Have you ever felt like you were "shrinking to fit" into a life that was just too small for you?

In this episode, I’m sitting down with Dr. Darby Bonomi, a licensed psychologist and lifelong equestrian who has created a "trail map" for women ready to claim their space.

We aren't just talking about career moves; we’re talking about the "silent rules" that keep us quiet and the four-letter word "just" that acts as an invitation to self-betrayal. Whether you are a teenager navigating high school or a professional in a major life transition, this episode is a reminder that your ambition truly is your compass.

The Threads We Follow:

• Movement as Medicine: Why "saddling up" even when you're scared is the only way to find your center.
• The Perfectionism Paradox: When the drive that made you successful starts to become the curse that keeps you isolated.
• The "Just" Trap: How we diminish our own worth through the language we use every day.
• Mistakes as Data: Learning to see a "fall" in life the same way an equestrian sees a "fall" in the saddle as a lesson for the next ride.
• Intergenerational Enoughness: The one truth every woman, from 16 to 60, needs to hear about her own power.

Radical Takeaways:

"Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway."

"A mistake is just a data point. It’s not a sign of failure; it’s a lesson for the next step."

Connect with Dr. Darby Bonomi

The Book:Unshrinkable

Website:⁠ darbybonomi.com

Instagram: @drdarbybonomi

Does your home serve your life, or are you serving your home? In this expansive conversation, Jennifer sits down with nationally recognized Realtor and author Kim Costa to deconstruct the emotional and psychological foundations of where we live.

Moving beyond the standard real estate checklist, Kim introduces The Wheelhouse Method™, a pioneering framework that aligns your physical environment with your truest self. Together, they explore how our homes act as the literal "containers" for our lives and discuss the profound realization that our "stuckness" in a space is often tied to deeper patterns of invalidation.

Key Topics:

• The Nervous System of a Home: Understanding how layout and environment can either soothe or trigger your internal state.
• Internal vs. House Anxiety: Distinguishing between the stress we carry and the stress our space creates.
• The Chapter 12 Breakthrough: A vulnerable look at how past invalidation prevents us from planting roots and trusting our own needs.
• Needs vs. Wants: Why "Bougie is wonderful," but not if it costs you your freedom and connection.
• The 4M Foundation: Kim’s blueprint for using your home as a launchpad for purpose, peace, and potential.
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• Resources & Connections
• Pre-Order the Book: ⁠Live in Your Wheel House⁠⁠,⁠ an empowering guide to Stay, Go, or Reno.
• The Lifestyle Lift: ⁠Lifestyle Foundations Official Website.⁠ Take the assessment and download Kim’s free workbook.
• Watch Kim: American Dream TV, inspiring stories of home and lifestyle transformation.
• Follow the Journey: ⁠@kim.e.costa on Instagram⁠. Daily tips on aligning your home with your life.

In this episode, Jennifer sits down with Paul Buckley, a former biotech executive turned education innovator, to discuss a radical shift in how we staff early childhood education. Moving away from predatory and inefficient traditional models, Paul shares how his platform, Ratio Staffing, uses transparency and technology to empower educators and schools alike.

Together, they explore the systemic undervaluation of preschool teachers and how process improvements borrowed from the biotech world can reduce burnout, restore teacher agency, and ultimately create better outcomes for our youngest learners.

Key Conversations

• From Biotech to the Classroom: Why Paul transitioned sectors and how "process excellence" can be a tool for empathy and support in schools.
• Breaking the Traditional Model: Identifying the flaws in predatory staffing agencies and how they contribute to teacher turnover.
• The Power of Agency: How direct connection and profile-based recruitment give educators and schools more control over their partnerships.
• Valuing Early Childhood Education: Addressing the societal gap in how we view the importance of early educators and the long-term impact of that neglect.
• Community & Enrichment: The role of specialized activities in fostering engagement and building stronger school communities.

