In Your Right Mind with Monique Rhodes

Do you ever mistake feeling calm for being half-asleep? In this episode, I talk about the subtle but important difference between peaceful awareness and sleepy dullness in meditation. You'll learn how to stay relaxed yet fully awake, how to let go of attachment to blissful experiences, and why true mindfulness isn't about drifting off—it's about waking up to the present moment.

How do we reclaim our peace in a world designed to distract us? In this episode, I explore our complex relationship with phones, the subtle cost of constant connection, and how small shifts—like a screen Sabbath—can restore calm, clarity, and control.

Are you measuring your success by how busy you are? In this episode, I explore our cultural obsession with productivity and how being constantly busy has become a symbol of worth. We'll look at how this busyness often masks deeper discomfort—and how creating space for rest and presence can actually bring more joy, clarity, and balance into our lives. If you'd like to go deeper into this work, visi...

What happens when we feel like giving up because something feels too hard or unfamiliar? In this episode, I explore the importance of embracing the early, awkward stages of learning—those moments when progress feels slow and self-doubt starts to creep in. We'll look at why courage, not talent, is what truly carries us forward, and how every person who's ever mastered something once stood exactly w...

What does it really take to transform? In this episode, I share a deeply personal story about a young person facing a difficult time—and the letter I wrote to encourage him through it. Transformation often looks beautiful from the outside, but the courage to go through the "cocoon" is where the real work happens. We'll explore why facing ourselves honestly, even in our darkest moments, is what all...

No one knows the future. I spoke with a close friend of mine this week who is very sick. I loved her approach to handling it.    If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

Have you ever felt drained by someone who always seems to complain? In this episode, I explore how we can stay open without becoming a landing place for negativity. Together, we'll look at how meditation, awareness, and gentle boundaries can shift the cycle. Protecting our peace doesn't mean closing our hearts—it means choosing presence over drama.

What if every action you take plants a seed that shapes your future? In this episode, I explain the powerful metaphor of the storehouse—where our habits, thoughts, and behaviors leave imprints that eventually bloom into life experiences. Learn how both positive and negative actions set the stage for what's to come, and discover how you can start creating a life filled with more joy, kindness, and...

Vulnerability can feel uncomfortable. We naturally like to protect ourselves. And yet it is essential for us to have deep friendships and relationships.    If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

What if the person causing you the most stress is actually just like you—trying their best to be happy? In this episode, I share a powerful perspective shift that helps transform frustration into understanding. You'll learn a simple phrase—"just like me"—that can soften conflict, build compassion, and remind you how deeply connected we all are. When we recognize our shared humanity, even the most...

The passing of Olivia Newton John was a great reminder to me of a couple of things - how short life is and what is a life well lived.    If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

When was the last time you reached out to someone you haven't spoken to in a while? In this episode, I explore the power of connection and why reaching out can bring unexpected joy—not just to the person you contact, but to yourself as well. I'll share research on how much people appreciate being remembered and how small gestures can create meaningful bonds.

I'm not much of a gambler, and I'm not too fond of slot machines. Why is it then that each day I am being robbed by one?   If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

It can be easy to think that sad films make us sad.  Researchers believe you might benefit from choosing a sad film now and then. It promotes feelings of bonding and can even increase your pain tolerance by boosting certain chemicals in your brain.    If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

What if working harder isn't the same as working wisely? In this episode, I explore our common belief that struggle automatically equals value. From relationships that drain us to goals that demand too much, we'll look at how to tell when "hard" is actually worth it—and when it's just habit. You'll discover how letting go of unnecessary struggle opens space for what truly matters.

We had some good news today. I wanted to thank so many of you for being part of it.    If you like this podcast, we would love you to give a review. Here is how you do it.

How much do the people around you influence your future? In this episode, I explore fascinating research from Harvard that shows how our friendships—especially cross-class friendships—can impact everything from our habits to our financial success. I'll share why the company you keep matters more than you might realize.

Have you ever stopped to consider who influences you the most? In this episode, I explore the idea that we become like the people we spend the most time with. I'll share why it's important to examine whether your closest relationships align with your values—and how surrounding yourself with the right people can either support your growth or hold you back.

What daily habits can truly transform your life? In this episode, I share four simple but powerful practices that have helped me stay focused, energized, and connected. From setting daily priorities to tidying your space, exercising, and sharing meals with others, these habits are easy to adopt and make a big difference. Let's explore how these small changes can create a happier, more balanced lif...

How often do we mistake our own stories for reality? In this episode, I explore how we filter the world through our own experiences, assumptions, and beliefs—often missing the truth of what's really there. I'll share how shifting our perspective can free us from unnecessary pain and open us to deeper understanding.

How often do we speak words that truly lift others up? In this episode, I explore the impact of criticism—especially on young people—and why choosing encouragement, kindness, and acknowledgment can create powerful ripple effects. I'll share how being more mindful with our words can help us heal old wounds and build a more loving world.

Do you find yourself buying things you don't need to feel a fleeting sense of happiness? In this episode, I explore the culture of consumerism and why shopping often becomes a substitute for deeper fulfillment. I'll share tips on recognizing your triggers, shifting toward experiences, and contributing meaningfully to the world.

My friend is sick right now. And I am hoping you might help me. 

How does the ego shape our thoughts, emotions, and actions? In this episode, I explore the nature of the ego and how it influences our sense of self and happiness. I'll share why meditation is such a powerful tool for loosening the ego's grip and reconnecting with the compassionate, loving aspects of ourselves. Let's dive into how understanding and working with the ego can bring more clarity, peac...

What if true intelligence isn't about how many facts you can remember, but how deeply you can live? In this episode, I explore the quiet difference between knowledge and wisdom—and how shifting our definition of "smart" can free us from outdated labels. Join me as we unpack how being curious, kind, and willing to grow might just be the most intelligent thing of all.