Nikki Ivers and Tary Varnum
Blunt But Brilliant
Blunt But Brilliant was created to help you get unstuck. We are here to teach you how to bring out your best self by showcasing topics based in self awareness, self discovery and self reflection.
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Episodes
Episode 42-Different Coping Tools and How to Use Them 10.07.2026 45:05
In this episode, Nikki and Tary explore a wide range of coping tools and strategies to manage stress and emotional challenges. They discuss practical techniques, mental models, and the importance of boundaries and connection for mental well-being. https://www.sunrisesupportservices.org/post/100-coping-tools-for-anxiety Nikki's favorite item of the week (paid link) https://amzn.to/4fhPaCj Tary's fa...
Episode 41-Using Fitness to Aid in Trauma Recovery 03.07.2026 52:59
In this episode, Nikki and Tary share insights on the transformative power of weightlifting for trauma recovery, mental health, and aging well. They discuss practical tips, recent research, and personal experiences to inspire listeners to connect their body and mind. Nikki's favorite item of the week (paid link) https://amzn.to/3QxC3Ua Tary's favorite item of the week (paid link) https://amzn.to/4...
Episode 40- We Are Only As Old As We Tell Ourselves 26.06.2026 49:47
In this episode, Nikki and Tary explore the fascinating science of aging, mindset, and lifestyle choices that influence how young we feel and how long we live. They share personal stories, recent studies, and practical tips to embrace aging with vitality and positivity. Nikki's favorite item of the week (paid link) https://amzn.to/4oLghJl Tary's favorite item of the week (paid link) https://amzn.t...
Episode 39-Regret vs Remorse and How We Can Get Past It 19.06.2026 53:51
In this episode, Nikki and Tary explore the nuanced differences between regret and remorse, sharing personal stories and insights on how understanding these feelings can lead to growth and healing. They discuss how to let go of past mistakes, the importance of self-forgiveness, and lessons learned from relationships and life choices. Nikki's favorite item of the week https://athleta.gap.com/browse...
Episode 38-How to Change Your Mindset 12.06.2026 58:40
In this episode, Nikki and Tary explore how to change your own mindset and possibly influence others without being aggressive manipulative. They discuss neuroplasticity, the use of clinical psychedelics, the impact of aging, and practical strategies for personal growth and effective communication. Nikki's favorite item of the week: (paid link) https://amzn.to/4vFcUWk *As an Amazon Associate I earn...
Episode 37: Generativity and How We Are Failing Our Aging Older Generations 05.06.2026 46:56
In this episode, we explore the importance of generativity across generations by sharing personal stories and discussing how passing down wisdom enriches lives. We also discuss where we are failing at this by not giving older generations the time and patience to share their hard earned lessons and advice. Nikki's favorite item of the week Memory of a Killer starring Patrick Dempsey on Hulu Tary's...
Episode 36-An Honest Discussion on the Realities of Emotional Masculinity and Maturity 29.05.2026 58:09
This episode explores emotional masculinity, the importance of emotional intelligence in men, emotional maturity and how it impacts relationships. Featuring insights from Mike Hamm and perspectives on communication, vulnerability, and relationship dynamics, we offer practical advice for fostering healthier connections. Nikki's favorite item of the week https://amzn.to/3OgxPPG Tary's favorite item...
Episode 35-Nikki and Tary Examine Their Personal Red and Green Flags 22.05.2026 51:21
In this episode, Nikki and Tary share their insights into their own red and green flags in relationships, self-awareness, and everyday habits. They explore how honesty, boundaries, and self-acceptance shape their lives and connections. Nikki's favorite item of the week (paid link) https://amzn.to/4vg0hBK Tary's favorite item of the week (paid link) https://amzn.to/4t7vSUY *As an Amazon Associate I...
Episode 34-Are you Feeling Stuck? Us Too! Here is What We're Doing to Get Unstuck. 15.05.2026 50:20
In this engaging conversation, Nikki and Tary explore the challenges of feeling stuck, share personal stories, and discuss practical strategies for overcoming emotional and mental barriers. From handling anxiety and emotional blockages to embracing change and self-care, they offer valuable insights to help listeners navigate their own journeys of growth. Nikki's favorite item of the week (paid lin...
Episode 33-The Secret Rules We Live By 08.05.2026 59:15
We had to dig deep on this one! Join us as we discuss the secret rules we live by. Maybe we're not even aware of some of these rules as they're so ingrained in our subconscious. What are some of your secret rules of life that motivate you or help you to make decisions? Nikki's favorite item of the week (paid link) https://amzn.to/4dhSehn Tary's favorite item of the week (paid link) https://amzn.to...
Episode 32-What We Thought Would Matter...But it Didn't 01.05.2026 49:22
In this episode, we explore the things we once thought mattered but turned out to be insignificant, sharing personal insights and lessons learned. From college degrees to material possessions, discover what truly brings value and happiness in life. Nikki's favorite item of the week https://miimmiic.com/products/no-183-tomato-vine-eau-de-parfum?variant=53200060186992&tw_source=google&tw_ad...
Episode 31-You Can Have Financial Freedom With Some of These Easy Ways to Save Money 24.04.2026 57:29
This episode explores practical strategies for saving money, investing wisely, and planning for a secure financial future. Nikki and Mike (The But) share personal stories, tips, and mental models to help listeners start saving at any age and achieve financial freedom. Nikki's Favorite Item of the Week Microwave your unpeeled garlic cloves for 10 seconds for easy peeling! (paid link) https://amzn.t...
