Balance Shared

Let's Gossip About Dr. Bird

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 19:08:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

What does it look like when someone who actually lives the consequences of policy decides to run for office?

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Melissa Bird — a social worker, mother, small business owner, and proud descendant of the Shivwits Band of Paiutes who is running for Congress in Oregon’s 4th District. We talk about the exact moment she knew she couldn’t sit on the sidelines anymore, how lived experience shapes leadership, and why grassroots, community-rooted politics matter now more than ever.

This conversation isn’t about polish or political theater. It’s about intuition, accountability, and what happens when everyday people decide to challenge systems that were never built for them — or for most of us.

Podcast Episode Summary

In this episode, Michelle Lasley sits down with Dr. Melissa Bird, a PhD-trained social worker, former policy strategist, and first-time congressional candidate, to explore what it truly means to run toward public service rather than away from it.

Dr. Bird shares the deeply personal story behind her decision to run for Congress — from yelling at a virtual town hall while sitting on her couch, to receiving unmistakable intuitive nudges that it was her turn to step forward. Drawing on her experience as a lay preacher, wife of a veteran, and survivor of multiple broken systems, she explains why professional politicians often fail to represent the realities of working families, rural communities, veterans, Indigenous people, and those living at the intersections of identity and harm.

Together, Michelle and Dr. Bird unpack big questions about democracy, closed primaries, institutional power, and what it looks like to build a people-powered campaign inside a deeply entrenched political system. They talk candidly about healthcare access, reproductive justice, land stewardship, rural economies, and why listening — really listening — has become a radical act in modern politics.

This episode is an invitation to imagine a different kind of leadership: one rooted in lived experience, collective care, and the belief that democracy doesn’t have to crumble to evolve. If you’ve ever felt disconnected from politics but deeply impacted by it, this conversation is for you.

Quotables

“ … we were just talking in the campaign yesterday, like you can't just be against fascism. You have to be for something. And what I am for is introducing bills that help people survive in this economy.”

“So it's not just about fighting policies that attack us. It's also about introducing bills and using the tools of Congress to consistently and constantly have a dialogue about where we want CD4 to be improving, using the rural New Deal as a framework to improve economies in rural areas, thinking about our, our farmers and our ranchers and the forests and how are we balancing, how are we not extracting from the land, but really creating bills and policies that nurture the land while we are still keeping industry going.”

“I think that we need to bring our congressional leaders to the people so that the people know that they have access to their leaders.”

“Progressives in politics keep saying We need more women. We need more people of color. We need more LGBTQ plus folks. // We need more people who are concerned about the environment and sustainability We need. We need, but not you, Missy Bird, because you. You don't quite fit.”

“I am Native, I am bisexual. I am a woman. I am a Christian, and also a pagan. I am very deeply concerned about this planet and how we are caring for it.”

Recommended Resources

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Mentioned in this episode:

Postcast Post Roll

Thanks for listening to Balance Shared. If this conversation resonated with you, I invite you to keep going — you can find essays, reflections, and deeper dives into these themes on my Substack. That’s where I write about power, parenting, policy, and what it means to live inside systems we didn’t choose — while still choosing ourselves. You can also support the show by subscribing, sharing this episode, or leaving a review — it helps these stories reach the people who need them most. Until next time — take care of yourself, and take care of each other, especially the women in your lives. Because when we heal women, we heal the world.

Michelle Lasley

Unveiling Cosmic Patterns: An Interview with Tam Veillieux

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0800

Notes

Unveiling Cosmic Patterns: An Interview with Tam Veillieux

In this episode, the host interviews Tam Veillieux, a visionary and publisher of the Energy Almanac, who discusses her passion for connecting astrology to personal development. Tam shares her journey as a transformational coach and astrology groupie, revealing how she started publishing the Energy Almanac. The conversation delves into the significance of astrology in understanding personal patterns, the integration of energy psychology techniques like EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), and the importance of recognizing cosmic signals. Tam emphasizes how astrology can provide insight into one's life purpose and psychological makeup, making transformation both fast and enjoyable.

00:00 Introduction to Tam Veillieux

00:44 The Energy Almanac: Behind the Scenes

02:42 Serendipitous Connections and Astrology

04:38 Astrology and Personal Patterns

08:46 Numerology and Personal Insights

10:13 A Nonlinear Path to Purpose

10:47 The Birth of the Energy Almanac

16:00 Making Transformation Fast and Fun

16:47 Permission to Let Go

17:49 Tools for Fast Change

18:18 Understanding EFT and Tapping

23:36 Exploring Astrology in Coaching

25:42 Astrology for Everyday Life

28:10 The Energy Almanac

32:54 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Healing through Art and Reiki with Lea K. Tawd

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0800

Notes

Healing through Art and Reiki with Lea K. Tawd

In this episode, Michelle interviews Lea K. Tawd, an artist and Reiki master who has found her purpose in inspiring and healing through art and Reiki. Lea discusses her journey, how she integrates Reiki into her art, and the overarching impact of this practice. She also shares her experiences with creative blocks, her book 'Creativity Unstuck,' and the transformative potential of Reiki in healing and personal growth. Lea talks about her personal connection to the divine feminine and how it influences her artwork, providing insights into the unique power of combining spirituality and creativity.

00:00 Introduction to Lea K. Tawd

01:08 Understanding Reiki: Origins and Basics

05:50 Personal Journey with Reiki

08:57 Integrating Reiki with Art

16:05 Leah's Artistic Path and Challenges

24:40 Creativity Unstuck: Leah's Book

28:04 Exploring the Divine Feminine in Art

30:27 Conclusion and Contact Information

Mentioned in this episode:

Season 3 Introduction

This is Season 3, where we discuss non-linear paths to finding your purpose. I interviewed over 35 people to hear their circuitous path to finding their purpose right now.

Introduction

This is Michelle Lasley. I call all of my work Balance Shared because I truly do believe we are better together.

Conclusion

This is Balance Shared by your host, Michelle Lasley. You can find more on the web at www.michellelasley.com.

Michelle Lasley

Explore Feng Shui for 2022 with Jillian Rothschild

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0800

In this episode, the host interviews Jillian Rothschild-Scholar, a classically trained Feng Shui expert with over a decade of experience. Jillian discusses how her purpose is to help people clear confusion over major life questions, enabling them to confidently move forward. She explains the principles of classical Feng Shui and shares her journey into the field. The discussion includes the intricacies of the Chinese New Year, including the differences between the lunar and solar calendars and their significance. Jillian delves into Chinese astrology, the importance of the 'four pillars of destiny,' and how these elements can guide individuals. Additionally, insights on what to expect in the year of the Water Tiger and practical Feng Shui tips for 2022 are provided. Jillian also shares her personal transformation story through Feng Shui, emphasizing the impact of environment on life success and well-being.

00:00 Introduction to Jillian Rothschild Scholar

01:06 Understanding the Chinese New Year

03:53 Jillian's Journey into Feng Shui

08:51 Exploring Chinese Astrology

15:17 Feng Shui Tips for 2022

31:48 Conclusion and Contact Information

Mentioned in this episode:

Conclusion

This is Balance Shared by your host, Michelle Lasley. You can find more on the web at www.michellelasley.com.

Michelle Lasley

Introduction

This is Michelle Lasley. I call all of my work Balance Shared because I truly do believe we are better together.

Season 3 Introduction

This is Season 3, where we discuss non-linear paths to finding your purpose. I interviewed over 35 people to hear their circuitous path to finding their purpose right now.

Register to Vote and Listen

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0800

Creating a Better Future: Conversations, Values, and Voting

In this episode, the speaker addresses an unintended scheduling mishap and pivots to an engaging discussion about current events and civic duties. They express curiosity about the upcoming election and emphasize the importance of community efforts in child care reform. The speaker advocates for a new, inclusive system free from racism, sexism, and classism. They discuss the significance of voting, understanding candidate alignments, and holding elected officials accountable. Reflecting on National Voter Registration Day, the speaker encourages listeners to verify their registration, have meaningful conversations, and actively participate in building a just society.

00:00 Introduction and Apology

00:31 Personal Update and Election Curiosity

00:37 Child Care Advocacy

00:58 Systemic Issues in Child Care

01:27 Voting and Values

02:17 National Voter Registration Day

02:31 Encouragement to Engage and Listen

03:13 Conclusion and Call to Action

Use this link to register to vote: https://links.impactive.io/t/kpt5djrw?start=1

Preparing for Purpose: Insights and Stories from Michelle’s Guests

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0800

Reviving the Podcast: Unveiling Non-Linear Paths to Purpose

Michelle Lasley recounts the origins of her podcast, which started just before the pandemic. The podcast delves into people's stories, highlighting their non-linear journeys to finding their purpose. Season three, airing after a three-year hiatus beginning September 25th, will focus on these circuitous paths. Future seasons, including an anticipated season on identity, are also hinted at. This episode previews content to prepare listeners for the 2022 Chinese New Year and promises insightful educational stories.

00:00 Introduction: The Birth of a Podcast

00:06 The Inspiration Behind the Podcast

00:14 Discovering the Power of Stories

00:25 The Focus on Non-Linear Paths

00:42 Season Three: Finding Your Purpose

00:48 Challenges and Delays

01:08 Season Four: Exploring Identity

01:17 Season Three Launch Announcement

01:23 Special Episode: 2022 Chinese New Year

01:35 Conclusion: Stay Tuned for More

The Power of Plant Based Diets with Jeff Hahler & Bev Martin

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Hi everyone! A note for this episode- due to some technical difficulties this episode ends rather abruptly.

Introduction to Episode

Jeff Hahler & Bev Martin explain their reasons for being vegans as well as living a healthy life doing so.

Podcast Episode Summary

Jeff Hahler & Bev Martin both live their lives as vegans eschewing any products made from animals. They break down their path to veganism and reasoning both for personal and moral reasons ranging from the health benefits of focusing on a plant based diet as well as the ethical treatment of animals. Making sure they keep their values well in line with what they deem most important.

They also take the time to explain how they are best able to navigate a meat-centric world with their diet choices, socializing with friends, and how best to make the most informed decisions. They lay out their well reasoned and practical approach with suggestions, methodologies, and humorous personal anecdotes.

Quotables

"I always believed that all people are equal... why are animals any different?"

"The way that you want to eat is fine but the most important thing is to do research on what you are eating."

Recommended Resources

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. Our producer is Matthew Hunter.

Empowering Careers with Sudeshna Sen

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Sudeshna Sen discusses what to focus on to both grow your career while also connecting with what is important in your life. We dive into common pitfalls in moving forward in your profession, ways of thinking of women in (or not in) the workforce, and how to forge your own path.

Podcast Episode Summary

Sudeshna Sen is a a career strategist and productivity geek who talks about careers, business, and everything in between. She runs a website and blog called The Abundance Psyche where she hopes to help people move forward in their high end careers.

She talks about it from the spiritual angle but also thinks about it from the practical side. How to show up as leaders in our world, find our own truths, and find where our alignment is at it's best.

She also organizes the Rise Up Cohort who works to help promote women in financial services and give them a stage during their shows.

Quotables

"[People with high power jobs] always care about being judged by other people who are scared of being judged."

"When you feel like you're in alignment, that shows. It has so much positive energy around it. It's infectious. Just like negative energy is infectious. "

Recommended Resources

For more information about Sudeshna Sen go to The Abundance Psyche.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. Our producer is Matthew Hunter.

As mentioned in the episode: Episode with Tiffany Chapman

Day Trading with Confidence with Marina Villatoro

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Marina "The Trader Chick" Villatoro talks about how she built confidence and how she wants to share that confidence in day trading for anyone interested.

Podcast Episode Summary

Marina "The Trader Chick" Villatoro is an entrepreneur, Ted X organizer, travel writer, professional day trader, and mother. She teaches beginners how to day trade and build their confidence in this complicated environment. She does this with courses on how to understand the ins and outs, what to trade, and why a strategy is important.

She also discusses her move from the USSR to the United States and how that shaped her role as a mother and provider. How that helped her realize the importance of inclusivity, education, and providing a better life for her kids.

Quotables

"Would you ever, one day, decide you are going to be a pilot, watch a couple of videos on YT, and [...] tell your family 'let's hop into the plane'. [...] That's suicide [...] That's what you're doing when you go into the live market with your money."

"If we don't fail how will we ever, ever learn?"

Recommended Resources

For more information about Marina Villatoro go to her site at The Trader Chick.

The TedX Antigua Green School Event. More about the event.

Facebook Live with Michelle Lasley and Marina Villatoro.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. Our producer is Matthew Hunter.

Getting in Touch with Nature with Cece Heart

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Cece Heart talk about building community and sharing hope in safeguarding our planet and becoming empowered, healthy, and happy denizens of our Earth.

Podcast Episode Summary

Cece Heart is an inspiration activator and health, wellness enthusiast, writer, and community catalyzer for a dynamic eco-tech company. She works to help others participate in safeguarding the planet with drinkable water, organic natural food, chemical-free breathable air, and empowered, happy, healthy people.

The more she got involved in research and climate summits, the more she wanted to leave the planet better than she found it. She wants to help people down a healthy path in taking control of their surroundings with clarity and connection with getting in touch with nature.

As a Community Catalyzer, she works with her company, SEEDS, to build community and change the old way of thinking about ecology and sustainability as it relates to the world of finance and business.

Recommended Resources

For more information about Cece Heart and her work go to her website and blog.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. Our producer is Matthew Hunter.

Motherhood, Differently with Irene McKenna

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Motherhood, Differently with Irene McKenna. In this episode, we sit down with Irene McKenna who is a parenting coach and founder of Irene McKenna Coaching. She aims her message towards moms ready to experience empowered motherhood.

Podcast Episode Summary

Irene McKenna is an empowerment coach for moms, founder Irene McKenna LLC, the Empowered Mom Project, and organizes the Facebook community Thrive Motherhood all while being a mom herself.

She uses her experience to help mothers not lose themselves in their roles of "mom". Helping mothers learn how to use their unique experiences to be the best mom they can be. Pulling from personal experience as well as the wealth of information available and being forgiving to yourself when it doesn't turn out how those books promised it would.

She stresses the importance of moms showing up for themselves to be present for their family the way they are needed. Establishing a belief that moms deserve to be supported and the importance of self-care as a path to building a different kind of motherhood than the one we've been taught.

Quotables

"The way we get to something different [in motherhood], competently, is a long drawn-out process of implementation [of gathered knowledge]"

"Stop focusing on the problems of what we don't have. We need to shift our mindset and outlook to what we desire in a way that we expect that it's inevitable if we do the work versus continuing to stand in the 'want want want' but seeing all the problems of why we don't get to have them."

"When we believe and trust in ourselves we find the best way to get there for us."

Recommended Resources

For more information about Irene McKenna go to Irene Mckenna Coaching, Thrive Motherhood Facebook community and her Thrive In Motherhood Podcast.

For musings on motherhood, here are some writings from over the years.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. Our producer is Matthew Hunter.

Finding Balance in All Things with Karen Schopoff

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Karen Schopoff shows us how finding balance in all things is about creating boundaries, managing expectations, and recognizing and addressing stress.

