Best FIGGI Life Podcasts (2025)

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Thriving with Anxiety: A 4-Step Path to Turning Fear into Fuel with Dr. David Rosmarin 46:19

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2h ago46:19

46:19

What if your anxiety wasn’t something to get rid of, but something you could use as fuel? In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Amelia Kelley sits down with Dr. David Rosmarin, Harvard Medical School faculty, founder of the Center for Anxiety, and author of Thriving with Anxiety, to explore his groundbreaking 4-step method: Identify, Share, Embrace, …

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Beyond Addiction: Sobriety, Self-Acceptance, and True Recovery with Jason Shiers 42:32

6d ago42:32

42:32

In this deeply moving episode, Dr. Amelia Kelley is joined by psychotherapist and author Jason Shiers, who shares his raw and powerful journey from addiction, psychiatric wards, and endless seeking to a profound awakening of self-compassion and inner peace. Jason opens up about his experiences with escapism, 12-step programs, therapy, and the searc…

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The Empty Nest Reset: Finding Your Fall Kitchen Rhythm 15:57

8d ago15:57

15:57

As the seasons change, it's time to reset your kitchen and life for fall. This week you'll find practical tips for getting back into a cooking rhythm. From pantry refreshes and meal planning to setting routines and embracing small wins, this episode is packed with advice to help you enjoy cooking again. It also touches on mindset practices to make …

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Exploding Head Syndrome, Sleep Paralysis, and the Hidden Psychology of Fear with Brian Sharpless 45:05

13d ago45:05

45:05

In this captivating episode, Dr. Amelia Kelley talks with Dr. Brian Sharpless, licensed clinical psychologist, researcher, and author who specializes in rare and unusual psychological disorders. Together, they dive deep into the strange and often frightening world of sleep phenomena—including exploding head syndrome, sleep paralysis, and REM sleep …

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From Doubt to Confidence: Trusting Yourself and Avoiding Toxic Partners with Lindsay Abernathy (Part 2) 58:28

20d ago58:28

58:28

Key Takeaways Healing past wounds is essential to avoid repeating toxic patterns. Your gut and nervous system often signal red flags before your mind does. Butterflies can mean dysregulation, while safety might initially feel “boring” but is actually healthy. Setting and flexing boundaries early reveals how someone respects (or disrespects) you. Tr…

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Waking Up to Abuse: How to Recognize It and Begin Healing with Lindsay Abernathy (Part 1) 55:09

27d ago55:09

55:09

Key Takeaways Abusive relationships often follow the same predictable cycle—love bombing, devaluation, isolation, and intermittent reinforcement. Survivors often stay not because they want the relationship to end, but because they desperately hope the abuse will stop. Even small “repairs” (like a crumb of kindness) can keep survivors hooked, simila…

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Small Bites: Summer on a Plate 11:46

28d ago11:46

11:46

Let's talk about the importance of eating seasonally and locally! From making simple no-cook sauces to grilling the perfect seasonal vegetables, you'll find insights to make your kitchen a place of joy and discovery. 00:00 Welcome to the Empty Nest Kitchen 00:25 Seasonal Cooking: A Journey Through Summer 01:17 The Importance of Eating Seasonally 01…

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When Calm Feels Dangerous: Understanding Rest Resistance with Annie Wright 39:15

1M ago39:15

39:15

Why does slowing down feel so uncomfortable for some of us? In this powerful episode, Dr. Amelia Kelley speaks with licensed psychotherapist and relational trauma recovery specialist Annie Wright about rest resistance, the anxiety, guilt, and discomfort that can arise when we try to pause. Annie explains how early life experiences, relational traum…

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Small Bites: Garlic Girl Summer 11:35

1M ago11:35

11:35

Join me in the Empty Nest Kitchen as I share expert tips and techniques for cooking with garlic. From selecting the perfect garlic bulbs to using raw and roasted garlic in various dishes, we'll covers it all. Learn how to store garlic properly, the benefits of different garlic forms, and even get a sneak peek into my mini course 'Just Add Sauce'. D…

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More Than a Crisis: Transforming Your Pet’s Midlife into a Season of Connection with Dr. Kelly Fishman 50:07

