Thrive by The Rising Muse

Explore how faith and mental health intersect to help you find balance. Learn practical ways to align your life with God's timing. This discussion brings together perspectives on faith and mental health, designed for those seeking a holistic approach to their personal well-being. We examine the connection between spiritual grounding and emotional stability, providing actionable insights for an...

Why conflict feels like rejection—and how understanding your nervous system can transform your relationships Have you ever left a conversation feeling misunderstood, judged, or like love is slipping away? In this eye-opening episode, Naty Matos invites you to explore the deep roots beneath communication breakdowns—especially during conflict. You’ll discover how our bodies, past wounds, and fears s...

Most people believe pain is a dead end— but what if it's actually the starting point of your greatest transformation? Ashley J Ondrick, known as the Mostly Healthy Chef, shares her extraordinary journey from 20+ years of chronic pain and a life-threatening stroke to discovering how suffering can become a pathway to hope and purpose. Her story will challenge everything you think you know about...

Letting go of old selves isn’t just emotional—it's biological, spiritual, and necessary for true growth. But why is it so hard to shed identities that no longer serve us? If you feel stuck in patterns, identities, or habits from your past, you're not alone—and this episode might be your biggest breakthrough yet. Naty and Veda dive deep into why holding onto who we used to be keeps us small...

Discover Why Joy Is Not a Reward—It's a Foundation for Thriving Through Life’s Hardest Seasons. What if joy isn’t something you have to earn, survive for, or wait until life feels “just right” to experience? This episode dives deep into the real truth about joy, challenging dangerous myths that keep us stuck in struggle and separation from our own happiness. You’ll learn why joy often feels di...

In this episode of *Thrive by The Rising Muse*, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with the founder of BrushFires Ministry to discuss how believers can discover their unique God-given design and purpose. BrushFires Ministry is dedicated to helping individuals understand their role in the Body of Christ, providing biblically based guidance through specialized courses and resources. Learn about the inspir...

Unlock the power of embracing your mental health journey — even in the face of stigma and spiritual doubts. Sarah, author, senior care manager, and podcast host of Rough Edges, shares how she turned her diagnosis of bipolar disorder into a source of strength and purpose. Her story is a testament to how love, faith, and education can transform perceived setbacks into tools for liberation and fulfil...

Most women are told to stay silent—yet many feel called to break barriers, challenge traditions, and lead boldly in faith. What happens when the very system meant to amplify your voice tries to silence you? Sarah J. R. Smith, author, pastor, and fierce model breaker, shares her transformative journey from mission trips in India to confronting gender roles rooted in faith. She’s here to reveal how...

Most people believe weight loss is just about discipline, but what if that’s a myth? What if obesity isn't a moral failing but a complex, chronic disease influenced by deep biological and psychological factors? This episode challenges everything you thought you knew about weight, shame, and health—offering a revolutionary perspective that could change your life. Dr. Michelle Gordon, a former g...

Join us as we delve into the essential principles of wealth building and financial literacy. Discover strategies to secure your financial future, manage risks, and achieve financial freedom. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your financial skills, this episode offers valuable insights for everyone. Main Takeaways: Understand the importance of starting early and the power of...

In our latest episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, we dive deep into the journey of healing from sexual trauma with the insightful Tabitha Westbrook. As a licensed trauma therapist and author, Tabitha shares her experiences and professional insights, offering hope and practical steps for those seeking restoration. Key Takeaways: The importance of addressing sexuality after trauma How faith and co...

Some jobs are dirty. Some are dangerous. Some are downright disgusting. But every one of them matters. In this episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda take a funny, honest, and deeply thoughtful look at the world's hardest and most overlooked jobs-from crime scene cleaners and septic tank workers to nurses, teachers, and morticians. What do all these roles have in common? The...

Author and speaker John JR Rennie returns to Thrive by The Rising Muse to share the inspiration and spiritual insights behind his new book, Sparks Turn Into BrushFires. In this heartfelt and energizing conversation, JR speaks with Naty and Veda about finding joy through trials, living with intention, and embracing the fire of personal and spiritual transformation. Drawing from scripture, especiall...

