EPISODE 28 : HOW TO TRANSFORM PTSD INTO POST TRAUMATIC GROWTH WITH JEN CUI

EPISODE 28 : HOW TO TRANSFORM PTSD INTO POST TRAUMATIC GROWTH WITH JEN CUI

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Hello Friends and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

Today on the podcast I have invited holistic health coach and certified personal trainer Jen Cui to come on the show and teach us how we can transform PTSD into Post Traumatic Growth

For over 6 years, Jen suffered from depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, disordered eating, and post-traumatic stress. After traditional medicine and therapies failed to treat her symptoms, Jen made the pivotal choice to embark on a self-healing journey to strengthen her mental health and build a positive relationship with her body. Now, she is thriving in her wellness and helping others do the same.

As the founder of Jen Cui Health, Jen’s mission is to empower people to live a healthy lifestyle that is authentic to them. She has helped hundreds of women and men reclaim their lives and bodies through invigorating live workouts as well as her signature “Find Your Freedom” mindfulness-based 12-week coaching program.

Today on the podcast we are going to be talking about Neuro-Linguistic Programming, psychology​ ​Martin Seligman’s​ 3 P’s to setback recovery, and Psychologist​ ​Carol Dweck​’s 4 Q’s to effectively respond to challenging situations or emotions.

To learn more about Jen’s #My2021 Self-Care Pledge & 6-week Challenge (take the pledge to prioritize your wellness this year and have a chance to win a coaching session with me) - CLICK HERE

To join one of Jen’s Live Weekday Workouts, visit jencui.com/workshops

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did! Feel free to leave your thought below!

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

- ADDITIONAL RESOURCES -


The Things you Can See Only When You Slow Down is a bestselling mindfulness guide by Haemin Sunim (which means “spontaneous wisdom”), a renowned Buddhist meditation teacher born in Korea and educated in the United States, illuminates a path to inner peace and balance amid the overwhelming demands of everyday life.


When it was first published, Intuitive Eating was revolutionary in its anti-dieting approach. The authors, both prominent health professionals in the field of nutrition and eating disorders, urge readers to embrace the goal of developing body positivity and reconnecting with one’s internal wisdom about eating―to unlearn everything they were taught about calorie-counting and other aspects of diet culture and to learn about the harm of weight stigma.

In The Four Agreements, bestselling author don Miguel Ruiz reveals the source of self-limiting beliefs that rob us of joy and create needless suffering. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, The Four Agreements offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives to a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love.



In this beautiful follow-up to his international bestseller The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down, Zen Buddhist monk Haemin Sunim turns his trademark wisdom to the art of self-care, arguing that only by accepting yourself--and the flaws that make you who you are--can you have compassionate and fulfilling relationships with your partner, your family, and your friends. With more than thirty-five full-color illustrations, Love For Imperfect Things will appeal to both your eyes and your heart, and help you learn to love yourself, your life, and everyone in it.

Trauma is a fact of life. Veterans and their families deal with the painful aftermath of combat; one in five Americans have been molested; one in four grew up with alcoholics; one in three couples have engaged in physical violence. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, one of the world’s foremost experts on trauma, has spent over three decades working with survivors. In The Body Keeps the Score, he uses recent scientific advances to show how trauma literally reshapes both body and brain, compromising sufferers’ capacities for pleasure, engagement, self-control, and trust. He explores innovative treatments—from neurofeedback and meditation to sports, drama, and yoga—that offer new paths to recovery by activating the brain’s natural neuroplasticity. Based on Dr. van der Kolk’s own research and that of other leading specialists, The Body Keeps the Score exposes the tremendous power of our relationships both to hurt and to heal—and offers new hope for reclaiming lives.

- Where To Find Jen Online -


INSTAGRAM ▶ @JenCuiHealth
WEBSITE ▶ www.jencuihealth.com
FACEBOOK ▶ JenCuiHealth

Follow The @IsThatSohPodcast On Instagram!

The first of many interior design decisions to come! Now that we are half way through the last phase of our interior renovations (the basement) I am getting really excited about shifting my focus from renoing our Toronto Victorian home to styling a
No more scary basement! 🏡 Here is a little before and after of our basement underpin by @icy.reno We went from 6 foot ceilings to just under 8.5 and installed new drains, waterproofing and a radiant floor! DYK that doing an underpin and finishing

If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 23: FINDING YOUR IDENTITY WITH TOSIN ODUGBEMI

EPISODE 23: FINDING YOUR IDENTITY WITH TOSIN ODUGBEMI

* Please Note - Some links in this post may be affiliate links *

Hello Friends and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

Today on the podcast I have invited visual designer and founder of Tosin Odugbemi Design, Tosin Odugbemi, to come on the podcast and share her story of growing up as the only black immigrant in a small suburb of Edmonton, how she overcame her struggles around finding her identity and how she now helps others find and execute theirs visually through branding and design.