1M ago50:07

50:07

Key Takeaways: Midlife in pets often starts earlier than owners realise, especially for larger breeds. Overweight pets are at a much higher risk of arthritis and mobility issues. Simple strength-building exercises like “dog pushups” and “dog squats” can maintain muscle and prevent frailty. Animal empaths should trust their instincts when they notic…

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Small Bites: Gettin' Figgy With It 8:54

1M ago8:54

8:54

Let's dive into the excitement of fig season with a joyful celebration of fresh figs. From tips on selecting the perfect figs at the store to storing them properly, you'll learn how to make the most of these delicate fruits. Discover a variety of delicious ways to enjoy figs, including making fig jam, pairing them with cheese, creating a fig salad,…

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Small Bites: Summer Sauces, Big Flavors, No Stove Required 12:36

2M ago12:36

12:36

Find fun and creative way to enhance summer meals with no-cook sauces in your Empty Nest Kitchen. Christine shares her tips and tricks on making flavorful sauces without turning on the stove, perfect for the hot summer months. You'll learn a simple framework using fats, acids, and flavor enhancers like fresh herbs. Christine also introduces her new…

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Small Bites Simply Peachy: The Sweet and The Savory 13:11

2M ago13:11

13:11

In this episode of the Empty Nest Kitchen, cooking expert Christine Van Bloem shares her love for peaches and explores various ways to enjoy this summer fruit. From simple sliced peaches to gourmet salads and savory meat pairings, Christine provides detailed recipes and tips that highlight the natural sweetness and versatility of peaches. Learn abo…

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Van Gogh and the HSP Mind: Sensitivity, Struggle, and the Art of Feeling Deeply with John Zaller 42:28

2M ago42:28

42:28

Key Takeaways Van Gogh’s legacy reveals how sensitivity and emotional depth can create timeless beauty even amidst pain and struggle. The immersive art experience provides a soothing and transformative space for highly sensitive people to connect deeply with creativity and history. Art can be a powerful trauma response, turning inner chaos into ext…

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Small Bites: Zucchini Magic 15:15

2M ago15:15

15:15

Let's explore fun and creative ways to cook with zucchini, a quintessential summer vegetable. From practical advice on picking the best zucchinis to three delightful (and easy!) recipes, your zucchini wishes are ready to become reality. Tune in to learn these simple yet delicious methods to make zucchini a hit in your kitchen. 00:00 Welcome to the …

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Breaking the Cycle: Dr. Amelia Kelley Answers Your Questions on Gaslighting & Healing 43:52

2M ago43:52

43:52

Key Takeaways: Sensitivity can be both innate and shaped by trauma; both can coexist. Highly sensitive people absorb their environment more deeply, making trauma and gaslighting more impactful. Gaslighting creates a destabilizing feeling; overthinking, while mentally exhausting, feels different and more internalized. Intermittent rewards and euphor…

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Small Bites: It's Corn! Making the Most of Summer's Best 14:34

2M ago14:34

14:34

Let's dive into the world of corn. Get practical advice on choosing, storing, and cooking corn (keeping the husk on until right before consumption is important!). With tips for using corn in various dishes like salads and pancakes, and a unique microwave method for cooking, you'll find a delightful and informative guide to making the most out of fr…

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The Validation Trap: Neurodivergence, Social Media, and the Path to Real Connection with Alyssa Scarano 49:21

3M ago49:21

49:21

Key Takeaways: Dopamine traps often mask deeper unmet needs for connection, safety, and belonging. External validation can offer a temporary high, but often leaves us feeling more depleted in the long run. Highly sensitive people (HSPs) and neurodivergent individuals may experience micro-rejections more intensely, increasing their reliance on outsi…

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Small Bites: Summer Tomatoes (How to Choose, Use, and Store) 13:24

3M ago13:24

13:24

Let's kick-off the summer cooking series 'Small Bites', focusing on short episodes under 15 minutes. Each week will highlight a different food or technique, starting with summer tomatoes, covering tips on choosing, using, and storing them for optimum flavor. 00:00 Introduction to Summer Cooking Series 00:57 Choosing the Perfect Summer Tomatoes 03:0…

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When Quitting Is the Bravest Thing: Listening to Your True Self with Jeanne-Mari Retief 41:34

3M ago41:34

41:34

Key Takeaways: Why Jeanne stepped away from the podcast—and what she’s gained since Learning to manage life and business as a highly sensitive entrepreneur How grief manifests in the body and why it needs space to breathe The challenge of letting go of perfectionism and redefining failure The energetic cost of staying misaligned in your career How …