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 – Introduction: The systemic challenges facing early childhood educators.
• 02:00 – Paul’s journey: Bringing biotech efficiency to the education sector.
• 04:00 – Analyzing the shortcomings of current job platforms and agencies.
• 08:00 – Combatting predatory staffing models with a mission-driven approach.
• 10:00 – Building for teachers: Why profit shouldn't be the primary driver in placement.
• 14:00 – How the platform works: Direct connections and teacher-first profiles.
• 18:00 – Reform over Band-Aids: Addressing the teacher shortage at its root.
• 22:00 – A cultural shift: Prioritizing teacher well-being as a societal necessity.
• 26:00 – Rapid Fire: Lessons from biotech, essential skills, and the future of schooling.

Resources & Links

• Explore the Platform: Ratio Staffing
• Recommended Reading: The Heart of Learning and Teaching by Rose & Griffith
• Connect with Paul: LinkedIn | Contact Form

If you're in your 30s or 40s and wondering why you don't feel like yourself lately, this conversation is for you. Audrey Zona (@zo_healthy) joins me to break down the reality of perimenopause and how to navigate this transition with confidence, clarity, and the support you deserve

In this enlightening episode, Jennifer and Audrey Zona get into the complexities of menopause, discussing its stages, symptoms, and the importance of nutrition and exercise. They emphasize the need for open communication about menopause, both among women and with their families, and explore the psychological impacts of hormonal changes. Audrey shares practical tips for managing symptoms through diet, exercise, and potential hormone replacement therapy, while also addressing the social aspects of enjoying life during this transition. The conversation ultimately highlights menopause as a new beginning, filled with empowerment and self-discovery.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Menopause: A Masterclass Introduction

00:51 Audrey Zou's Journey: From Personal Struggles to Coaching

05:45 The Challenges Women Face: Diet Culture and Deprivation

10:40 Menopause Explained: Stages and Symptoms

15:23 Navigating Hormonal Changes: Diet and Exercise Adjustments

20:09 Hormone Replacement Therapy: Pros and Cons

28:03 Libido and Sexual Health: Addressing Changes

34:24 Mental Health and Nutrition: The Mind-Body Connection

38:17 Alcohol and Menopause: Finding Balance

47:50 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights and Tips

Meet Audrey Zona (@zo_healthy) Audrey is a weight loss and menopause coach on a mission to normalize the "taboo" conversations around women's health. With her background as a certified coach from the Institute for the Psychology of Eating and a national spokesperson for Prolon®, she provides women with a personalized roadmap to navigate perimenopause without the overwhelm. She specializes in helping women beat the brain fog and "meno-middle" through mindset, nutrition, and radical transparency.

Links to Include:

• Instagram: @zo_healthy
• Website: livezohealthy.com
• Work with Audrey: The Zo Program

In this episode, Jennifer sits down with Verushka del Rio, the visionary founder of Zentuary Healing Center. Verushka opens up about her personal battle with panic attacks and the transformative journey that led her to build a sanctuary for others to find their own path to peace.

Together, they dive deep into the "science and soul" of wellness, exploring how modalities like Hypnosis, NLP, and Spinal Energetics can rewire the nervous system. Whether you are a dedicated healing practitioner or someone searching for a way out of survival mode, this conversation offers a profound look at the power of community and the essential safety required to truly heal.

Support for Today’s Episode

This episode of Unscripted 2.0 is brought to you by Shaklee.

If you’ve been listening to our conversation about nervous system regulation and are looking for a little extra support to find your calm, you have to try Shaklee’s Cheer Up & Chill Out Strawberry Gummies. They are the perfect companion for those days when you need to take the edge off and support a positive mood naturally. Shop Cheer Up & Chill Out Here

  In This Conversation, We Explore:

• The Catalyst for Change: Verushka shares her raw journey through panic attacks and how hitting rock bottom became the foundation for Zentuary.
• The Pillars of Healing: Why community and psychological safety aren’t just "nice-to-haves"—they are the requirements for deep emotional work.
• Demystifying Subconscious Modalities: A breakdown of how Hypnosis and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) shift your internal narratives.
• Spinal Energetics: An introduction to this powerful modality that helps release stored tension and trauma from the body.
• The Power of the Breath: Why breathwork remains one of the most accessible and immediate tools for nervous system regulation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Healing and Wellness