Episode 30-To Forgive or Not to Forgive...That is the Question 17.04.2026 53:19
What does forgiveness look like to you? Do you agree with the statement "Forgiveness is for the forgiver"? In this episode, we break down how we feel about forgiveness and what we need in order to forgive someone. We also discuss how we feel about someone forgiving us and how resentments build up. Nikki's favorite item of the week https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=kami%20orange%20boundary%20co...
Episode 29-Wisdom vs. Knowledge: If I Could Go Back in Time.... 10.04.2026 48:30
If you could go back to an earlier time in your life with all of the wisdom you have now but not the knowledge of what's going to happen...would you? In this episode, we explore wisdom vs. knowledge. What is the difference and is one more important than another? Nikki's favorite item of the week https://www.kutfromthekloth.com/?&utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=rakuten&utm_campaign=Par...
Episode 28-Doom Scrolling and How it Negatively Affects Us 03.04.2026 51:16
Most of us are scrolling through our phones everyday. We could be looking at social media, emails or texts. These things are fine in moderation, but it can become a problem when our scrolling habits tick over to doom scrolling. In this episode, we talk about the scrolling habits that affect us personally, why we do it, and how it makes us feel. We also discuss the effect doom scrolling has on our...
Episode 27-How to Quiet Negative Thoughts 27.03.2026 54:58
Our friend, Mike, steps in for Tary this week to discuss negative thought loops and how to quiet them. We all have negative or intrusive thoughts. There is NOTHING wrong with you! Our brains are hardwired to think negative and positive thoughts as a biological survival instinct. We discuss several reasons why these intrusive thoughts pop up in our minds, and we give you lots of tricks to manage th...
Episode 26-What are the Basics of Self Care? 20.03.2026 55:04
We're going back to basics! You can't take care of anyone else if you don't take care of yourself. Self care doesn't always have to include visits to nail salons and spas. Self care comes in many different forms such as eating nutritious food, moving your body, drinking water and getting enough sleep. In this episode, we give you lots of ideas of how to take care of yourself that won't cost you an...
Episode 25-Body Language and Behaviors Are a Stand Alone Language 13.03.2026 46:02
Our actions should match our words, and when they don't, that can cause a lot of confusion. In this episode, we talk about why our behavior needs to mirror what we say, how it makes us feel when it doesn't and what we can do to rectify the situation. Behaviors are a language of their own, and we're exploring the impact it has on our relationships. Nikki's favorite item of the week https://www.amaz...
Episode 24-Safety Language and Why We Need it in All of Our Relationships 06.03.2026 59:04
What is your Safety Language? Emotional safety allows for vulnerability without fear of judgment. In this episode, Nikki and Tary explore the concept of safety language in relationships, emphasizing the importance of emotional safety, trust, and effective communication. They share personal anecdotes, and provide insights on how to navigate conflicts constructively. The conversation highlights the...
Episode 23-Midlife Dating in the Modern World 27.02.2026 54:55
Has dating become so complicated that we need spreadsheets and algorithms? We don't think so! Once you get to the in person date, the meet and greet should be simple and easy going. Tary gives her best advice based on her current dating experiences as a midlife woman; what she prefers, what she doesn't like, and how to set boundaries around giving access to your personal business. We break down be...
Episode 22-Nikki Left the House! Friends Meet Up Group Debrief and Lots of Butts 20.02.2026 34:11
Nikki finally left the house! Nikki and Tary debrief their weird night participating in a local friends meet up group. Plus, what we're saying about Tary's butt and butts in general. Seriously, don't you want to know? LOL! Nikki's favorite item of the week https://www.amazon.com/s?k=bvvu+womens+5+inch+swim+board+shorts&crid=2ME4YNPKNM0FB&sprefix=bvvu+womens+5+inch+swim+board+shorts%2Caps%2...
Episode 21-Breaking Down the Savior Complex 13.02.2026 49:19
Helping or assisting others is a kind thing to do, but if that help is attached to your need to save people or if you help people at your own detriment, then we may be talking about having a Savior Complex. What is a Savior Complex, how can we spot it in ourselves or others, why can it be detrimental to ourselves and others, and how do we stop helping people at our own expense? Listen here for ans...
Episode 20-Why is it so Hard for Us to Receive Care or a Compliment? 06.02.2026 50:34
How do you feel when someone gives you a compliment or wants to take care of you? If it gives you the "ick", then you're not alone. One of our goals this year is to learn how to receive compliments and genuine care. Come with us as we explore why we have such a negative internal dialogue regarding people caring for us and how we can improve our relationships by receiving care and accepting that ot...
Episode 19-How it Feels to Have an Avoidant Attachment Style 30.01.2026 36:12
We all have an attachment style that is formed through early interactions with our childhood caregivers. This episode is a personal telling of what it is like to have an avoidant dismissive attachment style and how it effects Nikki's life including her marriage. If you have this same attachment style, or if you're involved with an avoidant dismissive, you'll want to listen to this. Change and prog...
Episode 18-How to Look and Feel Your Best in Midlife 23.01.2026 49:04
We are looking and feeling the best we've ever felt, and we want to share our secrets with you! We're here to talk about all of the skincare, haircare, hormones, peptides and everything else that's making us live longer and feel fabulous. Midlife doesn't have to be a drag. We're having the time of our lives, and we want you to join us. Nikki's Favorite Item of the Week (paid link) https://amzn.to/...
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