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Perfection Is a Liar: And We’re Done Falling for It with Mary Marantz 52:37

3M ago52:37

52:37

Key Takeaways Fear is boring—it recycles the same script, keeping you stuck with the illusion that perfection will keep you safe. Perfectionism often hides in plain sight, rebranded as productivity or “being responsible,” but it’s still just fear in disguise. The achiever mindset can be a mask for deep wounds, often rooted in rejection, abandonment…

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Stop “Being Fine”: Honoring Real Grief (and the Buckets That Help) with Rebecca Feinglos 57:00

3M ago57:00

57:00

Key Takeaways: Grief is not a linear process with tidy stages—it’s messy, lifelong, and uniquely personal. Our culture often fails to acknowledge non-death grief, such as breakups, divorce, and unfulfilled life paths. “Grief buckets” offer a helpful framework for grieving: solo time, movement, creativity, nature, and community. Rituals and communit…

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Align Your Mind: Embracing Your Inner Parts for Healing and Growth with Britt Frank 49:40

4M ago49:40

49:40

Key Takeaways: Healing begins with recognizing that all parts are good, even if not all behaviors are. Britt’s ALIGN acronym (Acknowledge, Listen, Investigate, Gratitude, Negotiate) offers a user-friendly model for navigating emotions and impulses. Your inner critic isn’t the enemy—it may just need retraining into a high-performance coach. Micro “y…

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The Mental and Physical Toll of Hiding Who You Are with Jessica Graham 54:22

4M ago54:22

54:22

Key Takeaways: What it means to live with both autism and ADHD (AuDHD) The hidden cost of masking and how it impacts the nervous system How to begin unmasking safely—in relationships, work, and daily life The difference between trauma responses and neurodivergent traits Why self-compassion is essential when navigating a late diagnosis The healing p…

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From Near Death to Generational Healing with Molly Duncan Part 2 48:12

4M ago48:12

48:12

Key Takeaways Generational trauma often persists because families avoid talking about pain—but healing begins with honesty. “Toxic resilience” can look like high-functioning busyness while masking unprocessed trauma. Self-care is more than bubble baths—it’s about regulation, awareness, and creating space to feel. Breaking generational cycles doesn’…

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Cutting Ties with Toxic Family: How to Do It, and Why You Might Need To with Dr. Sharon Martin 53:08

4M ago53:08

53:08

Key Takeaways: Cutting ties isn’t impulsive—it’s often the result of long-term patterns of abuse or dysfunction. “No contact” can take many forms and doesn’t look the same for everyone. Guilt, shame, and societal pressure often accompany estrangement and must be consciously unpacked. Grieving the idealized version of a parent is a necessary step to…

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Radical Living: 7 Spiritual Questions for a Meaningful Life with Marni Battista 43:51

5M ago43:51

43:51

Key takeaways: The seven spiritual questions that redefine success Why radical honesty is the foundation of self-trust Soul mapping: a tool to align with your core values How somatics and neuroscience support lasting change Empowering highly sensitive people to live outside the “shoulds” Links and resources: Dating with Dignity Podcast Follow Marni…

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Mediterranean Moments: Delicious Simplicity in Midlife Cooking 15:27

5M ago15:27

15:27

The Mediterranean diet is a great first step toward a healthier lifestyle, but what the heck is it? It's the ease of cooking lighter summer meals, using fresh seasonal produce, and incorporating healthy fats and lean proteins, plus so much more. We're making food an event by inviting friends and savoring meals, the benefits of including physical ac…

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Surviving the Unthinkable: Healing from Near Death Trauma with Molly Duncan 40:43

5M ago40:43

40:43

Key Takeaways: Surviving trauma often involves not just the event itself, but the layers of grief, uncertainty, and secondary trauma that follow. Healing is not linear and requires patience, self-compassion, and often a willingness to fall apart before rebuilding. Trauma can change a person at their core, but through acceptance and intentional heal…

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Empowering Nonprofits: The Marketing Magic of Laura Van Bloem 43:16

