Confessions of a Recovering Micromanaging Perfectionist Martyr

Ever return home feeling peaceful, only to get swept up in family stress? In this holiday season, the best gift we can give others—and ourselves—is grace. In this episode, we explore small ways to offer kindness, even when we don’t know the struggles others are facing. From the honking driver to the grumpy cashier, let’s talk about showing compassion and extending a little extra holiday mercy. And...

Ever feel like everyone’s dodging you—except the dog? In this episode, we explore the “prickly pear” moments when it feels like the world is against us and how a shift in perspective can reveal our own role in the cycle. By putting down the magnifying glass and picking up the mirror, we can break free from waiting for someone else to save us. Join us for insights on self-compassion, taking ownersh...

Thanksgiving can be a beautiful time for connection but also exhausting, especially if you can’t be your “authentic self” around family. In this episode, we explore “back end rituals” for recharging after a family gathering, from savoring a quiet treat to taking a gratitude walk. These simple practices can help restore energy and create balance. Join us for tips on making space for both Thanksgivi...

With the holidays around the corner, now’s the perfect time to practice letting go of those “helpful” corrections while others are telling stories. In this episode, we explore how asking, “How important is it?” can keep us focused on connection rather than accuracy. Tune in for a lighthearted take on why letting others tell their stories their way brings more joy and ease to family gatherings. Joi...

For years, I believed in the myth of “perfect eating,” with a critical inner voice that judged my every food choice. But I’ve realized the issue isn’t the food itself—it’s the judgment. In this episode, we discuss how transforming that judgment into self-compassion can reshape your relationship with food. Discover how embracing a gentle, supportive voice can replace criticism with self-care and cr...

Did you know that procrastination often hides a deeper fear? In this episode, we explore the connection between procrastination and fear, and how understanding the root of avoidance can lead to self-compassion. Join us as we reframe procrastination from a judgment of laziness to an opportunity for self-discovery. Discover how a little love and understanding can help you face fears and transform pr...

This week’s episode continues our reflection on The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein, focusing on the Boy’s role in the story. Building on last week’s conversation, we explore the importance of teaching children when to stop taking and start giving. Join us as we discuss how creating balance in family contributions can nurture more mindful, empathetic individuals. Let’s chat about boundaries, reass...

In this two-part series, we’re diving into the topic of contribution within the family, inspired by The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. This week, we reflect on how motherhood can sometimes feel like giving until there’s nothing left—and why it’s essential to set boundaries for ourselves and our families. Join us as we explore the balance between giving and self-care, and learn how to protect you...

It’s my 22nd wedding anniversary, so let’s talk about grudges! Inspired by The St. Francis Prayer, I’ve learned that focusing on understanding others can ease resentment, improve relationships, and even rescue a marriage. In this episode, we explore how letting go of grudges—without abandoning healthy boundaries—can bring more peace and joy. Join us as we chat about forgiveness, empathy, and creat...

Inspired by Monty Don’s gardening wisdom, this episode explores the idea of “watering” teens with just the right amount of guidance. Just as a tree grows stronger by reaching for water deep in the soil, kids develop resilience when given the space to make their own choices. Let’s talk about balancing support with trust, the importance of letting kids dig deep for answers, and how embracing this ap...

As we say goodbye to summer, let’s reflect on the impact of a “Please Love and Nurture” (PLAN) approach to the season! In this episode, we look back at how planning helped me make small shifts in house projects, family time, and rest, bringing more peace to an otherwise hectic summer. From learning to stop before burnout to allowing the kids more space and prioritizing rest, these adjustments made...

Welcome back, TeamC! As we kick off a new season of Confessions, we’re diving into the balance of pleasure and pain in our lives, inspired by Dr. Anna Lembke’s Dopamine Nation. This episode explores how embracing both joy and discomfort can create a more peaceful home life—especially during back-to-school season. From the thrill of a fresh start to the inevitable bumps with family dynamics, let’s...

August can feel like one long Sunday—should I relax or prepare for what’s next? In this episode from 2017, I’m shared how a small, peaceful pause helps me sift through the endless “to do” list and decide what actually matters. Join me as I explore how even ten minutes of quiet can bring clarity and balance between savoring summer and prepping for the season ahead. ☀️📝 JoinTeamConfessions!

