Confessions of a Recovering Micromanaging Perfectionist Martyr

How do you balance showing up for loved ones with showing up for yourself? In this episode, I reflect on the annual choice to step away for a few days, even in the midst of life’s busy demands. Join me as I explore how learning to prioritize self-care has shifted my beliefs about love, presence, and missing important moments. Tune in for a fresh perspective on what it really means to “be there” fo...

Ever feel like your family’s punching bag when they’re in a mood? In this episode, I explore the challenges of not taking others’ rough days personally, and how to encourage healthy ways of processing emotions. We’ll talk about teaching kids to identify tools that lift them up—without knocking others down. Join me for insights on setting boundaries, modeling self-regulation, and building a home fu...

Ever find yourself holding grudges that feel good in the moment but go nowhere in the long run? In this episode, inspired by a lesson from the lacrosse field, I explore the power of a quick mental “reset.” Discover how shifting focus from ego to the bigger picture can bring more harmony to family life—and why it’s worth making the most of the precious time we have. Perfect for anyone who wants to...

Ever feel like you’re constantly chiseling away at yourself, always trying to improve? For my birthday, I’m giving myself a break from all that. Inspired by a wise friend’s advice, I’m learning to trust my process, loosen my grip, and let life’s “wind” take care of the rest. Join me as I explore what it means to have faith in our natural growth and embrace a little self-kindness. Perfect for anyon...

Ever felt that your happiness was tied to something outside yourself? In this episode, I share how shifting my focus from my relationship to self-care reshaped my happiness—and how I eventually found an even deeper contentment. Join me as we explore what it means to prioritize your own well-being and tap into a happiness that doesn’t depend on anyone or anything else. Perfect for anyone needing a...

How do you balance fighting for what you believe in with letting go of the outcome? In this episode, I dive into the tension between honoring your instincts and trusting a bigger plan. When do we fight, and when do we let go? Tune in as I share how embracing both action and acceptance has brought more peace into my life—and why true serenity lies in both standing up for our truth and releasing wha...

Are you an ingredient or the baker? In this episode, we dive into a unique metaphor for teamwork that helped me see my “baker” role in a new light. By stepping back and respecting each ingredient’s role, I’m learning how to create a more harmonious “loaf”—and let go of outdated recipes. Join me as I share lessons on flexibility, letting others shine, and embracing change in the kitchen (and beyond...

Do you ever step in to “help” but realize it’s more about wanting things done your way? In this episode, I share my journey of letting others own their tasks (even if they don’t do them exactly as I would). We explore the fine line between lending a hand and taking over, why respecting boundaries benefits everyone, and how letting go of control is a win-win. Tune in to laugh, reflect, and maybe ev...

It’s my 100th blog post, and I’m reflecting on how small, steady actions add up, often without us noticing. Inspired by a friend’s “marble jar” practice, I’m exploring how these little steps build resilience and progress—even when we feel we’re not getting anywhere. Join me for a look at why celebrating the small stuff matters and how strength grows from overcoming what once seemed impossible. Rac...

Ever find yourself expecting others to “get it” right away or feeling frustrated when they don’t? After a heart-to-heart with a friend, I got a reminder of how powerful it is to meet people where they are. In this episode, I share insights on loving others as they are—judgment-free—and the impact of offering (and receiving) total acceptance. Tune in for some laughter, real talk, and tips on how to...

Does planning a family trip feel more stressful than the trip itself? You’re not alone! In this episode, I share five tricks that helped me let go of being the sole travel coordinator and embrace a more relaxed, shared approach. Discover how to cut down on stress, avoid vacation drama, and even get a laugh out of the forgotten goggles. Tune in for practical tips on enjoying the journey and the des...

Do you find yourself Googling instead of calling a friend for advice? In this episode, we explore the difference between data and wisdom—and why, when it comes to life's deeper questions, a person can offer what Google can’t. Discover how reaching out for lived experience, compassion, and encouragement might be exactly what you (and your friends) need. Join us as we chat about “Whoogling” ove...

