Episodios

  • 212 - From Trauma to Triumph: Briony Douglas on Art, Healing, and Self-Worth
    Jul 1 2025

    Discover how to transform trauma into growth and purpose with special guest Briony Douglas—a multi-talented artist and mental health advocate whose journey is both inspiring and deeply human. This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re exploring how creativity, self-worth, and healing intersect. ⬇️


    Tune in and don’t miss a captivating episode with our special guest Briony Douglas joining us on a powerful discussion on turning our pain into beauty.

    Briony, known for her captivating sculptures, installations, and photography, shares how art became a lifeline during her healing journey. Her work challenges perception, sparks meaningful conversations, and connects us back to ourselves.

    In this raw and powerful episode, we talk about:

    • Honoring Your Passions and Creativity
    • Healing often begins with giving yourself permission to create. Let joy lead.
    • Trusting Your Own Timeline
    • Life isn’t linear—and your healing doesn’t have to be either.
    • Choosing Happiness Over Survival Mode
    • Breaking free from the victim mentality opens the door to growth and peace.
    • Rising Above Criticism and Pain
    • You are more than your trauma. You are worthy of a life you love.

    Briony opens up about how she used creativity to process pain and reclaim her identity. Barb shares her own experiences of turning struggle into service, and Michelle reflects on staying rooted in purpose despite criticism and setbacks. Together, they remind us that healing is possible—and that joy is a choice we can keep making.

    💗 Remember, You are not what happened to you. You are who you decide to become.


    We’re so grateful you’re here with us! As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the real-life lessons that have shaped us—so you can feel empowered to build confidence, prioritize self-care, and navigate life’s challenges with emotional strength and resilience.

    This July, we’re diving deep into the themes of self-advocacy, trust, and purpose—starting with the relationship we have with ourselves. We're challenging harmful beliefs and societal pressures to reclaim our self-worth and embrace who we are from the inside out. Each episode this month is a powerful reminder to trust yourself, stand up for your needs, and honor the body you live in. It's time to love yourself fully—and live like you mean it.

    Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕

    Join our community⬇️

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    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code LIFEHAPPENS for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.com


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    56 m
  • 211 - This is Your Sign to Be Selfish: Prioritizing You, Reclaiming Freedom After Divorce, and Choosing the Right People (Q&A)
    Jun 24 2025

    Watch this episode on YouTube→ [CLICK HERE]


    Discover why putting yourself first isn’t selfish—it’s essential. From divorce to everyday self-care, we’re encouraging you to prioritize your peace, reclaim your freedom, and confidently choose yourself over others’ comfort. ⬇️


    ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌

    ⟶ https://thedearfriendbook.com

    You asked, we answered. In today’s episode, we’re diving into what it really means to prioritize your peace—even when it challenges others’ expectations. For generations, we’ve been told that self-care is selfish or even narcissistic, but we’re unpacking that outdated narrative and redefining what it means to truly care for yourself.

    Barb shares how she reclaimed her freedom and individuality through divorce, and Michelle opens up about being undermined by people in her inner circle—and how she rose above it with confidence and clarity. Together, this mother-daughter duo explores the power of choosing yourself, embracing growth, and surrounding yourself with friends who lift you up rather than tear you down.

    Here’s what we’re unpacking:

    ✨ You’re Not Selfish for Prioritizing Your Needs

    You can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care isn’t indulgence—it’s survival.

    ✨ Finding Freedom and Individuality After Divorce

    Barb shares her journey of rediscovering herself post-divorce and what freedom truly looks like.

    ✨ Handling People Who Undermine You

    Michelle opens up about how she overcame being criticized and dismissed—and how you can rise above it too.

    Remember: When you care for yourself first, you show up for others in a deeper, more meaningful way. 💕

    We’re so grateful you’re here with us. 💛 As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the real-life lessons that have shaped us—so you can feel empowered to build confidence, embrace your individuality, and navigate life’s inevitable challenges with emotional strength and resilience.

    This month on Life Happens, we’re diving deep into themes of self-advocacy, healing, and reclaiming your power. Each episode is rooted in mindfulness and designed to help you connect with your purpose, trust your inner voice, and prioritize your peace—especially during moments of grief, loss, and transition.

    ✨ Expect powerful practices, honest conversations, and heartfelt reminders to support your growth and self-care journey.

    Join us next Tuesday for another healing, empowering episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle. 💕

    Join our community⬇️

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    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code LIFEHAPPENS for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.com


    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    32 m
  • 210 - “I Lost Everything”: Sarah Levy on Grief, Resilience, & Purpose After the LA Fires
    Jun 17 2025

    Watch this episode on YouTube→ [CLICK HERE]

    Emmy-winning actress Sarah Levy shares her powerful story of heartbreak, grief, and healing in the wake of unimaginable loss.