Tosin, for those who don’t know her, is a visual designer and an academic who is passionate about crafting a beautiful, intentional and thoughtful life. Her goal is to assist others in their design and branding journeys by helping them to realize their vision through creating bespoke and timeless visual designs for them. With a conscientious eye for observing details, Tosin studies forms, textures, colors, fit and function, and is sensitive to harmony or lack thereof. Her visual imagination has been thoroughly trained through years of design education which has now led her to be able to assist clients in telling their stories visually too.

CHECK OUT THESE OTHER EMPOWERING EPISODES

Today on the podcast we are going to be talking about growing up as an immigrant and what struggles come with it in regards to finding your identity, what a third culture kid is, and Tosin’s journey of healing and self-discovery which allowed her to explore her talents and identity with harmony.

To learn more about Tosin contact her at www.oluwatosin.net

I hope you enjoy this episode on finding your identity, finding your life purpose, and finding your voice as much as I did! Feel free to leave your thought below!

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

- ADDITIONAL RESOURCES -

Third Culture Kids - In this 3rd edition of the ground-breaking global classic, Ruth E. Van Reken and Michael V. Pollock, son of the late original co-author, David C. Pollock, have significantly updated what is widely recognized as "The TCK Bible." Emphasis is on the modern TCK and addressing the impact of technology, cultural complexity, diversity and inclusion and transitions. Includes new advice for parents and others for how to support TCKs as they navigate work, relationships, social settings and their own personal development.

- Where To Find Tosin Online -


INSTAGRAM ▶ @TosinOdugbemi
WEBSITE ▶ www.oluwatosin.net
FACEBOOK ▶ https://www.facebook.com/oluwatosinodugbemidesign

Follow The @IsThatSohPodcast On Instagram!

The first of many interior design decisions to come! Now that we are half way through the last phase of our interior renovations (the basement) I am getting really excited about shifting my focus from renoing our Toronto Victorian home to styling a
No more scary basement! 🏡 Here is a little before and after of our basement underpin by @icy.reno We went from 6 foot ceilings to just under 8.5 and installed new drains, waterproofing and a radiant floor! DYK that doing an underpin and finishing

If you have any comments or questions about this episode on finding your self, finding your purpose and, finding your voice, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 21: STEPPING INTO YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF WITH KARA LATTA

EPISODE 21: STEPPING INTO YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF WITH KARA LATTA

* Please Note - Some links in this post may be affiliate links *

Hello Friends and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

Today on the podcast I have invited Kara Latta, Founder and Chief Fun Officer of The Playful Warrior and the Creator of ThoughtPLAY, to come on the podcast and share with us some tips and advice on how to step into and fully embrace our authentic selves.

Kara, for those who don’t know her, helps people embody and express their true self through the power of play and subconscious reprogramming. Through her ThoughtPLAY program, Kara takes clients on an incredible 8-week PLAY journey to reconnect with your inherent nature, uninhibited creativity and infinite possibilities.

Today on the podcast we are going to be talking about shadow work, the importance of playfulness, connecting with your inner child and reprogramming of the subconscious mind.

To learn more about Kara’s ThoughtPLAY program or contact her at www.ThePlayfulWarrior.com

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did! Feel free to leave your thought below!

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

- Recommended Resources -

Lonerwolf - a modern hub for down-to-earth spiritual seekers. Our philosophy is to walk the path less traveled and listen to your soul's calling.

- Meet My Inner Child -

When I requested to meet my inner child, 5 year old me from Montalcino, Tuscany showed up. A happy, innocent, playful child who loves life, is always smiling and just wants to be friends.

- Where To Find Kara Online -


INSTAGRAM ▶ @ThePlayfulWarrior
WEBSITE ▶ www.ThePlayfulWarrior.com

Follow The @IsThatSohPodcast On Instagram!

The first of many interior design decisions to come! Now that we are half way through the last phase of our interior renovations (the basement) I am getting really excited about shifting my focus from renoing our Toronto Victorian home to styling a
No more scary basement! 🏡 Here is a little before and after of our basement underpin by @icy.reno We went from 6 foot ceilings to just under 8.5 and installed new drains, waterproofing and a radiant floor! DYK that doing an underpin and finishing

If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 20: HOW TO OVERCOME YOUR QUARTER-LIFE CRISIS WITH TESS BRIGHAM

EPISODE 20: HOW TO OVERCOME YOUR QUARTER-LIFE CRISIS WITH TESS BRIGHAM

* Please Note - Some links in this post may be affiliate links *

Hello Friends and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

Today on the podcast I have invited Tess Brigham (LMFT, BCC) to come on and teach us how to overcome the quarter-life crisis!

For those who don’t know Tess, she is a Licensed Psychotherapist and Board-Certified Coach that specializes in helping Millennials discover their unique life path so they can go out into the world and make an impact.

At age 27, Tess seemed to have it all as a top Hollywood junior talent manager. But on the inside, things felt empty and pointless. She took a huge risk, quit her job, and rebuilt a career and life she loved. Now she helps other early-career professionals navigate the same quarter-life crisis process.

With over 15 years of experience, Tess has helped thousands of people find their purpose, develop their confidence and create a life they’re excited about living. Identifying your issues is one thing, taking action to get past them is another. Tess’s rare combination of being a trained psychotherapist and a certified coach make her uniquely qualified to help young adults find clarity so they can confidently discover their path and make an impact on the world.