Podcast Episode Summary

Karen Schopoff Rooff is a health and fitness coach and nationally recognized public speaker, entrepreneur, wife, and mom of 3 kids. She is considered a Women's Wellness Warrior, founded Balance Personal Fitness, and runs the blog Well Balanced Women.

We talk about creating balance between the most important aspects of our lives- from fitness to family to personal time. Using balance to even the load of our responsibility and level off the peaks and valleys. As well as setting boundaries and letting go of expectations to make sure we can free time for ourselves.

We also touch on how modern life forces us out of sync with our physiology. How society's demands of delayed child rearing misaligns with hormonal changes in the body and how we can use those boundaries and managing expectations to address the "Life Laundry".

Quotables

"...if we don't have boundaries we are spending our lives... we're spending our energy, our vitality on what other people want."

"One of the beautiful things of being human is we are all different. So, what I hate to do, someone else loves to do. If you can find that match, everybody wins."

Recommended Resources

For more information about Karen Schopoff Rooff go to Well Balanced Women and Balance Physical Fitness Training.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. Our producer is Matthew Hunter.

Elevating Yourself... And Your Business with Misha Bartlett

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Misha Bartlett dives into strategies and outlooks to build success as a female business leader or sales professional.

Podcast Episode Summary

Misha Bartlett is an entrepreneur, certified coach, and founder of Misha Tamiko. She's spent 12 years in B2B tech and working with startups. Her focus is working with female-founded startup businesses and female sales professionals. Specifically, breaking down blockers and reaching sales goals.

We discuss a range of struggles in the world of business and sales including what success should look like, managing trigger points, perceiving value, harnessing your energy for positive outcomes, and keeping a sense of humanity in your outlook. We also touch on strategies for building a mindset for success in the face of uncertainty.

Recommended Resources

For more information about Misha Bartlett and her sales coaching go to mishatamiko.com.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. Our producer is Matthew Hunter.

Litha, Summer's Celebration

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Litha, Summer's Celebration. We have come off of May Day for those who ceremonially celebrate. Our school years have ended. We are now basking in the warmth of the sun, at least in the Northern Hemisphere. The grass is green. The promise of a harvest is on its way. It's summer! Celebrate the solstice by wearing pale yellow, blue, green, and/or white. Invite essentials such as Roman Chamomile, Lemon, Lavender, and Thyme into your diffuser. Consider rituals and prayers of gratitude and abundance.

Recognizing and Naming Trauma Informed Narratives with Kyira Wackett

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 01:30:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Kyira Wackett walks us through recognizing and naming trauma Informed Narrativesby referencing her own experiences and techniques.

Podcast Episode Summary

Kyira Wackett is a therapist and new (mother/parent). We talk about recognizing and naming trauma narratives and the shame-based thinking that comes with it. She frames this in her own experiences that include being a new mother in the middle of a pandemic.

She discusses the effects of trauma on the body, the difference between big T and little t trauma, and techniques on being able to talk about, externalize, and make space for these traumas to begin the process of acceptance.

Recommended Resources

For more information about Kyria Wackett and Adversity Rising go to adversityrising.com.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. Our producer is Matthew Hunter.

8 Steps to Great Web Design with Michelle Balge

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Michelle Balge is helping people to help people. In this episode, we dig into 8 steps to great web design.

Podcast Episode Summary

Michelle Balge, of Worth It Designs, a purpose driven entrepreneur joins us to talk about her web design, and her love for animals. As a purpose driven entrepreneur, she loves working with other purpose driven entrepreneurs - helping people help people. One part of her work has been getting out of her comfort zone and seeking outside help to continue to support her as she gets out of her comfort zone. She has an invitation to all of us to get out of our comfort zone so we can do our work. At the time of this recording, she was going to do one Facebook Live, to get out of her comfort zone, and since, she’s completed just under a dozen!

Quotables

8 Steps to Great Web Design

Make sure your site loads in under 3 seconds.
Design a clean experience.
No clutter! Be intentional and keep it simple.
Have enough white space.
Avoid neon colors.
Have your ideal client in mind.
Use calls to action.
Get a paid security plugin!

Recommended Resources Visit Michelle Balge at her website: https://www.worthitdesigns.com Check out her Facebook Videos: https://www.facebook.com/worthitwebdesigns/videos/?ref=page_internal Sessions Design College Color Wheel: https://www.sessions.edu/color-calculator/ For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Mom of five, Kamini Wood, interrupted her perfectionism to live her authentic self.

Wed, 26 May 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Mom of five, Kamini Wood, interrupted her perfectionism to live her authentic self. As a high achiever, she is called to help others live in their authenticity.

Podcast Episode Summary

Kaimini Wood, a coach and mom, residing in North Carolina, talked about all the way ways we can move towards living in our authentic self.

Quotables

“… [A\s we get older, we end up being very reactive, right? We're not coming from a generative place. And so I have said routinely, that awareness is the doorway to change. So when you finally become aware, I'm being reactive and not generative. That means that you're ready to step through that doorway of change.”

“…I anchor myself in is that life is a journey that is happening for us, and not to us.”

Recommended Resources

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

SEO Keywords

Kamini Wood, interrupted her perfectionism to live her authentic self

SEO Description

Mom of five, Kamini Wood, interrupted her perfectionism to live her authentic self. As a high achiever, she is called to help others live in their authenticity.

Dr. Alice Kerby and the Somatic Experience to Heal Trauma

Wed, 19 May 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Dr. Alice Kerby teaches us that somatic simply means of the body, and she shares with us her journey to using the somatic experience to heal trauma.

Podcast Episode Summary

So many aspects of our lives bring us out of the body and we can turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Dr. Alice Kerby works with sober and sober curious women to help them be in their body.

Dr. Alice started as a massage therapist, then she became a doctor of physical therapy. Now, she is working on earning her Somatic Experiencing certification through SETI. In this episode, we discuss using the somatic experience to heal trauma. We discuss Bg T and little t trauma and how the body responds to it. We discuss a little about new brain research and how that has affected our knowing about how trauma lives in the body. And, later, Dr. Alice walks us through a guided technique to get back in the body.

Quotables

“I want to be moving.” [reflecting why the somatic path]

“Looking through external things to make us feel better.” [on one way somatic experiences can support us in our journey]

“I can walk around present in my body.” [a result of living the somatic experience]

Trauma Tips - first have a practitioner to work with!

Build your awareness
Recognize it’s hard to be the observer
Learn to know when you do feel good in your body

Recommended Resources

See Dr. Alice’s work at kerbymethodconsulting.com.
Here’s the Facebook live we did last year https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1596804017144650.
Here’s a link to Janine Wirth’s episode on Trauma: https://michellelasley.com/captivate-podcast/the-trauma-whisperer-janine-wirth-talks-about-trauma
Find out more about Dr. Peter Levine here.
Rick Hanson, Being Well (podcast) https://www.rickhanson.net/being-well-podcast/
SEI Somatic Experiencing International: https://traumahealing.org
Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, author of The Body Keeps Score, https://www.besselvanderkolk.com.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

This is your sign, a conversation with Katie Thompson

Wed, 12 May 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

This is your sign to do your calling, invites Katie Thompson of Modern Darling Media. Do the thing you love, but do it in a smart way.

Podcast Episode Summary

Katie Thompson is your marketing expert. She is also the one to look to when you want to start your next new thing. Katie believes that we can work towards harmony in life, rather than balance. She wants to take back the word hustle to mean flow in doing the things we love.

Katie wants all of us to know that we have something on our hearts this is your sign to do your calling. And, she invites us to start now.

Quotables

Katie’s tips on being your own boss and disturbing myths.

Transition to being a boss takes a mindset shift.
Set your boundaries so you serve yourself first then your clients.
Bust the myth of the 8-hour workday, there are other ways to be productive.
You are in charge of how you think, how you act.
Go follow your dreams, but do it in a smart way.
If it’s on your heart, just do it.

Recommended Resources

See Katie on the web. Be sure to check out all the resources in her education tab, and don’t forget to visit her podcast, Hustlenomics.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Debunking the stigma of CBD with Lizzy Renee

Wed, 05 May 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Liz Renee (Carlin) continuously works on debunking the stigma of CBD. In this podcast, we discuss many facets of CBD and why you’d want to use it.

Podcast Episode Summary

Liz and I discuss our mutual desire to live a whole life - meaning, we turn to natural solutions first to solve any of the issues that come our way. Liz reminded me that there have been no home health laws since 1938. She shared that there are more than 12,000 chemicals that can be considered “fragrant”. She also reminded me that the European Union has banned over 1,300 of those chemicals, whereas the U.S. has only banned 30.

Quotables

Tips for moving to a wellness lifestyle:

Be patient with the process
Start with what you know
Start slow
Your body needs to adjust

Two main points for moving to CBD

Get quality products
Have patience and take the time to figure out the right dose

Recommended Resources

Ted Talk https://youtu.be/nQzOHAwCfXs
Lizzy’s Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thrivingbynaturenow
Lizzy’s Website: https://lizzyrenee.com
Get Lizzie’s Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/52-Tips-Using-Health-Wellness/dp/0997601876

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Ancestral Medicine and Systemic Racism, a Conversation with Laura Rowe

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Laura Rowe comes back to discuss ancestral medicine and systemic racism. We believe we have a responsibility to change the system and we discuss pieces of this change.

Podcast Episode Summary

Laura and I discuss systemic racism as two white-presenting cis-gendered women. We see a space where we can be quiet, where we can learn, and we pick apart different places where we can elevate and change our society.

Quotables

“What hurts one of us hurts all of us.”

What’s the ‘right’ question? “How can we help you?”

Five steps to healing ancestral wounds:

Older generations let go. Younger generations tell us what they see.
Stop talking and listen.
Investigate your bias.
Heal.
Speak out and use your power.

Recommended Resources

See Laura on the web: http://thevitalspirit.net/.
Laura’s piece on ancestral healing: https://thevitalspirit.net/2014/09/22/ancestral-healing-emotional-inheritance/.
Laura’s grounding and clearing meditation tools: https://thevitalspirit.net/the-tools/.
Laura’s first episode where we discuss what an empath is, season 1
Laura’s second episode where we discuss the shadow side of the law of attraction, season 2
Caliban and the Witch
Your Grandmother’s Hands
George Floyd Blog Post
Vanessa Couto’s website and podcast episodes in season one and season two.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Intentional change this Beltaine

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Beltaine, the third fertility festival, and the Sabbat that ends the Time of Dawning and welcomes the Time of Light. Let's make an intentional change this Beltaine.

Podcast Episode Summary

Let’s make an intentional change this Beltaine. In this episode, I reflect on what Beltaine has meant and then I invite us to consider what it can mean for us as we move towards a future with changing climates.

I did not review the story of the God and the Goddess, but for you, dear reader/listener, this is the time where the Maiden becomes Mother, and the god grows. You can see these changes in our seasons as well, where we are in spring fever, planting our gardens or watching nature bloom and grow up around us. Blossoms are shedding and becoming leaves, summer is rapidly approaching. We are aging in our year.

A note on climate change. In this episode, I reflect on how fire season has started earlier than before. Our fire seasons have extended beyond just California and now last nearly the entire summer. Communities are in danger. Our ecosystems are in danger. It is up to us to co-create a future that works for all of us. So, this Beltaine, in this last fertility festival, let us work towards bringing seeds and new ideas of how we can co-create a future that will work for all of us.

Recommended Resources

Learish, Jessica. “What Is A Maypole? A History Of The Fertility Rite.” Bustle, May 1, 2016. https://www.bustle.com/articles/157383-what-is-a-maypole-and-how-is-it-used-a-brief-history-of-this-pagan-fertility.

Starhawk, Diane Baker, and Anne Hill. Circle Round: Raising Children in Goddess Traditions. New York, NY: Bantam Books, 1998.

Wigington, Patti. “A Brief History of the Maypole Dance.” Learn Religions, June 25, 2019. https://www.learnreligions.com/history-of-the-maypole-2561629.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

The Shame Monster of Emotional Eating with Suzanne Carpenter

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Suzanne Carpenter shares her story of overcoming the shame monster of emotional eating, and now she teaches you to do the same thing.

Podcast Episode Summary

Michigan State University graduate, Suzanne Carpenter, joined me so we could discuss food. Suzanne shares her story of emotional eating and with an eating disorder, through her moment of change, and now on the other side where she teaches people how to have a healthy relationship with the food on their plate.

Suzanne shares snippets of how “outrunning the fork” doesn’t usually work, and it’s not a sustainable strategy. She breaks down that exercise is not weight loss, rather a key to health living. But, what we really need? We need to eat in the proportions that work for us.

Tips

You have to want to change
Understand protein, fat, and fiber
Understand your pattern of eating
Understand the difference between physical hunger and emotional hunger
Drink 3L of water per day
Today is a great day to start

Recommended Resources

Visit Sur at her website or her Facebook Group. On her website, you’ll find access to her SOS text messages, her fiber list, and so much more.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Make Stress Work for You, a Conversation with La-Dana Manhertz

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

La-Dana Manhertz will make stress work for you. In this episode we dial into how stress affects the body AND how to get your control back.

Podcast Episode Summary

La-Dana and I talked for quite awhile about how stress looks, what you get when you work with La-Dana, and how stress really affects the body. La-Dana shares her steady wealth of knowledge of how the body works, how the stress hormones affect our bodies and decision making, and she shares tangible steps on how we can take back control of these situations, so we can make stress work for us.

Two important tips La-Dana brought to our conversation are:

See and affirm your work
Focus on on why you are doing something, not the how

She brings all her wisdom, especially as she walks with and through her own motherhood journey as she found her passion in helping other women get control of their stressful days.

Take a listen and truly learn to Let It Go (like Elsa says).

Quotables

“Stress builds up one activity at a time.”

“If you make decision in survival mode, you will make rash decisions.”

Recommended Resources

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Sex positive relationships, a conversation with Yael Rosenstock

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Yael Rosenstock Gonzalez teaches about sex, reproductive rights, and sexual pleasure. She wants a world full of sex positive relationships. Living her polyamorous, queer life, and also holding many other identities, she is uniquely poised to hold a safe space for these stories. Here is a little bit of hers.

Podcast Episode Summary

Yael wants a world where we don’t have sexual violence. The under-reported number is that one in four or one in five women have experienced sexual assault. After finding a drive to teach on reproductive rights, after having experienced sexual trauma, Yael moved to wanting to help heal people through the trauma and eventually to sexual pleasure.

In this episode, she shares her story about living life as a polyamorous queer cis-gendered woman. Ultimately, she shares a story of how love is the one thing that can tie us all together and help us to break down these barriers we have created. In one vein, her travels to find her polyamorous identity that broke open another vein of holding a safe and accepting space for everyone.

She has a vision of a world where there is no sexual violence and no shaming, where we all experience a full body-positive experience. Though, we have a lot of work to do. So, sharing and hearing stories different from our own is one way that we get there.

Quotables

[From Yael’s website under Sex Coaching] “Communication, boundary setting, sex education, and pleasure are rarely talked about in a useful way in schools and parents often don't have the resources they need to have these conversations. As we get older, it feels harder and harder to figure out skills and values that we missed out on as kids.”

