Untethering Shame

What if letting go of a goal wasn’t a sign of weakness—but of growth? In this solo episode, Kyira challenges the shame narratives around quitting, shifting focus, and unfinished business. Whether you’ve outgrown a dream, changed your mind, or realized a goal was never truly yours, this conversation invites you to meet yourself with radical acceptance and release the pressure to prove your worth th...

In this episode, I respond to a question from an anonymous listener who writes: “I recently joined a new group of friends, and while they’re kind and welcoming, I still constantly feel like I’m on the outside looking in. I second-guess what I say, overanalyze their reactions, and wonder if they really want me there. How do I stop feeling like I don’t belong?” We explore the deep-rooted shame and s...

Summer Re-Release Series We’re taking a pause to rest and reflect—and sharing some of your favorite episodes in the meantime. These powerful conversations are worth revisiting, whether it’s your first time listening or a timely return. New episodes resume September 7th. Episode Overview: I am so grateful Simon Rinne joined me for such an important conversation on men's mental health, sharing h...

In this episode, I’m answering a question from an anonymous listener who writes: “I struggle when things don’t go as planned — even little things. I get overwhelmed, anxious, and sometimes feel like the whole day is ruined. I know logically that I can’t control everything, but I still get really upset when plans shift. How can I manage this better without spiraling?” Together, we explore why chang...

In part 2 of the conversation, Sandra reflects on her experience growing up in a cult and the challenges she faced in developing her sense of self. She discusses the deep sense of community and shared experiences within the cult, as well as the loneliness and struggle to connect with others outside of it. Sandra also opens up about her battle with suicidal thoughts and her reliance on alcohol as a...

If you’ve ever been told your standards are “too high” or felt like backing off meant giving up, this episode is for you. In today’s conversation, Kyira unpacks the real issue behind perfectionism and burnout—not the ambition itself, but the context in which our standards are created. We’ll explore how shame, external validation, and scarcity shape our goals, and how radical acceptance can help yo...

In this episode, I’m answering a deeply personal and powerful question from Zoe, who asks: “Is it ever possible to experience true body love and acceptance?” Together, we unpack the immense pressure placed on us by cultural norms, beauty standards, and internalized bias — and how those messages make peace with our bodies feel almost impossible. We explore: Why body “love” may not be the most reali...

Join Kyira Wackett and David Bedrick as they explore the intricate relationship between shame and healing. Their conversation covers mental health, emotional processing, and the concept of 'unshaming' - particularly in relation to addiction and eating disorders. They discuss how shame affects relationships, parenting, and power dynamics, while emphasizing the importance of compassion, curi...

In this episode, I’m responding to a heartfelt question from Chris, who writes: “My wife and my mom have very different ideas about how we should raise our child and what role my mom should play in our lives. I want to respect my mom, but also build strong roots with my own family. My wife is exhausted and needs me to set better boundaries — but I’m struggling with guilt, and I don’t want to hurt...

In this conversation, Kyira Wackett and Elizabeth Kipp explore the complex relationship between shame, recovery, and self-compassion. They discuss the impact of shame on addiction, the importance of breathwork in healing, and the role of inner child work in understanding our emotional responses. The dialogue emphasizes the need for radical acceptance and the power of self-discovery in overcoming s...

Ever catch yourself thinking, “I’m such a failure” or “I’m so fat”? These thoughts might seem harmless—or even true—but they’re often rooted in shame and distorted beliefs. And here’s the truth: the way we talk to ourselves matters. In this solo episode, host Kyira Wackett unpacks the  transformational power of shifting from “I am” to “I feel.”  This simple change can help us stop identifying with...

In today’s episode, I’m answering a powerful and deeply relatable question from an anonymous listener who writes: “How do I stop feeling guilty when I take time for myself instead of constantly being 'on' for my kids? I love being the one they turn to — but I’m exhausted, and I feel like I can’t catch a break in any role of my life. And when I do take time for myself, I either feel anxious...