    In this raw and deeply moving episode, Sarah shares the heartbreaking story of losing her home and community during the devastating LA fires—and the emotional aftermath that followed. With honesty, grace, and vulnerability, she talks about the grief no one prepares you for, the myths of toxic positivity, and the long, often messy process of rebuilding from the inside out.

    At the beginning of this year, wildfires tore through Southern California, destroying over 40,000 acres and displacing countless families. Sarah, co-star of Schitt’s Creek, experienced this devastation firsthand while raising her 2-year-old son. She opens up about how she’s navigated the grief, shock, and slow process of healing in the months since.

    In this conversation, we explore:

    You Don’t Have to Move On — Grief has no timeline. It’s okay to still be hurting.

    Feeling the Hard Feelings — Why giving yourself space to cry and process is essential.

    The Power of Patience — Healing and progress take time, especially in a world of instant everything.

    Finding Your Own Path — Reconnecting with your truth and values after life throws you off course.

    This is a powerful reminder that healing isn’t linear—and even in the darkest moments, it’s possible to rediscover purpose, connection, and unexpected joy.

    💗 Stay tuned until the end for heartfelt insights and inspiring takeaways from Sarah’s journey.

    We’re so grateful you’re here with us! As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the real-life lessons that have shaped us—so you can feel empowered to build confidence, prioritize self-care, and navigate life’s challenges with emotional strength and resilience.

    This month, we’re diving deep into building confidence and advocating for yourself. Every episode this June is devoted to helping you connect with your purpose and trust your inner voice—with powerful practices, heartfelt reminders, and real talk to support you every step of the way.

    Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕

    Join our community⬇️

    YouTube

    Instagram

    Substack

    TikTok

    ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌

    ⟶ thedearfriendbook.com



    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code LIFEHAPPENS for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.com


    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    54 m
  • 209 - What is the Meaning of Life? – Aligning Your Life with What Matters Most
    Jun 10 2025
    ✨We’re on YouTube✨⟶ Watch our episodes here: @lifehappensthepodcastRedefine how you view life’s purpose with this eye opening episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle. In a world that glorifies big achievements, Barb and Michelle offer a refreshing perspective: that true fulfillment often lives in the small, everyday moments. Join us as we explore how letting go of society’s pressure to do more can open the door to a more authentic, purpose-driven life—rooted in presence, connection, and values that truly matter. ⬇️✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌⟶ https://thedearfriendbook.comPurpose isn’t about fitting into a box or meeting society’s predefined notions of success. It’s not limited to titles or grand milestones. Instead, purpose is about trusting your unique path—showing up as your most authentic self and living from a place of alignment and intention.In today’s episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle, we have a candid conversation about discovering purpose and meaning in life. With so much pressure to define success through external accomplishments, it’s easy to feel like purpose has to be something extraordinary or dramatic. But what if the most meaningful life is built through small, intentional choices rooted in your values?Barb shares her wisdom on living with purpose, even amid uncertainty and societal expectations. Michelle opens up about her own journey of struggling to find meaning—and how she ultimately found clarity and alignment by embracing her truth.From their unique mother-daughter perspective, Barb and Michelle explore how their understanding of purpose has shifted over time—moving away from hustle and pressure and toward ease, presence, and self-compassion.Purpose isn’t a fixed destination—it’s fluid, evolving as we grow. This episode is an invitation to stay curious, stay open, and trust what’s calling you in each moment.Here's what we’re exploring in this episode:✨ Follow the Breadcrumbs of LifeStart noticing the small actions or interactions that spark curiosity, light you up, or leave you feeling inspired. These seemingly simple moments are breadcrumbs—clues that can lead you toward a more purposeful, aligned life.✨ Find Your TeachersThere's a deep purpose in growth. Stay open to the wisdom and lessons that come your way—whether through books, conversations, experiences, or people who speak to your soul.✨ Be Open to the UnexpectedLet go of the rigid idea of how your life should look. When you release expectations, you create space for your true path to reveal itself—one that’s uniquely yours.✨ Your Purpose Doesn’t Have to Be GrandioseYou don’t need a single, defining achievement to live a meaningful life. Purpose is woven through small, everyday moments. Whether it’s holding the door for someone or contributing your gifts at work, these acts matter. You are already enough—just as you are.💗 A Gentle Reminder:Purpose often reveals itself in the quiet, ordinary moments. The key is learning to notice and honor them.We’re so grateful you’re here with us! As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the real-life lessons that have shaped us—so you can feel empowered to build confidence, prioritize self-care, manage our mental health and navigate life’s challenges with emotional strength and resilience.This month, we dive deep into building confidence and advocating for yourself. Every episode this June is devoted to helping you connect with your purpose and trust your inner voice—with powerful practices, heartfelt reminders, and real talk to support you every step of the way.Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕Join our community:YouTube: @LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: @LifeHappensThePodcastSubstack: lifehappensthepodcast.substack.comTikTok: @LifeHappensThePodcastOur Sponsors:* Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code LIFEHAPPENS for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    43 m
  • 208 - Your Most Powerful Guide Is You || Leaning Into Your Intuition and Inner Voice
    Jun 3 2025

