoming avoidance and embracing discomfort
+ the role of control and the “fix-it” energy

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Paula explores the current impact of anxiety on Americans, referencing a recent mental health poll by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) which revealed that 40% of employed individuals worry about job security, while 67% prioritize keeping themselves or their families safe among other significant concerns. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging an increase in anxiety as a signal and addressing it before it becomes unmanageable, particularly for historically underserved populations such as BIPOC individuals and those in rural areas.

Resources:
Annual Mental Health Poll Reveals Americans Anxious About Current Events; 40% of Employed Worried About Job Security

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Paula highlights the confirmation of a a new policy in New York City Public schools banning cell phones and internet-enabled devices following several other states who have adopted similar practices. This policy will affect grades 3-12 and includes exceptions for educational and medical needs. She identifies increase in concerns include mental health impacts, safety, and parental communication which motivates these shifts as well as the responsibility of schools to develop their own policies and ensure secure storage. Paula also advises on strategies that parents and guardians to discuss the policy with their children and ensure they know how to handle emergencies as well as what questions to ask school staff to ensure they are receiving the most accurate information.

In this episode, you will hear:
+ impact on students and parental concerns
+ challenges in implementing cell phone/device policy
+ exceptions and special considerations
+ parental concern and communication
+ discipline and accountability
+ transitional period and community support

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Steven discusses his work with the Men's Helpline, a nonprofit supporting men through infertility and pregnancy loss. He highlights the lack of resources and support for men experiencing infertility, noting that one in six couples struggle with infertility. Steven emphasizes the importance of mental health support and advocates for increased awareness and access to fertility treatments. He shares personal experiences and the challenges of navigating infertility, including the financial burden and societal stigmas. Our conversation underscores the need for more inclusive and comprehensive support systems for men and women dealing with infertility.

In this episode, you will hear:
+ personal experience with infertility
+ challenges and misconceptions in men’s mental health
+ impact of infertility on relationships and family dynamics
+ support systems and coping mechanisms
+ advocacy and awareness as well as access and equity
+ access and equity in fertility treatment
+ cultural and religious perspectives

Guest Bio:

Steven J. Miller, APSW, is a therapist and advocate specializing in reproductive mental health, with a focus on infertility and pregnancy loss. He serves as the Research and Development Chair at Men’s Helpline and hosts The MILES Podcast, which spotlights men's fertility experiences. Steven has over 15 years of social work experience and provides therapy through Synapse Solutions and Corazon Counseling. He contributes to national and state-level advocacy through the American Society of Reproductive Medicine and the Building Families Alliance–Wisconsin. With clinical insight and lived empathy, Steven is dedicated to amplifying the voices of those often overlooked and expanding support for individuals facing reproductive challenges.

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Check out the latest episode of “Why Don’t We Talk About this Podcast?! with my fantastic guest, Christina Broderick-Royes, LSW!

Christina shares her journey from pre-med to social work, highlighting her experience in non-profits and higher education. She emphasized the importance of data in business, sharing such metrics as impacting 6,000 individuals and issuing 189 digital badges. Christina stressed the need for social workers to embrace entrepreneurship, overcome scarcity mindsets, and leverage their skills. She advised on hiring support for tasks that hinder growth, citing her own experience with marketing and administrative support. Christina also underscored the significance of mentorship, accountability, and quick action in achieving business success.

In this episode, you will hear:
+ transition to entrepreneurship and business growth
+ challenges and learning curves
+ mentorship and support systems
+ overcoming perfectionism and taking action
+ balancing business and personal life

Episode Resources:

"The Big Leap" by Gay Hendricks

Harvard Business Review - "10 Must Reads on Strategy"

Guest Bio:

Christina Broderick-Royes is a social worker turned entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, published author, and adjunct professor. She is the founder of Intention Elevation, a consulting company that helps organizations and entrepreneurs design transformative mental health and leadership initiatives rooted in strategy, clarity, and impact. Christina has worked with over 70 organizations nationwide, blending her clinical expertise with sharp strategic thinking to support historically marginalized communities. Whether in classrooms, boardrooms, or retreats, she equips leaders with the tools to grow, lead, and sustain change. Her work bridges purpose and profit—proving that social work skills can build powerful, scalable businesses.

Contact/Socials:

Email: christina@intentionelevation.com
Instagram: @chrissie.broderick
LinkedIn: Christina Broderick-Royes, LSW

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Paula discusses the concept of emotional support coworkers, highlighting their role in providing active listening, empathy, and encouragement during challenging times. She emphasizes the importance of emotional support in reducing stress, boosting mood, and fostering resilience. Paula notes that emotional support can positively impact mental and physical health, job performance, and satisfaction. She advises on themes associated with offering help appropriately as well as addresses the challenges of receiving support and the benefits of professional help when needed.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Understanding Emotional Support Coworkers
• Benefits of Emotional Support at Work
• How to Provide Emotional Support
• Challenges of Being an Emotional Support Coworker
• The Role of Emotional Support in Personal Growth

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