[On one thing that can get us to open up about other people’s stories] “Tell me more…”

Recommended Resources

See Yael’s work online, https://www.yaelrosenstock.com.
Check out her book, An Intro-Guide to a Sex Positive You: Lessons, Tales, and Tips, https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43607130-an-intro-guide-to-a-sex-positive-you.
Visit Yael on Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/yaelthesexgeek/.
For publishing and the Diverse Bodies Project visit https://www.instagram.com/yaelthesexgeek/.
OPB Think Out Loud, February 2, 2015, “At Home with Two Polyamorous Couples,” https://youtu.be/F9SkZ1TBJNE

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Manifesting Magic in the Every Day with Michelle Valenzuela

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Michelle Valenzuela learned how manifesting magic worked at a very young age. Learn how she integrates simple magic with every day.

Podcast Episode Summary

Michelle Valenzuela developed her people managing philosophies while working in retail for nearly twenty years. Michelle developed her love of magic from her family. In both, she inherently sees the overlap of showing up with compassion, vulnerability, hard work, and trusting your intuition. She believes that when you focus on what you want, when you bring positive intention, and when you commit to action, you can manifest whatever you want.

Michelle shares whimsical and serious stories of how she got to where she is. Her wisdom of how to be in touch with yourself and use the tools around you, is just magic. She shares her love of astrology, crystals, and moon energy in this episode.

Recommended Resources

Visit Michelle on Instagram, Facebook, Snap Chat, and Pinterest.

Join Michelle and Michelle at our full and new moon circles. Visit us each, every Monday, on both Instagram and Facebook (at our respective pages) to get our weekly guides for Moon Magick.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Learning to question through Ostara, a Sabbat Reflection

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Ostara is the Spring Equinox. How can we use the wisdom found during this time to inform our lives of inquiry? Embrace learning to question through Ostara.

Podcast Episode Summary

In this episode, I pontificate about our seasons, again, a Sabbat ritual of my own. This time, I ponder how shifted Christianity is with the seasons and how celebrating death when there is so much birth adds confusion. I hope you get my point that it adds an underlying confusion to the base of our society. And, we have an invitation to co-create something different, something that works for us.

So, take a look at what’s going on in the world around you. What lessons from nature can you observe, embrace, and integrate into your life?

Also, as the beginning of a new Zodiac New Year, take a moment and consider the intentions you set at the beginning of the year. Are they still valid? Should you revise? Now that we have a new marker of time on new beginnings, embrace this, and revise as necessary.

Recommended Resources

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Part 2: A no-brainer choice to healing, discovering neurofeedback with Olga Ward

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Compassion for Olga’s daughter led to a path of neurofeedback where choices to practice became a no-brainer choice to healing.

Podcast Episode Summary

Neurofeedback became the no-brainer choice to healing. In this episode, Olga Ward continues her journey of finding Neurofeedback. Olga developed a deeper sense of compassion and understanding when helping her adoptive daughter through her own challenges, big behaviors, and difficult days. The ideal “peaceful home” was out of reach because of the underlying trauma her daughter, and even she herself, was trying to work through.

After endless therapy, medication, and other modalities, Olga was introduced to Neurofeedback from the therapist she was working with at the time. This was the single most effective tool in helping Olga move through her own stuck patterns. She was so overwhelmed at how effective it worked, she got her whole family to try it. Her son was able to get support with his anxiety. And, her daughter received immeasurable support in working through her startle responses and working towards less reactive and more calm method of showing up. Olga was so impressed with the results, she decided to pivot her career, leveraging her previous education background and offer Neurofeedback.

Results vary where literature will advise that it takes about 20 sessions for results to be noticeable. Olga has found that many of her clients see a level of results within three sessions. When nothing else has worked, Neurofeedback could be a tool to help guide the brain to healthier pathways. For Olga, it was a no-brainer.

Olga has been practicing neurofeedback now for a few years. If nothing else has worked in your road to recovery from anything from insomnia to anxiety to trauma (and more), she would like to invite you to give neurofeedback a try.

Recommended Resources

Visit Beaverton Neurofeedback at https://www.beavertonneurofeedback.com.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Part 1: The Cost of Trauma and Discovering Healing with Olga Ward

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Olga Ward discovered the cost of trauma while healing her adopted daughter and herself. In this episode, we discuss how she discovered her path to healing.

Podcast Episode Summary

Olga Ward joins me for two episodes where we dig into her path to finding neurofeedback as a healing modality when faced with trauma, and through this, discuss the cost of trauma.

Olga’s journey to neurofeedback comes through the story of her daughter’s adoption path. Soon after Olga and her family adopted their daughter, they began to realize the cost of trauma and the hidden effects it had on her daughter’s well-being and eventually the whole family.

Eventually, Olga’s journey to heal herself, realizing her own relationship to and the cost of trauma in her life, led her to find healing with neurofeedback. This was, later, the only tool (of so many tried) that worked to help connect her daughter to her own path of healing. Olga was so thankful for this modality that she began using it and sharing her experience with many others. Next week, we’ll dive into neurofeedback and how it can really help.

This week’s episode focused on getting out of the shame spiral, finding community that can understand your path, and finding balance in all the chaos life can deliver.

Some thoughts that summarized that stage in Olga’s life include:

“I was a lot stronger than I thought I was."

“I had my own trauma.”

“My desire to find a solution.”

Olga is a resilient mother who truly wants the best for her family. She now takes that and teaches others how to connect to different ways of healing so they can find peace in their lives too. Stay tuned for next week when we dive more into neurofeedback.

Recommended Resources

Visit Beaverton Neurofeedback at https://www.beavertonneurofeedback.com.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Realizing Financial Independence, One Person at a Time with Brad Long

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Brad Long works to inspire people in realizing financial independence. He wagers that if more people were realizing financial independence we’d have happier more contented people giving back.

Podcast Episode Summary

I started this episode with some wisdom from a communication professor I had at Michigan State University. He said before any couple gets married, they should talk about four things, which are sex, religion, family, and money. Brad Long, a financial coach, came on to talk about the latter.

Brad has a mission to teach the world to

organize their finances,
get on a written budget,
get out of debt, and
move on to financial independence.

We discussed how 78% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, and it doesn’t matter their paycheck size.

Brad wants more people realizing financial independence, which will positively affect their happiness and contentment and give them space to give more. He works to support one person, one family at a time. When he works with clients, he is looking for progress, not perfection. He teaches his clients that every penny has a job.

Quotables

“We as a culture have overextended ourselves.”

“Everything in our society has become so luxurious. It's no longer keeping up with the Jones’. It’s now keeping up with hyper luxury.”

Quoting Paula Pant, “You can afford anything, but you can’t afford everything.”

A question not asked enough, “Can I afford it?”

“What would it feel like if you knew you were good [with spending to your budget]?”

Recommended Resources

Stats on Money

https://news.gallup.com/poll/308936/personal-finances-future-concerning-present.aspx
https://www.debt.com/statistics/
https://www.marketwatch.com/story/only-3-in-10-americans-are-considered-financially-healthy-2018-11-01

Juliet Schor, The Overspent American

Facebook Live with Brad: https://business.facebook.com/balanceshared/videos/303328487734196/

The Complete Financial Guide for Young Couples, by Larry Burkett: https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/complete-financial-guide-for-young-couples-a-lifetime-approach-to-spending-saving-and-investing_larry-burkett/275874/#edition=2309371&idiq=421776

See Brad’s work at zerodebtcoach.com.
Find Brad on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/zerodebtcoaching/.
And, check out his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsdZE9tynhAgGd9cl_FE95A

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Processing grief through writing, a story of birth with Alexa Bigwarfe

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

She found herself processing grief through writing and she gave birth to so much more. In this interview Alexa Bigwarfe shares how she found the Women in Publishing Summit, and how she gives back to grieving mothers.

Podcast Episode Summary

Alexa Bigwarfe is a writer, a publisher, a teacher, a producer, a wife, and a mother. And, she is a grieving mother. Our conversation leapt over many things, from how she got into writing, how she taught others to publish, how she carved a niche for womxn, how she worked through her money story, and how she gives back.

Our conversation started with various topics that are covered during Alexa's Women in Publishing Summit. Topics include: true stories, challenges, extra roles women play, mindset, self-doubt, imposter syndrome, balancing all the roles, and many technical aspects like choosing the right cover art.

We then spent a good portion of our conversation talking about worth and the challenges that are mostly unique to women when it comes to valuing our work.

Finally, we discussed how Alexa turned to writing. It was a tool that helped her process the grief of the death of her daughter, Catherine, when Catherine passed away at two years old. Along with a book and a blog, she also gave birth to the non-profit, Sunshine After a Storm, which gives care packages to grieving mothers.

Quotables

“[We t]ell important messages through our stories.”

“I can’t give if I don’t have the means to do it.”

Recommended Resources

Profit First: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30780674-profit-first?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=DwaaMuDnXk&rank=1

The Soul of Money: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/185526.The_Soul_of_Money?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=VVO7uG2m3j&rank=1

Join the Women in Publishing Summit: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com.

Check out Alexa’s work: http://writepublishsell.co.

Visit the Sunshine After a Storm non-profit: https://sunshineafterthestorm.org.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Change the narrative and just do it, with Erin Everleigh

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Erin Everleigh learned she had to change the narrative and just do it if she was going to tell the story that was burning inside her.

Podcast Episode Summary

We begin our conversation with “what happens after the happily ever after”. Erin Everleigh is a dentist by trade. 7 years ago, she got an itch. A story was growing inside of her, and she had to get it out. In this episode, we discuss Erin’s process, how she let her story out, and how she shares her determination and hard work with young people, so they can share their stories too.

In order to write, Erin had to change the narrative of not being enough. She shares how her marks in English, which were lower than her other marks, allowed her to tell the story that she wasn’t good enough in the writing arts. Yet, upon reflection, she wrote stories as a child. So, in order to write, she had to rewrite those stories of not being enough, and then just do it. She worked to change the narrative of worry, “What if people hate it?” to, “What if people love it?”

Now, she has been able to make time for writing, inspire her daughters to write more, and inspire young adults from all over to write their stories. She is changing the narrative of, “I’m not enough,” one person at a time.

Quotables

All quotes by Erin, unless otherwise noted.

“You can have so many different facets to your life and what you love to do."
“You can find time for the things that are important to you.”
“Unused creativity is not benign.” ~ Brené Brown
“You can’t hang on the excuse of I just don’t have time to do what’s important to me.”
“Everyone says don’t read a book by its cover, but we all do.”
“Through determination and hard work you will be unstoppable. There is no such thing as failing. Yet, we are all afraid of it.”

Recommended Resources

The Artists Way, Julie Cameron
Michelle’s Time Worksheets
Find Erin on Goodreads
Find Erin on the web

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Aimee Biondolillo found health after her Come to Jesus Moment

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Aimee Biondolillo joins me and shares her story of finding her passion and mission. Specifically, she found health after her come to Jesus moment.

Podcast Episode Summary

Aimee has a mission to share and help others with their healing journey. She would love, even more, if people didn’t have to live a pain-filled life to begin with. Her journey saw its awakening, like all good awakenings, in the bath.

While always a spiritual person, Aimee’s path to finding God was circuitous and filled with skepticism. Until, quite literally, she was meditating in the bath and she saw Jesus face to face. From that moment on, her whole world opened up, and she became open to essential oils and other natural solutions that have helped her on her journey.

Aimee has Fibromyalgia. Fibro is one of those hidden diseases that is difficult to diagnose and difficult to treat. Aimee shares with us her journey of how she was able to literally get out of bed and manage life again.

Aimee and I are both doTERRA Wellness Advocates, and for part of our conversation, we discuss the many natural supports supplied by this company that are used on a daily basis.

Quotables

Aimee has 5 steps to help you grow in knowing your bodies:

Research your diagnosis or issue
Educate your yourself
Reach out for support
Talk it out with your support
Know, you’re not alone

Recommended Resources

On sensitivities and allergies: https://www.doterra.com/US/en/essential-oil-safety-and-application-sensitivity-reactions-assess-sensitivity.

To learn more about Aimee and follow her work, visit her at https://rawfireliving.com.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Imbolc, further celebrations of the return of light

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Further celebrations of the return of light. We began our light return celebrations with Yule, and we will continue with IMbolc.

Podcast Episode Summary

In this episode, I, Michelle Lasley, your host, pontificate about the merging of seasons. I review where we are on the wheel of the year and where we are going.

Note, I align the “start” of the year with Aries Season or Ostera, the Astrological start of the year
I argue Imbolc is both the end and a beginning
Note other holidays with the same date: Ground Hog’s Day, Candlemas, and Brigid’s Day

A note on Candlemas

Celebrates Jesus’ initial presentation
When Jesus first enters the template, around age 12
The purification of the Virgin Mary

Other traditions show the Green God goes through a similar trial, where he grows from boy to teen. The dawning corresponds with the maiden stage, or the young woman. Imbolc is one of three fertility festivals. And, since one aspect is purification, now is a great time for cleansing your home, your spring cleaning. Also, be sure to finish your reflections.

I offer some herb and oil supports.

Herbs

Sage: “The desire of sage is to render man immortal.” The root, salvere, is defined by being in good health.
Rosemary: strengthens memory, purifies the air
Mint: a symbol of hospitality
Rue: clear sight and visioning, traditional anti-plague herb

Oils

Lime: zest for life
Peppermint: a buoyant heart
Clary Sage: clarity and vision
Thyme: releasing and forgiving

Quotables

Season blend

Seasons merge

One day you look

the sun is brighter

the birds are louder

There is a lightness to the air

The wind has shifted

The buds are waking up and

they are showing their

first colors

The earth is shrugging off the

cold - Shrugging off its

chill winter coat

It is spring.

Recommended Resources

Imbolc last year: https://michellelasley.com/2020/02/how-do-you-celebrate-imbolc/

Bremness, Lesley. The Complete Book of Herbs: A Practical Guide to Growing and Using Herbs. London, UK: Dorling Kindersley Limited, 1988.

Casey, Caroline W. Visionary Activist Astrology: Become a Secret Agent for Transformation. Sounds True, 2015. (skip to the chapter on the sun)

Emotions & Essential Oils: Your Guide to Process, Release, and Live Free. 8th ed. Enlighten Healing, LLC, 2019.

Lawless, Julie. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Oils in Aromatherapy and Herbalism. Element Books, 1995.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Raising the Consciousness of Humanity with Samantha Gillis

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Samantha Gillis takes light workers and morphs them into light warriors, raising the consciousness of humanity.

Podcast Episode Summary

Samantha, mother of two, works with individuals who feel trapped in mediocrity and want to tap into their purpose. She brings people to a “5th Dimension Future” where they learn how to live a life of ease that is in alignment with their true selves.

Tips

Restart at 10 seconds
Use 5 affirmations to start your day
I am power.
I am control.
I am awareness.
I am creating.
I am money.
Use Samantha’s scrapbooking technique
Envision your life when you are 80 years old
Build a path infusing empathy and imagery that works backwards to build the life you want

Recommended Resources

See Samantha’s academy on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CelestialLightWarrior/.
Check out Jeni Houston’s episode at https://michellelasley.com/2020/02/using-essential-oils-to-walk-into-joy-an-interview-with-jeni-houston/.
And, read Life After Google,

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Three Pillars to Happiness, a Conversation with Gillian Duncan

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

There are three pillars to happiness, personal development and health and wellness. Gillian Duncan talks about how she figured this out how she works with women to help them get their happiness.