02:38 Verushka's Healing Journey

05:50 Understanding Hypnosis and Its Benefits

08:37 The Power of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)

11:20 Exploring Spinal Energetics

17:18 Community and Safety in Healing Spaces

22:53 Holotropic Breathwork Experience

28:27 Upcoming Events and Future Plans

Memorable Quotes

"Healing doesn't happen in isolation; it happens when we feel safe enough to be seen by our community." — Verushka del Rio

What You’ll Learn:

• How to identify the "safety triggers" your body needs to begin a genuine healing journey.
• The key differences between traditional talk therapy and subconscious modalities like NLP.
• Practical tips for using breathwork to anchor yourself during moments of high anxiety.
• Exclusive details on our upcoming collaborative event!

Special Event Alert: "Beyond Yesterday"

Join Jennifer and Verushka, in partnership with the Clean Life Collective, for a transformative in-person experience designed to help you release the past and step into your power.

• When: January 15th, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Where: Fort Lee, N.J.
• Register Here: Beyond Yesterday Tickets

Connect with Our Guest

• Verushka Del Rio | Founder of Zentuary Healing Center, Fort Lee N.J.
• Website: zentuary.co
• Instagram: @zentuaryhealingcenter & @veruska_hypnosis

In this conversation, Jennifer and Julie Kohn, founder of C3, explore the intersection of corporate excellence and parenting challenges. Julie shares her journey from a successful career at Google to becoming a certified parent coach, emphasizing the importance of a growth mindset, active listening, and the need for connection in family dynamics. They discuss misconceptions about sales, the evolution of training strategies, and the significance of empathy and respect in parenting. Julie highlights her coaching practice, C3, and the transformative impact it aims to have on families, ultimately fostering a more enjoyable parenting experience

Chapters

00:00 From Google to Parenting: A Journey Begins

13:27 The Aha Moment: Connecting Corporate Skills to Parenting

28:01 Taking the Leap: Leaving Google for Coaching

29:30 The Birth of C3: Connection, Coaching, and Consulting

32:13 Empowering Families: Collaboration Over Control

36:00 Respect and Empathy: Keys to Parenting and Leadership

39:55 Transforming Parenting: The Role of Coaching

42:51 Mindset Shifts: Viewing Family as a Team

48:57 Navigating Parenting Challenges: Embracing Imperfection

52:11 Future of C3: Workshops and Community Engagement

How to connect with Julie:

• Website: ⁠C3connectioncoaching.com⁠
• Schedule a Discovery Call: ⁠https://calendly.com/yourC3coach⁠
• Instagram: ⁠@JulieKohnC3⁠
• Register for 11/14/25
• workshop: ⁠www.bestatefit.com/nervoussystemreset⁠
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• From Chaos to Connection- A Parent's Nervous System Reset: 
• This high-impact workshop teaches parents how to use their own regulated nervous system as the most powerful tool for ending conflict at home. If you are ready for small, tactical shifts that make a big difference, register for the November 14th session here: ⁠www.bestatefit.com/nervoussystemreset⁠. 
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In this episode of Unscripted 2.0, host Jennifer welcomes Ashley Schwartz, a certified life transformation coach and creator of the Busy Mom Method. They discuss the unique challenges faced by busy moms, the importance of self-care, and practical strategies for time management and setting boundaries. Ashley shares her journey from personal trainer to life coach, emphasizing the need for a supportive community and accountability in achieving personal goals. The conversation highlights the significance of modeling healthy behaviors for children and the necessity of prioritizing self-care without guilt. Ashley also provides insights into effective delegation and the importance of saying no to maintain balance in life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Busy Mom Method