She has been featured on the TV show “The Doctors” and is a regular contributor at CNBC as “The Millennial Therapist.” She has also been a featured Millennial expert at NBC News, Oprah Magazine, MindBodyGreen, Yahoo News, USA Today, Mic, Real Simple, Chicago Tribune, Huff Post, Brit & Co, Bustle, She Knows, Primer Magazine, GenTwenty, I Am & Co, Chelsea Krost, Insider, Creative Global, Thrive Global and Thought Catalog.

Today on the podcast we are going to be talking about decisive decision making, embracing your journey and filling your life with purpose.

To learn more about Tess’s Find Your Path Course or contact her at Www.TessBrigham.Com

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did! Feel free to leave your thought below!

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

- Recommended Readings -

The path to personal and professional fulfillment is rarely straight. Ask anyone who has achieved his or her biggest goals or whose relationships thrive and you’ll hear stories of many unexpected detours along the way. What separates those who master these challenges and those who get derailed? The answer is agility—emotional agility.

Emotional agility is a revolutionary, science-based approach that allows us to navigate life’s twists and turns with self-acceptance, clear-sightedness, and an open mind. Renowned psychologist Susan David developed this concept after studying emotions, happiness, and achievement for more than twenty years. She found that no matter how intelligent or creative people are, or what type of personality they have, it is how they navigate their inner world—their thoughts, feelings, and self-talk—that ultimately determines how successful they will become.


In this must-read book for anyone striving to succeed, pioneering psychologist Angela Duckworth shows parents, educators, athletes, students, and business people-both seasoned and new-that the secret to outstanding achievement is not talent but a focused persistence called “grit.”

Why do some people succeed and others fail? Sharing new insights from her landmark research on grit, MacArthur “genius” Angela Duckworth explains why talent is hardly a guarantor of success. Rather, other factors can be even more crucial such as identifying our passions and following through on our commitments.

- Where To Find Tess Online -


INSTAGRAM ▶ @Tess_bringham
WEBSITE ▶ Www.TessBrigham.Com
TWITTER ▶ @MFTTess
FACEBOOK ▶ Tess Brigham Coaching

Follow The @IsThatSohPodcast On Instagram!

The first of many interior design decisions to come! Now that we are half way through the last phase of our interior renovations (the basement) I am getting really excited about shifting my focus from renoing our Toronto Victorian home to styling a
No more scary basement! 🏡 Here is a little before and after of our basement underpin by @icy.reno We went from 6 foot ceilings to just under 8.5 and installed new drains, waterproofing and a radiant floor! DYK that doing an underpin and finishing

If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 19: HOW TO MAKE YOUR RELATIONSHIP THRIVE WITH LEISSE WILCOX

EPISODE 19: HOW TO MAKE YOUR RELATIONSHIP THRIVE WITH LEISSE WILCOX

* Please Note - Some links in this post may be affiliate links *

Hello Friends and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

Today on the podcast I have invited Leisse Wilcox, a master mindset + success coach who is changing the global conversation on emotional health and self-love, to come on the podcast and impart her wisdom on how to make your relationship thrive!

Leisse, if you have never heard of her, is a passionate speaker, dynamic thought leader, author, NLP practitioner, top podcast host, cancer survivor, mom of three, and taco enthusiast. Her entire experience has been about coming home to her truest self and calling herself “beloved,” knowing intimately that changing the world starts by making the changes we want to see within ourselves first. 

She is also a TEDx speaker, the bestselling author of "To Call Myself Beloved: a Story of Hope, Healing, and Coming Home," and can be found on Season 2 of Amazon Prime’s The Social Movement.

Today on the podcast we are going to be talking about Feminine and Masculin energies, love languages, the impacts of covid, triggers that can arise during the holidays, self-soothing techniques, and how to find the courage to step into your authentic self.

To learn more about Leisse, work with her privately, or check out her online courses, you can contact her at LeisseWilcox.com.

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did! Feel free to leave your thought below!

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

- Breaking Down Feminine and Masculine Energies -

Feminine Energies - Your feminine side gets expressed when you move with the flow of life, embrace your creative energy, dance, play, and attune to your internal process.

Masculine Energies - Your masculine side gets expressed when you're working toward a goal, making progress, getting things done, and pushing forward.

Screen Shot 2020-11-09 at 6.47.10 PM.png

- Understanding Love Languages -

Dr. Gary Chapman, the grandfather of love languages, first outlined in his book ‘The 5 Love Languages”, five general ways romantic partners express and experience love. They are acts of service, gift-giving, physical touch, quality time, and words of affirmation.

Falling in love is easy. Staying in love—that’s the challenge! How can you keep your relationship fresh and growing amid the demands, conflicts, and just plain boredom of everyday life?

In the #1 New York Times bestseller The 5 Love Languages, you’ll discover the secret that has transformed millions of relationships worldwide. Whether your relationship is flourishing or failing, Dr. Gary Chapman’s proven approach to showing and receiving love will help you experience deeper and richer levels of intimacy with your partner—starting today.