Podcast Episode Summary

Gillian does her work on the other side of the pond. I was so delighted to meet someone so many miles way from me who also teaches womxn on clarity. In this episode, Gillian explains how she broke through from the years of conditioning that told her, as a young girl and later a woman, that she couldn’t do things. Ultimately, she found a path towards happiness, and that is what she teaches people now.

Her three pillars towards happiness include:

Setting goals for your personal happiness
Engaging in personal development
Focusing on your health and wellness

She has found that if any one of these pillars is off kilter, the whole thing crashes, and your own personal happiness becomes unattainable.

Recommended Resources

Check out Gillians' work on her website, Clarity Junction: https://clarityjunction.com. She has links to all her social media there.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Keep Digging to Better Health, an Interview with Andrea Procida

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0800

roduction to Episode

My guest today is Andrea Procida, a fellow essential oil educator and enthusiast. Andrea has found her calling in health coaching after tirelessly advocating for her own health. In today’s episode, we dig into what that looks like.

Podcast Episode Summary

Andrea’s life changed in sixth grade. She doesn’t know exactly what or when it was. But one day, she woke up with pain and anxiety. The fearless girl left for safer ground, and not until a few years ago did Andrea actually find relief from living with Lyme disease and it’s added complications.

It took Andrea many years, and many doctors, before she was able to find relief.

In this episode, Andrea shares her story of how she found hope on the other side. Her advice? Keep Digging to Better Health.

We also dig into a little bit of what sparks joy for Andrea. Hint: the beings name is not Charlotte.

Quotables

“I have a lot of skills, and I never myself credit for [them].”
On withholding information from doctors: “I didn’t tell them all the other things ‘cause they just weren’t helpful.”
“Find someone who will listen, and keep digging.”
“[Pets] provide me with so much comfort and love.”
“I’ve always wanted a pig.”

Recommended Resources

Find all things Andrea ~

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/andreawysockiwellness
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andreawysockiwellness
Bentley and Chloe's IG: https://www.instagram.com/bentley.and.chloe
Facebook group for those suffering with Fibro and Lyme: Fibro & Lyme Wellness Solutions
http://bit.ly/3aWeGw2
My Top 5 Must Do's If You're Living with Fibromyalgia or Chronic Lyme Disease
https://bit.ly/2VEOhuc

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Part 2: Ashlee Angelus, finding Beauty through the Breakdown

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Ashlee Angelus comes back to continue our conversation. We discussed, in depth the harrowing aspects motherhood can have for some mothers. In this episode, we discuss how she turned those breakdowns into breakthroughs. Ashlee is an expert at finding beauty through the breakdown, and she shares that wisdom with you.

Podcast Episode Summary

Ashlee Angelus is a life and business coach for moms. She loves to help them align their business with them. She specializes in helping moms who have forgotten themselves get reconnected and rekindle the flame that has found its way to burning out.

Ashlee has found that moms who come to her need to give themselves permission, learn to regain their confidence, and reignite that flame.

Quotables

Put time aside for yourself
Ask for help
Practice compassion

Recommended Resources

The Soul of Money by Lynn Twist
The Divine Law of Compensation by Marianne Williamson
Ashlee on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SteeLaCreativeCo/
Ashlee’s instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steelacreativeco/
Get your “I am resilient shirt” here: https://www.etsy.com/earthfiredesign/listing/933394655/white-or-gray-iamresilient-t-shirt-make?utm_source=Copy&utm_medium=ListingManager&utm_campaign=Share&utm_term=so.lmsm&share_time=1609293518058

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Part 1: Ashlee Angelus, the Entwined Tales of Motherhood and Entrepreneurship

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Today’s guest, Ashlee Angelus, tells us about growing up with labels, breaking through, and the harrowing journey to becoming a mother of a Rainbow Baby. Ashlee shares the entwined tales of motherhood and entrepreneurship.

Podcast Episode Summary

Trigger Warning: part of Ashlee’s story involves the traumatic birth of her rainbow baby. While our language is clean, the topic could be triggering to some listeners.

My guest, Ashlee Angelus, walks us through many experiences from being labeled and told she could do one thing to defying those labels to pursue who she wants to be.

In our conversation, we got caught up in walking through Ashlee’s path to forging her own path, atypical of the norm.

Quotables

For the mother and Entrepeneur, Ashlee offers one single piece of advice, which is, “Ask for help.”

Recommended Resources

Ashlee on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SteeLaCreativeCo/
Ashlee’s instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steelacreativeco/

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Rise Again This Yule

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

In this episode, I discuss the patterns of Yule and what we could be doing to align our patterns with those we see in nature.

Podcast Episode Summary

I love taking a look at Shadow Time to get us thinking about what we should be doing during our year. So, I spend a little time reflecting on nature and offer an invitation of doing nothing as we celebrate the turn of light.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

Shifting Mindsets with Farah Fancy

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 03:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

In today’s episode, I sit down with shift-disturber, Farah Fancy. Farah is a self-proclaimed Artist Doula who works to prepare people for creation.

Podcast Episode Summary

Farah has been through a lot, on purpose and because life handed it to her. She uses her wisdom of travel and self-discovery to share that beauty with all she encounters. She as an artist and she knows her job is to bring beauty to an ugly world.

In today’s interview, Farah shares some of her travels, some of the insights she received in Costa Rica, how she worked through and past trauma to show up as an artist, and so much more.

Quotables

Be Flawsome.
There are three things we have a right to: water, fire, and chiles, as in peppers, which remind us we each have our own flavor and a write to that flavor.
You don’t have to ask permission to be you.

Recommended Resources

Visit Farah at her website: www.farahfancy.com.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. For more information about our producer, Ezra Meredith, visit http://deerlodgepdx.com.

Revision culture through values, a conversation with Michelle Gay

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

My guest today is Michelle Gay, a business coach who helps business owners strengthen their businesses by getting to the root of their needs and values.

Podcast Episode Summary

I have taken at least four values workshops with Michelle Gay, since 2017. We met when she taught a few sections of a weekend business retreat. I loved her work (and the work of the retreat coach) so much that I kept coming back. I am so grateful she said, “Yes,” to my podcast invitation.

We sat down recently to discuss values. I had a series of guests teed up to share their wisdom this fall because I had been planning an event in January. Alas, 2020 came and has forced all of us to pivot. We won’t see Michelle’s wisdom at my event this year (because it’s not happening!), but we do get to hear her wisdom in this episode.

She breaks down that values are the important soul and heart work businesses must do to make sure they are in alignment with themselves, with what they do for their business, and ultimately who they bring on to work with and for them. She helps businesses overcome the rudderless lack of focus where people lose passion, and she helps them get in alignment with their core values.

She wants to see a world where we stop chewing people up and spitting them out.

Here are 4 things you can do to get in more alignment:

Spend good quality time with yourself.
Ask yourself, “What lights me up?”
Ask yourself, “What doesn’t light me up?”
Then, ask yourself why, in reference to question 2, again, and again, and again.

Once you have done that, figure out 3-4 values that align with what lights you up. Then, define those values and how you practice them daily.

Quotables

“All of us have a job to do to change the world in some way.”

Recommended Resources

Visit Michelle at https://www.culturerevision.com or play on Instagram with her here: https://www.instagram.com/culturerevision/.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. For more information about our producer, Ezra Meredith, visit http://deerlodgepdx.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Wine and Dine with Caroline: Taking the boogeyman out of enjoying good wine

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

My guest today is wine expert Caroline Conner. In this episode, we discuss what wines you should drink and dispel some common wine myths. Listen to wine and dine with Caroline.

Podcast Episode Summary

Caroline is a young fiery American living in Lyon running her online wine business. We sat down in June and discussed many aspects of wine: growing, tasting, testing, drinking, and most notably - enjoying.

We covered the difference between sulfites and tannins, where they are. The new label in France for “natural” wines. We note that most wine makers are farmers at heart, which goes to the heart of being sustainable and local.

Caroline also wants to know, why are you keeping your wine? She instructs us to buy it, drink it, and enjoy it. We cover a dream Pinot Tour (Perhaps post-pandemic? Spendy as it may be?) Ultimately, she wants us to wine and dine and enjoy our damned wine.

Quotables

“Good wine doesn’t have to be expensive.”

“You can’t age most wine.”

“Drink whatever you want.”

Recommended Resources

Visit Wine Dine Caroline on the web, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Why does astrology matter? A conversation with Vanessa Couto

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Vanessa Couto returns as my guest where we further discuss “why does astrology matter?” Waxing and waning between analogy, patterns, and history, we dive into this ancient personal development tool and touch the surface of how it can help you.

Podcast Episode Summary

Vanessa Couto, an archetypal astrologer, returns to my podcast to further our discussion in astrology. We begin laying the field where astrology can help support and broaden imagination, something crucially missing from our current society. We discuss how astrology helps us respect longer cycles, and is an amazing tool for helping us to grow into who we are meant to be.

When using astrology as a tool, consider this:

What are your strengths?
Where are your growing edges?
Where can you do better?

Before our break, I mention that Mars cycles 3 times around the sun in an Earth calendar year. I misspoke and intended to say Mercury. Please forgive the mistake.

Quotables

Fundamentalism is a lack of imagination.

Recommended Resources

Connect with Vanessa here:

Check out the book, Linda Goodman’s Sun Signs on Thriftbooks.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Holiday Conversation Guide: 4 Steps to Connecting Deeply

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

In this episode, I break down the Holiday Conversation Guide, which will help you more deeply connect with those people you care about, especially during the holidays.

Podcast Episode Summary

I created the Holiday Conversation Guide to help you have deep conversations with the people you care about. We have been a disservice to ourselves and our own healing journeys by not talking about things like religion, politics, sex, and money. So, let’s talk about them.

If you’re listening to this, I want you to take ownership of holding a safe space for these conversations. In this episode, I break down my Holiday Conversation Guide and go over the four steps you can do to do just that - have safe conversations where you can truly connect with those you love.

(NOTE: I originally intended this episode as a bonus and I changed my mind to have it a stand alone episode in my season.)

Recommended Resources

To leave a message, click on “listener support”. In addition to the option of financial support, you will see “leave a message.” I want to hear your messages!

Check out Cheryl's episode. And, to recap on why sustainability, listen here. And, of course, my first podcast episode is here.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Mindfully Mastering Systems to Ease Your Flow

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Jessica Hansen, the Systems Magician, joins me in this episode where we discuss mindfully mastering systems. We start our conversation with sustainability, and how COVID has forced us each to examine how we interact with the world.

Podcast Episode Summary

Jessica and I sat down only one month into COVID quarantine. It’s fascinating to reflect that we are still in much the same space as we were so many months ago. Many people have shifted how they acquire the things that make their homes run, and the first part of our conversation reflects that: we discuss sustainability. We discuss the trips we take out of the home. We reminisce on the Drive Less Save More Campaign and how relevant it is today. We discussed assessing what a family/household truly needs, as, at the time, many had to do without things they just got when shopping.

The second half of our conversation is around one of Jessica’s specialities: creating systems. She has a lot to say about systems, and it boils down to this: systems are a mindfulness practice that help you run better.

Oh, and of course, we discuss some of our favorite tools like essential oils and crystals.

Quotables

“Make sure [your systems] make sense. Some systems out there are so complicated that they don’t make sense for the average person.”

“Are you overpaying?” Are you overbuying on something you’re not even using the functionality and you have three other ‘systems’ that are doing the same thing for you?”

“Systems, in general, are nothing more than a … routine.”

“[Systems are] a pattern you execute over and over.”

“Don’t avoid the set-up.”

“The system doesn’t have to be so rigid you can’t change it.”

“What is my pattern?”

“How can I be doing this better?”

“What am I really trying to do?”

Evaluate, restructure, create a system

What am I really trying to do?
What is my budget?
What applications are out there?

“If you are not a tech nerd, don’t try to be.”

Recommended Resources

Visit Jessica at her website
Email Jessica
Get her creative projects on her Etsy shop
Buy her book, The Resilience Code
Buy her book, Magnify Your Master Plan

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Get out the vote with Emma Burke

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

In this episode, we are working to get out the vote with Emma Burke, who is running for Lake Oswego City Council. Emma comes back just before the election to discuss our 2020 election and her campaign and some of the things she wants for Lake Oswego.

Podcast Episode Summary

Emma and I spent a lot of time discussing the right to vote, how close women are to not being able to vote, and every time you add an intersection onto “women” the distance to when we can and could not vote becomes too close to recent memory. So, the primary focus of this episode is to exercise your right to a free and fair election: go vote.

Secondarily, we discussed why you should vote for Emma Burke. I have interviewed her twice now, and her community spirit is immense. She loves her community, loves the not-oft-spoken about diversity in her community, and how people are truly better together.

Lastly, we want you to share with your friends and family who live in Lake Oswego why you will be voting for Emma.

Recommended Resources

Find Emma on the Web

Facebook: facebook.com/electemmaburke

Twitter: @electemmaburke

Instagram: @electemmaburke

Website: electemmaburke.com

Emma’s first episode: https://michellelasley.com/2020/06/candidate-for-council-emma-burke/

Naomi Eklund’s Episode: https://michellelasley.com/2020/10/weave-the-metaphysical-with-everyday-life-an-interview-with-naomi-eklund/

Absentee and Early Voting by Youth in the 2020 Election: https://circle.tufts.edu/latest-research/absentee-and-early-voting-youth-2020-election

The preamble to the US Constitution: https://www.uscourts.gov/about-federal-courts/educational-resources/about-educational-outreach/activity-resources/us

Declaration of Independence: https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Weave the metaphysical with everyday life, an interview with Naomi Eklund

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Naomi Eklund was born with all her clairvoyant gifts available. She is a coach, mentor, trainer, and public speaker who manages Infinite Yes Coaching. In this episode, we weave the metaphysical with everyday life.

Podcast Episode Summary

Naomi and I had a lovely discussion about metaphysics and our life here in this plane. We discussed all aspects of honoring metaphysical tools, living a life worth living by getting in touch with oneself, and when in organizations, different tools to support knowledge to better support the teams you lead.

Quotables

“A lot of people doing very practical and mundane work in systems created to create work for people to do this work that doesn’t enable the artist, that doesn’t enable the thinker.”

“I am an entrepreneur… I believe in conscious capitalism.”

“I do believe it’s really important to teach our children to be good citizens.”

“Stress comes from … not having a clear picture of yourself.”

Top 5 Tips for Getting to Know Yourself

Every body has different needs. Understand what you really need.
Don’t assume all the tools out there are right for you.
Find things that are physically pleasurable that gives you a moment of pause.
Recognize your thoughts, your beliefs are clothing you wear, and you don’t have to be attached to them.
Know that whatever language that connects you to the divine is legitimate.

Recommended Resources

Building Bridges Through Personality, Book 1: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44525690-building-bridges-through-personality?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=4G8dwGTRcH&rank=1

Naomi on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NaomiEklund2

Infinite Yes, Inc. on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/infiniteyesinc/

Invite Yes, Inc. on the Web: https://infiniteyesproductions.com

Metaphysical Life Support on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetaphysicalLifeSupport

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Show up generously, swag and strategy with Jamie Young

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Jamie Young wants you to show up generously. And, she’ll teach you how using her magical strategy and swag.