01:25 Ashley Schwartz's Journey to Coaching

04:18 Defining Busy: The Unique Struggles of Moms

05:52 What Sets the Busy Mom Method Apart

08:32 Time Blocking and Prioritizing for Busy Moms

11:38 Identifying and Protecting Non-Negotiables

15:38 The Importance of Delegation in Family Life

18:54 Buffer Time: Finding Space in a Busy Schedule

20:15 The Importance of Buffer Time

22:49 Building Discipline and Accountability

24:30 Modeling Behavior for Children

28:44 Debunking Self-Care Myths

32:09 Setting Boundaries Without Guilt

34:48 Rapid Fire Fun Questions

Connect with Ashley Schwartz:

Website: thebusymommethod.com

 Non-Negotiable Living Podcast on Spotify

 YouTube: @thebusymommethod

 Instagram: @thebusymommethod

Don't forget to subscribe to Unscripted 2.0 for more honest conversations on transformation and growth.

In this heartfelt and essential conversation, I welcome Erin Popolo as she shares her courageous journey of turning personal tragedy into powerful advocacy against bullying and cyberbullying. Following the devastating loss of her daughter, Emily, to suicide, Erin discusses the profound and dehumanizing impact of online harassment, the difficulties faced in seeking justice, and the urgent need for legislative action to protect children in the digital world.

Listen as Erin discusses:

• The immediate aftermath and the realization of the role cyberbullying played.
• The challenges of navigating school responses and legal systems.
• The need for social media regulation, including the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA).
• The power of community and the work of Emmy's Champions in promoting kindness and safety among youth.

This episode is a call to action for parents, educators, and legislators to create a safer, kinder world for the next generation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Erin's Story and Mission

02:34 The Impact of Bullying and Mental Health

05:20 Experiencing Cyberbullying and School Response

07:51 The Role of Social Media in Bullying

10:27 The Dehumanizing Effect of Online Behavior

13:05 Advocacy and Legislative Efforts

15:55 The Dangers of Online Challenges

18:23 The Need for Social Media Regulation

21:14 The Kids Online Safety Act (COSA)

23:43 Creating Safe Spaces for Children

26:23 Emmy's Champions and Community Initiatives

29:13 Looking to the Future and Final Thoughts

Connect with Erin Popolo:

• Instagram: ⁠@eam4874⁠
• Learn more about:
• Emmy's Champions: emmyschampions.com
• Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA): ⁠https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1748⁠
• Crisis Resources (If you or someone you know is struggling):
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial or text 988
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

In this episode of Unscripted 2.0, Jennifer welcomes Melissa McCarthy, co-founder of the Clean Life Collective, to discuss her journey from a successful career in skincare to the health and wellness industry. They explore the importance of community in wellness, the significance of clean products, and how to empower women through shared experiences. Melissa shares insights on integrating Shackley products into daily life and the impact of nutrition on overall health. The conversation emphasizes the need for connection, support, and education in the wellness journey, culminating in a discussion about upcoming events aimed at fostering community and wellness among women.

What is the Clean Life Collective?

The Clean Life Collective is a wellness community built on the belief that healthier lives start with connection. We bring together like-minded men, women, and children to learn, grow, and thrive — through education, movement, nutrition, and emotional support.

Whether it’s a yoga class, a nutrition workshop, a kids' wellness event, or just gathering for a healthy smoothie and meaningful conversation — we believe wellness is better together.

We proudly partner with Shaklee, a trusted wellness company with over 70 years of science-backed nutrition, and incorporate their clean products into everything we do.

This is more than a program — it's a lifestyle, built around real community, real support, and real change.