    Your Gut-Feelings Are Guardian Angels—Learn to Trust Them. In this episode we unlock the power of your intuition and build unshakable self-trust, so your gut-feelings become your inner compass, guiding you to a more confident and aligned life. ⬇️


    ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌

    ⟶ thedearfriendbook.com


    Your intuition is one of the most powerful tools you possess—an internal compass that protects, guides, and speaks with a wisdom deeper than logic. In a world filled with noise, learning to hear and trust your inner voice is one of the greatest acts of self-love and a vital part of mental health and emotional well-being.


    In today’s episode, Michelle and Barb open up about the deep connection between intuition, gut-feelings, and self-trust. They share how learning to listen to their inner voices helped them make aligned decisions in love, life, and healing. Together, they explore how building confidence in your inner knowing can transform your mental health and empower you to live with clarity and intention.


    Barb offers practical wisdom on overcoming self-doubt and tuning into your intuition, while Michelle shares her honest experience with navigating uncertainty and how she began cultivating a trusting relationship with herself.


    Your gut-feelings are not random—they are your soul speaking. The more we honor our intuition, the more confident we become in navigating life’s challenges with grace and truth.


    Here's what we’re covering in this episode:

    ✨ Know the Difference Between Your Head and Heart Voice

    Our minds often speak in judgment; your intuition comes from compassion. Learn to recognize the quieter, truer voice within.

    ✨ Start an Inner Dialogue

    Cultivating self-trust starts with listening. Whether through journaling or speaking aloud, getting to know your inner voice is the first step toward clarity.

    ✨ Stay Rooted in Your Values

    When you understand what truly matters to you, your intuition becomes stronger. Your values are the foundation of wise decision-making.

    ✨ Have Faith in Yourself

    Believe that you already have the answers. Confidence grows each time you honor your inner voice and take action from a place of truth.


    Remember: your gut-feelings and intuition are guardians, not guesses. The more you tune in, the clearer the path becomes.💕

    We’re so grateful you’re here with us! As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the real-life lessons that have shaped us—so you can feel empowered to build confidence, prioritize self-care, and navigate life’s challenges with emotional strength and resilience.


    This month, we’re diving deep into building confidence and advocating for yourself. Every episode this June is devoted to helping you connect with your purpose and trust your inner voice—with powerful practices, heartfelt reminders, and real talk to support you every step of the way.


    Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕


    Join our community⬇️

    YouTube: @LifeHappensThePodcast

    Instagram: @LifeHappensThePodcast

    Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast


    Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://kite.link/barb-knows-best 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday🎧



    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code LIFEHAPPENS for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.com


    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    56 m
  • 207 - Unravel Your Mind: Meditation Made Easy with Mindfulness Experts Jeff Warren and Tasha Schumann
    May 27 2025

    Improve your mental health with Barb & Michelle through practical mindfulness, meditation, and real talks with experts Jeff Warren and Tasha Schumann. from the Mind-Bod Adventure Pod. Build ease, trust, and lasting calm—one breath at a time.


    In this episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, mindfulness experts Jeff Warren and Tasha Schumann join the conversation to explore how meditation can transform your mental and emotional wellbeing.


    Meditation is often misunderstood, but at its core, it's the simple, consistent practice of returning to the present moment. This episode breaks down the myths, offering practical ways to integrate mindfulness into your daily life with trust, ease, and curiosity.


    Barb shares how her decades-long journey with perfectionism was softened through meditation and self-compassion, while Michelle reflects on how her evolving practice continues to ground and empower her. Together with Jeff and Tasha, they dive into the power of presence, the importance of consistency, and the openness it takes to truly unravel your thoughts and emotions.


    Whether you're new to meditation or returning with fresh intention, this episode will inspire and equip you to build a practice rooted in mental clarity, emotional resilience, and inner peace.


    Here’s What We’re Exploring in This Episode:

    Meditation Is Meant to Be Lived, Not Just Learned

    Meditation isn’t just about sitting in silence—it’s about bringing mindful awareness into every part of life. Whether you’re on the dance floor or in a doctor’s office, real growth happens when your practice flows into the everyday.