Podcast Episode Summary

In this episode, my guest, Jamie Young, talks us through how swag found her as a tool business can use to show up generously - giving their potential clients something they need while engaging with them on a relational level. She shares how she learns to balance motherhood and business, and overall, her enormous love of teaching generosity.

Quotables

“Start simple.”

“I want people to show up generously.”

Recommended Resources

The MOB Nation, https://www.themobnation.com

Jamie Young Swag, www.jamieyoungwag.shop

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Coming into her own, a discussion with Mari Bartoo Jacobson

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Mari Bartoo Jacobson is a woman coming into her own. In this episode, Mari and I discuss intuition, the divine feminine and masculine, and mindful ways to own all of who we are.

Podcast Episode Summary

Mari Bartoo Jacobson comes back in Season 2 to build on our season 1 conversation. Mari and I educate people on essential oils, and this passion is discussed throughout our conversation. We recorded our conversation in June 2020, during a Cancer New Moon. Our conversation tripped over intuitive use of oils, of life, of everything. We discussed the concept of merging the Divine Feminine and the Divine Masculine. We came up with Coriander as *the* oil you must use right now.

Quotables

On using essential oils: “You always smell so good. Natural. Not cloying. Without interfering with our hormones.”
“I have the ability to blend scents and smells,” on using one’s intuition and stepping into empowerment.
“I trust you to know yourself, and yourself isn’t static.”
“[There is] something to be said for noticing."

Recommended Resources

Check out Mari on Instagram @essentialdropsoflight
Listen to our Season 1 episode. https://michellelasley.com/2020/01/interview-mari-bartoo-jacobonso
Check out Caroline Casey’s book Making the Gods Work for You. https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/making-the-gods-work-for-you-the-astrological-language-of-the-psyche_caroline-w-casey/296284/#edition=4155818&idiq=7647156

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Live a life by design with Colin Thompson

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Colin Thompson has learned how to live a life by design. Hailing from double immigrants to creating a birthday ritual that leaves him energized for 364 days out of the year, he shares his story from coaching to diversity, and so much more.

Podcast Episode Summary

My guest today is Colin Thompson. Colin is a life coach who lives in China with his wife and young son. Colin discovered it was more effective to walk with people then motivate them one inspiring speech at a time. In this episode, he shares his journey as a son of double immigrants, where we can find inspiration, his lived experience of how various cultures have interacted with him, and his love/hate birthday ritual.

Quotables

“If you want to live a life of abundance, help more people live in abundance.”

How to be an ally:

Have difficult conversations with a person of color who you are close to. If you do not have a close friend who is also a person of color, that speaks volumes.
Know your intent and slowly develop your relationship with that individual.
Change only comes from those who are open to it.
Show up genuine and with humbleness.

Recommended Resources

To learn more about Colin and get in touch with him, visit www.oligye.com.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Body positivity and the long road of ending body shaming

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Becky Jarvis, creator of Curvy Chic Closet, and I sat down and discussed Body Positivity. Becky has been working to make plus-sized clothing accessible to moms and other plus-sized individuals for over ten years. In this episode, we discuss her journey from just providing a sale to changing the world of body positivity.

Podcast Episode Summary

Becky Jarvis didn’t initially set out to make body positivity and inclusivity what she focuses on. She started with making affordable plus-sized clothing accessible. Her journey of building the largest plus-sized consignment event, located in the Pacific Northwest, opened up an amazing need for full-inclusivity and diversity in fashion. We discussed the disparities in how fashion is represented from magazines to brick and mortar stores, and lightly mentioned the silent disease of eating disorders.

It was an absolute pleasure to hear Becky’s story of how she became a sort of accidental spokesperson for body positivity. The next Curvy Chick Closet event begins October 1, 2020.

Quotables

The plus-sized industry is a $21 billion industry.
67% of US women are sized 14+.
Brick and mortar stores only stock 25% of their inventory with plus-sized clothing.
“I never knew I could be beautiful and plus sized at the same time,” a fashion model to Becky.
“Body positivity is accepting where I am at.”
“Fat discrimination is there. It starts at an early age.”

Recommended Resources

Cobalt Studios https://www.cobaltstudiospdx.com
Conscious Ink https://consciousink.com
Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/CurvyChicCloset
Curvy Chic Closet http://www.curvychiccloset.com
Curvy Chic Closet Foundation http://ccc.foundation
2020 Fall Consignment Event (note, there are four dates) https://www.facebook.com/events/1319579951568819?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22surface%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22permalink%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
2020 Fall Fashion Show https://www.accelevents.com/e/CCCFallFashionShow?fbclid=IwAR17VIme5Vml_4NzrWm4mjC85IgO4lWGwkuJAyKgGh-S6J1fBBZxEWAJzPw

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

The Shadow Side of Attraction: Debunking the Law of Attraction with Laura Rowe

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Did you ever consider that there is a shadow side to attraction? In this episode, Laura and I discuss what the law of attraction is, a brief history, and some cautionary tales of when it is time to look outside of the law for spiritual guidance.

Podcast Episode Summary

The Law of Attraction is used in a lot of empathic, coaching circles to boost the manifestation of those who ascribe to it. In this episode, we discuss the shadow side, and many other laws that are at play.

An unfortunate part of the shadow side of misusing the law of attraction is when it is weaponized to make the person not, perhaps, manifesting “enough”, feel shame towards their actions or inactions. An unfortunate side affect is that the state of being unhappy has become unacceptable.

Quotables

“Being unhappy has become unacceptable.”
Sometimes we need to remember, “Who’s really in charge.”
“The energy you put in is the energy you get out.”
“Be gentle with yourself and don’t use laws against your own laws and feelings.”

Recommended Resources

Laura’s first interview with me, https://michellelasley.com/2020/01/laura-rowe-an-interview/
The Vital Spirit, https://thevitalspirit.net
Instagram, @thethrivingempath
Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/thevitalspirit/
https://consciousnessliberty.com/beyond-the-law-of-attraction-discovering-the-12-universal-laws-using-them-to-your-benefit/
https://www.thepositivemom.com/the-12-universal-laws-that-govern-your-results-in-life
https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/wisdom-of-the-oracle-divination-cards_colette-baron-reid/13934098/#isbn=1401946429

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Wholehearted Parenting with Danielle Bettmann

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

I sat down with Danielle Bettmann, of Wholeheartedly, to discuss what it takes to parent, and as a byproduct of our times, what it takes to parent in COVID. She advocates for wholehearted parenting, a way where we look at our needs and then serve our kids.

Podcast Episode Summary

Danielle is rich with information, tips, strategies, and a great understanding of what kids and parents both need to be able live successful lives under normal pressure, and especially under global pandemic pressure. In this episode, we discuss her vision for a new world (where core needs for kids are met in their first 7 years), many (many) tips and things to look for in parenting, and a recognition that parenting is the hardest job in the world.

Quotables

“We don’t know what we don’t know until we know it.”

“[I want to see a world where] we meet [the] core needs [of kids in their] first seven years.”

(On discussing how our world could change.) “Every $1 invested in the first seven years of life, pays out seven times.”

“Parenting is the hardest job in the world.”

“If we are doing the hardest job in the world, we need all the training and preparation.”

Recommended Resources

Confessions of a Scary Mommy https://www.scarymommy.com/the-scary-mommy-manifesto/?fbclid=IwAR0McxyS6bXCpmhC7N6e3bJl6FmeBXnKuME1xVbq7zQHHb8-INPUwdMiOPk
(The article I remembered specifically talked about the mom shaming before pregnancy and how humbling motherhood is. The author used a phrase to call her pre-pregnant self, Ms. Judgy Mc Judgy Pants.)
Ross Greene, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions, is another lens of whole parenting and looking at the whole child. See his work at Lives in the Balance, https://www.livesinthebalance.org.
Chrissy Marquadt, on Motherhood and more, https://michellelasley.com/2020/05/motherhood-and-serial-entrepreneurship-an-interview-with-chrissy-marquardt/.
Visit Danielle at parentingwholeheartedly.com
- For her gift on emotions, visit parentingwholeheartedly.com/emotions
- For her gift on affirmations, visit parentingwholeheartedly.com/affirmations

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Redefining support through candid conversations and safe spaces with Shawanda Randolph

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Have you had a candid conversation recently? Do you have a safe space to go when you need to have those candid conversations? Shawanda Randolph is the director and founder of DeeCilla Center in Arizona, and she’s found holding space for candid conversations is a key to healing our world. DeeCilla, a small community based nonprofit, offers a sanctuary for people who are building a new life, leaving abuse. Their transitional program teaches participants how to stand and live, giving them the necessary tools to rebuild on solid ground.

Podcast Episode Summary

During this global pandemic, we know that it’s difficult for people who are suffering from abuse, they don’t have the breaks from the abuse they used to, and they might not have the space to call for help.

In some ways, this global pandemic is showing us where we can offer support to the people we care about. Shawanda and I discussed signs of abuse, misconceptions of what abuse is and who it affects, and different ways we can work to build a more healed world.

Signs for abuse

Jealousy that leads to control
Types of control

Support for DeeCilla

Volunteer
Donate - $25/month goes a LONG way!

DeeCilla is creating a place of refuge for people all over the country. Arizona is actually a spot where a lot of people move to, so it proves a little easier to blend in and start over in a safe space outside of the potential norms of abusive situations.

Quotables

“[You are] providing a place for healing for the moment.”
“[Ask,] whats the one thing that’s keeping you from reaching your goal?”
“Know yourself, be true to yourself before you build relationships with others.”

Recommended Resources

A One Year Reflection after the death of my sister, Cristi: https://michellelasley.com/2020/09/one-year/
Domestic Violence Awareness Project: https://www.dvawareness.org/about-dv
The DeeCilla Comfort Center: https://www.deecillacenter.org

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Rise up through change, an interview with Jessica Williams

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

On the Rise Solutions is a testimony to how we Rise Up when adversity calls. In this interview, Michelle and Jessica discuss super powers, the importance of pivoting and reinventing yourself, and lessons learned when life throws you serious curveballs.

Podcast Episode Summary

In this episode, Jessica shares how she rebranded from the Superwoman Project to On the Rise Solutions. The conversation ebbs and flows through strategy, honoring the grieving process in change, and several clear strategic steps on how to rebrand, how to navigate change, and more.

Quotables

“I was meant to do work that was bigger.”

Recommended Resources

StrengthsFinder 2.0: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/strengthsfinder.aspx

Unlock your 34 strengths: https://store.gallup.com/p/en-us/10003/cliftonstrengths-34

When Jessica and I completed this interview in May 2020, her work was still focused on her coaching job. Since, as with many during this global pandemic, she has paused her coaching work and accepted a position, as Chief Communications Officer, for Days for Girls, an international nonprofit that truly focuses on lifting girls up. Learn more about Days for Girls here: https://www.daysforgirls.org.

For more information on the Summit https://ontherisesummit.com

Jessica’s podcast, the Imperfect Feminist: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-imperfect-feminist/id1506668771

Learn more about Jessica’s work as On the Rise Solutions: https://ontherisesolutions.com

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

What is Tarot, Paganism, and how can you use it - with Maree Bento

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 10:00:00 -0800

One of my first interviews of Season 1 was with Maree Bento, who has designed many tarot decks and oracle cards, tools for your own divination practice. We have a lovely conversation about art history, what paganism is not, and so much more.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

How does Theresa work with the soul-preneur?

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 10:00:00 -0800

We revisit my January conversation with Theresa Pridemore. Theresa works her magick by helping those who teach and use the weird and the woo in their business to tell their stories. Those of us who align with the weird and the woo sometimes have different challenges than your typical business. Theresa digs into what she's found and some tips on how to manage.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Let's (re)learn PR with Lety Juarez Sisson!

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Lety, another great mom who owns her own business, is in my circle of support. And, she too, said, "Yes," when I asked her to share her PR wisdom. Take a listen and find a top 3-5 tips for why and how you need PR for your work.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Revisiting my first interview: Mom of 4, SEO wonder, Cheryl DeClercque

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Cheryl was the one who said, "You should do a podcast!" In that line of support, she graciously agreed to be my first interviewee. Cheryl has worked from home the last few years starting as a virtual assistant and morphing into an SEO specialist. She loves learning about the systems that support OUR businesses. Take a listen.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Finn found their purpose by centering with the divine

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0800

In my conversation with Finn we discussed *many* tips to get centered with the divine (spirit/source/God). And that helps you get aligned with your purpose. This episode was an accidental companion to Kathy Stanley's conversation.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Let's revisit eco-psychology with Kathy Stanley

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Having a deep connection with earth is important for individual alignment. Take a re-listen and get inspired.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

How did Jeff find his purpose?

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Let's listen to my conversation with Jeff again. I've talked about non-linear paths with a lot of guests, and it really shows up here.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Let's check in about empathy with Laura Rowe

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0800

This is the replay of my episode with Laura Rowe on empaths.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Let's listen to mom guilt again

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0800

We'll take a listen to mom guilt. Let's let that go!

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Celebrating Season 1 and What’s Coming Up

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 10:00:00 -0800

In the last regularly scheduled episode of season 1, I discuss celebrating, looking ahead to season 2, and reflecting on season 1.

I reviewed the top 5 episodes, which include:

My interview with Laura Rowe where we discussed empaths, woman, and more
https://michellelasley.com/2020/01/laura-rowe-an-interview/
My conversation with Jeffrey Hahler which really crystalized reflecting on non-linear paths
https://michellelasley.com/2020/03/interview-with-jeff-hahler/
My chat with Erica on radically accepting mom guilt and what that looks like
https://michellelasley.com/2020/01/radical-acceptance-moving-beyond-mom-guilt/
My discussion with Emily, which included more motherhood and aligning life with our passions
https://michellelasley.com/2020/02/an-interview-with-emily-mieren/
My first interview with Cheryl which also wraps motherhood, purpose, and what that practically looks like
https://michellelasley.com/2019/12/interview-with-cheryl-declerque/

Season 2 will include an assortment of guests and topics such as:

A variety of conversations with various life coaches
An exploration of woo with astrology and light workers
Some tangible tips like how to market yourself, when to use SWAG, and managing personal finances
We’ll have a chat with some guests who’ve had to make drastic shifts in their entire branding and what that looked like
Along with regularly celebrations of the 8 sabbats that keep us grounded to nature’s rhythms

We’ll see you over the summer with some “re-runs” and some of my Facebook Lives, a new episode for Lammas, and then back again September 2nd for Season 2.

Thank you so much for being here.

Until we meet again.

(Photo note, this is my son last year on June 22. I thought this whimsy would be a great way to celebrate midsummer.)

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Valuing tender care, an interview with Tiffany Chapman

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Tender education is the single most important measure of success for kids, and we can’t have it because of the market failure of care. My guest, Tiffany Chapman, and I dive into what care is, why it’s important, and what we can do to change it.

Podcast Episode Summary

My guest today is Tiffany Chapman, a regional organizer with Family Forward. Today, we speak about the work that Family Forward Action does to address the growing childcare disparities we face.

Care work is invisible, and if it didn’t happen, no one would be able to work. And, it’s seen as women’s work, the thing we are supposed to do. We discuss how ultimately, the way we handle care as a US society has resulted in a large market failure, where the supply doesn’t meet the demand, we have a shortage of child care because no one can afford to subsidize a system this big.