The 5 Love Languages is as practical as it is insightful. Updated to reflect the complexities of relationships today, this new edition reveals intrinsic truths and applies relevant, actionable wisdom in ways that work.

- Purchase Leisse’s Best Selling Book! -

This is a story of coming home to yourself. To Call Myself Beloved: A Story of Hope, Healing, and Coming Home offers the permission you’ve been looking for to simply be yourself and accept that with courage, pride, and grace. It really is that simple, even if it is that complicated. Too many of us are tethered to the expectations of other people, living with the feeling that we need to look outside ourselves to feel whole and loved, that we need to keep “the mask” on and hide who we really are; we read book after book, see therapist after therapist, take course after course, all with the intent to “fix what’s broken,” sending us on a quest to continuously solve a problem that isn’t real with a solution that doesn’t exist. And it leaves us dissatisfied, constantly wanting more. The secret is, we’re not broken, we are healing. We are learning to sort through the messages of what we’ve been told are true versus what we believe to be true, and we are figuring out how it aligns with what we want out of our life. Equal parts self-help, memoir, and cozied up on the couch talking to a trusted friend, To Call Myself Beloved is informed by lessons learned through navigating the most cataclysmic events of one woman’s life, and realizing throughout each one that “I am still okay.” Let this book guide you through the process of adulting—finding clarity in what you want, confidence in who you are, and the courage to stay true to both, even if that means making big changes in mindset and behavior—simply through the rebellious act of being yourself. This is the chaos of becoming. Can you love yourself enough to come home to yourself, and learn to call yourself beloved? Yes, you f*cking can.

- Where To Find Leisse Online -


INSTAGRAM ▶ @LeisseWilcox
COACHING WEBSITE ▶LeisseWilcox.com
PODCAST ▶ To Call Myself Beloved
PINTEREST ▶ @LeisseWilcox

Follow The @IsThatSohPodcast On Instagram!

The first of many interior design decisions to come! Now that we are half way through the last phase of our interior renovations (the basement) I am getting really excited about shifting my focus from renoing our Toronto Victorian home to styling a
No more scary basement! 🏡 Here is a little before and after of our basement underpin by @icy.reno We went from 6 foot ceilings to just under 8.5 and installed new drains, waterproofing and a radiant floor! DYK that doing an underpin and finishing

If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 18: TOXIC FRIENDSHIPS WITH YASMIN ELZOMOR

EPISODE 18: TOXIC FRIENDSHIPS WITH YASMIN ELZOMOR

* Please Note - Some links in this post may be affiliate links *

Hello Friends and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

Today on the podcast I have invited content creator and life coach Yasmin Elzomor to come on the show to discuss toxic friendships.

Everyone goes through a situation at some point in their life where they have to ‘break up’ with a friend. Maybe there was some buildup resentment that caused it or maybe things became competitive or some jealousy started to bubble up in the relationship. Perhaps one of you had a secret crush that was never reciprocated or maybe it’s as simple as two people growing apart and wanting different things.

Often times, when we find ourselves in these situations we get stuck in this cycles of hanging on to people we should walk away from because either you or they hold onto the memories of good times, the hope that whatever is happening is just a phase that will pass or because ‘you’ve just known each other for so damn long’ and that alone brings you some form of comfort.

People grow apart though. People evolve and it’s okay to let go of people, especially when those friendships become toxic and no longer serve you the way they used to.

Realizing that you need to let go of a friendship can be a hard pill to swallow but there’s a great saying that I love to share with people when they find themselves in that situation and it goes like this,

“People enter our lives for a reason, a season or a lifetime and we only get disappointed by them when try to force the relationships beyond its purpose.”

So that is why I thought I’d discuss this topic with Yasmin and have her share some of her wisdom and insights on how to identify red flags as well as what to do when you find yourself in a toxic friendship.

Yasmin Elzomor is a NYC-based Life + Manifestation Coach that specializes in relationships, helping others manifest their ideal life by teaching the importance of shadow work and facing the challenges that blog us from stepping into our power. She believes that having passion, drive, motivation and the right mindset will allow you to take control of your life and step confidently into your power.

After hitting her rock bottom, that transformational journey gave her the calling to help others connect with their pain, find the power, and attract healthier relationships. In the past couple years, she has gained a large following on Instagram and aspires to influence and inspire others to walk the walk; not just talk the talk. Yasmin specializes in issues like the influence that Social Media has made on society and relationships, boundaries, and manifestation.

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did! Feel free to leave your thought below!