00:00 Introduction to Wellness and Community

02:52 Building the Clean Life Collective

05:49 The Importance of Nutrition and Clean Products

11:34 Creating Meaningful Connections

17:15 Integrating Shackley into Daily Life

22:51 Empowering Women Through Wellness Events

28:08 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts

Connect with Melissa McCarthy on Instagram:

@the.clean.life.collective 

Anthon X shares his journey as a musician, discussing his unique sound influenced by various genres, including rock and Latin music. He delves into his creative process, the importance of authenticity, and the challenges he faces regarding cultural identity. Anthon also reflects on personal experiences that shape his music, including the meaning behind his song 'Flores.' The discussion highlights the significance of safe spaces for creativity and the importance of growth and evolution as an artist. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal Anthon's personality and aspirations

Ready for some real talk on life, mentorship, and making a difference? In this episode, we're sitting down with the amazing Susan L. Combs, the youngest-ever National President of Women in Insurance & Financial Services and author of "Pancakes for Roger." We dive into how her father's wisdom shaped her life and inspired her to create a nonprofit that supports veterans. We're talking about everything from turning tough times into powerful stories to the secrets of great mentorship. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to grow, find their purpose, and learn how to build a life full of meaning.

Want to learn more about Susan's journey or get a copy of her book? You can find "Pancakes for Roger" at major retailers like ⁠Amazon⁠ and ⁠Barnes & Noble⁠. Be sure to also follow her and the movement on social media! You can find her on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Facebook⁠ using the handle @pancakesforroger.

In this engaging conversation, Jennifer and Alicia Cook explore the profound impact of writing on mental health, addiction, and grief. Alicia shares her journey of using poetry as a means to process her experiences and connect with others. They discuss the importance of authenticity in creative work, the balance between vulnerability and privacy, and the role of music in enhancing the poetic experience. Alicia also reflects on her future projects and the significance of community in the creative process.  They also talk about the importance of remaining authentic to your craft and understanding why we show up as creative, and how that is helpful to our own experience, and how that connects to our audience

Unpacking Identity & Race with Justin Marlowe, Author of 'Perfect Strangers'

Jennifer and Justin Marlowe explore the intricate themes of identity, race, and cultural confusion. Justin delves into his powerful memoir, 'Perfect Strangers: Echoes of a Black Suburban Youth, offering a deeply personal look at his experiences.

Join us as Justin discusses:

• Growing up in a military family: How constant relocation shaped his understanding of belonging and identity.
• Navigating diverse cultures: The challenges and insights gained from living in various communities.
• The profound impact of music: How music served as a touchstone and guide through his youth.
• The complexities of racial identity: Justin shares his unique perspective as a Black individual in suburban environments.
• The importance of open dialogue: Why asking questions and seeking diverse perspectives is crucial for personal growth and societal understanding.

This episode offers a relatable and insightful dialogue for anyone grappling with their own identity, curious about the nuances of racial experiences, or interested in the power of personal storytelling.

Connect with Justin Marlowe:

• Memoir: 'Perfect Strangers: Echoes of a Black Suburban Youth.
• Perfect Strangers: Echoes of a Black Suburban Youth by Justin Marlowe | Goodreads
• Email: Justin.marlowe1@gmail.com
• Social Media:
• Instagram: @JmarloweWrites
• Facebook: Justin Marlowe

Hashtags: #PerfectStrangers #JustinMarlowe #Identity #Race #CulturalConfusion #Memoir #MilitaryLife #BlackIdentity #SuburbanYouth #MusicImpact #Podcast #Unscripted2.0 #PersonalStory #DiversePerspectives #relationships #personaldevelopment #selfhelp

In this episode of Unscripted, Jennifer is joined by her colleagues Jen and Marissa to discuss the themes from Mel Robbins' book 'Let Them'. They explore the challenges of letting go of control, the importance of patience, and the dynamics of relationships and friendships. The conversation delves into personal experiences, the impact of life changes on relationships, and the necessity of allowing space for others to be themselves. They also touch on the difficulties of making new connections as adults and the significance of practicing gratitude and authenticity in their interactions.

Chris Harris, a country music singer and songwriter, stopped by to hang out with me and talk about some of his personal experiences, music, and self-awareness. We chat about the journey of meeting at a retreat, the challenges of living with ADHD, the importance of self-care, and how songwriting serves as a therapeutic outlet. Chris shares insights on navigating personal challenges, building healthy relationships, and the significance of owning one's story. The conversation highlights the connection between emotional growth and creative expression.