5M ago43:16

43:16

Remember back in the day when tv shows would declare a "very special episode"? Well this week, I'm declaring it too, as I convince my brilliant sister-in-law, Laura Van Bloem, to join me on the podcast to talk all things non-profit marketing. Laura shares her insights on the importance of storytelling and impact communication for successful nonprof…

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Finding Hope After Infertility Trauma with Dr. Hillary and Dr. Kara 54:07

5M ago54:07

54:07

Key Takeaways: Fertility challenges are often a signal, not a sentence. They can be a gift pointing toward deeper healing and health. Emotional and ancestral trauma, stress, and lifestyle imbalances all play a role in fertility health. There’s no "one fix"; it’s about uncovering and tuning multiple levers, nutrition, sleep, environmental toxins, em…

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Healing the Sensitive Body: The 4 Root Causes of Disease with Martin Pytela 44:31

5M ago44:31

44:31

Key takeaways: The four root causes of disease: toxicity, malnutrition, stagnation, and trauma. Highly sensitive individuals may have heightened reactions to histamine-rich foods and environmental toxins. Your metabolic type—thyroid, adrenal, ovarian, or pituitary—impacts how your body processes food and stress. Histamine intolerance may be a hidde…

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Smart Shopping for The Empty Nest Kitchen 20:26

6M ago20:26

20:26

Practical money-saving tips for grocery shopping are a must-have in today's world, particularly for empty nesters. In this episode, you'll find helpful tips and tricks for shopping smart for your own Empty Nest Kitchen. You can save money while still enjoying good food and reducing waste. 00:00 Introduction and Current Market Overview 01:35 Smart S…

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Ending a Narcissistic Relationship Once and For All with Kate Anthony 45:43

6M ago45:43

45:43

Key Takeaways Narcissism exists on a spectrum—from benign to malicious—and all narcissists are abusive in some way. One of the most dangerous times in a narcissistic relationship is when you try to leave—safety planning is crucial. Narcissists often manipulate through subtle gaslighting and by shifting the blame. You are made to feel like you are t…

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Why Men Fear Women with Gary Katz 53:49

6M ago53:49

53:49

Key Takeaways: Boys are often socialized to suppress feelings and disconnect from vulnerability—creating long-term emotional impacts. Fear of women is often rooted in deeper fears of being controlled, abandoned, or exposed emotionally. Men are typically taught only two “acceptable” emotions: anger and sexual desire—leading to miscommunication and e…

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Spring Veggie Vibes in The Empty Nest Kitchen 19:42

6M ago19:42

19:42

Let's celebrate the arrival of spring by digging into a variety of spring veggies and herbs, including artichokes, asparagus, and fresh chives. You'll hear tips on how to prepare and cook these ingredients, with a bit of practical advice. And be sure to register for my free cooking class sponsored by AARP Maryland on April 5, where you'll learn to …

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From Scarcity to Abundance: Shifting from Fear to Freedom with DPAK 52:53

6M ago52:53

52:53

Key takeaways: Scarcity mindset isn’t just about money—it shows up as fear, urgency, tension, and a lack of trust in yourself and life. Your body knows before your brain does—watch for breath-holding and tightness as early signs of scarcity thinking. FOMO can hijack your decision-making. Learn to listen for the “expansive yes” instead of defaulting…

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From Fixer Uppers to New Careers with Natalie Gipson 41:14

6M ago41:14

41:14

Looking for inspiration? Meet Natalie Gibson, Home renovator, empty nester, and independent educational consultant. We're discussing Natalie’s journey into buying and renovating a fixer-upper home in downtown Frederick, Maryland, and her professional pivot into educational consulting. Natalie shares her experiences with her family, the importance o…

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The Science of Being Stuck: When It Helps and When It Hurts with Britt Frank 46:45

6M ago46:45

46:45

Key takeaways: Stuckness isn’t a character flaw—it’s a nervous system response designed to protect you. Asking “Why am I like this?” often reinforces paralysis. Ask instead: “What small yes can I offer myself right now?” Micro-yeses—tiny, manageable actions—help bypass overwhelm and gently re-engage the brain. Your brain’s safety system (fight, fli…

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Empty Nest Freezer Magic: Tips for Smart Meal Prepping 17:22

6M ago17:22

17:22

Learn essential tips and tricks for efficiently freezing meals tailored for empty nesters. You can simplify meal prep and avoid repetitive meals, and still have great food. We'll talk the science of freezing, selecting appropriate containers, proper cooling techniques, and foods to avoid freezing, as well as proper portioning and labeling for conve…