Tiffany and I further discuss that creating a tender environment is the most important thing, above all the other learning, in order to determine a child’s success. We discuss steps we can take to articulate those values and tell our politicians that this is a priority.

Quotables

Care work is the work that makes all other work possible.
We want to elevate the issue of care and make sure these jobs are good-paying jobs and there is quality across the board.
Parents and workers can’t afford to subsidize a system this big.
Child care is a necessity, not a luxury, and all American Family’s should get that need met.

Episode Clarifications

The HEROES Act has passed the House, but it still needs your support in the Senate. Contact your representatives and tell them you want it passed.

Tiffany’s numbers for the price of preschool/ in-state college tuition were wrong. In-state college tuition in Oregon annually is $16,823. Infant care annually in Oregon is $13,518.

Walter Mondale was a co-sponsor of the Comprehensive Child Development Act in 1972.

Recommended Resources

Find your representatives and tell them we need to prioritize care and pass the HEROES Act (Senate): https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/addr/
Statistics for care in Oregon: https://www.epi.org/child-care-costs-in-the-united-states/#/OR
The second round of grants for child care providers is opening soon: https://oregonearlylearning.com/COVID-19-Resources/Grants
Learn more about Family Forward Action: https://www.familyforwardaction.org
Tell your care story here: https://www.familyforwardaction.org/story/
Learn more about the political actions done through the Mother PAC: https://www.motherpac.org/what-we-do/
Emerge trains Democratic Women to be candidates. See Oregon’s chapter here: https://or.emergeamerica.org.
Some info on the HEROES Act: https://www.debt.org/2020/06/01/heroes-act/
More info on the HEROES Act: https://www.businessinsider.com/stimulus-package-covid-19-coronavirus-phase-four-us-economy-poverty-2020-6

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Eco-psychology with Kathy Stanley

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

In today’s episode, Kathy Stanley and I discuss balance, alignment, nature, deep-psychology and how that works with Kathy’s art and energy work.

Podcast Episode Summary

My guest today is Kathy Stanley. Kathy is an eco-psychologist, an artist, and a teacher. In our conversation we talk about sustainability, why it’s important, and different ways in which we can engage in sustainability. Kathy also practices energy work, and she walks us through some healing practices that we can take so that the activist can renew.

During our interview, we discuss Kathy’s work the Shaman Queen. Click through to get your print.

Quotables

“We will not save what we do not love.”

Kathy’s tips for aligning and balancing.

Establish a practice of spending time in nature.
That space can be your back yard, but 30 minutes every day, same spot.
This gets you in touch with the space and reconnects you with the earth.
You need to go out there and see what nature can do for you.

Recommended Resources

Check out the Sovereign Salon as hosted by Theresa Pridemore and myself, the woo loved space where I met Kathy. https://www.sovereignspirit.biz
See Kathy at her website (https://www.sacredartjourneys.com) and on Instagram (https://instagram.com/kstanleyart?igshid=zzj862lud1ph).
Get your guided meditation here: https://www.sacredartjourneys.com/free-gift.
For more about Deep Ecology, check out the work of Joanna Macy: https://www.joannamacy.net.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Candidate for Council: Emma Burke

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

My guest today is Emma Leigh Burke, who is running for City Council in Lake Oswego for the November general election. In today’s episode we talk about the importance of representation, our love of vote by mail, and how Emma will tackle issues important to her and to you when she’s elected to office.

Podcast Episode Summary

In our conversation, we discussed diversifying councils because making sure the people governing look like the community they represent allows for more stable communities. We discussed how important it is to have people with resources serve on Council because the work is unpaid, so you are looking for volunteers who can literally afford to serve. We discussed how child care can be a barrier and that parents looking to serve need the right combination of kids with the right temperament and flexible schedules. We discussed how council meetings can be exclusive, which makes it hard for members to literally see the community they represent and for that community to see their representatives.. Emma noted that we have an opportunity now where minds are expanded with what our communities and engagement can look like simply because of the accessibility of Zoom meetings..

We also discussed how people who serve in Lake Oswego, as teachers and maintenance workers for example, sometimes cannot afford to live in the community because of the housing prices. So, how would we reshape our cities by incentivizing those who serve to live there by providing something like a housing GI bill? Emma is also deeply committed to a police oversight and working to stabilize the commission for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

Quotables

If we just amplify the voices that already exist, then that will be more representative of our community.

When people don’t vote they are wasting an opportunity to invest in their own future.

Vote by mail is really important, and our republican secretary of state vouches for it too. Democracy can be valued by everyone when everyone can exercise it.

Non partisan roles are sort of like, ‘Hey be a good neighbor.’

Recommended Resources

Emma on the web https://electemmaburke.com/endorsements/

Emma on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Emma-Burke-for-Lake-Oswego-City-Council-1061195827371775/

Emma’s personal page: https://www.facebook.com/EmmaLeighBurke

You can find Emma and me when we are advocating for family friendly policies at Family. Forward Oregon https://www.familyforwardaction.org

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Motherhood and Serial Entrepreneurship, an interview with Chrissy Marquardt

Wed, 27 May 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

My guest today is Chrissy Marquadt. Chrissy is a powerhouse Enneagram 7 who is a wife, mother, and serial entrepreneur. We discuss responsibility, boundaries, GOAL setting, and so much more.

Podcast Episode Summary

Chrissy and I sat down and discussed many things from coffee chats to life coaching. This episode is packed with goal setting tips, boundary setting tips, and stories of Chrissy’s journey on her path of self-discovery navigating various roles.

Chrissy is an Enneagram 7 and loves setting goals. This year has brought a refocus on maybe not having so many. At the time of this recording, one hat Chrissy wore was serving as the Executive Director of the South Columbia County. Chamber of Commerce. With the onset of COVID-19, Chrissy transitioned out of that role and is now focusing more on her life coaching path.

The conversation is also layered with identity - as a mother, a naturalized citizen originally from Jamaica, as a wife, and of course, as a serial entrepreneur.

Quotables

“If you’re not dead yet, you still have something to learn.”

“If you don’t know what you should do, think about what you liked as a kid.” (paraphrased from Start)

“Your friends and family are not your ideal customers, but they might know someone who is.”

Chrissy’s Boundary Tips

Engage your network to support you.
Be secure in asking for help.
Recognize, define, and enforce your boundaries.

Fixing the Morning Shit Show

Assess what went “wrong” 6-8 hours before
Make a small shift
Let go of the shame and guilt

Recommended Resources

Interview with Cheryl DeClercque, our mutual friend, and the first interview of this podcast.
https://michellelasley.com/2019/12/interview-with-cheryl-declerque/
My New Year’s podcast episode where I encourage you to go small in.
https://michellelasley.com/2020/01/happy-new-year/
Human Design https://www.ihdschool.com/newcomers
StrengthsFinder 2.0 http://www.strengthsfinder.com/home.aspx
Anchor to Your Strengths https://www.anchortoyourstrengths.com
Start John Acuffe https://acuff.me/books/
Atomic Habits https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits
Rising Strong https://brenebrown.com/blog/2015/04/09/i-love-big-book-news-and-i-cannot-lie/
Cathedral Coffee https://www.cathedralcoffee.com/locations

Find Chrissy at

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/chrissymarquardt/
https://iamchrissy.com

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Discovering your life’s purpose with Finn Lambourn

Wed, 20 May 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Finn is a corporate dropout looking to co-create the future. After finding they were physically shutting down because of a stressful corporate job, they decided to switch to a path of discovery. That discovery has led to really assessing their impact on the environment and sharing a vision with the world.

This episode is marked explicit for the name of a poem at the end called the D#ckless Unite.

Podcast Episode Summary

Finn and I discuss sustainability, concepts of enough, working on our discovery. I love talking big ideas with my guests, and Finn is no exception. We dive into tenets of Christianity, ways of communication, and ultimately, an invitation to co-create a future of collaboration.

Quotables

Wilderness Way Pillars

Shalom: work for justice and create peace in our environment.
Jubilee: the belief we can free ourselves from debt, poverty, wealth.
Sabbath: making sure we make sure we rest.

Non-Violent Communication

State how you feel about a thing
Observe and name the situation
Name the feeling that comes out and link it to your need
Make a request

The Skills of Loving

Seeing - seeing others and being seen by others as we actually are
Hearing - speak and hear others truths and our own
Responding to Needs
Having Goodwill
Honoring Everyone’s Experience

These are great tools for giving common language to groups.

Top 5 things of self-discovery

Take an inventory of what you have, need, and want
Find some sabbath time
Get out in nature
Find others on the journey as well, your community
Connection with the sacred

Recommended Resources

Interview with Laura Rowe, https://michellelasley.com/2020/01/laura-rowe-an-interview/
My New Year’s Resolution Episode, https://michellelasley.com/2020/01/happy-new-year/
Marie Forleo Everything is Figureoutable, https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/everything-is-figureoutable_marie-forleo/26368655/#isbn=0525534997
Wilderness Way, http://www.wildernesswaypdx.org
Ecotopia (https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/ecotopia-the-notebooks-and-reports-of-william-weston_ernest-callenbach/252922/#isbn=0553136232) and Ecotopia Emerging (https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/ecotopia-emerging_ernest-callenbach/345888/#isbn=0960432035)
Non-Violent Communication, https://www.cnvc.org
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert, https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/big-magic-creative-living-beyond-fear_elizabeth-gilbert/9354312/#isbn=1594634726
The Frugalwoods, https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/meet-the-frugalwoods-achieving-financial-independence-through-simple-living_elizabeth-willard-thames/18021792/#isbn=0062668137

To reserve space at Magdalena Acres, email hello@michellelasley.com with the subject “Retreat at Whidbey Island”. Magdalena’s website will be forthcoming.

Contact Finn finn.lambourn@gmail.com with the subject “Balance Shared” to discuss more theology, sustainability, and learn about Magdalena Acres.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Grace by way of grief

Wed, 13 May 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

My late sister’s 42 birthday. Celebrating those who’ve passed and some tips to manage your grief.

Podcast Episode Summary

We are in an unprecedented time. We keep saying this. And, today’s episode coincides with my late sister’s birthday. She would have been 42. I still feel grief over her passing.

Given that today is mixed with our stay-at-home orders and all that life has brought us, I wanted to share a few things. Some thoughts from the show “Dead to Me”, an article in the Huffington Post, and some tips from various sources.

Quotables

“You survived! Now go out and find the reason why.”

“It’s like you have a choice. You can down with the ship or you grab a fucking life raft, and you hold on…”

Recommended Resources

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

From Air Force to Retired, and not even 50, an interview with Misty Gremaud

Wed, 06 May 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

My guest today is Misty Gremaud, currently serving as PTA mom. Misty started her career in the air force to travel, to see the world. And, it was an adventure that led her through her 20s, 30s, and to retirement at 44. We discuss her path and next step aspirations.

Podcast Episode Summary

I wanted to chat with Misty because she does some interesting things, shares non-traditional roles with her husband, and has some fun stories. So, we talked about her journey from high school to air force to retirement. We discussed who cleans and cooks what, and of course, her fasciation with yoga.

Misty makes 9-16 almost quarts per week. Farm Fresh Eggs.

Top 5 ice cream flavors:

Classic vanilla
Cookie dough
Lemon lavender
Peppermint with doTERRA peppermint oil
Coffee ice-cream

The most off-the wall ice cream is pickled beet!

We ended our conversation with Misty encouraging everyone to do two things, but my technology ate one. The invitation that was eaten was a call to travel. Go explore, go do something outside of your norm. And, also, do the other thing, which is push yourself outside your comfort zone.

Quotables

“9/11 changed everything.”
“You make friends who become your family.”
“I’m the ice cream pusher.”

Recommended Resources

DIY Vanilla Extract: https://michellelasley.com/2020/05/100-pure-vanilla-extract/
How to Talk About Race > So You Want to Talk About Race: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35099718-so-you-want-to-talk-about-race
Home Hot Yoga: https://www.homehotyoga.com

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Beltaine Pontifications

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

In this episode, I discuss Beltaine - a pagan fire festival. I share some things I have noticed over the seasons, what makes this time of year different from others, where we came from, and what we can look forward to. I also bring up the aspect of the God and Goddess and as it relates to this time.

Recommended Resources

Alexander, Sky. The Modern Guide to Witchcraft: Your Complete Guide to Witches, Covens & Spells. © 2014, Adams Media an Imprint of Simon & Schuster, Inc., Avon, MA.
Starhawk, Diane Baker, and Anne Hill. Circle Round: Raising Children in Goddess Traditions. © 1998, Bantam Books, New York, NY.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

A discussion of immersive art with Cheri Riznyk

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

My guest today is my friend Cheri Riznyk. We dive deep into the world of imagination discussing how she creates magical worlds for kids to perform. Oh, and she does improv, but you’ll have to wait for season 2 to hear more about that.

Podcast Episode Summary

Cheri has been a performer and interested in performances her entire life. She weaves a tale from when she was young and initially introduced with immersive theater. Now, one of her passion projects is facilitating kids in an improv theater through an amazing co-creative process.

Quotables

“Bringing something completely magical to every day life that you would never expect… because it makes you alive to all the possibilities.”

[On co-creating with the students and insisting they come up with their own characters.] “It’s a lot more imaginative and fun if you are using your own original ideas.”

[On describing her secretive, complex subplots that are like treasurers for the participants to find.] “Those kinds of discoveries are really fun.”

Recommended Resources

The Game https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0119174/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1

Westworld https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0475784/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1

Village Home Learning Resource Center https://www.villagehome.org

Saturday. Academy https://www.saturdayacademy.org

Vita Nostra by Marina Dyachenko, Sergey Dyachenko, Julia Meitov Hersey https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38633526-vita-nostra?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=3sJsfYL9LM&rank=1

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Following up with Beaverton’s Next Mayor

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

My guest today is Lacey Beaty, candidate for Beaverton Mayor. We discuss how motherhood affects campaigning, how the city works, and what it will take to co-create a future we all want.

Podcast Episode Summary

I begin my discussion with Lacey on the importance of a new class “City 101: Governance, a brief overview” We first discuss how Beaverton is not a full service city. Rather it has special districts that manage parks, fire, and even the schools.

Lacey went on to explain how the mayor is basically a city manager, overseeing the police department, public works, and the finance department. The mayor is charge of everyone where the council is in charge of how much is spent.

The most important thing that comes out of our discussion is that you need to vote. The Oregon primary (vote by mail) is on May 19. Ballots and the voters’ pamphlet will start going out after this podcast drops.

Quotables

Government is customer service. When your customers are upset, your service isn’t very good.
People come to the northwest for their athletic adventures.
People don’t realize how student loan debt is crippling millennials.
We don’t have the best public transport. Our population runs north and south while transit runs east and west.
We are building less parking because it is expensive and hoping people will use public transit.
I think the best way to influence these decisions upstream is making sure that the people on our boards and commissions are more reflective of the people using services.
Campaigning while female is different.
The number one important thing we can do is voting.

Recommended Resources

Visit Lacey on the web: https://beatyforbeaverton.com.

Visit Lacey on Twitter: https://twitter.com/laceybeaty.

Visit Lacey at her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/laceybeatyforbeaverton/.