Re-entering life after a trip can feel like a mad dash, but what if we slowed down instead? In this episode from back in 2017, we explore the power of easing back into routines with a focus on peace over productivity. By consciously adjusting our pace after time away, we can create a smoother transition, reduce stress, and remind ourselves that, as adults, we have choices. Tune in for insights on...

Road trip clutter got you frazzled? In this episode, I’m sharing my struggle with keeping calm in the chaos of travel, and how controlling “the stuff” (instead of the people) helps me find a little peace. Join me as we look back to a post from 2017 as I reflected on letting go of my control cravings to find a new way to enjoy the ride—wrappers and all. 🚗 JoinTeamConfessions!

A look back to a post I wrote in 2017 that still completely applies to my life today.  Sometimes the simplest needs, like rest, make all the difference. In this episode, I’m sharing how sleep (or lack of it) affects my ability to stay patient and present with my family. Join me as I explore the importance of rest and the surprising toll that summer’s long days can take on kindness—and how a little...

A look back at when life cranked up the heat (literally)—sometimes the simplest things bring relief. In this episode, I’m sharing a lesson learned on a 90-degree day with no AC, an open highway, and a Spotify playlist that changed everything. Tune in as I reflect on finding unexpected joy and how a bit of loud music and fresh air helped me rediscover an old self-care trick right when I needed it m...

A look back at how we make summer plans we’ll actually enjoy. With open days and a calendar full of invites, I’ve come up with a simple set of questions to help us choose plans that bring joy, not stress. Join me as I share my “summer framework” for filling our days with meaning, a little calm, and some laughs along the way. 🌞✨ JoinTeamConfessions!

Summer planning doesn’t have to mean over-scheduling. In this episode, we reflect on the evolution of “CampPetris” and explore how to create a loose, flexible plan that balances family time, independence, and rest. By blocking family events, letting teens make their own plans, and being intentional with downtime, this year’s summer strategy is all about living peacefully and being present. Join us...

Summer is the perfect time to tackle clutter with a fresh approach! In this episode, we revisit the “Room by Room” decluttering strategy and share tips for making home organization a self-care mission rather than a chore. Whether it’s chatting with a friend, binge-watching while sorting, or getting lost in an audiobook, we’re embracing the joy of a well-planned, relaxed summer clear-out. Join us f...

As summer approaches, it’s time to rethink the plan—without overcommitting! In this episode, we discuss the common mistake of trying to do too much in the summer and explore ways to create a balanced, serene season. From setting boundaries with work and technology to creating a weekly “mind, body, spirit” plan, this year’s goal is a calm, connected summer. Tune in for tips on crafting a conscious,...

It’s “birthday week” and Confessions’ 6th Anniversary! This week, we celebrate the journey by looking at the power of planning and how it can transform our lives. From marriage to family life to personal growth, having a “Please Love and Nurture” Plan has helped me flow toward my goals without micromanaging every step. Join us as we discuss why planning is less about control and more about creatin...

It can be tough when others meet our joy or success with negativity, but embracing the Ubuntu philosophy can help us shine through. In this episode, we explore how not letting envy dim our light aligns with the Ubuntu spirit: "If you are brighter, I am brighter, we are all brighter." Join us as we discuss the power of letting go of others' judgments, focusing on shared joy, and livi...

Inspired by the philosophy of Ubuntu, as highlighted by NBA coach Doc Rivers, this episode explores how focusing on collective well-being can unlock personal growth. We dive into the concept of Ubuntu: “I am because we are,” and how embracing this mindset can help us shift from self-limitation to shared joy and connection. Join us as we discuss the power of Ubuntu in overcoming fear and spreading...

Do you ever hold onto issues as a way to protect yourself or others? In this episode, we dive into the concept of “Magical Thinking”—the belief that focusing on problems can somehow shield loved ones from harm. We explore why it’s so hard to let go of old fears, how they create an illusion of security, and what it means to truly embrace abundance. Join us for a candid conversation about breaking f...