In this episode, Kyira Wackett and Shane Thrapp discuss neurodiversity, exploring misconceptions, diagnosis impacts, and parenting challenges. Shane shares personal insights about navigating neurodivergent parenting, dealing with imposter syndrome, and processing trauma. The conversation emphasizes support, acceptance, and celebrating individual strengths while promoting a compassionate approach t...

In this episode, I’m answering a thoughtful and courageous question from listener Astrid, who asks: “What can I do to remain emotionally engaged during conflicts with others, rather than detaching by convincing myself it doesn't matter or making it a purely logical debate?” Together, we explore why we shut down in conflict, what internal protectors might be showing up, and how early experience...

In this episode of the Untethering Shame podcast, host Kyira Wackett engages in a profound conversation with Juliana Allen, a queer breath and somatic coach. They explore themes of self-discovery, authenticity, and the courage it takes to live unapologetically. Juliana shares her journey of coming out as a lesbian in her mid-thirties while navigating motherhood and societal expectations. The discu...

Feeling completely drained no matter how much rest you get? You might be experiencing burnout—but it’s not just about being overworked or overwhelmed. In this solo episode, host Kyira Wackett dives deep into the truth about burnout and reveals the hidden force driving it: shame. We explore how shame-based expectations push us beyond our limits, tricking us into believing we need to “do it all” to...

In this episode, we dive into a deeply layered and vulnerable question from an anonymous listener navigating a  season of transition . She writes: "How can I begin to understand who I’m becoming in the midst of it all? How do I honor the version of me who got me here, let go of the identities or roles that no longer fit, and find a grounded sense of trust in myself, even when I feel overwhelm...

In this episode of the Untethering Shame podcast, host Kyira Wackett and guest Markella Kaplani delve into the complexities of parenthood, particularly the loss of self that many caregivers experience. They discuss the overwhelming emotions that come with parenting, the societal pressures to be perfect, and the clash between masculine and feminine energies. The conversation emphasizes the importan...

In this premiere episode, I’m answering a question from listener Kim: “Does venting actually help, from a physiological standpoint?” We’re diving into the science behind emotional release, when venting helps (and when it doesn’t), and how to use it as a tool for nervous system regulation instead of getting stuck in the spiral. ✨ Whether you’ve asked yourself this question before or just needed pe...

In this expansive and thought-provoking episode, Kyira Wackett and Veronica Weedon dive deep into the intersection of mindset, healing, and personal responsibility. The conversation begins with an exploration of the law of attraction, energy, and vibration—unpacking how our internal state shapes the people and experiences we draw into our lives. Veronica shares personal insights and tools for rais...

Emotions don’t disappear — no matter how hard we try to ignore or suppress them. In this episode of  Untethering Shame , Kyira talks about the importance of emotional intelligence and how understanding our feelings can transform our well-being. She breaks down the layers of our emotions, explains why they often show up in complex ways, and offers actionable steps to navigate them with compassion....

In this conversation, Kyira Wackett and Reese explore the complexities of grief, emphasizing its individual nature and the misconceptions surrounding it. They discuss the emotional journey of grieving, including anticipatory grief, sudden loss, and the struggle to feel a range of emotions, including joy and shame. The dialogue highlights the importance of vulnerability and the need to embrace one'...

In this episode of Untethering Shame, host Kyira Wackett engages in a profound conversation with Taylor Owens, a human trafficking survivor and advocate. They explore the intricate relationship between shame, trauma, and the societal perceptions surrounding human trafficking. Taylor shares her personal journey, highlighting the complexities of grooming, the impact of silence and shame, and the imp...

In this episode of  Untethering Shame , Kyira dives into the tricky world of ego, comparison, and shame. She explores how the ego tries to protect us by pushing us into comparison mode, making us feel either inferior or superior. Kyira shares how to recognize these patterns, shift from judgment to curiosity, and build resilience through self-awareness. Tune in for practical tips on how to break fr...

You asked, I listened. Starting in May, I’ll be diving into YOUR questions every Monday — unfiltered, raw, and real. Whether you're navigating shame, battling self-doubt, struggling with boundaries, or just wondering "How do I even start?" —this is your space to ask. Nothing is off-limits (well, almost nothing). If you’ve ever thought “I wish I could ask Kyira this…” —now’s your chan...