The Challenges of Change

Why do we keep repeating patterns that don’t serve us—even when we know better? In this insightful episode, Laura explores how asking a simple but profound question— “why?” —can unlock lasting change in our habits, relationships, and mindset. From rethinking her own morning routine to helping clients overcome budgeting resistance, Laura shows how our actions are often driven by hidden motivations...

Fear isn’t a flaw in your wiring — it’s a message. Fear As a Compass unpacks the deeper purpose of psychological fear, revealing it not as a barrier, but as a signal: to protect what matters and prepare for what’s next. In a world obsessed with control and prediction, we explore what it means to let fear guide who you're becoming, not just what you’re planning. Through grounded conversations a...

What if setting a boundary wasn’t about shutting people out—but about letting yourself in? In this powerful and soul-nourishing episode, Jessica and Laura crack open one of the most misunderstood parts of emotional wellness: boundaries . With warmth, wisdom, and just the right amount of boldness, they guide you through what it really takes to speak your truth—without guilt, shutdowns, or unnecessa...

What if the voice in your head was more like a friend—and less like a critic? In this heartfelt and uplifting conversation, Laura gently unpacks how we can start treating our brains like trusted allies instead of harsh enemies. From the simple yet powerful idea of questioning negative self-talk to the importance of being kinder to ourselves, this episode offers a tender reminder: you deserve the s...

 What if everything you’ve been taught about success, confidence, and happiness is backwards? In this thought-provoking episode, Laura reveals a hidden pattern behind why so many high achievers still feel stuck, even after reaching their goals. Drawing from her evolution from fitness expert to mindset strategist, she unpacks a subtle yet powerful shift that changes the entire game—one most people...

What if the very thing holding you back from success... was your constant striving for it? In this deeply insightful episode, Laura sits down with workplace anthropologist and founder of Alchemie Academy, Jenean Perelstein , to explore the powerful shift from external validation to internal alignment. Jenean shares her unconventional journey from academia to entrepreneurship and reveals how decodi...

Do you truly know yourself, or are you defining yourself through the lens of others? In this powerful episode, Laura dives into the crucial difference between self-awareness and external perception. She shares a compelling story of a client who shattered his own limiting beliefs by stepping into uncomfortable situations—only to realize that his fears weren’t based on reality. Laura unpacks the dan...

Love and pain are deeply intertwined—those we love most have the greatest power to hurt us. But what if pain isn’t something to fear, but rather a part of deep connection? In this episode, we explore the delicate balance between vulnerability and self-protection, uncovering how true emotional resilience comes from self-awareness, not control. We’ll dive into: 🔥 Why love and pain go hand-in-hand—a...

Money isn’t just about numbers—it’s about mindset, values, and the small daily choices that shape our financial future. In this episode, Alexis Guilbeau joins me for a candid conversation about financial planning, overcoming money blocks, and making sustainable changes that actually stick. We dive into: 💰 How your past experiences shape your money mindset 💡 Small, realistic steps to improve fina...

Ever felt like you’re juggling a million things, but some days it’s energizing and other days it’s exhausting ? That’s the difference between abundance and overwhelm —and it all comes down to perception, control, and energy. In this episode, we dive into: 🔹 Why having “a lot” can feel either empowering or draining 🔹 How to tell if you're operating from flow or chaos 🔹 Simple mindset shifts...

Are you constantly battling the need to control situations, people, or even your own emotions? You’re not alone. In this powerful episode on CONTROL , Laura and Jessica take a deep dive into the challenge of control, sharing personal stories and insights from their own lives and work with clients. From the subtle signs that you might be trying to control, to exploring the underlying fears that dri...

Confidence isn’t about having all the answers or never feeling doubt—it’s about trusting yourself, showing up despite the fear, and knowing that your worth isn’t up for debate. In this powerful conversation, Jessica and Laura dive deep into what it truly means to be confident, how to break free from the comparison trap, and why letting go of external validation is the key to lasting self-trust. If...