Learn more about Politisit: https://www.politisit.org.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

The Trauma Whisperer, Janine Wirth talks About Trauma

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

The Trauma Whisperer, Janine Wirth, a licensed psychotherapist, clinical hypnotherapist, and coach, has a virtual global practice where she works with women to help them heal from those experiences.

Podcast Episode Summary

Janine shares a pivotal story of her car being hijacked, unpacking her own trauma, and using this revelation and gifts to help support other women going through their own trauma.

She shares her vision of working through intergenerational trauma, the difference between big T and little t trauma, and how children take things so personally and how that shapes their future years.

She pairs psychotherapy with coaching.

We even discuss our current situation in this global pandemic and what we can do to work through this grief and cacooning.

Going through this time:

Acknowledge it and give yourself time and space
Try and reframe what you are missing
Choose to see the gift in this space

Quotables

Give your children the childhood they don’t need to recover from.
The body is a good indicator of how much baggage you have lying around.
[Some] people are being shamed for their things they are missing.
I want people to validate their experiences… to stop playing the comparison game… and know that they matter.

Recommended Resources

Connect with Janine on www.janinewirth.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janinewirthrtt/

Twitter @JanineWirth

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/therapist-janinewirth/

YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOB3DcKvALrJJOc9kel2mg

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Astrology, sacred commerce, and business with Vanessa Couto

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 11:59:17 -0800

Introduction to Episode

My guest today is Vanessa Couto, an astrologer with a mission to help people align their gifts, their purpose with their livelihood through their business. We discuss astrology, philosophy, art, and business - all with the lens of elevating where we are now.

Podcast Episode Summary

Vanessa shares a lot of thinking and philosophy weaving astrology, philosophy, art, and history into one. She asks us all to bring sacred and spiritual back into our businesses and our exchanges. And, she discusses how we can use astrology to do just that.

Quotables

“We wouldn’t force people to do work out of necessity because they have to do the job. [People] would notice kids’ natural talents … and give all the resources ... so [people] can do the thing they enjoy.”
“In astrology we have something that says, ‘When you were born, you were the answer to a question at the time.’ Your configuration has a clue as to what you’re here to do.”
“How can we heal capitalism from its virus that’s attacked the system and taken over like a mutant?”
The temple for the Oracle of Delphi read both, “Know Thyself,” and, “Nothing in Excess.”
“I would like to bring spirit back into business.”
“I would like to bring beauty back into commerce.”

Recommended Resources

Episode with Maree Bento https://michellelasley.com/2019/12/interview-with-maree-bento/
Episode with Laura Rowe https://michellelasley.com/2020/01/laura-rowe-an-interview/
Episode with Jeffrey Hahler https://michellelasley.com/2020/03/interview-with-jeff-hahler/
Sacred Commerce by Ayman Sawaf https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/sacred-commerce-the-rise-of-the-global-citizen_rowan-gabrielle_ayman-sawaf/1895285/#isbn=0980175550&idiq=1714390
The Soul of Money by Lynne Twist https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/the-soul-of-money-transforming-your-relationship-with-money-and-life_teresa-barker_lynne-twist/252582/#isbn=039332950X

See Vanessa’s latest at www.vanessacouto.com.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

My Thrift Books Referral Link https://www.thriftbooks.com/share/?code=0hcLPcATBPZ7kl7jB%252b3X6g%253d%253d

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Engaging with Brandy Henry

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Engaging on Social Media with Brandy Henry. That’s what Brandy does. She uses her teacher archetype and now demonstrates to businesses how to authentically engage on social media.

Podcast Episode Summary

In this episode, Brandy sits down with Michelle and they discuss different ways to engage on social media. She really enjoys breaking down social media into digestible bits. Brandy shares her expertise, thinking, and how she works with clients. Some fun bits at the end (like why they are doing an 8am interview!).

Brandy has a unique way of approaching social media that is tailored to each of her clients. And, she absolutely shares that magic in this episode.

Quotables

“More people are paying attention and seeing what you are doing than you can really tell because they don’t always interact with it.”

“In many ways, we’re hiding behind the algorithms. We’re using it as an excuse to not show up.”

Brandy’s Top 4

Don’t get caught up in the paralysis of perfection / analysis paralysis.
Just start.
Stay rated to great content.
Be flexible and nimble.

Recommended Resources

anchor.fm - our current podcast tool

Some episodes from Brandy (these links point to Apple Podcasts):

Likes, Links, and Profile Visits: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/engaging-on-social-media-with-brandy-henry-m-ed/id1477885752?i=1000457345238
Algorithms Smalgorithms: Let’s Stop Fearing Them! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/engaging-on-social-media-with-brandy-henry-m-ed/id1477885752?i=1000457722829
Your Message, Your Truth: How to Find Your Fuel https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/engaging-on-social-media-with-brandy-henry-m-ed/id1477885752?i=1000462275374

See Brandy online https://brandywhenry.com

Get Brandy’s newsletter: https://fantastic-experimenter-8496.ck.page/584a961385

Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/everything-is-figureoutable/20172406/#isbn=0525534997&idiq=36359303

The Dip by Seth Godin https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/the-dip-a-little-book-that-teaches-you-when-to-quit-and-when-to-stick_seth-godin/247834/#isbn=1591841666&idiq=146681

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Ostara’s invitation to co-create a different future

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Michelle reflects on the world at large, what that can mean for our changing seasons, and she invites you, dear listener, to intentionally co-create a future we can all be proud of.

Podcast Episode Summary

In this episode, Michelle considers how this time of year might be telling us something. She reflects on the current state of affairs amid COVID-19, schools being closed and students engaging in “distance learning”, social distancing, and more. She discusses steps to help be free of fear, consider what this message might mean, and to question what future we are truly co-creating.

At the end, she invites you, listener, to intentionally co-create something you want.

Recommended Resources

Melissa Etheridge on Facebook, every day at 3pm, https://www.facebook.com/MelissaEtheridge/
Byron Katie’s the Work (https://thework.com)and the Judge Your Neighbor Worksheet (http://thework.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/jyn_en_mod_6feb2019_r4_form1.pdf)

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Interview with Jeff Hahler

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Michelle reached out and an old friend said, “Yes.” In today’s interview, Jeff walks through how he has landed on his passions, one of which includes working with foster dogs.

Podcast Episode Summary

We all have a story. Every single one of us. And, some of us take non-linear paths to find what we want in life. Jeff Hahler describes how he followed one thing to another which led him from High School to an Apprenticeship to a Job to a Wife to finding his passions.

If you love dogs, listen to Jeff’s story of how he fell in love with supporting dogs in an animal sanctuary.Adding onto his volunteer work with the dog sanctuary, Jeff will be spending time at a pig sanctuary..

Over the years, Jeff got more interested in fitness, and eventually his diet changed from a Standard American Diet to Vegetarianism to Veganism.

Next up? Jeff will be finishing his training to be a Personal Trainer.

Quotables

“Try it, and you can change whatever you don’t like.” (On finding your passion and settling on a career.)

“The dog I adopted needed to be a dog.”

“I could barely walk a mile, now I can run 10.”

“It was a lazy factor … now it’s an ethical factor.” (On going vegan.)

Recommended Resources

Learn more about McKenzie Animal Sanctuary: http://mackenzies.info.

Learn more about CNC work.: https://searcherp.techtarget.com/definition/computer-numerical-control-CNC.

Here in Portland? Check out Angels with Misplaced Wings (https://www.angelswithmisplacedwings.org) and the Oregon Humane Society (https://www.oregonhumane.org).

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

An Interview with David Scheer

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

In this episode, Michelle sits down with David Scheer, dedicated community member, Odd Fellow, and Aikido Instructor.

Podcast Episode Summary

David discusses his teaching philosophies and how they integrate into all aspects of his work. He shares stories of how he learned to be a great teacher, modeled after his own great teacher. He shared his respect for history of how techniques have been developed and shared over time. He integrates care a consistent care through all the lessons. He shares how he has realistic expectations working with kids and doesn’t see them as “good or bad”.

Quotables

“If you have a great teacher, you will have a good experience and get really good at what you are studying.”

“The two rules of Aikido are to teach, number one, correctly and, number two, kindly.”

“We do not study [Aikido techniques] to become bullies… but to enrich our lives, enrich our relationships, and to use them to take care of ourselves and keep ourselves safe.”

“How can you ever teach a child to be able to focus if you never give them distractions where they the opportunity to choose which of these stimuli they can focus in on?”

“Aikido is really about fitting with others and brining about the most harmonious situation in areas and times when things aren’t that great.”

“You don’t reach perfection until it’s impossible for you to improve. And, as long as you are still alive, it’s possible for you to improve.”

Recommended Resources

Learn more about David’s work with Aikido at www.aikidoportland.com.

Learn more about the Odd Fellows and the Peninsula 128 Lodge www.keepportlandodd.com.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

I just turned 42! Celebrating birthdays.

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Since I’m 42, that must mean I know the answer to life, the universe, and everything, right? Wrong! I share four things, top of mind, that I have kind of figured out as I enter my 42nd year.

Podcast Episode Summary

For this birthday episode, I reflect on four things that I’ve been working on or seem super relevant to me from the past year.

I don’t know everything
Boundaries
Marriage (stated Mawage)
Me Time

I love getting older because every year, I get a little more confident in my being, even if I’m still working on things from decades before. Every year, I get to own myself a little bit more, warts and all. And, in today’s episode, I discuss these four things as an answer to 42, the answer to life, the universe, and everything.

Recommended Resources

Boundaries, Henry Cloud and John Townsend https://www.boundariesbooks.com
Loving What Is, Byron Katie https://thework.com
How Full is Your Bucket? From Gallup https://www.gallup.com/press/176132/full-bucket.aspx
The Artists Way, by Julia Cameron https://juliacameronlive.com
The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/386162.The_Hitchhiker_s_Guide_to_the_Galaxy
The Princess Bride https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0093779/

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

An interview with Lety Juarez-Sisson

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

A few years ago, Lety and Michelle met through a Women in Networking group housed out of St. Helens, Oregon. Fast friends, they dive into public relations, Let’s wheelhouse, and why you would want someone to do PR for you.

Podcast Episode Summary

Lety does not identify as Sam from Sex in the City, except for the badass portion. Lety fell into this career after exploring beating a feature writer, a way to share people’s stories.

Basically, PR is promoting to media. The media can vary, and it can mean so much more. A big part of PR is building relationships with the other people who tell stories, the reporters.

She reminds us that email is a viable tool for communicating with your people, but don’t forget your strategy. She warns to not consider you are failing if you don’t see a quick ROI. Maybe you need to take a look at your strategy? Maybe your expectations need to be refreshed?

Lety’s ideal client is fun and outgoing, a little scared and ready to be pushed outside of their boundaries, and they must be willing to invest in themselves.

Quotables

“I was still telling people’s stories, just in a different way.”

“That’s where the passion comes, because.I know when I am pitching for someone, I am helping them, I am getting the word out about them.”

“Stop and smell the stories.”

Recommended Resources

MailChimp https://mailchimp.com
MailerLite https://www.mailerlite.com
Constant Contact https://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp
Badass Bitch PR on the web: https://badassbitchpr.com
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/badassbpr/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/badassbitchpr/
Twitter https://twitter.com/badassbitchpr
Join Lety’s Networking Group for Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/badassmomsinbusiness
Networking in Rose City (Let’s other Networking Group): https://www.facebook.com/NetworkingInRoseCity/

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Using essential oils to walk into joy, an interview with Jeni Houston

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Using essential oils to walk into joy wasn’t something Jeni was planning to learn. Chemistry drop-outs, Michelle and Jeni, discuss how essential oils can support the whole body, and why the chemistry works.

Podcast Episode Summary

Jeni Houston, aka “California girl/Super nerd”, found essential oils when her life was about to change. And, she started to use them regularly. The more she used them, the more she noticed they were the catalyst for her rediscovery of self and joy.

In today’s episode, Michelle and Jeni talk about intentionally living in joy and how essential oils cans be the tool that helps to carry you through a really dark spot in your life into joy. Stay tuned through the end where Jeni gives a great list of how to get to know the oils better so you, too, can intentionally live in joy.

Quotables

“I think quantum physics … is where spirituality meets science.”

“[Living above the line] is intentional and takes work.”

“I’ve noticed that creating ritual and habits throughout the day leads to a greater level of consciousness and awareness in your mindset and how you want to go about your day.”

“Allowing myself to be me, fully me, more.”

“When I held back, I played small. When we do that, it feels yucky, and that brings us down.”

“Simple tools to start simply can be really powerful to help unlock things you weren’t even aware were hidden.”

“For me the biggest shift was coming more into my self, feeling on purpose, really channeling love and compassion for myself first and that instantly expands to others around you.”

“When you change the chemistry of the oil, you change the therapeutic effectiveness.”

Recommended Resources

Emotions & Essential Oils: a Reference Guide for Emotional Healing, 6th Edition (Enlighten Healing, LLC, 2017)

Modern Essentials: a Contemporary Guide to the Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils, 7th Edition (AromaTools, 2015)

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Strategies for curating your brand

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 16:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Strategies for identifying and curating your brand. This podcast is for people who know what they do and are looking at how to show up in the world.

Podcast Episode Summary

You’ve taken the leap, and you know what you want to do. Maybe you are a chiropractor? Maybe you are a designer? Maybe you're an SEO specialist? Maybe you are a writer? Maybe you are looking for a job? I wrote, previously, “7 Steps to Establishing Your Brand,” this podcast breaks down the steps ‘finding what you like’ and ‘deciding.’

Quotables

c“When you pull it all together, it’s uniquely you.”

“There is only one you. I want you to do you and be you as best as you can.”

Resources

7 Steps to Establish your Brand: https://michellelasley.com/2019/12/establish-your-brand-in-7-steps/

Sessions Color Picker: https://www.sessions.edu/color-calculator/

Free stock photos

Pixaby: https://pixabay.com

Pexels https://www.pexels.com

Unsplash https://unsplash.com

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. The rest of the show notes are also available there.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

An Interview with Emily Mieren

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

In this interview with Emily Mieren, Michelle and Emily discuss motherhood, figuring out roles, and switching things up as familial need, passions, and opportunities present themselves.

Podcast Episode Summary

Emily and Michelle start with essential oils they used to prepare for interviewing on the podcast. They continue talking about how we serendipitously find our people… when we might be similarly aged, our kids are similarly aged, and it wasn’t always on purpose.

Some simple self-care can be in Breathwork. Then, pair that with essential oils because a mini act of self-care will do your body good. Your brain knows it… she wants to calm down.

Emily shares how she lost her sense of empowerment, slowly, while staying home to focus on the babies. They continue to discuss how identities shift when we take on new roles And, Emily shares how she rewrote her story.

Consider lemon, turmeric, and ginger to your green smoothies!

Quotables

“I see now, as an adult female, how beautifully each of us are individually, and how uniquely different we each are.”

“If we collaborate and connect, we can help each other.”

“My hope is that every woman would find her own self-worth, self-love, and self-acceptance.”

“If we can put the money in the hands of the women, we can truly change the world.”

“Having a purpose is better for your long-term health than quitting smoking.”

Recommended Resources

Find Emily on Instagram at @wild.soul.wellness
You can see her Facebook presence here @Inspired.Oil.Life
Get on her email list by going to: wildsoulwellness.com. << scroll to the bottom and get on Emily’s list!