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

- Toxic Friendship Red Flags -

- boundaries are being disregarded
- being disrespected
- inconsistencies in the friendship
- codependency
- jealousy
- competitiveness
- belittling and putting you down
- are patronizing
- not supportive of your success
- gossip
- can sincerely apologize
- makes you feel like you’re constantly walking on eggshells
- leave you unsettled
- putting their needs front and center

- Healthy Friendship Signs -

- open communication
- quality time
- mutual respect
- listening without judgment
- making shared decisions
- feeling accepted
- feeling safe around each other

- Effects Toxic Friendships Have On Your Mental Health -

- Drained after talking to them/hanging out with them
- effect your sense of identity
- ruin your self esteem
- bring on anxiety and depression

- Narcissism Red Flags -

- lack of empathy
- controlling behavior
- complete disregard for needs and boundaries
- intense lying
- gaslighting
- subtle manipulation

-Additional Resources -

  1. Codependent No More by Melody Beattie - Is someone else's problem your problem? If, like so many others, you've lost sight of your own life in the drama of tending to someone else's, you may be codependent--and you may find yourself in this book--Codependent No More.The healing touchstone of millions, this modern classic by one of America's best-loved and most inspirational authors holds the key to understanding codependency and to unlocking its stultifying hold on your life.

    With instructive life stories, personal reflections, exercises, and self-tests, Codependent No More is a simple, straightforward, readable map of the perplexing world of codependency--charting the path to freedom and a lifetime of healing, hope, and happiness.

- Where To Find Yasmin Online -


PERSONAL INSTAGRAM ▶ @yasminelzomor
COACHING INSTAGRAM ▶ @theyasminelzomor
PODCAST ▶ Humanity Feels

Follow The @IsThatSohPodcast On Instagram!

The first of many interior design decisions to come! Now that we are half way through the last phase of our interior renovations (the basement) I am getting really excited about shifting my focus from renoing our Toronto Victorian home to styling a
No more scary basement! 🏡 Here is a little before and after of our basement underpin by @icy.reno We went from 6 foot ceilings to just under 8.5 and installed new drains, waterproofing and a radiant floor! DYK that doing an underpin and finishing

If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 17: MOOD BOOSTERS WITH ANDY DE SANTIS

EPISODE 17: MOOD BOOSTERS WITH ANDY DE SANTIS

Hello Friends and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

Today on the podcast I have invited dietitian, blogger, and author Andy De Santis to come on the show and share with us some of the latest research around mood boosters.

‘Mood boosters’ for those who have never heard the term, are supplements that you can take to help boost your mental health. They are in no way ‘a quick fix’ or ‘the solution to all your problems’ but they can be a great way to further support your health and overall wellness routine.

I first became interested in talking with Andy after he approached me with some new research around the power of Omega 3’s and their potential in helping reduce anxiety, and I thought, ‘wouldn’t it be great to have him on the show to talk about mood boosters and share with us some of the latest research within that realm.’

Personally, I dabbled with different mood boosters like Vitamin D and CBD, and have found them both to be very helpful when it comes to my anxiety and depression, but I have never really looked into the research and findings behind clinical trials. Further, I know from one of our previous episodes that there is research linking the state of your gut health to depression so I’m not surprised by the possible potential of omega 3’s and how our diet can impact the state of our mental health.

Andy is a private practice dietitian, blogger, and author from Toronto, Canada. He graduated from the University of Toronto School Of Public Health and holds a master's degree in public health nutrition. Having written six books, Andy's interests in the world of nutrition are far-reaching and include the interaction between specific nutrients and mental health. When he isn't writing or helping people one on one, Andy loves nothing more than to crack a few food-inspired jokes on his Instagram account.

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did! Feel free to leave your thought below!

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

- Where To Find Andy Online -

WEBSITE ▶ andytherd.com
INSTAGRAM ▶ @andytherd
AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE ▶ amazon.com/author/andyrd

Follow The @IsThatSohPodcast On Instagram!

The first of many interior design decisions to come! Now that we are half way through the last phase of our interior renovations (the basement) I am getting really excited about shifting my focus from renoing our Toronto Victorian home to styling a
No more scary basement! 🏡 Here is a little before and after of our basement underpin by @icy.reno We went from 6 foot ceilings to just under 8.5 and installed new drains, waterproofing and a radiant floor! DYK that doing an underpin and finishing

If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 16: #BLACKLIVESMATTER, WHITE PRIVILEGE AND HOW TO BE A BETTER ALLY WITH SARAFINA ARTHUR WILLIAMS

EPISODE 16: #BLACKLIVESMATTER, WHITE PRIVILEGE AND HOW TO BE A BETTER ALLY WITH SARAFINA ARTHUR WILLIAMS 

Hello Friends and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

Today on the podcast I have invited wellness psychologist and founder of Intentional Simplicity, Sarafina Arthur Williams to come on and educate us on the state of mental health in the BIPOC community, what white privilege is and how we can use it to help people of colour by being better allies.

The reason why I ask Sarafina to come on the show was because, even prior to the Black Lives Matter Protest this past summer and the death of George Floyd, I had listened to one or two conversations around white privilege and how to have conversations with people in marginalized groups about race, but it wasn’t until I sat back, muted myself and actively started to listen, that I notice how ignorant I was to ‘the black experience’, their history of oppression and injustice, and the place they hold on social media.

As someone who has black friends and even black relatives, I admit I have never tried to have conversations with them around race but this experience made me realize that maybe I should.

Even after examining my own social media feed, which was filled with predominant white faces it also made me ask myself, ‘How I expect to learn more about people in marginalized groups if I don’t show interest in people’s experiences that are different then my own.’