    There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Approach

    Mental health and mindfulness look different for everyone—culturally, neurologically, and spiritually. The power lies in making meditation approachable, inclusive, and adaptable to your needs in each season of life.

    Trust and Safety Start Within

    Inner safety is the foundation for meaningful growth. As you build self-trust through consistent practice, you become more grounded, open, and resilient—for yourself and your community.


    The ordinary moments are extraordinary—just calling your mind to the present and embracing the now is enough. 💕


    Join our community⬇️

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    Listen to our podcast anywhere→ kite.link/barb-knows-best 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday🎧



    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code LIFEHAPPENS for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.com


    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    1 h y 3 m
  • 206 - Questions that Matter, Answers that Empower – Building Resilience & Overcoming Self-Doubt
    May 20 2025

    Watch this episode on youtube: https://youtu.be/muPF0ZIbk1U

    Ready to quiet the self-doubt, and finally put yourself first?

    In this episode, we’re answering your questions about building resilience, practicing real self-care, and taking control of your mental health — even when life feels heavy.


    ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌

    ⟶ thedearfriendbook.com

    In this episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re answering your most-asked questions about building emotional resilience, boosting confidence, and caring for your mental health.


    Emotional resilience is your ability to adapt through stress and uncertainty while still protecting your peace. In this heartfelt Q&A, we explore how to manage overwhelm, quiet self-doubt, and make self-care a non-negotiable part of your healing.


    Barb shares the self-care practices that helped her reclaim her worth during divorce, while Michelle offers grounding tools for empaths and highly sensitive people. Together, they open up about the beauty and challenges of mother-daughter relationships, gentle parenting, and staying emotionally connected through life’s ups and downs.


    If you’re feeling stretched thin, second-guessing yourself, or struggling to put your needs first, this episode offers real talk and practical support for your emotional well-being.

    Here's what we’re covering:

    💕 Overcoming Self-Doubt: How do you let go and stay grounded when self-doubt creeps in?

    💕 Mental Health for Empaths: How can you manage big emotions as a highly sensitive person?

    💕 Releasing External Validation: How do you handle being misunderstood or judged by others?

    💕 Gentle Parenting & Confidence Building: What makes Barb such a strong, supportive mom?

    Your mental health matters. Tune in for practical tools, heartfelt stories, and empowering reminders that you are capable, worthy, and never alone. 💛

    Join our community⬇️

    YouTube

    Instagram

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    Listen to our podcast anywhere→ click here🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday🎧



    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code LIFEHAPPENS for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.com


    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    35 m
  • 205 - Unlearning Generational Trauma: Breaking the Cycle and Moving Beyond Survival Mode
    May 13 2025

    Discover how to break generational cycles and heal from trauma by stepping out of survival mode ⬇️

    ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend and unlock daily moments of clarity, encouragement, and heartfelt inspiration. 💌

    ⟶ thedearfriendbook.com

    In this episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re diving deep into generational trauma, toxic family dynamics, and what it means to be a cycle breaker. Generations of dysfunction and unhealed pain can unknowingly shape how we show up in the world—but it doesn’t have to stay that way.

    We’re shifting from survival mode into healing, unlearning harmful patterns, and reclaiming the life we deserve.

    Barb opens up about growing up as the eldest daughter of two alcoholic parents in a low-income household, and how she made the conscious decision to parent differently. Michelle shares her experience of growing up with a mother in the midst of healing and how generational trauma still showed up in her own journey. They unpack how to navigate dysfunctional family dynamics and toxic patterns as a mother-daughter duo.

    This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt stuck in inherited pain, longed for change, or is bravely doing the work to heal.

    What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

    ❤️‍🩹 Choosing a New Path: Your past doesn’t define you—you have the power to end the cycle and start fresh.

    ❤️‍🩹 Unlearning Survival Patterns: Learn how to recognize and release the behaviors that no longer serve you.

    ❤️‍🩹 Letting Go of Shame: Healing from dysfunction means showing yourself grace and compassion.

    ❤️‍🩹 Healing Takes Time: Progress isn’t linear—every moment you choose healing is a victory.

    Breaking generational cycles takes courage, patience, and love. If you’re doing that work, we see you—and we’re cheering you on. 💛

    We’re so grateful to have you with us! As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the lessons we’ve learned on our journeys in the hope of inspiring you to live your best life—no matter the challenges you face.

    In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, this May we’re dedicating each episode to caring for our minds, breaking harmful cycles, and finding strength through life’s challenges.

    Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt, healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕


    Join our community⬇️

    YouTube

    Instagram

    Substack

    TikTok


    Listen to our podcast anywhere→ click here🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday🎧



    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code LIFEHAPPENS for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.com


    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
    Más Menos
    57 m