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

How do you celebrate Imbolc?

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 21:46:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

How do you celebrate Imbolc? First, what is it? Second, how did it come about? In this bonus episode, Michelle briefly talks about the history and what we can learn from this first spring holiday.

Podcast Episode Summary

Happy Imbolc! In today’s episode, Michelle briefly goes over Imbolc, its history, and she offers a continued invitation to renew and change up your rituals.

When the Catholic Church spread its mission, it needed many ways to convert non-Christians to this way of thinking. In the move from polytheism to monotheism, one strategy the church uses was to adopt goddesses and patronize them as saints. Their history and meaning was enveloped and evolved. So it was a way to honor (and subjugate) tradition and history.

Regardless, looking at these individuals who were celebrated, we can link them to what is going on in our observable world. What happens in early February in the northern hemisphere? Snow melts, flowers start to bloom, birds are out more singing their songs. We let go o winter and start to embrace rebirth. And that is what we begin celebrating as the wheel of the year turns to the time of dawning, letting go of shadow time.

Use these thoughts and tools as you consider how you honor the earth’s seasons, your rituals, and what you want to bring forth.

Recommended Resources

Alexander, Sky. The Modern Guide to Witchcraft: Your Complete Guide to Witches, Covens & Spells. © 2014, Adams Media an Imprint of Simon & Schuster, Inc., Avon, MA.
Fontes, Dianna. https://www.astroartistry.com/astro-resources
Lunaf http://lunaf.com/lunar-calendar/2019/06/
NicGrioghair, Branfionn. Mythical Ireland & Anthony Murphy. “BRIGID, BRIGHT GODDESS OF THE GAEL.” https://www.mythicalireland.com/myths-and-legends/brigid-bright-goddess-of-the-gael/ © 2019.
Starhawk, Diane Baker, and Anne Hill. Circle Round: Raising Children in Goddess Traditions. © 1998, Bantam Books, New York, NY.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

An Interview with Mari Bartoo Jacobson

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Do you feel good in your body? Mari wants to know. Mari is on a mission to get people to feel good in their bodies. But, she didn’t always believe this or educate on this. Join Michelle and Mari as they dive into how Mari found her passion and what she’s doing to educate people on it.

Podcast Episode Summary

First, I must apologize. I mispronounced “Maree Bento’s” name. Both Maree and Mari pronounce their name “Mary”.

Second, Mari and I had a lovely chat covering so many things… from her varied career to finding and refining herself in each of the roles she has. And, through this conversation, we discuss her journey of discovery into her why… her why of helping people feel great in their bodies and realize they have a right to do so.

Quotables

“I have always had a drive to create fabric… I think of life as a tapestry… weaving … layers… sometimes things that look like tangents are actually embellishments in a certain area… and it comes together.”

“It didn’t have to exist forever in order to be a success.”

“We are unable to show up as our higher self when we are stuck in dis-ease.”

“[When] people come forward as their higher selves, that’s how we are going to heal the planet.”

“What we put in and on our bodies is fundamental to how healthy we are.”

“I want all of our listeners to know you absolutely completely deserve to feel happy, safe, and healthy in your body.”

Recommended Resources

Interview with Maree Bento
Find Mari on Facebook, Essential Drops of Light
Mari's Instagram, @essentialdropsoflight
See Mari on LinkedIn

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

An Interview with Theresa Pridemore

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

In this episode, Michelle and Theresa sit down and chat about soul-based or Spirit-led businesses. Theresa, growing from the world of marketing, has built a business where she guides empaths and healers on a journey of discovery that allows them to knit together all their passions with a core message. Learn a little bit about how Theresa works and other tools she’s created to help empaths, like herself, along the way.

Podcast Episode Summary

Michelle and Theresa talk about many things: empaths, storytelling, connections, money, and so much more. They also discuss some of Theresa’s past and current projects such as the Sovereign Oracle Deck, The Portland Tarot, and her upcoming work on archetypes.

Quotables

“Even my cleaning guy is an empath…”
Theresa’s mission: “To support healers, creatives, and visionaries to step fully into their genius body of work, be visible for their gifts, and claim their weird and woo without apology.”
“What I’m really doing is teaching empaths how to communicate their business.”
“I want to see healers and practitioners and visionaries … thrive in this world.”
“There is nothing worse for an empath than to have our intentions misconstrued.”
“Deciding you are here to make some money.”
“We have to make peace with the fact we are predators.”
“A lot of money blocks show up as visibility blocks.”
“My wife and I moved here because of your tarot!”

Recommended Resources

Need books? Visit Two Rivers Bookstore, https://www.tworiversbooks.com.
Caroline Elliot,”17 Bizarre Philosophies that Make me $70,000 month (with accompanying music videos).“ http://carolyngraceelliott.com/essays.
Work with Theresa on the web at www.sovereignspirit.biz. Book a discovery call or just sign up for her programs. You can also find her on Instagram at @sovspirit, @theresapridemore, and @sovereignoracle to check out her oracle deck.
Check out Lady Doom @TheLadyDoom or www.theladydoom.com.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Radical Acceptance: Moving Beyond Mom Guilt

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Erica Vaughn, fellow mom and essential oil educator, chats with Michelle about the upcoming theme of their jointly taught classes in the Portland Metro area. This year, their ongoing essential oil education is all about moving beyond mom guilt.

Podcast Episode Summary

Mom Guilt is something that can affect anyone who cares for another. Erica and Michelle share examples of when they have experienced and do experience mom guilt. They discuss ways in which they have recognized the phenomena and steps they have taken to transform from it. This naming inspired them to theme their essential oil continuing education classes around the theme, Radical Acceptance: Moving Beyond Mom Guilt.

Be sure to email Michelle with your Mom Guilt story at hello@michellelasley.com.

Some things that helped Erica and Michelle transform include:

Name that you are experiencing mom guilt.
An external source saying it’s okay to have boundaries.
Get older. Truly, age and maturity help.
Use your essential oils.
Create rituals to support the life you want.

Quotables

Name the thing [because] you can’t effectively address a thing until you name it.
Someone else giving you permission to do (or not) a thing…
A boundary is where you end and I begin.
No is a complete sentence.

Recommended Resources

Interview with Laura Rowe
Safe People, by Henry Cloud and John Townsend
Boundaries Books
Henry Cloud and John Townsend
Introducing Mom Guilt, January 23 class
Essential Oil Continuing Education Eventbrite

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Interview with Laura Rowe

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Laura and Michelle discuss women, empaths, human consciousness, the number 13, and most importantly - co-creating our world into one we all want.

Podcast Episode Summary

Laura and Michelle begin discussing what is an empath, how people become or are empaths. They continue weaving in co-creation, stopping the pendulum, and other thought topics. Get inspired about co-creating a new feature with this episode!

Quotables

“An empath is someone who has the ability to feel other people’s feelings.”

4 Ways to Become an Empath

Biological
Genetic
From a happy household with the instruction to think about other people
Trauma-based childhood

Boundaries exist and you can use them. “A boundary is where I end and where you begin.”

“Our aura is about three feet all around you.”

Top 3 things about being an empath

Bullshit meter
Depth when examining life and seeing connections
Explore things in a holistic way

“Frigg’s Day, Freya’s Day, Venus’ Day” … “Yea, Female’s Day.”

Recommended Resources

Alpha’s, https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1183865/?ref_=lgn_fn_al_nm_2a
The Vital Spirit, https://thevitalspirit.net
Instagram, @thethrivingempath
Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/thevitalspirit/
Sacred Commerce, https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/sacred-commerce/19404415/all-editions/
ThriftBooks plug: https://www.thriftbooks.com/share/?code=0hcLPcATBPZ7kl7jB%252b3X6g%253d%253d
New Renaissance Bookshop, https://www.newrenbooks.com

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Happy New Year! This is an invitation for my grace, your purpose, and joy.

Wed, 01 Jan 2020 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Michelle discusses going into 2020 with grace, purpose, and joy.

< h1 >Podcast Episode Summary

Listen as we discuss why it’s important to show up with grace, have purpose, and show up in joy. Need more purpose or joy, there’s an invitation at the end to join Michelle for a 3-day workshop on visioning.

< h1 >Recommended Resources

2020 visioning retreat: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/74243639725.

Don’t forget the code: VISION2020.

One on one joy sessions: https://michellelasley.as.me/oneononejoy .

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Merry Christmas!

Wed, 25 Dec 2019 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Take a listen to various traditions around Christmas as we celebrate the hope of new light.

Podcast Episode Summary

Michelle asked friends to share their Christmas traditions. Hear from some written reports and a few who shared their traditions in their own voice.

Recommended Resources

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

An Interview with Lacey Beaty, Candidate for Beaverton’s Next Mayor

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode In episode 7, Michelle and Lacey sit down and discuss her campaign for mayor, how she got here, why it’s so important for women to run in politics and her plans for change in Beaverton. She describes some of her recent projects and her passion for engaged community members. Podcast Episode Summary Lacey Beaty shares with Michelle the importance of service, the loneliness in serving in the army. She discusses what it's like to serve in politics with no young people, and certainly no moms. And, she expresses how she is actively working to change that landscape. Lacey is a mom with an active-duty military partner working to normalizing the process of women and mothers serving in politics. She also discusses systemic issues women face running for politics. Quotables “I knew one day I wouldn’t be a political spectator, I would get into policy.” “[Working moms] bring a different perspective to policy making.” “Emerge gave me a network of other women who want to change the world.” “Every time a woman gets elected, it normalizes the process and makes it easier for another woman to run.” “I believe that people who work in our community deserve to thrive and live here too.” Recommended Resources See Lacey’s platform and support her at www.beatyforbeaverton.com. Learn how to run your own campaign at Emerge Oregon (https://or.emergeamerica.org). Learn more about the City of Beaverton (https://www.beavertonoregon.gov) Check out the family support Family Forward Oregon (https://www.familyforwardaction.org) wants to create. For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Interview with Maree Bento

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

In today’s episode, you host Michelle Lasley interviews a practitioner of healing and mystical arts, Maree Bento.

Podcast Episode Summary

Michelle and Maree discuss tarot, oracle decks, accessing your intuition, and Maree’s current projects. Maree has created the Antiquarian Tarot Deck. Her current project is the Divine Muses Oracle Deck, and her future project is an oracle deck on the inner child. Michelle and Maree play a little and both pull from the decks they have on their desks, which is a great reminder of how they both studied Art History.

This episode works to demystify the Occult and really shares how amazing it would be if we all had deeper access to our own intuition.

Quotables

“I believe that we are all intuitive, as children, we all have this ability to connect with source.”
“Listen to what comes through.”
“Occult, all it means is hidden … Christians … don’t understand that they created the myth of the devil… It’s really not scary; it’s just unknown. That’s what occult means.”
“All this stuff… that’s mystical… [they are] just tools for self-development… a way for us to reflect back at us information we already know.”

Recommended Resources

Maree’s Links

To learn more about Maree check out her website, her oracle deck, and her instagram!

divineMuses.net, https://www.divinemuses.net
The Divine Muses Oracle Deck, https://www.divinemuses.net/store/p6/divine-muses-oracle.html
IG: @divineMuses, https://www.instagram.com/divinemuses/

For more information discussed, check out the following

Akashic Record, http://www.akashicrecordsofsouls.com
Occult, https://witchcraftandwitches.com/magic-magick/related-occultism/
Rider Waite Tarot Deck, https://www.usgamesinc.com/Rider-Waite-Tarot-Card-Deck.html
The Toth Deck, https://www.gaia.com/article/aleister-crowleys-thoth-tarot-an-esoteric-primer
Theresa Pridemore, The Sovereign Spirit, https://www.sovereignspirit.biz
Phillip Pullman, His Dark Materials, The Golden Compass, https://www.philip-pullman.com/hdm

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Interview with Cheryl DeClerque

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 11:00:00 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Michelle sits down with friend and colleague, Cheryl DeClercque. Cheryl is a virtual marketing assistant, mom to four, wife, and lives in the Pacific Northwest.

Podcast Episode Summary

In episode 5, Michelle interviews friend and colleague, Cheryl DeClercque. Cheryl is a mom of four and virtual marketing assistant. In this interview, the women discuss boundaries, setting expectations, and navigating family while pursuing career goals.

“It’s never too early to get help.”

“[Hiring a virtual assistant] will give you time and energy to focus on what you want to focus on and not be bogged down and feeling overwhelmed with those little tiny tasks.”

“Create content, create good content.”

Recommended Resources

Visit Cheryl on the web (https://pnwvirtual.com) or connect with her on LInkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryldeclercque/).

Cheryl’s Program Recommendations

Wordpress: https://wordpress.org
Elegant Themes, Divi: https://www.elegantthemes.com/gallery/divi/
ConvertKit: https://www.elegantthemes.com/gallery/divi/
ActiveCampaign: https://www.activecampaign.com
Trello: https://trello.com
Financial Peace University: https://www.daveramsey.com/fpu

See Michelle in person at her workshop on Joy. “Joyful, Mindful & Munchies” still has tickets available! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/82289288477

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

December Essential Oil Specials

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 18:52:05 -0800

Introduction to Episode

Michelle Lasley discusses three essential oil specials for the month of December.

Podcast Episode Summary

In this episode we discuss how to get Clove, Melissa, and Frankincense at a reduced cost or free. Michelle also briefly explains the emotional and physical properties of each.

Recommended Resources

To learn more about Clove, visit: https://doterra.me/No7sajpi.

To learn more about Melissa, visit: https://doterra.me/XhvBbCvN.

To learn more about Frankincense, visit: https://doterra.me/rXRQD9Lp

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Happy Thanksgiving and Introducing Interviews

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 11:00:00 -0800

In this episode Michelle Lasley discusses joy, why it’s important, and how to bring a gratitude practice into your days in order to live more in joy. She also describes how some upcoming episodes will work with interviews.

Recommended Resources

Email hello@michellelasley.com for a list of references regarding Joy and why it’s important.

If you are interested in being interviewed on this podcast, please go to https://michellelasley.as.me/podcastinterview and find time on Michelle’s calendar.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Essential Oils and a Toxic Free Home

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 11:00:48 -0800

Michelle Lasley explains more about the motivations of this podcast, Balance Shared, through the lens of using essential oils in the home. She discusses some basics on how they remove toxins, why you would want a clean home, and added benefits.

Recommended Resources

29 Uses of Vinegar: https://michellelasley.com/2019/11/29-ways-to-use-vinegar-in-your-home/
Homemade Weed Killer (with Vinegar): https://michellelasley.com/2008/09/homemade-weed-killer/
How can I clean my home naturally? https://michellelasley.com/2008/06/how-can-i-clean-my-home-naturally/
Life of Toxicity: https://michellelasley.com/2017/10/life-of-toxicity/

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Sustainability, essential oils, breakthroughs, and tech

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 00:14:05 -0800

Michelle Lasley talks about her magic in three ways and how it will (at least so far!) will relate to this podcast.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Introducing Balance Shared, a podcast.

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 17:58:53 -0800

Michelle Lasley talks for a few minutes about this idea Balance Shared and why we are here.

For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support

Balance Shared (Trailer)

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 17:58:53 -0800

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support