Candid Musings with Michelle Abueva

"I wouldn’t have the opportunity to grow into who I am right now." In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with my BFF "down under," Lea Ann, as she shares her transformative eight-year journey living in Australia. What started as a plan to study Sports Management quickly turned into a masterclass in flexibility when life—and a global pandemic—threw a curveball. My dear unni opens up about: ​ The C...

The flu season can wait! In this special Season Two episode, we welcome back our very first guest and my BFF, June Nicole Chanlim Ting (a mother of one!), to dive deep into a topic close to both our hearts: Friendship Through the Seasons. Life changes constantly—marriage, motherhood, and the hustle—but what's the true foundation of a lasting bond? Nicole and I reflect on how our friendship has mat...

Join my "twin", Alexandra Barot-Yoshioka and I for a special episode of Candid Musings as we dive into the complex world of relationships and connection. We share a unique bond—both celebrating our birthday on September 9th—and our conversation is as candid and heartfelt as our decades-long friendship. In this deep-dive discussion, we explore two essential relationship dilemmas: ​Anchoring the Lin...

Is it possible to be alone without being lonely? In this episode, I sit down with one of my best friends and lowest-maintenance confidants, my main b*tch, Stephen Alegre. He shares how he went from a simple life in the province to living his dreams in the Big Apple—all while mastering the art of enjoying his own company. We dive deep into why solitude is actually a superpower for self-reflection,...

**CORRECTION** 30:46 - Dr. James Hollis (not Doty) & Dr. Rangan Chatterjee’s Podcast (not Mel Robbins’) — What if your purpose isn't a grand, future goal, but something you live out right now? 🤔 In this heartfelt and honest episode, we sit down with one of my best friends, Dr. Jake Sofronio Coja, a Family Medicine Resident, to discuss “Finding Your Purpose in the Everyday.” Ga Jake shares his ins...

Are you tired of constantly chasing an unattainable ideal? Join me and my dear friend, Tatiana Icamen-Gomez as we dive deep into the profound freedom and powerful connection found in Embracing Imperfection. In a world that constantly bombards us with curated highlight reels and the pressure to be 'perfect,' we challenge the notion that flawless is best. Sit down with us as we explore why shedding...

What does success really mean to you? Is it the number in your bank account? The title on your business card? The boxes society says you need to check? We’ve been chasing a definition of success that doesn’t always lead to fulfillment. In our new podcast episode, “Redefining Success: Beyond the Metrics,” we’re tearing down those old expectations. One of my best friends @heyiamryan and I are explor...

What does a “good fence” look like in your life? Is it a text you don’t answer after 9 PM? Is it saying “no” to protect your peace? My dear buttercup, Atty. Loveth Dejarme-Fornolles and I are diving deep into the art of setting boundaries, why a little space can save a relationship, and how learning to decline can be a pivotal life lesson in protecting your energy and time.

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- What I did today (April 01, 2025) - This season’s realizations: grieving the life I expected to have by now, obedience & humility in God, truly trusting in God’s plan, letting go of the impulse to control & completely surrendering to His will

But you know who inspires me the most? GOD Answering chapter one from This is Home: A Notebook for Self-Exploration (Illustrated by Eric Nguyen) 😉

Join me for an enlightening journey as we challenge and unlearn our default thought patterns and belief systems. Together, we'll explore strategies to reframe our thinking, paving the way for personal growth and self-improvement. Let's embark on this transformative adventure to better ourselves, one thought at a time.

When God gives, it pours. One of life's many frustrations is having the patience to wait for God's best in our lives. I know what you're thinking. Is His best a person, a promise, or a grand thing? God's best refers to living a life aligned with divine will and purpose. The concept of God's best is deeply personal and can vary from person to person. It is often seen as a journe...

Sit with my always and forever, Inday Jessamine Lim and I as we talk about the lowest and at the same time happiest season of her life. Explore with us the power of healing in the midst of challenges, embracing the beauty of both the break and the mend. Tune in for gentle whispers of wisdom and inspiration to guide you on your path towards transformation and resilience. Let's embark on this healin...

Losing a loved one can be one of the most difficult experiences of our lives, and it can feel like we'll never be able to move forward. But with time, support, and a few key strategies, it is possible to start living life better again. Join me and my fall out girl, Grazel Galeos as she shares her journey, discuss how to make the most out of every moment, and explore the many ways to live life...

Sometimes, life can feel like it's at a standstill and we're waiting for something to happen. But I truly believe that these moments of waiting are actually opportunities for growth and healing. I believe that everything happens for a reason, and that God has a plan for each and every one of us. He doesn't necessarily ask us to do great things, but rather to seek Him, to obey Him, and...

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In today's podcast episode, I'm joined by my friend Gideon Doron for part two of our two-part series. We'll take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about our chance encounter in Singapore that led to many meaningful conversations. During our chat, we'll delve into Gideon's recent life-changing retreat in Chang Mai, where he explored Zen Buddhism. We'll also discuss practical ways to practice mi...

Join me and my besh, Gideon Doron for part one of a two-part episode where we reminisce about how we met over a year ago in Singapore. We share stories about the spontaneous activities we did together, deep talks about life, and how a major family event changed Gideon's perspective on life. Additionally, we discuss a profound realization we had while "creating our emoji" in the activ...

In this episode, we discuss the myth of needing motivation to get started. Research shows that motivation follows action, and we explore how making small agreements with yourself and following through with them can cultivate self-confidence. Learn how to build habits and systems that are stronger than your feelings, and how to see yourself as a person who honors their word even when no one is watc...

Reflecting on life's big questions with Flowmarket's 200 Qs to Self. These cards spark deep conversations, personal growth, and unexpected laughs. Perfect for solo reflection or bonding with friends and partners. 1. What drains your energy with other people? 2. What small act of kindness were you once shown, that you will never forget? 3. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? 4. In what areas...

Finding contentment in every circumstance, big or small, is the key to true happiness. God's grace has brought me to where I am today, and I am fulfilled. I used to pray for my desires to align with God's will, but now I pray for discernment to follow His dream for me. Thankful for His guidance and light this season. To God alone be all the glory and praise! Notes: How to be connected and...

Do you feel stuck and unhappy? Do you think you are not living the life of your dreams? Do you think you're not far along in life, and life shouldn't be this way? I got you, besh! Tune in now, and let's contemplate on where we are in our lives!

Have you ever had a conversation with someone that died out into an awkward silence? This could happen as a result of not being familiar with one another. When it comes to finding the best things to talk about, all you need to do is have a few great topics up your sleeve. It’s possible to arm yourself with a list of things to talk about if there is ever a lull in the conversation. If you keep a fe...

Have you ever had a conversation with someone that died out into an awkward silence? This could happen as a result of not being familiar with one another. When it comes to finding the best things to talk about, all you need to do is have a few great topics up your sleeve. It’s possible to arm yourself with a list of things to talk about if there is ever a lull in the conversation. If you keep a fe...