What happens when you mix tech troubles, grief, and a deep dive into our relationship with food? A raw and insightful conversation between Laura and Jessica. This episode tackles: ⚡ Navigating grief and supporting loved ones ⚡ Balancing energy while showing up for others ⚡ The rebellious side of healthy eating (yes, a little indulgence is allowed!) ⚡ Ditching rigid food rules and embracing sel...

Have you ever wondered about the difference between mindfulness and mindset? In this episode, we’re breaking it down in a way that will empower you to create real, lasting change in your life. Mindfulness is your awareness—your ability to witness your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. It’s the precursor to transformation, the light that reveals what needs to shift. But awarenes...

Ever feel like life is running you instead of the other way around? You’re constantly stressed, rushing from one thing to the next, and wondering, is this really it? In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of intentional living with Jessica Gruss. Together, we explore: 🌟 How to break free from autopilot—and reconnect with what truly matters. 🌟 Why discomfort is actually a GOOD thi...

 Join Laura and Jessica Gruss in this heartfelt episode as they explore the profound journey of rediscovering your authentic self. Together, they dive into the impact of societal and family expectations, revealing how these influences can steer us away from our true values and desires. Discover the subtle signs of inauthenticity—like burnout and the fear of speaking up—and gain practical tips to r...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Stacy Miller, a certified financial planner and the founder of Bayview Financial Planning. In this episode, Stacy shares her mission to empower women—especially those navigating transitions like widowhood or military life—to achieve financial security and confidence. 💡 What You’ll Learn: The Power of Financial Security: Why it’s more than just independen...

In this heartfelt and transformative episode, Laura shares her journey of breaking free from the mental cages of limiting beliefs and self-judgment to find true mental freedom. Drawing from her own experiences as a health and life coach, she explores how uncovering the stories we tell ourselves can liberate us from shame, self-doubt, and unhealthy habits. 🌟 Key Highlights: Defining Mental Freedom...

Tune in for an empowering conversation about the transformative power of self-trust. Together, Jess and I dive deep into how trusting yourself can strengthen relationships, regulate emotions, and lead to decisions that honor your authentic self. 🌟 What You'll Learn: The Importance of Self-Trust: Discover why self-trust is the foundation for emotional resilience and meaningful connections. Recogni...

The holidays are here—a season filled with joy, connection, and, let’s be honest, a whole lot of emotions. From family dynamics to societal pressures, this time of year can test even the most emotionally grounded among us. But what if you could approach the season differently? What if you could manage your emotions with clarity, compassion, and confidence? In this episode, we dive deep into the ar...

The holidays are here—a season filled with joy, connection, and, let’s be honest, a whole lot of emotions. From family dynamics to societal pressures, this time of year can test even the most emotionally grounded among us. But what if you could approach the season differently? What if you could manage your emotions with clarity, compassion, and confidence? In this episode, we dive deep into the ar...

In this transformative episode, Laura welcomes Lauren Hanan, marketing expert and founder of Forever Fit, a company revolutionizing wellness through integrative fitness, nutrition, and holistic health. Together, they dive deep into what it means to embrace your power, overcome self-judgment, and define your own standards in a world full of expectations. Discover how to show up authentically, harne...

Do you ever have the thought, “ Once I _____ then I’ll feel ____?” Once I finish this project, then I can relax Once I get this raise, then I’ll feel successful Once I find my partner, then I’ll be happy  What this line of thinking represents are the subtle ways the ego sabotages our joy by tethering it to future outcomes. Join us as we explore how to shift your mindset and free yourself from the...

In this episode, Laura and Change By Challenge Coach, Jessica dive deep into the concept of *foreboding joy*, a psychological pattern that prevents many of us from fully embracing happiness. Drawing on personal insights and real-life examples from Jessica's work with clients, they reveal how this mindset—a habit of anticipating the worst-case scenario under the guise of "staying realistic"—can act...

In this episode of The Challenges of Change , host Laura explores the metaphorical masks we wear to hide our true selves and the impact this has on our lives. Laura shares her personal journey, from living in Chicago and unknowingly wearing a mask, to a life-changing realization after the pandemic. She opens up about her past struggles with suicidal thoughts, the hidden costs of masking, and the d...