Have you ever felt the weight of the world on your shoulders, trying to balance your career ambitions with the demands of motherhood? You're not alone! Join host Nikki P as she dives deep into the emotional complexities of being a working mom in this heartfelt episode of It's Both. Together with guest Heather, they navigate the gray areas of parenting and professional life, shedding light on the real stories behind the struggles of working mothers everywhere. As they explore the emotional tug-of-war that comes with holding multiple truths, Nikki and Heather share authentic conversations that resonate with anyone trying to find their footing in life's complexities. Heather opens up about her personal growth journey, revealing the guilt she often feels when away from her children for work, and how societal pressures can amplify those feelings. This episode is a powerful reminder that it’s okay to embrace contradictions and that navigating life’s gray areas is part of the journey. Throughout their conversation, they highlight the importance of community support and open communication between partners, emphasizing that the evolving identities of parents require constant reassessment. From the judgment faced by working mothers to the emotional resilience needed to manage complex emotions, this episode is packed with insights that encourage listeners to embrace their unique experiences. - Discover the emotional intelligence required to balance career and motherhood. - Learn how to navigate the complexities of parenting and professional life. - Understand the importance of vulnerability in storytelling and its role in emotional healing. - Explore personal growth strategies for when you're feeling stuck. - Gain insights into the necessity of community support in the journey of parenthood. This mental health podcast invites you to reflect on your own experiences, reminding you that parenting is not one-size-fits-all. Through humor and honesty, Nikki and Heather encourage you to acknowledge the emotional challenges that come with being a working mom. Tune in to this enlightening episode of It's Both and discover how to navigate the delicate balance between professional aspirations and personal fulfillment. It’s time to embrace the bothness of your life and find joy in the journey! - Follow, rate, & review It's Both on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-both/id1811385185) - Sign up for Hungryroot and get $50 off your first box (https://www.hungryroot.com/r/39ILXJPY) - Start your own podcast with Riverside (https://www.riverside.fm/?via=nicole-piispanen) - Manage & distribute your podcast with Ausha (https://www.ausha.co) - use code: T4XJWQNTUQ to get $30 off - It's Both on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsbothpodcast/) - It's Both on Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/@ItsBothPodcast) - It's Both on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/7KYLGul54qb4uKnfGkkrMm?si=61d28d900d6a422f) Thank you again for listening and remember,  life isn't either/or, it's both. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

If you are having thoughts of suicide, experiencing a crisis, or just need to talk to someone, reach out to the 988 Lifeline by calling or texting 988. You can also visit the 988 website (https://988lifeline.org). Have you ever felt the weight of grief while simultaneously experiencing moments of joy? This paradox is at the heart of our latest episode of "It's Both," where host Nikki P. engages in an authentic conversation with Annie Paraison about navigating the complexities of loss and the profound emotional resilience that can emerge from it. Annie opens up about her personal journey, sharing real stories of losing significant figures in her life. Through her experiences, she reveals how holding multiple truths can lead to profound self-discovery and growth. As they delve into this emotional terrain, Nikki and Annie explore the gray areas of life, emphasizing the importance of community support during times of grief. They discuss how vulnerability in storytelling can foster deeper connections with others, allowing for a more honest exploration of conflicting feelings and thoughts. This episode is not just about grief; it's about finding balance in mental health and embracing the contradictions that life presents. Listeners will gain insights into how to manage complex emotions and the transformative nature of loss. Annie highlights the necessity of being intentional in processing emotions, encouraging listeners to embrace their vulnerability as a pathway to emotional healing and personal growth. The conversation underscores the significance of being present with pain while also recognizing the beauty that persists in life, illustrating how life’s complexities can coexist. Key takeaways include: - Understanding the importance of community support during grief. - Embracing the paradox of feeling broken yet capable of joy. - Learning how to manage complex emotions and navigate life's gray areas. - The role of vulnerability in building personal capacity and emotional intelligence. - Practical advice on supporting oneself and others through the grieving process. - Recognizing the beauty that can emerge from loss and the journey of emotional healing. Tune in to "It's Both" and discover how navigating grief can lead to unexpected joy and deeper connections with those around you. - Connect with Annie (https://www.lovebeforeall.com/) - Subscribe, rate, & review It's Both on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-both/id1811385185) - Sign up for Hungryroot and get $50 off your first box (https://www.hungryroot.com/r/39ILXJPY) - Start your own podcast with Riverside (https://www.riverside.fm/?via=nicole-piispanen) - Manage & distribute your podcast with Ausha (https://www.ausha.co) - use code: T4XJWQNTUQ to get $30 off - It's Both on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsbothpodcast/) - It's Both on Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/@ItsBothPodcast) - It's Both on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/7KYLGul54qb4uKnfGkkrMm?si=61d28d900d6a422f) Thank you again for listening and remember,  life isn't either/or, it's both. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Have you ever wondered how childhood friendships evolve into the complex relationships we navigate as adults? In this episode of "It's Both," host Nikki P. invites her long-time friends Lacey and Audrie to dive deep into the intricacies of adult friendships. Together, they explore the emotional resilience required to maintain connections over time and distance, sharing real stories that highlight the importance of empathy and understanding in life's complexities. Join Nikki, Lacey, and Audrie as they reflect on their childhood memories, revealing how those formative experiences shaped their adult lives and friendships. Through authentic conversations, they discuss the challenges of making new friends as adults and the delicate balance between personal needs and the expectations of others. This episode is a treasure trove of insights into navigating life's gray areas, filled with laughter, nostalgia, and heartfelt anecdotes that resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the ebb and flow of friendships. As they delve into the anxiety that often accompanies life transitions, the trio emphasizes the necessity of having friends who truly understand their journeys. They share their struggles with conflicting feelings and thoughts, showcasing the vulnerability in storytelling that makes their connection so relatable. With each personal growth journey, they illustrate how holding multiple truths can lead to deeper emotional intelligence and a more fulfilling support system during tough times. Listeners will walk away with valuable takeaways, including: The importance of nurturing long-lasting relationships while navigating adulthood Insights on how to manage complex emotions in friendships Strategies for finding balance in mental health through supportive relationships Ways to embrace contradictions in our personal lives and friendships The role of emotional healing in building personal capacity This episode of "It's Both" is not just a conversation; it's an exploration of what it means to truly connect with others in an ever-changing world. Tune in for a dose of honesty, vulnerability, and the shared experiences that remind us all of the beauty and challenges of adult friendships. Don't miss this opportunity to reflect on your own relationships and discover the power of authentic connections! - Subscribe, rate, & review It's Both on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-both/id1811385185) - Sign up for Hungryroot and get $50 off your first box (https://www.hungryroot.com/r/39ILXJPY) - Start your own podcast with Riverside (https://www.riverside.fm/?via=nicole-piispanen) - Manage & distribute your podcast with Ausha (https://www.ausha.co) - use code: T4XJWQNTUQ to get $30 off - It's Both on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsbothpodcast/) - It's Both on Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/@ItsBothPodcast) - It's Both on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/7KYLGul54qb4uKnfGkkrMm?si=61d28d900d6a422f) Thank you again for listening and remember,  life isn't either/or, it's both. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of life, struggling to hold multiple truths at once? Join host Nikki P in this heartfelt episode of "It's Both," where she delves into her personal journey navigating life's gray areas. With authenticity and vulnerability, Nikki shares the real stories behind her experiences as a parent, partner, and professional, all while trying to maintain her mental wellness. This episode is a safe space for honest storytelling, where listeners are invited to reflect on their own conflicting feelings and thoughts amidst the chaos of everyday life. Nikki candidly discusses the challenges of being a present parent to her three young children, the demands of nurturing a marriage, and the pressures of juggling professional responsibilities. As she explores the tension between self-care and the relentless pursuit of self-improvement, she emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and resilience in the face of adversity. Life isn’t about finding a perfect roadmap; it's about embracing contradictions and learning to navigate the complexities that come our way. Throughout this episode, Nikki invites you to join her on a personal growth journey, fostering a community of shared learning and support. Together, you'll uncover how to manage complex emotions and build personal capacity while recognizing that it's okay to feel overwhelmed. By sharing her struggles, Nikki creates a space for listeners to relate, reflect, and grow, reminding us that we are not alone in our experiences. Key takeaways from this episode include: - Understanding the importance of holding multiple truths in our lives. - Exploring the complexities of parenting, relationships, and work. - Recognizing the weight of awareness and its impact on mental health. - Finding balance in navigating