Further, since I have a particular interest in mental health, it worried me how, with all that is going on in the world, the BIPOC community is doing in terms of taking care of their mental health and if they are even able to get the help they need because:
1) you usually have to pay out of pocket for anything mental health related which can be a deterrent or barrier to seeking help and,
2) less than 2 % of mental health care practitioners are Black or African American and how can you expect those who need help to get proper help when those available to give it aren’t culturally competent enough to treat and understand specific issues as they relate to the black experience.

And so that is why I wanted Sarafina to come on and talk with us, because not only has she lived the black experience but she is a masters level psychologist who can relay her first hand insights and experience of growing up in the black community along with knowledge on the state of it’s mental health.

Sarafina Arthur-Williams is the CEO and founder of Intentional Simplicity LLC, a wellness-based mental health private practice. As a wellness psychologist and creative consultant, she educates her clients and mental health practitioners about positive psychology, art therapy, and the value of wellness and mindfulness. She is ranked on Feedspot’s top psychology bloggers of 2020 and features as a guest speaker on a variety of mental health platforms. To encourage sustainability, Sarafina documents how she practices wellness in her daily life through her online presence.

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did! Feel free to leave your thought below!

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

- BIPOC Mental Health Statistics -

  • Black and African American teenagers are more likely to attempt suicide than White teenagers (9.8 percent v. 6.1 percent).

  • 16% (4.8 million) of Black and African American people reported having a mental illness, and 22.4% (1.1 million people) reported a serious mental illness over the past year.

  • Serious mental illness (SMI) rose among all ages of Black and African American people between 2008 and 2018.

  • Binge drinking, smoking (cigarettes and marijuana), illicit drug use and prescription pain reliever misuse are more frequent among Black and African American adults with mental illnesses.

  • Black and African American people are more often diagnosed with schizophrenia and less often diagnosed with mood disorders compared to white people with the same symptoms.
    Additionally, they are offered medication or therapy at the lower rates than the general population.

  • Black and African American people are over-represented in our jails and prisons. Black and
    African American people make up 13 percent of the general U.S. population, but nearly 40 percent of the prison population. In 2016, the imprisonment rate for Black and African American men (2,417 per 100,000 Black male residents) was more than 6 times greater than that for white men (401 per 100,000 white male residents) and the imprisonment rate for Black and African American women (97 per 100,000 Black and African American female residents) was almost double that for white women (49 per 100,000 white female residents). [13] Black and African American people with mental health conditions, specifically those involving psychosis, are more likely to be in jail or prison than people of other races.

  • Because less than 2 percent of American Psychological Association members are Black or African American

  • 11.5 percent of Black and African Americans, versus 7.5 percent of white Americans were still uninsured in 2018.

  • In 2018, 58.2 % of Black and African American young adults 18-25 and 50.1 % of adults 26-49 with serious mental illness did NOT receive treatment

- Stats From Mental Health America - https://www.mhanational.org/issues/black-and-african-american-communities-and-mental-health

- Where To Find Sarafina Online -

WEBSITE ▶ Www.LiveIntentionallySimplistic.Com
INSTAGRAM ▶ @intentional_simplicity_llc
FACEBOOK ▶ @intentionalsimplicityllc

Follow The @IsThatSohPodcast On Instagram!

The first of many interior design decisions to come! Now that we are half way through the last phase of our interior renovations (the basement) I am getting really excited about shifting my focus from renoing our Toronto Victorian home to styling a
No more scary basement! 🏡 Here is a little before and after of our basement underpin by @icy.reno We went from 6 foot ceilings to just under 8.5 and installed new drains, waterproofing and a radiant floor! DYK that doing an underpin and finishing

If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 15: HOW TO HAVE HARD CONVERSATIONS

EPISODE 15: HOW TO HAVE HARD CONVERSATIONS

* Please Note - Some links in this post may be affiliate links *

Hello Friends and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

For today’s episode, I thought I would do a little solo show and talk about one theme that I feel has been brought up time and time again throughout the first half of this season. They are situation that occurs in everyone’s life where tough topics need to be discussed and although we may hate to have discussions about them, they are a necessary part of life. So that is why I thought I’d devote today’s episode to developing a playbook oh how to make having them a little bit easier.

If you hate conflict and avoid it as much as possible, know that you are not alone. According to a Harvard Business Review, 67% of managers are uncomfortable talking to the people they manage - and that’s literally their job. However, it is important to understand that conflict avoidance robs you of your energy, power, and emotional freedom, and does not serve you in any way which is why learning how to get conformable having hard conversations is the only way to find relief from a stressful situation!

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did! Feel free to leave your thought below!

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

- Episode Recap -

  1. Learning to sit with yourself and comb through your thoughts - be honest with yourself and acknowledge the need for the conversations

  2. Prep!

    • define your ideal outcome

    • rehearse with a friend

    • choose your language wisely

    • watch your body language

  3. Set ground rules

    • allow each other time to speak while the other listens - no interrupting!