My guest, Jordan Laurelle, joins me. We chat about the vital balance between maintaining one's individuality within relationships and the ongoing journey of self-discovery. We emphasize the profound significance of self-love and devotion as cornerstones for healthy connections.

The discussion touches on how childhood experiences can shape adult relationships, shedding light on the complexities of dynamics like gaslighting and the crucial need for reparenting oneself. Jordan and I highlight the power of self-compassion in fostering healing and creating healthier relationship patterns.

Ultimately, this episode is a powerful call for empowerment through self-connection and personal growth, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to cultivate more fulfilling relationships with themselves and others.

Here's where you can find more from Jordan and connect with her work:

Connect with Jordan Laurelle:

Website: https://www.jordanlaurelle.com

Podcast: The Magnetic Muse Podcast

Instagram: @jordanlaurelle

TikTok: @jordanlaurelle

In this conversation, Jennifer and Steve explore the complexities of navigating life transitions, emphasizing the importance of communication, accountability, and personal growth. They discuss their experiences with change, the necessity of difficult conversations, and the value of being honest and vulnerable in relationships. The dialogue highlights how trust and understanding can foster healthier interactions, even during challenging times.

Thank you to Steve, who believed in my passion and took a bold risk with me in the summer of 2024. I’m immensely grateful for our inspiring friendship. - Jennifer

Welcome to the first episode of Unscripted 2.0!

In this episode of the Unscripted podcast, Jennifer and Dileiny Baron discuss the various transitions in their lives, focusing on the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, personal growth, and the importance of supportive relationships. Dileiny shares her journey from internet marketing to becoming a successful influencer and the creation of her new venture, Creators Loft. They explore the significance of surrounding oneself with positive influences, the struggles of balancing life as an entrepreneur, and the lessons learned through their experiences. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-reflection, resilience, and the courage to pursue one's passions.

Guest Info: Dileiny Baron, founder of The Creator's Loft, Jersey City.

Social Media: @dileinybaron @thecreatorsloftjc

Support the Show! 

Join the social media conversation by sharing this episode with a friend and using #unscripted2.0

Hit the like button! 

Follow Us: 

Instagram: @unscripted_2.0_

TikTok: @unscripted_2.0_

In this episode, Steve and Agatha explore the often-overlooked topic of men's mental health. They discuss the importance of vulnerability and the connection between emotional and physical health, as well as the impact of societal expectations on men's emotional expression. The conversation addresses how emotions can manifest as physical ailments, the complexities of grief, and the role of shame in men's lives. They emphasize the need for men to seek help and embrace their emotional side while also confronting cultural norms that hinder emotional expression. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, this episode aims to encourage men to break free from emotional suppression and foster a healthier relationship with their feelings.

Support the Show!

Join the social media conversation by sharing this episode with a friend and using #WeNeedtoTalkPodcast.

Hit the like button! Instagram: weneedtotalk_podcast

Email: ⁠weneedtotalkpod12@gmail.com⁠ 

Support the Show! 

Join the social media conversation by sharing this episode with a friend and using #WeNeedtoTalkPodcast.

Hit the like button! 

Follow Us: 

Instagram: @weneedtotalk_podcast 

TikTok: @weneedtotalk_podcast 

Email: weneedtotalkpod12@gmail.com 

In this conversation, Jennifer and Steve dive head-first into the themes of passion, change, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of recognizing and pursuing passions, navigating emotional challenges during times of change, and the distinction between motivation and discipline. The dialogue also touches on the impact of shame and judgment on personal development, the significance of community and support in healing, and the necessity of focusing on one's own process rather than comparing oneself to others. The conversation concludes with reflections on life and the tendency to overthink, emphasizing the importance of staying present and authentic.

Support the Show! 

Join the social media conversation by sharing this episode with a friend and using #WeNeedtoTalkPodcast.

Hit the like button! 

Follow Us: 

Instagram: @weneedtotalk_podcast 

TikTok: @weneedtotalk_podcast 

Email: weneedtotalkpod12@gmail.com