emotional resilience and well-being. - Embracing vulnerability in storytelling as a pathway to self-discovery. - Building a supportive community through shared struggles and honest conversations. Whether you're seeking guidance on how to manage conflicting thoughts or simply looking for relatable content that speaks to your own journey, this episode of "It's Both" is a must-listen. Tune in and discover the beauty of life's complexities and the power of authentic conversations. Let’s embrace the chaos together! - Subscribe, rate, & review It's Both on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-both/id1811385185) - Sign up for Hungryroot and get $50 off your first box (https://www.hungryroot.com/r/39ILXJPY) - Start your own podcast with Riverside (https://www.riverside.fm/?via=nicole-piispanen) - Manage & distribute your podcast with Ausha (https://www.ausha.co) - use code: T4XJWQNTUQ to get $30 off - It's Both on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsbothpodcast/) - It's Both on Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/@ItsBothPodcast) - It's Both on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/7KYLGul54qb4uKnfGkkrMm?si=61d28d900d6a422f) Thank you again for listening and remember,  life isn't either/or, it's both. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does it truly mean to embrace vulnerability in today’s world of masculinity? Join host Nikki P. as she delves into an authentic conversation with Devon, a stay-at-home dad, who shares his real stories of navigating life's complexities and the evolving role of fathers in modern society. In this engaging episode of "It's Both," we tackle the challenging yet rewarding journey of self-discovery, highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence and understanding one's inner child amidst societal pressures. Devon opens up about his experiences, reflecting on the traditional notions of masculinity and how they often clash with personal values and emotions. He shares his struggles with workplace dynamics and assertiveness, illustrating the conflicting feelings that many men face today. This episode is about holding multiple truths and understanding how to manage complex emotions while building personal capacity for growth. Throughout their conversation, Nikki and Devon emphasize the need for honest storytelling and emotional resilience as essential tools for navigating life's gray areas. They explore how societal expectations shape men’s experiences, and how the journey toward self-acceptance is a continuous one, filled with both challenges and triumphs. Key takeaways from this episode include: - The evolving role of fathers and the importance of emotional connection in parenting. - How to embrace contradictions and find balance in mental health. - Insights on navigating workplace dynamics while staying true to oneself. - The significance of self-discovery and understanding one's inner child. - Strategies for developing emotional intelligence and resilience. If you’re looking for a mental wellness podcast that dives deep into the heart of vulnerability, emotional healing, and the complexities of masculinity, this episode is for you. Tune in to "It's Both" and join Nikki and Devon as they advocate for a more nuanced understanding of what it means to be a father today—one that celebrates authenticity, emotional depth, and the beauty of embracing life’s contradictions. - Listen to The Imperfect Dads Podcast (https://bio.site/Theimperfectdadspodcast) - Subscribe, rate, & review It's Both on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-both/id1811385185) - Sign up for Hungryroot and get $50 off your first box (https://www.hungryroot.com/r/39ILXJPY) - Start your own podcast with Riverside (https://www.riverside.fm/?via=nicole-piispanen) - Manage & distribute your podcast with Ausha (https://www.ausha.co) - use code: T4XJWQNTUQ to get $30 off - It's Both on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsbothpodcast/) - It's Both on Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/@ItsBothPodcast) - It's Both on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/7KYLGul54qb4uKnfGkkrMm?si=61d28d900d6a422f) Thank you again for listening and remember,  life isn't either/or, it's both. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What happens when the life you built no longer fits the person you’re becoming? In this episode of It’s Both, Nikki P sits down with Janice Holland, The Trauma Teacher — a therapist, mother, and woman who spent years in a marriage shaped by cultural expectations and spiritual ideals. Together, they unpack the deeply human experience of staying in something that looks “right” on the outside, but feels misaligned on the inside. Janice shares her journey of navigating a conservative Christian upbringing, the weight of perfectionism, and the moment everything changed: when her husband came out as gay. What follows is an honest, layered conversation about identity, emotional health, and the messy, brave path of self-discovery. They talk about: - The tension between spiritual ideals and emotional truth - The cost of ignoring your intuition - Letting go of the fantasy to embrace reality - How redemption can look different than we expect 🎧 Tune in for real talk, real healing, and a reminder that it’s okay for things to be both hard and freeing. - Get Connected with Janice Holland, The Trauma Teacher (https://linktr.ee/janice.hollandlpc) - Sign up for Hungryroot and get $50 off your first box (https://www.hungryroot.com/r/39ILXJPY) - Start your own podcast with Riverside (https://www.riverside.fm/?via=nicole-piispanen) - Manage & distribute your podcast with Ausha (https://www.ausha.co) - use code: T4XJWQNTUQ to get $30 off - It's Both on Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/@ItsBothPodcast) - It's Both on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/7KYLGul54qb4uKnfGkkrMm?si=61d28d900d6a422f) Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Have you ever felt a whirlwind of emotions while navigating the beautiful chaos of parenting? Join host Nikki P. in this enlightening episode of "It's Both," where she engages in authentic conversations with guests Amy Merritt Campbell and Hannah Wohltjen. Together, they dive deep into the complexities of parenting young children, revealing how it often means holding multiple truths at once. From joyful moments to frustrating challenges, this episode resonates with every parent who has experienced the conflicting feelings that come with raising kids. Throughout this captivating discussion, the trio shares: - Personal stories that highlight the chaos of daily life and the balancing act of work and family responsibilities. - Insights into the guilt that often accompanies the dual roles of parenthood and professional life. - Thought-provoking reflections on evolving dynamics with family, friends, and coworkers, emphasizing the need for connection and validation. - How the lessons learned in parenting can enhance leadership skills, illustrating the overlap between personal growth and professional development. - The importance of embracing the messiness of parenting and practicing self-compassion in this journey. The conversation encourages listeners to explore their own emotional resilience and to understand that feeling both joy and frustration is part of the human experience. As Nikki, Amy, and Hannah delve into the emotional healing that comes from honest storytelling, they invite you to reflect on your own journey of self-discovery. Whether you're a seasoned parent or just starting your journey, this episode offers valuable insights into finding balance and understanding the complexities of life. Tune in to discover how embracing conflicting thoughts and feelings can lead to profound personal well-being and growth. Join us for an episode that promises to be both relatable and uplifting, as we explore the intricate dance of parenting and the many lessons it teaches us about life and ourselves. - Learn more about Elevate Consulting (https://www.consultelevate.com) - Subscribe, rate, & review It's Both on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-both/id1811385185) - Sign up for Hungryroot and get $50 off your first box (https://www.hungryroot.com/r/39ILXJPY) - Start your own podcast with Riverside (https://www.riverside.fm/?via=nicole-piispanen) - Manage & distribute your podcast with Ausha (https://www.ausha.co) - use code: T4XJWQNTUQ to get $30 off - It's Both on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsbothpodcast/) - It's Both on Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/@ItsBothPodcast) - It's Both on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/7KYLGul54qb4uKnfGkkrMm?si=61d28d900d6a422f) Thank you again for listening and remember,  life isn't either/or, it's both. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Have you ever felt the tug-of-war between loving your body and critiquing it? In the inaugural episode of "It's Both," host Nikki P. invites you to join a heartfelt conversation with her friend Heather Lefebvre as they navigate the complexities of body image. This episode is a profound exploration of holding multiple truths, where they candidly discuss how societal standards and childhood influences shape our perceptions of self. Together, they dive into the emotional healing journey of accepting our bodies without the need for constant affirmation or criticism. Throughout their conversation, Nikki and Heather tackle the following themes: -- Body Neutrality: Discover the concept that encourages acceptance of our bodies, fostering emotional resilience and personal growth. -- Representation in Media: Explore how the images we consume impact our body confidence and the importance of diverse representation. -- Motherhood Challenges: Hear about the unique pressures mothers face regarding body image and self-acceptance. -- Self-Compassion: Learn the significance of being kind to ourselves amid conflicting feelings and thoughts about our bodies. -- Authentic Conversations: Experience honest storytelling that resonates with anyone who has struggled with self-image. Nikki and Heather share their real stories of navigating life's gray areas, emphasizing the importance of connection and validation in our journeys toward self-discovery. They remind us that it’s okay to feel conflicted about our bodies, and that embracing these mixed emotions is a crucial step in our personal well-being. This episode sets the stage for a captivating series that will continue to delve into the multifaceted nature of identity and self-acceptance, encouraging listeners to cultivate a growth mindset. Join us for this emotional and enlightening discussion that promises to leave you feeling heard and understood. Whether you’re on a path of self-improvement or simply seeking to find balance in your life, this episode of "It's Both" is a must-listen. Tune in and embrace the complexities of your own journey toward self-acceptance! -- Learn more about Heather Lefebvre (https://www.mytherapistheather.com/) -- Subscribe, rate, & review It's Both on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-both/id1811385185) -- Sign up for Hungryroot and get $50 off your first box (https://www.hungryroot.com/r/39ILXJPY) -- Start your own podcast with Riverside (https://www.riverside.fm/?via=nicole-piispanen) -- Manage & distribute your podcast with Ausha (https://www.ausha.co) - use code: T4XJWQNTUQ to get $30 off -- It's Both on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsbothpodcast/) -- It's Both on Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/@ItsBothPodcast) -- It's Both on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/7KYLGul54qb4uKnfGkkrMm?si=61d28d900d6a422f) Thank you again for listening and remember,  life isn't either/or, it's both. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Have you ever felt torn between two opposing emotions, wondering how they can coexist in your life? Welcome to the inaugural episode of "It's Both," where host Nicole, AKA Nikki P, invites you to explore the beautiful complexity of human experiences. This podcast is dedicated to diving deep into the gray areas of life, where multiple truths exist, and feelings can intertwine in unexpected ways. Nikki P shares her vision of creating a safe space for authentic dialogue, encouraging listeners to embrace the messiness of life and the contradictions that shape our journeys. Throughout this episode, Nikki P reflects on her personal experiences, from the tumultuous feelings surrounding her parents' contentious divorce to the challenges of navigating her first marriage. She candidly discusses how joy and anxiety can coexist, especially in the high-stakes world of parenting, where the overwhelming nature of responsibilities can clash with the profound love and fulfillment that comes from raising children. "It's Both" is not just a podcast; it’s a journey into self-discovery, inviting you to sit with discomfort and recognize the beauty in life's contradictions. Join Nikki P as she shares her insights and stories, illuminating the importance of acknowledging the gray areas that often go unspoken. Through real conversations with guests who share their own complexities, listeners will find comfort in knowing they are not alone in their struggles. This episode sets the tone for what "It's Both" aims to achieve—creating a community where the complexities of life are celebrated, and the coexistence of conflicting emotions is embraced. Listeners will discover how to navigate their own tumultuous feelings, fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience. Nicole’s warm and relatable storytelling invites you to reflect on your own life, encouraging you to recognize the myriad of emotions that shape who you are. By acknowledging that it’s okay to feel both joy and anxiety, love and frustration, listeners can begin to appreciate the richness of their experiences. So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-exploration and embrace the complexities of life, tune in to "It's Both. " Together, let’s uncover the beauty in contradictions and learn to navigate the gray areas that define our human experience. Don't miss out on this transformative conversation that promises to inspire, challenge, and uplift you! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Have you ever felt torn between joy and sorrow, success and failure, or love and loss? Life is a beautiful contradiction, and in this season of "It's Both," host Nikki P. takes you on an enlightening journey that dives deep into the complexities of life's contradictions through authentic storytelling. Nikki emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and embracing the multifaceted nature of human experiences, illustrating how we can hold conflicting emotions and truths simultaneously. This episode is a heartfelt invitation for listeners to explore the gray areas of life, where joy and pain coexist, and where our stories intertwine in unexpected ways. As Nikki guides you through real-life narratives, she encourages a shift away from binary thinking, advocating for a deeper understanding of our realities. The discussions revolve around the idea that life is not simply black and white but rather a rich tapestry of experiences that can be both challenging and beautiful. By sharing relatable stories, Nikki aims to foster healing and connection, reminding us that it is entirely possible to feel multiple emotions at once. Whether you’re grappling with personal challenges, navigating relationships, or simply seeking a more profound understanding of your own experiences, this episode of "It's Both" offers valuable insights that resonate on many levels. Through the lens of authentic storytelling, Nikki explores how we can embrace our contradictions and learn from them. She highlights the power of vulnerability and the strength that comes from sharing our truths. By doing so, she paves the way for a more inclusive conversation about the human experience, one that acknowledges the beauty in our struggles and the lessons learned along the way. Join Nikki as she unpacks the complexities of life, encouraging you to reflect on your own journey and find solace in the shared nature of our experiences. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with a community that values authenticity and real connection. Tune in to "It's Both" and discover how embracing the contradictions in your life can lead to greater understanding, acceptance, and ultimately, healing. Let’s celebrate the beauty of life's complexities together and learn how to navigate the intricate dance of emotions that shape our existence. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.