Are we really connecting, or just scrolling? In this episode, we take a deeper look at loneliness and how tech-based "connections" can sometimes make us feel more isolated. If you've ever felt drained from constant digital interactions but still crave true connection, join us. We explore how making time for face-to-face moments can heal and why our friendships need more than a quick...

Ever feel like the “to-do” list is all there is? What if the real work goes deeper? In this episode, we dive into the idea that the tasks themselves aren’t the true purpose—it’s the journey within them. Discover how to shift your focus from completion to connection, how to see daily tasks as opportunities for presence, and how to find peace in the process, not just the result. Tune in for a refres...

After two decades, I finally got my nose pierced—and it wasn’t the only big change. Recently, I made the choice to step away from MagsDePetrisPhotography. I’m learning to listen to the voice that tells me when it’s time to move forward. Join me as I reflect on trusting my heart and the new creative projects that are calling my name. Salute (click to view video) JoinTeamConfessions!

My natural “language” with my kids is a mix of perfectionism, frustration, and let’s be honest—yelling. But over the years, I’ve been working on speaking kindly, even when it’s difficult. Join me as I share my journey of learning to “speak” in a new language—one rooted in compassion, patience, and acceptance. Spoiler: it’s a work in progress, but one worth every effort. JoinTeamConfessions!

One of my favorite pastimes used to be telling my husband every time he hurt my feelings—until I learned about W.A.I.T. Listen to hear how I learned to take a moment to pause, and the huge difference it has made in our communication. Join me as I share how waiting has helped me sort out true concerns from fleeting feelings and why taking time before talking can make all the difference in relations...

After writing about “Easy Pleaseys,” I started thinking about the “Teasey Pleaseys”—those folks who are never truly satisfied, no matter how hard we try. In this episode, I explore how recognizing this pattern has helped me stop taking it personally and focus on my own peace. If you’ve ever struggled with people who are hard to please, this one’s for you! Easy Pleasey JoinTeamConfessions!

For years, I unknowingly made myself hard to please, holding others to unspoken expectations. But I’ve learned so much from my “Easy Pleasies”—those friends and family members who just let things slide and make life easier. Join me as I share how releasing expectations is helping me enjoy more peace and acceptance in my relationships. JoinTeamConfessions!

In our family, we live by the saying “God’s Plan, not mine.” It’s a way to remind ourselves that even the smallest challenges can have a purpose. From running out of orange juice to navigating life’s big shifts, I’ve found that this simple mindset shift can transform frustration into peace. Join me as I share how practicing radical faith in the little things has helped me find purpose in even the...

This week, I’m sharing my personal morning prayer—a gentle reminder to approach the day with patience, compassion, and purpose. From managing priorities to staying present, this prayer grounds me in what matters most. Join me as I reflect on the intentions behind each line and how it helps set the tone for a meaningful day. JoinTeamConfessions!

This week, I’m experimenting with a simple intention: to infuse everything I do with love. From parenting to folding laundry, I’m finding that leading with love, especially during hectic days, can be more healing than I expected—for everyone involved. Join me as I share the surprising impact of focusing on love in everyday moments. JoinTeamConfessions!

Ever find yourself trying to fast forward your journey after hearing other people’s success stories? This week, I caught myself rushing to be where others are, forgetting they’re years ahead in their own process. Join me as I explore the value of taking things slow, trusting my own path, and letting time be my teacher. JoinTeamConfessions!

With the kids finally back in school, I’ve been reflecting on the importance of self-compassion. Years ago, I had no clue what “be gentle with yourself” meant. Now, I’ve learned some simple ways to put it into practice. Join me as I share three tips that help me let go, do less, and, most importantly, give myself (and others) a break. The Magic Ingredient JoinTeamConfessions!

For years, food was my escape from self-judgment, until I discovered the power of self-compassion. As New Year’s approaches, I’m reflecting on the one resolution that’s truly made a difference. Tune in as I share how that one thing has transformed my habits, relationships, and even my cravings. JoinTeamConfessions!