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ADHD & Life Expectancy: Unpacking the Truth and Finding Hope with Dr. Jessica Stern 35:49

7M ago35:49

35:49

Key takeaways: Why the recent study about ADHD and shorter lifespan isn't as scary as it seems The most common risk factors associated with unmanaged ADHD How early diagnosis and lifestyle strategies can mitigate long-term health risks Tips for supporting a loved one with ADHD in a compassionate, empowering way Why ADHD is often misunderstood—and w…

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Championing Local Food and Public Health with Alysia Feuer 27:54

7M ago27:54

27:54

Meet Alysia Feuer, who runs a program called Farm to School. Alysia discusses the expanded mission of farm to school initiatives to include broader public health objectives, focusing on local food access and nutritional education. They describe various collaborative activities such as cooking classes, hands-on learning experiences, and a veggie van…

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Beyond Hustle: Non-Toxic Productivity for High Achievers & Highly Sensitive People with Dr. Jessica Stern 41:40

7M ago41:40

41:40

Key Takeaways: Feeling drained, over-identifying with achievement, or struggling to disconnect from work. Symptoms like chronic fatigue, irritability, disconnection from joy, and lack of motivation can signal burnout rather than just stress. A balanced approach to achievement that aligns with your values and doesn’t deplete you. A powerful strategy…

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Unmasking Sex Addiction: The Real Truth About Intimacy with Gary Katz 41:14

7M ago41:14

41:14

Key Takeaways: True intimacy starts when we acknowledge and accept both our polished public selves and the hidden parts we may be reluctant to face. Internal Family Systems (IFS) provides a framework to explore the various “parts” of our personality, including those that are exiled due to childhood experiences. While the initial excitement of a new…

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A Transformative Journey: Sober Coaching with Jennifer Peterson 40:38

7M ago40:38

40:38

In this episode, meet Jennifer Peterson from Metamorphosis Life Counseling. Jennifer recounts her transformation from a successful real estate professional to a licensed mental health counselor and sober coach. She shares her personal journey to sobriety, including the pivotal moment that led her to embrace an alcohol-free lifestyle. Jennifer discu…

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Healing Codependency: Finding Safety Beyond the Drama Triangle with Kitty Chambliss 47:15

7M ago47:15

47:15

Key takeaways: The Drama Triangle highlights common toxic roles in relationships—Victim, Persecutor, and Rescuer—that often stem from early life experiences and lead to conflict, blame, and resentment. Recognizing when you’re playing one of these roles is the first step in breaking free from unhealthy relationship cycles. Codependency often manifes…

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The Magnificent Seven: Your Mediterranean Pantry Heroes 24:15

7M ago24:15

24:15

In this episode, we're diving into the essentials of creating a Mediterranean-inspired pantry designed for ease and convenience. Say hello to 'The Magnificent Seven', categories of pantry items that can help you easily prepare meals. You'll find tips on sourcing and storing these items properly, recommended brands and specific types, and delicious …

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Healing After Heartbreak: How to Date Yourself to Get Over Your Ex with Emmi Fortin 53:08

7M ago53:08

53:08

Key Takeaways: Healing begins by restoring your connection to yourself—emotionally, mentally, and physically. Movement, mindfulness, and reflection are key components. Monitoring your inner dialogue can create profound shifts. Transform self-criticism into supportive and kind thoughts to foster growth. While journaling helps process emotions, combi…

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Understanding Highly Sensitive People and Harnessing Their Unique Strengths with Michelle Oravitz 47:04

8M ago47:04

47:04

Key Takeaways: Learn about the biological and neurological differences that define highly sensitive people, and how this evolutionary trait exists across species. Understand the overlap between high sensitivity, empathy, and introversion, and why highly sensitive individuals are often more likely to become empaths. How your surroundings, including …

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Cooking for Change: Healthier Eating Habits for Mid-Life 11:02

8M ago11:02

11:02

Mid-life is about taking back control and time, and finally taking care of you. The importance of dietary choices becomes even more relevant as we age. This week I'm talking about my love for chicken nuggets and mozzarella sticks, and sharing a few quick recipes for feel good food that tastes great too. You'll hear practical tips and recipes for bu…