This Mother’s Day, we’re flipping the script. Instead of just celebrating the caregivers, we’re checking in on them. In this powerful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with Mental Wellbeing and Transformational Coach Maz Alexander to talk about the emotional cost of caregiving, generational healing, and why self-care isn’t selfish—it’s survival. Maz shares real-lif...

Most of us think growth is a straight path — but the real transformation often comes through chaos, tearing down what’s no longer serving us, and messy, chaotic healing. What if your setbacks, doubts, and broken moments are actually part of a divine process of second chances and new beginnings? On this powerful Easter episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, we dive into the truth that failure is nev...

Trust is fragile—until it’s shattered, then rebuilding feels almost impossible. If betrayal has left your heart broken and your sense of safety shaken, this episode is your essential guide to healing and restoring what’s been lost. In this profound conversation, Naty and Veda unpack the many faces of betrayal—from romantic infidelity and broken promises to family secrets and spiritual manipulation...

What if your darkest moment became the beginning of your greatest transformation? In this powerful and hope-filled episode, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with Meredith White, a Kentucky Certified Peer Support Specialist and recovery content creator, to share her inspiring journey from childhood trauma and addiction to healing, resilience, and purpose. Meredith reminds us that no matter how broken y...

In this heartfelt episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, Naty & Veda explore the profound impact of prayer on mental health and personal growth. Through personal stories and insights, she emphasizes the importance of prayer as a two-way conversation with God, the science behind its benefits, and the necessity of authenticity in our spiritual practices. The conversation also addresses the challe...

What does the resurrection of Jesus have to do with chocolate bunnies and colorful eggs? 🤔 In this special Easter episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, your co-hosts Naty and Veda dive into the layered history of Easter, where deep faith, spring rituals, and commercialization collide. We talk resurrection, redemption, and real-life reflections—from childhood Easter speeches to sunrise services, f...

What if healing your past and reclaiming your power weren’t as far away as it feels? In this episode, we talk with Danielle Bernock, a trauma survivor, coach, speaker, and the founder of 4F Media. She walks us through her powerful S.E.L.F. method—SEE, EXPOSE, LOVE, FREE—designed to guide people from inner chaos to inner freedom. We explore emotional healing, spiritual trauma, childhood neglect, id...

In this special anniversary episode, we’re pulling back the curtain and keeping it all the way real. From hard lessons and major growth moments to the unexpected wins that kept us going—this episode is a raw, honest reflection on what it takes to keep showing up and creating with purpose. Whether you’re a longtime listener or just tuning in, this conversation will leave you thinking differently ab...

In this thought-provoking episode, Naty and Veda dive into two major topics shaking the faith community-Paula White and Marvin Sapp. Together, they unpack the controversy, challenge perspectives, and ask the tough questions many are thinking but few are saying. How do faith, culture, and controversy intersect? What lessons can we learn? Tune in for an unfiltered discussion that will leave you refl...

What if your greatest pain was preparing you for your purpose? In this powerful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty Matos and Veda sit down with Bambi Makowski, a mother, author, and storyteller whose journey of faith, healing, and resilience will leave you inspired. From overcoming personal trauma to impacting lives one door at a time, Bambi shares how God turned her trials into test...

Being a caregiver for a parent, spouse, or loved one is a profound act of love—but it can also be emotionally and mentally exhausting. In this episode of Thrive By The Rising Muse, Naty and Veda open up about the unspoken challenges of caregiving, from burnout and guilt to faith struggles and the importance of self-care. 💡 What you’ll hear in this episode: ✔️ The emotional & mental toll of ca...

Why is therapy still stigmatized in communities of color and faith-based spaces? What’s the truth about mental health medication, and when should someone consider it? In this episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda dive deep with Dr. Ronda Hampton, a leading clinical psychologist and advocate, to discuss mental health, the role of medication, and the urgent need for change in how...