Episodes - Page 2 | Listen for REAL

Feb. 13, 2024

REALity check: Listening to our bodies

Another REALity check on the couch with one of my besties - Christina and I share honest stuff about our bodies and how to process emotions and the sensations we feel. It gets pretty personal at points.

Feb. 1, 2024

Adversity to REAL Impact with Dr. Sarah Almilli

This talk with Dr. Sarah Almilli underscores the very reason I started this podcast! We start with my recap of when I was called a racist (among other fun things) on social media – and my determination to pursue conversations that broaden my limited perspective. AND, Sarah delivered a REAL convo t…

Jan. 15, 2024

A spiritual conversation with no suitable title

I love convos where we explore spirituality without arguing religion, dogma, and “which faith corners the market on righteousness.” My beliefs have shifted profoundly over the years and a spirit of inquiry and exploration feels like church to me. Thanks Kerri Naber for going there with me!

Jan. 8, 2024

This is the face of PTSD?

Megan O’Connor was a 15-year career firefighter and medic when I met her; a woman of huge kindness and empathy while being equally determined and strong. AND she was suffering greatly. These things can be true at the same time.

Jan. 1, 2024

Redefining Success: From Big Law to Self-Care

A killer conversation with Julian Sarafian, former big law attorney turned private practice advocate for content creators, social media influencers, and startups. Julian's journey is a revelation about the intense pressures of high-powered professions and a testimony to choosing work on our own ter…

Dec. 25, 2023

Embracing peace in the wake of loss

A REAL conversation about losing Mom. Christina Fichera is back - and unpacks her recent experience of watching her mom die and the random hospice pamphlet that changed her own grieving process.

Dec. 19, 2023

How to begin again, NO MATTER WHAT

“Embrace the suck.” Not quite what I expected to hear from Marine widow Erin Nichols as she opens up about her commitment as a young wife of a deployed soldier, her husband Sam’s catastrophic injury while serving in Iraq, and their 13-year journey after his traumatic brain injury.

Dec. 7, 2023

Imposter syndrome, DEI=B, and reframing the word “should”

I often wonder, “Who do I think I am? I’m having conversations around topics that I don’t fully understand. What if I say something wrong…what will people think?” Yep, imposter syndrome still rears its ugly head with me - and I am reminded of the reason for this podcast. I am meant for conversati…

Nov. 27, 2023

Speaking y(our) truth by getting out of your head

Sara Bareilles sings, “...let your words be anything but empty…” and I discuss this concept with Eliza Maroney as a guest on her podcast last Spring. AND, in listening back to the podcast, I notice a slightly hollow sound in my voice - an honest revelation of where my head was at.

Nov. 20, 2023

We decide the end of the story even when we didn’t choose Chapter 1

I can’t get over this deep convo with Albert Chavez and the commonalities we share, despite vastly different backgrounds. A boy raised around violence, addiction, and fear teaches this “educated” white girl about excellence.

Nov. 14, 2023

It’s not grandiose or sexy - but it sure is effective!

Join me and guest Kathleen Klug, author of "Start With ONE," as we explore the power of small actions in achieving big dreams. Discover why starting simply can be your best strategy!

Nov. 7, 2023

Reframing ADHD and it’s about time!

In this episode, I'm joined by Michelle Raz, co-founder of Thrivister and an advocate for recognizing ADHD as a gift. We explore the challenges and triumphs of parenting children with ADHD, sharing personal experiences and professional insights. Michelle's expertise in coaching those with executive…

Guest: Michelle Raz

Oct. 30, 2023

Domestic abuse, family court and a behind the scenes perspective (part 2)

Join me and Eunice Brownlee for a crucial discussion on domestic abuse and family court inequities. Eunice shares her personal experiences, offering insights into the complexities of abuse and the justice system. Note: The episode contains sensitive content on domestic violence. Viewer discretion a…

Guest: Eunice Brownlee

Oct. 23, 2023

Domestic abuse, family court and a behind the scenes perspective (part 1)

Join me and Eunice Brownlee for a crucial discussion on domestic abuse and family court inequities. Eunice shares her personal experiences, offering insights into the complexities of abuse and the justice system. Note: The episode contains sensitive content on domestic violence. Viewer discretion a…

Guest: Eunice Brownlee

Sept. 6, 2023

Make something pretty out of this mess

Join me and Christina Fichera as we reflect on life's challenges from our unique perspectives. We discuss how beauty intertwines with pain and the complexities of sharing personal struggles. The episode includes insights from key resources like "The Body Keeps the Score," "Big Magic," and the "We C…

Guest: Christina Fichera

Aug. 14, 2023

Trailer

Aug. 14, 2023

Rewriting the stories we tell and the ones we were told

In this episode, I join forces with Ronna Detrick to explore the impact of our personal narratives. We delve into the origins of these stories, from spiritual texts to family tales, and discuss their profound influence on our lives. The focus is on the power of revising stories that no longer serve…

Guest: Ronna Detrick

June 8, 2023

I am back and a bit more REAL..Jen goes from crickets to full-disclosure

After a six-month hiatus, I return to discuss a challenging personal period. Joined by coach Emily Nascimento, we aim to encourage openness about personal struggles and mental health, and the importance of self-care and authenticity in tough life choices.

Guest: Emily Nascimento

Dec. 15, 2022

REAL sex education (part 2 with hubby)

In this episode, we dive into an adult version of the sex talk, featuring Allison Carver and her husband Ian. We explore dismantling outdated beliefs about sex and relationships, with Ian providing a candid male perspective.

Nov. 28, 2022

REAL sex education (part 1)

This episode features a frank discussion with Allison Carver about misconceptions and shame surrounding sex. We focus on reconnecting with our bodies and challenging unhelpful cultural narratives about sexuality and feminine power.

Nov. 13, 2022

Psychedelic assisted healing - a legal game changer for many

This episode delves into the use of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy with Dr. Alya Ahmad and Dr. Tasnim Khan. We discuss how this approach helps in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. The conversation highlights the transformative potential of ketamine in therapeutic settings for d…

Nov. 2, 2022

Grey-area drinking and other honest admissions

In this episode, Lisa May Bennett and I discuss our experiences with grey-area drinking and sobriety. We explore how alcohol affects our ambitions and the tough choices involved in pursuing a fuller life, highlighting Lisa's journey to sobriety and becoming a published author.

Guests: Jen Oliver , Lisa May Bennett

Oct. 2, 2022

Dazzling Codependents

The new season starts with Jen and Shannon discussing codependency, including their struggles with seeking approval and prioritizing others' needs over their own.

Guests: Jen Oliver , Shannon Curtis

July 30, 2022

Lessons from the SugarMama®

In this episode with Shannon O’Brien, we discuss body image and personal confidence, inspired by candid conversations during intimate beauty treatments like bikini sugar waxing.

Guest: Shannon O'Brien