    • name calling, throwing objects, and swearing are off-limits

    • allow time out or the ability to initiate a pauses

  4. Be okay with possibly being wrong - You may have misinterpreted the situation or have the wrong information and therefore things aren’t as black and white as you may have originally thought, and that’s okay.

  5. Be honest and straightforward - use specific examples making sure to watch your tone and the words you use so you don't come off accusatory.

  6. Acknowledge your responsibilities and avoidance in dealing with the conflict sooner

  7. Be empathetic, listen and validate - this doesn’t mean you have to agree or change the point you are trying to make, it just makes them feel like they are an even playing field and are able to be heard too.

  8. Make sure not to:

    • dominate the conversation

    • jump in to fill silence

    • interrupt when they are talking

  9. If the conversation starts going sideways, reiterate the reason why you are having the conversation - to maintain mutual respect and problem solve so you can improve the relationship and both of your lives.

  10. It’s okay to disappoint people

    • set boundaries if you need to

  11. Stick to your target - as you near the end of the conversation restate your point and offer a possible solution

    • brainstorm steps together on how to achieve the solution

  12. Ask questions to make sure they understood everything discussed

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If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 14: HOW ELLIA MARCUM FOUND HER STRENGTH TO DEAL WITH THE AMBIGUOUS LOSS OF HER FATHER, AN ALCOHOLIC MOTHER, AND WORK THROUGH HER HUSBANDS MARITAL AFFAIR

EPISODE 14: HOW ELLIA MARCUM FOUND HER STRENGTH TO DEAL WITH THE AMBIGUOUS LOSS OF HER FATHER, AN ALCOHOLIC MOTHER AND WORK THROUGH HER HUSBANDS MARITAL AFFAIR

Hello Friends and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

Today, I have invited mother, wife, daughter and certified mental health coach Ellia Marcum, to come on the podcast to tell us her life story of how she overcame extremely difficult circumstances and personal traumas.

I was first introduced to Ellia when she reached out to me to tell me her story of healing and growth after growing up with an alcoholic mother, experiencing the ambiguous loss of her father, and battling through a betrayal trauma after her husband had a marital affair.

I knew as she ended her story and began to tell me about the reasons why she started her company Mood|Well, that she needed to come on the podcast because much like Myles story in Episode 11, hearing someone be so open, honest and self aware gives us all the courage to face our own personal shame and trauma; and I want to continue to empower this community to talk about what they are going through and express themselves so that we can all overcome barriers holding us back from finding our true purpose and source of happiness. So, here we are!

Ellia Marcum is a Certified Professional Life Coach, a support group facilitator through A Door of Hope, and Mental Health First Responder and Coach. She owns and operated her own business, Mood|Well, where she helps women heal and cope from mental illness and life crises through one-on-one sessions and support groups.

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did! Feel free to leave your thought below!


- WHERE TO FIND ELLIA ONLINE -

WEBSITE ▶ Www.MoodWellCoaching.Org
INSTAGRAM ▶ @Mood.Well_Coaching

If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 12: THE DANGEROUS DOWNSIDE TO PERFECTIONISM WITH J. STAMATELOS

EPISODE 12: THE DANGEROUS DOWNSIDE TO PERFECTIONISM WITH J. STAMATELOS

Hello Friends and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

Today on the podcast, I have invited author, researcher, and coach J. Stamatelos to come on and talk about the dangerous downsides to perfectionism and the importance of self-compassion.

I first became interested in talking with J. after reading an article he wrote about perfectionism, which I thought was both insightful and full of interesting research. I knew after reading it that I just had to ask him to come on the podcast because not only do I think the need to be perfect and perfectionism are on the rise but it can actually be very crippling and incredibly destructive to a person's self-worth.

For those who don’t know J, prior to becoming a coach, he began his career in counter-terrorism and emergency response. Eventually, in his mid 20’s he started to experience internal struggles around chronically feeling “not enough”. After it almost cost him his life, J. began to notice that practically everyone around him was also struggling with the same feelings. Viewing this as a far bigger problem than terrorism, he decided to dedicate himself to discovering why so many people feel this way and what we can do about it.

After years of personal experimentation, working with clients, and digging into the research behind these issues, he has compiled his findings in a book succinctly titled, “Enough.” Spanning everything from how we were raised to economic changes in our society, J outlines why recent generations have experienced a surge in what he calls “anxious insecurity.” More importantly, he also outlines what changes we can make to break these cycles in our own lives.

Today, J. specializes in working with high-achievers who battle with feeling like they’re not enough and helps them overcome their biggest obstacle, themselves.

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

Author, researcher, and coach J. Stamatelos

Author, researcher, and coach J. Stamatelos

WHERE TO FIND J. STAMATELOS

WEBSITE ▶ Www.JamesjStamatelos.com
INSTAGRAM ▶ @InnerStrengthCoach
LINKED IN ▶ James J. Stametelos

If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 11: 'I'M HIV POSITIVE' - MYLES SEXTON'S JOURNEY BACK TO LOVE & SELF ACCEPTANCE

EPISODE 11: 'I'M HIV POSITIVE' - MYLES SEXTON'S JOURNEY BACK TO LOVE & SELF ACCEPTANCE

Hello and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

Today on the podcast, I have invited a very special guest and friend on Myles Sexton.

For those who don’t know Myles, he is a lifestyle blogger originally from Nova Scotia who now resides in Toronto, Canada. His blog, I Walk for Myles in These Shoes covers his love and curiosity for travel, beauty, and fashion. Working as an international model and makeup artist for many years, Myles’s personal style has been featured on the pages of Vogue Italia, Elle, and Fashion Magazine. His celebrity clients have included Grace Jones, Maye Musk, Winnie Harlow, Nelly Furtado, Lights, and Emily Hanes of Metric.

OTHER EPISODES ABOUT HEALING

Myles Sexton, looking stylish as always

Myles Sexton, looking stylish as always

To give everyone a bit of context as to how I personally know Myles, we met a couple of years ago and run in the same social media circles here in Toronto. I first met him at an event and was instantly attracted to him because not only does he have the most welcoming, warm vibe but he is also hands down the most stylish person in the room.

Not too long ago, Myles made a video (below) in which he openly and vulnerably talked about how he was diagnosed with HIV two years previous and how it affected his ability to accept and love himself.

I knew as soon as the video ended that I had to have him come on my podcast because his story and journey were both so powerful it moved me at my core. I knew his story could help so many people even if they couldn’t share his experience because hearing someone be that open, honest, and self-aware gives us all the courage to face our own personal shame or trauma and that alone empower us all!

I hope you enjoy this episode!

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

- RECOMMENDED BOOKS ABOUT LOVE AND SELF ACCEPTANCE -

  1. The Gift of Imperfections By Brené Brown

  2. Love Warrior By Glennon Doyle

- HIV  RESOURCES -

  1. ⠀For information about HIV (treatment, research, and other resources), visit CATIE

  2. If you are living with HIV or newly diagnosed, live in Toronto and do not have primary care provider, please see the Health Centre at 410

  3. If you are living with HIV and need legal support services, check HALCO

  4. If you are living with HIV and need income support and access to food banks, you can self-refer to PWA

  5. If you need an HIV friendly pharmacy in Toronto, visit https://www.medsexpert.ca/

  6. If you need mental health support, peer support worker, and community support. Look into the different AIDS Service Organizations in Toronto: ACT, ASAAP, ACAS, Black Cap, etc.

Myles climbed Dorian’s Tower in the summer of 2020, 2 years after being diagnosed with HIV. Clearly nothing can stop him from living his life to the fullest.

Myles climbed Dorian’s Tower in the summer of 2020, 2 years after being diagnosed with HIV. Clearly nothing can stop him from living his life to the fullest.

WHERE TO FIND MYLES SEXTON ONLINE

WEBSITE ▶ I Walk For Myles In These Shoes
INSTAGRAM ▶ @MylesSexton
YOUTUBE▶ @MylesSexton
FACEBOOK ▶ @MylesSexton
TWITTER ▶ @MylesSexton

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @ISTHATSOHPODCAST

The first of many interior design decisions to come! Now that we are half way through the last phase of our interior renovations (the basement) I am getting really excited about shifting my focus from renoing our Toronto Victorian home to styling a
No more scary basement! 🏡 Here is a little before and after of our basement underpin by @icy.reno We went from 6 foot ceilings to just under 8.5 and installed new drains, waterproofing and a radiant floor! DYK that doing an underpin and finishing

If you have any comments or questions about this episode or for me or Myles Sexton, feel free to leave them below

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EPISODE 10: LOVE AND SACRED SEXUALITY WITH JORDAN FLESHER

EPISODE 10: LOVE AND SACRED SEXUALITY WITH JORDAN FLESHER

Hello and welcome back to the Is That Soh Podcast!

In today’s episode, we are talking about love and sexuality, and to help me discussed the topic I have invited sacred sexuality teacher Jordan Flesher to come on and educate us on how to enhance our sexual spirituality and manifest meeting our twin flame.

For those who don’t know Jordan or what exactly he does, he is a sacred-sexuality teacher and life-coach. He focuses on healing and abundance when it comes to our sexual health and lifestyle. Through Jordan’s teaching, he highlights the importance of healing especially for those that have experienced sexual trauma. Just like the body knows how to naturally heal itself when you get cut, it can also heal emotionally. Further, he also provides guidance that can help people tap into their own sexual energy to manifest their best and most abundant lives. Jordan works with couples, and individuals interested in attaining the highest states of self-awareness, happiness, and feelings of sexuality.

Jordan has also co-published many articles with Deepak Chopra and has attracted the attention of many celebrities such as the Kardashians, Justin Bieber, and more. He holds a Masters of Arts in Psychology and focuses on counseling work with individuals who are going through anxiety or depression, as well as those who are confused about what the Twin Flame relationship means.

He works with clients worldwide online via ZOOM, and he can be contacted through his Instagram @jordanflesher

Also, special thanks to Mattias Friberg for composing the music for this podcast and perfecting my sound!

A few recommended readings on spirituality by Jordan Flesher:

If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to leave them below

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